Exam 1 part 2 Flashcards
Who was Will H. Hays?
Postmaster under Harding and elder of the Presbyterian church
He worked to stop censorship at the state level and was heavily involved in public relations.
What were some restrictions imposed by the Breen office?
- No dissolve shots
- No horizontal kissing
- No cow udders
- No toilets
- No references to birth control or sex
- Preferable happy endings
Violations of the Hays Code could result in fines up to $25,000.
What was prohibited regarding murder in films under the Hays Code?
Murder cannot inspire imitation and brutal killings cannot be shown in detail
Revenge killings must be set in the past.
What methods of crime were restricted in films according to the Hays Code?
- Not explicitly presented
- Theft, robbery, and use of firearms restricted
- Methods of smuggling and illegal drug traffic must not be presented
Arson must also adhere to these safeguards.
What were the guidelines regarding sex in films under the Hays Code?
- Sanctity of marriage must be upheld
- Adultery must not be treated attractively
- Seduction or rape should only be suggested
Scenes of actual childbirth or children’s sex organs are never to be presented.
True or False: The Hays Code allowed for explicit depictions of seduction or rape.
False
These should never be shown explicitly.
What was the stance on profanity under the Hays Code?
Pointed profanity or vulgar expressions are forbidden
This includes any form of gesture or suggestion.
What were the guidelines regarding costumes in films?
- Complete nudity is never permitted
- Costumes must not permit undue exposure
Ethnic dancing was also forbidden.
How did the Hays Code handle religious depictions in films?
- No ridicule of any religious faith
- Ministers should not be portrayed as comic characters or villains
Ceremonies of any religion must be handled respectfully.
What were the restrictions regarding national feelings in films?
- Use of flags must be respectful
- History and citizens of other nations must be represented fairly
This was to maintain respect for international sentiments.
What was the significance of the titles in films under the Hays Code?
Salacious, indecent, or obscene titles were not allowed
However, slurs against African Americans in movie posters were overlooked.
What subjects were considered repellent under the Hays Code?
- Actual hangings or electrocutions
- Apparent cruelty to children or animals
- Surgical operations
Depictions of brutality and gruesomeness were restricted.
What was the impact of the Hays Code on films like ‘Gone with the Wind’ and ‘Psycho’?
Films had to find creative ways to convey risqué content within the limits of the code
‘Psycho’ was notable for showing a flushing toilet, a first at the time.
What did the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) ratings system replace?
It replaced the Hays Code in 1968
The first ratings included G, M, R, and X.
What was the House Committee on Un-American Activities (HUAC) primarily concerned with?
Concerns regarding Bolsheviks or Communists in America
It began hearings on subversion in the film industry in 1939.
What significant event started the blacklist era in Hollywood?
The October 1947 hearings led to the blacklist of many writers and directors
John Kennedy was part of the committee during this time.
Who were the ‘Hollywood Ten’?
Ten individuals cited for contempt of Congress for invoking their First Amendment rights
They served time in prison due to the HUAC hearings.
What was the outcome of the HUAC hearings in the 1950s?
Over 324 individuals were named and blacklisted
Many resorted to working under pseudonyms or in Europe.
How did the blacklist affect the film industry?
It ruined many careers and led to a culture of fear among filmmakers
Many films were made to avoid the perception of supporting communism.
What role did celebrities play in politics during the mid-20th century?
Many were fundraisers for both political parties, predominantly Republicans
Notable figures include Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and Ronald Reagan.
Who was Dalton Trumbo?
One of the Hollywood Ten who later received credit for writing the ‘Exodus’ screenplay
His contributions helped mark the end of the blacklist.
What types of propaganda are mentioned?
- Documentary
- Message hidden in subtext
The term originally had neutral connotations related to the propagation of faith.
What was the significance of American propaganda during WWII?
- Anti-Nazi films emerged as early as 1938
- Bugs Bunny and Disney’s productions supported war efforts
The Smith-Mundt Act of 1948 allowed for propaganda dissemination abroad.
How did filmmakers interact with the military?
Studios needed military cooperation for authenticity and props
Movies like ‘Top Gun’ were influenced by military collaboration.
Smith-Mundt Act 1948
US State department can produce and disseminate propaganda abroad, but not within USA.
What is the full name of the MPAA?
Motion Picture Association of America
How many individuals typically make up the MPAA ratings system?
8 to 13 individuals
The MPAA ratings system reflects the views of which group?
Average parents
What does CARA stand for?
Classification and Ratings Administration
What years mark the original MPAA ratings classification of G, M, R, X?
1968-1970
What are the current MPAA ratings used from 1990 to now?
G, PG, PG-13, R, NC-17
True or False: Pressure exists to cater to the CARA panel.
True
Why is there pressure on filmmakers regarding the CARA panel?
Rating can heavily impact film viewership
