Final answer:
A significant break from the assembly line production in the animation industry occurred when a pivotal figure took creative control of the Screen Gems studio, marking a transition towards prioritizing art and storytelling.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first break with the barriers of apathy in the animation industry and the assembly line approach to production, which brought a voice of art back into the process, came through the creative control granted to an influential figure in the Screen Gems studio. This transformative period marked a shift towards an era where the creativity and vision of individuals could influence the animation industry profoundly. Significant progress in the film industry, including in animation, often comes with innovative leadership and a commitment to storytelling and artistic expression, as seen through other historical advancements such as the introduction of sound in movies with the release of 'The Jazz Singer' in 1927 and the pioneering work of Alice Guy, the first female filmmaker.