The Genesis and Evolution of Hollywood Censorship: From 1922 to 1934

With the advent of sound in the late 1920s, Hollywood faced increasing pressure from religious and civic groups to regulate the moral content of films. This pressure culminated in the establishment of the Motion Picture Production Code, also known as the Hays Code, in 1934, which fundamentally transformed the filmmaking landscape in America. This article explores the origins, development, and significant impact of Hollywood's internal censorship mechanisms from 1922 to 1934.

Presidential Leadership: The Role of Will H Hays

1922-1934: Upon the founding of the Motion Picture Producers and Distributors of America (MPPDA) in 1922, Presbyterian Will H Hays was appointed as its president. His initial effort to regulate the industry came in the form of a list of "Don'ts and Be Carefuls" in 1927, which aimed to address public concerns without government imposition.

Top 'Don'ts': The list strictly forbade pointed profanity, ridicule of the clergy, and any implication of sexual perversion, including homosexuality and mixed race relationships.

The Birth of the Hays Code

1930-1934: While Hays' guidelines remained largely ineffective due to studios' reluctance to submit scripts, a more stringent approach emerged. In mid-1930, a Catholic layman and a Jesuit priest proposed a new code of conduct. Studios agreed to endorse this code in March 1930, leading to the formalization of the Hays Code as the Motion Picture Production Code.

The Introduction of the PCA: The Hays Code in Action

1934: In a significant development, the Studios and the MPPDA formed the Production Code Administration (PCA) headed by Joseph Breen, a handpicked person by Catholic activists. This body was tasked with enforcing the Hays Code, issuing seals of approval for films, and fining studios that violated the code.

Impact and Legacy

1934–1968: Although the Hays Code lacked legal backing, its authority extended to all films produced in Hollywood for decades. Various amendments were made, and exceptions were granted, but the core principles of the code continued to regulate English-language filmmaking until 1968. This system ensured that Hollywood maintained a relatively clean image, safeguarding against the perceived moral decline in society.

Key Takeaways

Self-censorship: Hollywood's approach to censorship was rooted in self-regulation. Studios edited films to avoid MPAA ratings, which would prevent distribution by media outlets and theaters.

External Pressure: The Catholic Church played a crucial role in pressuring Hollywood to implement stricter standards, ensuring that films aligned with moral and religious values.

Broader Implications: The Hays Code was a response to societal concerns, reflecting the influence of religious and civic groups on American culture.

Conclusion

From 1922 to 1934, the evolution of Hollywood censorship was a multifaceted process that began with internal guidelines and culminated in the establishment of the Hays Code. This system not only protected the industry from external censorship but also reinforced the moral and ethical standards of American society.

References

[1] Brudner, E. (2001). The Hays Code at Work: Censorship and the Hollywood Film Industry, 1930-1968. University of Wisconsin Press.
[2] Collins, W. (2012). The preaching of Hollywood: A history of American movie morality. McFarland Co.