From the moment the first images unreeled, there have been people trying to ban the pictures. The Hollywood Censorship Wars traces this bitter and often spirited battle. This provocative video looks at the battleground from the perspective of stars, critics and historians, as well as the censors. The Hollywood Censorship Wars would be useful for classes on American History, American Culture, Legal History, Science and Technology and Ethics. It is appropriate for high school and college.
Discretion is advised.
Compare the media coverage of World War II and the Vietnam War. Cold War censorship was insidious and defied the American Constitution. Discuss why movies and moviemakers were vulnerable during the Cold War. Extended Activities Watch the movie Birth of a Nation and discuss why this film was so controversial. Moderate a class debate on the pros and cons of censorship in the movies, television and music.