What belief did some hold about the enforcement of the film code?

The belief that the enforcement of the film code had a positive value and forced filmmakers to be subtle stems from the understanding that the Motion Picture Production Code, or Hays Code, which was enforced from the 1930s to the 1960s, set strict guidelines for what could and could not be depicted on screen. Filmmakers had to find creative ways to convey themes and emotions without violating the code's stipulations on morality, sexuality, and violence.

This necessity for subtlety often resulted in innovative storytelling techniques, where filmmakers employed innuendo, allegory, and symbolic imagery to communicate ideas that they could not present directly due to the code. For instance, filmmakers learned to imply rather than explicitly show adult themes, leading to a more layered and nuanced form of storytelling that required audiences to engage more deeply with the film. Thus, many saw this as a beneficial challenge that pushed the boundaries of creativity within the constraints of the code.

The subtler storytelling techniques developed during this time have been appreciated for their artistry, and many classic films from this era are celebrated for their clever ways of addressing complex subjects without violating the code.