Pre-Code Hollywood
Pre-code Hollywood refers to the period of time in American cinema before the enforcement of strict censorship guidelines known as the Motion Picture Production Code or the Hays Code in 1934. Basically, before this code came into effect, movies could show a lot more scandalous and controversial content than they could after the code was introduced.
So, before 1934, movies featured things like drug use, nudity, prostitution, infidelity, and other topics that were considered taboo or inappropriate by many. Some people were worried that these movies were negatively influencing young people or going against traditional values, which is why the Hays Code was established to regulate what could be shown on screen.
During the pre-code era, it was more common to see morally ambiguous characters who engaged in questionable behavior and did not always face consequences for their actions. This can make the movies from this period seem more risqué or daring compared to later films that had to adhere to strict guidelines.
Overall, pre-code Hollywood refers to a time when movies were able to explore themes and content that would later be restricted by censorship guidelines. It was a time of greater artistic freedom in filmmaking, but it also sparked debates about what was appropriate for mainstream audiences.
So, before 1934, movies featured things like drug use, nudity, prostitution, infidelity, and other topics that were considered taboo or inappropriate by many. Some people were worried that these movies were negatively influencing young people or going against traditional values, which is why the Hays Code was established to regulate what could be shown on screen.
During the pre-code era, it was more common to see morally ambiguous characters who engaged in questionable behavior and did not always face consequences for their actions. This can make the movies from this period seem more risqué or daring compared to later films that had to adhere to strict guidelines.
Overall, pre-code Hollywood refers to a time when movies were able to explore themes and content that would later be restricted by censorship guidelines. It was a time of greater artistic freedom in filmmaking, but it also sparked debates about what was appropriate for mainstream audiences.