KNOWhomo

LGBTQ* Film/Movie History

THE HAYS CODE

(also known as the Motion Picture Production Code)

* The Motion Picture Production Code — a series of decency and censorship codes produced by the motion picture board — were used from 1934-1968

— Also know as the Hays Code (named after Hollywood’s chief censor, Will H. Hays)

* The code was established before movies were given ratings by the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America)

* Fines would be given to film producers, directors and theaters showcasing films which contained anything with violations to the Code.

* Smart directors/actors moved around these codes, placing subtle hints and insider lingo throughout the films

* The Code Restricted:

—> Open-Mouth Kissing

—> Lustful Embrace

—> Rape

—> Abortion

—> Prostitution 

—> Depictions of “white slavery”

—> Profanity

—> Seduction

—> Sexual “Perversion” (namely, homosexuality on screen)

What’s so Queer about it?

— Guess which “code” violation was the LAST to be dropped? You guess it: Sexual Perversion. Homosexual representation is film was still punishable/worth of a fine until the bitter end of the code.

(Personal Note:  I highly recommend reading Vito Russo’s The Celluloid Closet or watching the 1995 documentary The Celluloid Closet *which is also on YouTube in multiple parts*)