The Hays code

Today we began to watch a film noir in media by the title of double indemnity. One thing that we noticed was how fake the kissing scenes were. Then we were told about the Hays code, which was kind of like a rating system back then, which dictated what you could and could not see within the film. It was enforced into society in about 1934

One rule was that crime and wrong doings could never be displayed as a good thing. If someone were to commit a crime they had to be punished for it later on in the film.

Correct standards of life had to be presented at all times. This concerned many directors who wanted to take on films about poverty. It made them less likely to do this.

The law, in films must be respected and upheld.

No one could be nude or make sexual innuendos, display sexual behaviour or allude to sexual behaviour. Even pregnancy and childbirth were not allowed.

Religion was never to be depicted in a mocking manor.

Drug use (including alcohol consumption) was banned unless the plot called for it. It was only allowed if the viewers (Through the plot) were warned against the harmful use of drugs and alcohol or if the offender who was drinking or using got their justice against them in the end.

All imitable depiction of crime must be removed

Revenge was not permitted as it might glorify violence

Topics considered "Perverse" were not discussed in these films. These topics included: Homosexuality, miscegenation, interracial relationships, beastiality and venereal diseases.

The sanctity of marriage was to be upheld

Blasphemy including use of the name God in vain was not allowed.

Profanity was prehibited, anything stronger than "Damn" was frowned upon

This is the Hays code and frankly Its kind of funny how many things were prohibited considering that most of these today are used in modern television and cinema.