Date

May 2007

Department

Communication

Degree

Master of Arts (MA)

Chair

Clifford Kelly

Primary Subject Area

Cinema

Keywords

controversial content; history; American culture; Hollywood elite; film

Abstract

This study looks at the change in controversial content in films during the 20th century. Original films made prior to 1968 and their remakes produced after were compared in the content areas of profanity, nudity, sexual content, alcohol and drug use, and violence. The advent of television, post-war effects and a proposed “Hollywood elite” are discussed as possible causes for the increase in controversial content. Commentary from industry professionals on the change in content is presented, along with an overview of American culture and the history of the film industry.