The Motion Picture Production Code Quiz

Overview of the Motion Picture Production Code (MPPC)

• Post-World War I America saw a rise in films exploring themes of prostitution, drugs, and murder.
• Initial attempts at regulation by the Supreme Court in 1919 faced resistance from filmmakers.

Establishment of Self-Regulation

• The Motion Picture Producers and Distributors Association (MPPDA) was created in 1922 as a self-regulatory body in response to government oversight pressures.
• In 1934, the MPPDA introduced the Motion Picture Production Code (MPPC) to ensure films were suitable for all audiences.

Restrictions Imposed by the MPPC

• Language: Prohibited explicit sexual language, banning words like "broad," "hot," "whore," and "fairy."
• Sexual Content: Required that intimate scenes depict married couples and mandated full clothing.
• Kissing: Stipulated that prolonged kisses were not allowed.
• Violence: Imposed strict limitations on violent content, with fines of $25,000 for violations.
• Notable films operating under the MPPC included Citizen Kane and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Impact of the MPPC on the Film Industry

• The MPPC significantly shaped American cinema, particularly during the Great Depression when films became a primary entertainment source.
• By the 1950s, Hollywood began resisting the MPPC's restrictions, influenced by the rising popularity of television.

Transition to the MPA Rating System

• The Motion Picture Association (MPA) was formed in 1966, leading to the development of the MPA rating system.
• This system replaced the MPPC, emphasizing content description over censorship, providing viewers with information on sexual, violent, or other sensitive content.
• The rating system empowered audiences to choose films based on their content preferences.