13.4 Changing Social Values Reflected in 1950s Films
4 min read•july 30, 2024
The 1950s saw major social shifts reflected in American cinema. Films tackled changing , civil rights, and , often pushing boundaries within the constraints of the era. These movies both mirrored and challenged societal norms, setting the stage for more daring cinema to come.
and also shaped 1950s films. While some directly addressed these themes, others used metaphors to explore American fears. The Production Code still limited content, but filmmakers found creative ways to address mature topics, foreshadowing the Code's eventual decline.
1950s Film and Social Values
Reflecting and Responding to Change
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- The 1950s marked a period of significant social and cultural change in the United States
- Shifting gender roles
- The rise of youth culture
- Films of the 1950s often addressed these changing social values, either directly or indirectly
- Through their themes, characters, and narratives
- Some films explored the growing generational divide and the emergence of a distinct youth culture
- "" (1955)
- "" (1953)
- Other films challenged traditional gender roles and expectations
- "" (1950)
- "A Streetcar Named Desire" (1951)
Addressing Civil Rights and Racial Tensions
- The Civil Rights Movement and racial tensions of the era were occasionally addressed in films
- "" (1958)
- "" (1959)
- Often in a limited or metaphorical manner due to the constraints of the time
Gender, Race, and Youth in 1950s Cinema
Gender Roles: Tradition and Challenges
- Gender roles in 1950s films often reflected the dominant cultural expectations of the time
- Men portrayed as breadwinners
- Women as homemakers
- Some films began to challenge these traditional roles
- Depicting strong, independent female characters
- Exploring the complexities of masculinity
- Examples: "Sunset Boulevard" (1950) and "" (1954)
Racial Representation and Limitations
- Racial representation in 1950s cinema was limited
- Few substantial roles for non-white actors
- Lack of diverse perspectives behind the camera
- When were addressed, it was often through a lens of white protagonists
- "The Defiant Ones" (1958)
- "Giant" (1956)
The Emergence of Youth Culture
- The emergence of youth culture in the 1950s was reflected in films that focused on:
- Teenage rebellion
- Rock and roll
- The generation gap
- Examples:
- "Rebel Without a Cause" (1955)
- "" (1955)
- "" (1957)
Cold War Influence on 1950s Film
The Impact on Content and Production
- The Cold War and the threat of communism had a significant impact on the American film industry in the 1950s
- Shaping both the content of films and the political climate in Hollywood
- The House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC) investigated alleged communist influence in Hollywood
- Leading to the blacklisting of many filmmakers, actors, and writers suspected of having communist ties
Addressing Cold War Themes Directly and Metaphorically
- Some films directly addressed Cold War themes and anti-communist sentiment
- "" (1962)
- "" (1951)
- Other films used metaphors or allegories to explore Cold War anxieties
- "" (1956), a science fiction classic
Celebrating American Values
- The fear of communist infiltration also led to the production of films that celebrated American values and way of life
- "" (1954)
- "" (1956)
Censorship and the Production Code vs Film Content
The Motion Picture Production Code (Hays Code)
- The , also known as the Hays Code, governed the content of American films from the 1930s to the late 1960s
- The Production Code placed restrictions on the depiction of:
- Violence
- Sexuality
- Drug use
- Other controversial subjects
- Shaping the themes and content of films in the 1950s
Creative Workarounds and Challenges
- Filmmakers often had to find creative ways to address mature themes and social issues within the constraints of the Code
- Using , innuendo, and subtext
- Some films challenged the Production Code by addressing taboo subjects
- "The Moon Is Blue" (1953) - adultery
- "The Man with the Golden Arm" (1955) - drug addiction
The Decline of the Production Code
- The influence of the Production Code began to wane in the late 1950s and early 1960s
- Changing social attitudes
- Foreign films not subject to the Code's restrictions gained popularity with American audiences
- The decline of the Production Code's influence paved the way for the more explicit and socially conscious films of the 1960s and 1970s
Key Terms to Review (26)
All About Eve: All About Eve is a 1950 film directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz that explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the complexities of female relationships in the world of theater. The film serves as a critical commentary on the entertainment industry and societal expectations, reflecting the postwar anxieties and shifting social values of the time.
American Dream: The American Dream is the national ethos of the United States, centered around the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and upward social mobility through hard work and determination. This concept plays a significant role in shaping narratives in film, often reflecting both aspirations and the realities of American life.
