Sex, Violence, and Censorship, Episode 2

With the implementation of the Production Code, studios could use biblical films to sneak sex and violence into their pictures. Coliseum violence, pagan orgies, sensual dance scenes, and women and men in skimpy costumes were all deemed necessary to enact ancient stories. Although the Bible, in this sense, could change the Code, in one notable film, the Code changed the Bible, completely transforming a famous biblical villain into a virtuous Christian. Narrators are Richard Lindsay and Ryan Parker. Biblical film experts are David Blanke, Matthew Page, and Adele Reinhartz. For more information on the movie posters referenced in this episode, go to dspt.edu/movie-posters-podcast