7. The Production Code Flashcards
Why was the Production Code established?
The production code aka the Hays Code was introduced in 1930 to better control what people would see on-screen and who could tell those stories.
How is the principle ‘The technique of murder must be presented in a way that will not inspire imitation’ conformed to in ‘Vertigo’?
The film portrays murder in a way that will not inspire imitation, this is done by killing ‘Madeleine’ off screen – we never see Gavin snap the real Madeleine’s neck as described by Judy. And when Judy dies we only see her body faced down after her fall.
How is the principle ‘The use of firearms should be restricted to essentials’ not conformed to in ‘Vertigo’?
Each time a firearm is shown in Vertigo it is used for the purpose of context such as when Scottie is chasing down a criminal at the beginning of the film, he has a firearm out.
How is the principle ‘Indecent or undue exposure is forbidden’ conformed to in ‘Vertigo’?
- Madeleine’s costumes remain reserved and conservative throughout the film (sleek grey suit etc).
How is the principle ‘Adultery, sometimes necessary plot material, must not be explicitly treated, or justified, or presented attractively’ not conformed to in ‘Vertigo’?
Hitchcock presents infidelity in a way that is made to be justified and attractive to the spectator which completely violates the following principle of displaying adultery in this way.
How is the principle ‘Excessive and lustful kissing, lustful embraces, suggestive postures and gestures, are not to be shown’ not conformed to in ‘Vertigo’?
This is broken many times by Madeleine and Scottie’s relationship as Scottie’s sexual desire for Madeleine is depicted multiple times within the film.