Anti-communist sentiment: Anti-communist sentiment refers to the widespread fear, distrust, and opposition towards communism and communist ideology, particularly prevalent during the Cold War era. This sentiment influenced American society, politics, and culture, leading to a significant impact on various aspects of life in the United States, especially in the realm of cinema during the 1950s.
Censorship: Censorship is the suppression or prohibition of speech, writing, or other forms of communication that are considered objectionable, harmful, or sensitive. This practice often arises from concerns about morality, national security, or societal norms and has significantly influenced the content of films during the 1950s, reflecting the changing social values of the time.
Cold War Anxieties: Cold War anxieties refer to the pervasive fears and concerns during the Cold War era, particularly in the United States, about the threat of communism and nuclear warfare. These anxieties shaped the cultural landscape of the 1950s, influencing social values, media representation, and public attitudes, which were often reflected in films of that time, depicting themes of paranoia, conformity, and the struggle between good and evil.
Conformity vs. rebellion: Conformity vs. rebellion refers to the tension between adhering to societal norms and expectations (conformity) and resisting or challenging those norms (rebellion). This dynamic is crucial in understanding the cultural landscape of the 1950s, a time when traditional values were increasingly questioned by a new generation that sought individuality and freedom of expression, especially in film narratives.
Gender roles: Gender roles refer to the societal expectations and norms that dictate how individuals should behave, think, and feel based on their gender. These roles are deeply ingrained in culture and influence various aspects of life, including family structure, career choices, and personal relationships, often reflecting broader themes of power dynamics and societal change.
I Was a Communist for the FBI: 'I Was a Communist for the FBI' is a 1951 film that reflects the fears and anxieties of the Cold War era, particularly regarding communism and espionage within American society. The film portrays the experiences of an undercover FBI agent who infiltrates a communist organization, highlighting themes of loyalty, patriotism, and the struggle against perceived threats to American values. As a product of its time, it illustrates how the entertainment industry was used to influence public opinion and reinforce anti-communist sentiments during the 1950s.
Imitation of Life: Imitation of Life is a film that explores themes of race, identity, and societal norms through the lens of personal relationships and social dynamics. It reflects the struggles of African American women navigating a predominantly white society while highlighting the impact of racial discrimination and the quest for acceptance. The film serves as a critical commentary on American culture, particularly in its representation of race and the changing social values of the 1950s.
Invasion of the Body Snatchers: Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a 1956 science fiction film that serves as a metaphor for societal fears during the Cold War, particularly the anxieties around conformity, loss of individuality, and the perceived threat of communism. The film's narrative revolves around extraterrestrial pods that replicate humans, reflecting deep concerns about identity and the erosion of personal freedom in postwar America.
Jailhouse Rock: Jailhouse Rock is a song and film featuring Elvis Presley, released in 1957, that tells the story of a man who experiences life in prison and ultimately seeks redemption. This iconic title reflects not only the rise of rock and roll music in American pop culture but also how the themes of rebellion and social critique were woven into the fabric of 1950s cinema. The film showcases how musicals became a significant means of expression during this period, resonating with audiences and marking a cultural shift in entertainment.
Juvenile delinquency: Juvenile delinquency refers to the participation of minors in illegal activities or behaviors that violate the law. This term encompasses a range of actions, from minor offenses like truancy to serious crimes such as theft or violence. The phenomenon reflects broader societal issues, including family dynamics, peer pressure, and socioeconomic factors, and is often depicted in films from the 1950s as a way to comment on changing social values and youth culture during this era.
Motion picture production code: The motion picture production code, commonly known as the Hays Code, was a set of industry guidelines established in the 1930s to regulate the content of films in order to ensure moral standards and avoid government censorship. It sought to prevent films from depicting anything considered offensive, including violence, sexual content, and themes that contradicted prevailing social norms. This self-censorship significantly influenced filmmaking practices and narratives throughout the mid-20th century, shaping both the art and commerce of cinema.
On the Waterfront: On the Waterfront is a 1954 American crime drama film directed by Elia Kazan, known for its exploration of themes such as corruption, betrayal, and redemption. The film tells the story of a former boxer who struggles with his conscience while confronting mob influence on the docks of New Jersey. It highlights postwar themes of social justice and moral integrity, reflecting the societal tensions and changes in American values during the 1950s.
