It’s a simple case of the filmmakers vs. the censors…the art vs. the law. Censorship in movies is as old as the movies themselves. From the moment the first images unreeled, there have been people trying to ban the pictures. The Hollywood Censorship Wars traces this bitter and often spirited battle. This provocative video looks at the battleground from the perspective of stars, critics and historians, as well as the censors. The Hollywood Censorship Wars would be useful for classes on American History, American Culture, Legal History, Science and Technology and Ethics. It is appropriate for high school and college.

Note to Educators*** Some scenes in The Hollywood Censorship Wars might not be suitable for younger viewers. Discretion is advised.

• acquitted
• adversity
• advocate
• allegedly
• amiable
• anachronisms
• controversial
• debauchery
• diligently
• exploitation
• expose
• flamboyant
• furor
• propaganda
• purge
• renegades
• subversive
• taboo
• tainted
• tawdry

1. Discuss some of the legal, constitutional, social and moral problems posed by censorship.

2. When is censorship necessary? How far is too far? Who decides?

3. What is a taboo? What are some of the taboos of our culture and society?

4. What are some of the dangers of abuse and power inherent in censorship?

5. What was the Hays Production Code? How did it influence and shape movies during its era?

6. Movies played an important role in World War II. How did censorship change or adapt during World War II?

7. Compare the media coverage of World War II and the Vietnam War. How does the media coverage of these wars reflect the times of these wars?

8. Cold War censorship was insidious and defied the American Constitution. Discuss why movies and moviemakers were vulnerable during the Cold War.

9. Why were writers, producers, directors and actors blacklisted during the Cold War?

10. Why did the Hays Production Code open up in the 1960s?

1. Watch the movie Birth of a Nation and discuss why this film was so controversial. Could this movie be made today? Should this movie be censored?

2. Moderate a class debate on the pros and cons of censorship in the movies, television and music.

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