AFI Silver Classic Film Weekend: ME AND MY GAL + Introduction by film historian Steven C. Smith

Date and Time for this Past Event

• Saturday, Jun 15, 2024  12:20pm - 1:30pm

Location

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Event Category

In-Person

About

"Pre-Code: Sex and Censorship" electrifies the first AFI Silver Classic Film Weekend. Immerse yourself in the thrilling era of pre-Code cinema, a fleeting moment from the late 1920s to 1934 when films defied convention before the Hays Code stifled Hollywood's boldness. These movies, lighthearted or dramatic, showcased complex women and flawed heroes struggling against social injustice, and unflinching explorations of sex, ambition and crime. Witness legendary stars ignite the screen: Clara Bow, James Cagney, Barbara Stanwyck, Cary Grant, Jean Harlow, Joan Blondell, Spencer Tracy, Warren William, Anna May Wong and Josephine Baker. Festival guests, including film historians Richard Koszarski, Steven C. Smith, Farran Smith Nehme, Katie Gee Salisbury and David Stenn, will introduce each film.

ME AND MY GAL
Introduction by film historian Steven C. Smith

A beat cop in New York City's Lower East Side (Spencer Tracy) and a cocky waitress (Joan Bennett) trade wisecracks (and share sizzling chemistry) as they are drawn together on a busy waterfront of workers, drunks, bums and war veterans barely getting by during the Depression. Made just before the end of Prohibition, this robust comedy/drama/romance displays an open sexuality and honesty that would soon disappear from American films with the arrival of the Production Code. Nearly every character is evading the law, having illicit sex or otherwise playing around, and being a gangster is simply a career choice. Director Raoul Walsh keeps the energy level high with snappy direction and a playful spirit.