Censorship Week: Has it changed much since the days of Hays?

When you look at the beginning of movie ratings with the Hays Code, it's sad to say we may not have come so far in 80 years!

My favorite parts of the Hays Code:

• Nakedness and suggestive dances were prohibited.

Come on! Suggestive dances are the best! We've made great progress here as displayed on that raunchy MTV channel the kids are watching nowadays.

• The depiction of illegal drug use was forbidden, as well as the use of liquor, when not required by the plot or for proper characterization.

I am reassured by the part where liquor and illegal drugs are allowed when in fact required by the plot...

• References to alleged sex perversion (such as homosexuality) and venereal disease were forbidden, as were depictions of childbirth.

Isn't it amazing when homo sex perversion and childbirth are grouped together? Almost too many issues to unpack 'em all. So I guess queer characters in drag giving birth is out of the question?

Tempted to go watch banned films and see what gets government panties in a bunch? Here are some places to look for your next movie night:

Wielding the Red Pen: Films
Alternative Reel: Top 10 Banned Films of the 20th Century