After readings Black’s interpretation of citizenry attitudes and lifestyles during the late 1920’s and early 1930’s I came to a better understanding of people’s perception of gangster films. A conservative era would condemn such portrayals of violence, sex, and dirty money . Individuals living in those decades were old fashioned and god fearing. The themes that were portrayed in such films went against the Bible, and moral guidelines of what was right and wrong. Although there may be some truth in the films about crime that was partaking during those times, common citizens did not want their families to be influenced by such films which made it seem like these lifestyles were acceptable. Critics and citizen groups alike were concerned with the diminishing of family values, and principles.
The censorship process that we observed in the production of Scarface is consistent with democratic principles in the sense that although everyone does have a right to voice their opinion it must be done so in good taste. Even today, censorship boards ban overly sexual, violent, and graphic images. I believe that as long as it serves a common good for the betterment of society it is okay to censor themes and images which can harm citizen groups.
