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Movie Info & Details
Release Year2007
Runtime1h 10m
LanguageEnglish
CertificationNR
GenresDocumentary
Votes5
DirectorElaina Archer
WritersScott Eyman, Elaina Archer
TypeFeature Film
Rating4.3 out of 10
Cast10 credited
Also Known AsWhy Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema
About Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema
Before the G, PG and R ratings system there was the Production Code, and before that there was, well, nothing. This eye-opening documentary examines the rampant sexuality of early Hollywood through movie clips and reminiscences by stars of the era. Gloria Swanson, Mary Pickford, Marlene Dietrich and others relate tales of the artistic freedom that led to the draconian Production Code, which governed content from 1934 to 1968. Diane Lane narrates.
Directed by Elaina Archer, Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema leans on a strong ensemble — Diane Lane, Chris Basinger, Jeanine Basinger — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.
The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about documentary titles of 2007.
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