Race Relations: Race relations refer to the interactions, attitudes, and power dynamics between different racial and ethnic groups within a society. This term encompasses social, political, and economic issues that arise from racial discrimination, prejudice, and systemic inequality, shaping the experiences of individuals and communities. Understanding race relations is essential in analyzing historical and cultural contexts, particularly in media representation and societal values over time.
Rebel Without a Cause: Rebel Without a Cause is a 1955 film that encapsulates the struggles of disaffected youth in postwar America, highlighting themes of teenage angst, identity crisis, and familial conflict. This film played a crucial role in shaping cultural discussions about juvenile delinquency and the pressures faced by young people in a rapidly changing society.
Symbolism: Symbolism is a literary and artistic device that uses symbols to represent ideas, themes, or concepts, allowing for deeper meaning beyond the literal interpretation. In film, symbolism can convey complex emotions, social commentary, or cultural critiques without overtly stating them, inviting viewers to engage in interpretation. This method has been especially significant in addressing sensitive subjects, as filmmakers often employ symbolism to navigate censorship and reflect shifting societal values.
The Beat Generation: The Beat Generation was a literary and cultural movement that emerged in the 1940s and became prominent in the 1950s, characterized by a rejection of conventional values and an embrace of alternative lifestyles, spontaneous creativity, and an exploration of spirituality. The movement's influence on literature, art, and music mirrored the changing social values of the time, challenging the conservative norms of post-World War II America and paving the way for the counterculture of the 1960s.
The Blackboard Jungle: The Blackboard Jungle is a 1955 film that portrays the struggles of a new teacher in a violent, unruly high school filled with delinquent students. This film reflects the changing social values of the 1950s, showcasing issues like juvenile delinquency, youth rebellion, and the challenges faced by educators during a time of social upheaval. The film highlights the anxieties of post-war America regarding youth culture and the perceived breakdown of traditional values.
The civil rights movement: The civil rights movement was a decades-long struggle by African Americans and their allies to end racial discrimination and gain equal rights under the law in the United States, primarily occurring during the 1950s and 1960s. This movement sought to dismantle systemic racism and promote social justice, leading to significant legislative changes such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. It also inspired a shift in cultural representations and societal values, which were reflected in the films of the era.
The Defiant Ones: The Defiant Ones is a 1958 American film that explores themes of race, friendship, and societal prejudice through the story of two escaped convicts—one black and one white—who are shackled together and must cooperate to survive. The film highlights the tensions and barriers posed by racial divisions in America, while also showcasing the potential for unity and understanding across these divides.
The Glenn Miller Story: The Glenn Miller Story is a biographical film released in 1954 that chronicles the life and career of the famous American bandleader Glenn Miller. It highlights his rise to fame during the swing era, his unique musical contributions, and his tragic disappearance during World War II. The film reflects changing social values of the 1950s, showcasing the transition from big band music to a more individualized focus on personal stories and heroism.
The Manchurian Candidate: The Manchurian Candidate is a 1962 political thriller film directed by John Frankenheimer, based on Richard Condon's novel of the same name. The film explores themes of brainwashing, political conspiracy, and the manipulation of individuals for nefarious purposes, reflecting the anxieties of Cold War America and changing social values in the 1950s. Its narrative questions the reliability of memory and the impact of propaganda, resonating with a society grappling with issues of trust and loyalty during a time of heightened political tension.
The Ten Commandments: The Ten Commandments are a set of biblical principles relating to ethics and worship that play a significant role in the Abrahamic religions. These commandments emphasize moral conduct and societal values, reflecting the changing social values of the 1950s, particularly in American cinema, where filmmakers often addressed themes of morality, family, and social responsibility.
The Wild One: The Wild One is a 1953 American film directed by Laslo Benedek, starring Marlon Brando as Johnny Strabler, a rebellious motorcycle gang leader. The film represents the youth culture of the 1950s and highlights themes of rebellion, identity, and societal expectations, mirroring the changing social values of the era.
Youth culture: Youth culture refers to the social practices, values, beliefs, and interests that are distinctive to young people, particularly adolescents and young adults. This culture emerged prominently in the post-World War II era, with teenagers gaining more social and economic independence, leading to a unique identity that challenged traditional norms. In the context of changing social values in the 1950s, youth culture became a major theme in films, reflecting the desires, frustrations, and rebellious spirit of the younger generation during this transformative time.