Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema Poster

Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema 2007

★ 4.35 votes70 min📅 2007-05-23

Delve into the provocative world of early Hollywood, where creativity knew no bounds and artistry often clashed with censorship.

Director: Elaina Archer

Cast

Diane Lane
Diane Lane
Narrator (voice)
Chris Basinger
Self
Jeanine Basinger
Jeanine Basinger
Self
Cari Beauchamp
Self
Leatrice Joy Gilbert
Leatrice Joy Gilbert
Self
A.C. Lyles
A.C. Lyles
Self
Bob Mitchell
Self
Barry Paris
Self
Maria Riva
Maria Riva
Self
Michael Schlesinger
Self

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema (2007) about?

This documentary examines the tumultuous relationship between the Production Code and the cinematic pioneers who defied it, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into the past.

Who directed Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema?

Elaina Archer directed this 2007 documentary.

Who stars in Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema?

Diane Lane, Jeanine Basinger, Leatrice Joy Gilbert, and Cari Beauchamp appear in this documentary.

Is Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema (2007) worth watching?

With its engaging narrative and fascinating insights into early Hollywood, this documentary is a must-watch for film enthusiasts and history buffs.

How long is Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema?

The film has a runtime of 70 minutes.

About Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema (2007) — Uncovering the untold stories of Hollywood's most daring pioneers.

Delve into the provocative world of early Hollywood, where creativity knew no bounds and artistry often clashed with censorship. Directed by Elaina Archer, this 2007 documentary uncovers the tumultuous relationship between the Production Code and the cinematic pioneers who defied it. A must-watch for film enthusiasts and history buffs, Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema is an immersive journey through the era's most iconic stars, including Diane Lane, Jeanine Basinger, and Leatrice Joy Gilbert, who share their tales of artistic freedom and the strictures that governed content from 1934 to 1968. The film's 70-minute runtime offers a thought-provoking glimpse into the past, raising questions about the role of censorship in shaping the movies we love today.

Experience the raw energy and unbridled passion of early Hollywood's golden age, where the likes of Gloria Swanson and Mary Pickford pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable. Why Be Good?: Sexuality & Censorship in Early Cinema is an eye-opening exploration of the industry's most formative years, highlighting the tensions between creative expression and commercial constraints.

Through meticulously curated movie clips and candid reminiscences, this documentary masterfully reconstructs the early days of Hollywood, where a new era of cinematic storytelling was born amidst controversy and innovation.