JOHN GREANIAS FILM REVIEW-----THE PRODUCTION CODE YEARS

The John Greanias Film Review will be limited to the critical evaluation of films released during years 1934 through 1967.  Commencing in 1934, the Production Code Administration (PCA) initiated a formal process for self-regulation of the film industry to promote high moral standards in films released for public viewing.  After many years of strict enforcement, the morality displayed in films began to change significantly in the early 1960s, and the PCA self-regulation process finally ended with the adoption of the Motion Picture Association of America film rating system in 1968.  Films released during the PCA years were restricted to narrow boundaries when dealing with violence, drugs, sex, coarse language and other conduct deemed to be inconsistent with good moral behavior.  Did the endeavor to promote high moral standards result in a plethora of lackluster films or, instead, did the actors, directors and screen writers achieve exceptionally high artistic standards during the PCA years?  WE SHALL SEE!