Pre-Code Essentials: Must-See Cinema from Hollywood's Untamed Era, 1930-1934
by Danny Reid and Kim Luperi
BIG NEWS! I co-wrote a book on pre-Code Hollywood with my pal Danny!
Meet Pre-Code Essentials! Cover design by Susan Van Horn.
Pre-Code Essentials presents essays on 50 classic films from the era alongside over 200 photos, including select reproductions from the censorship files.
There's never been a pre-Code book like this (nor has a woman written a book on the subject!). Suffice it to say, we are very excited to share Pre-Code Essentials with everyone in October 2025.
If you'd like to pre-order a copy—soft cover, eBook, or audio book (we're also the first pre-Code audio book!)—there are various links to do so on the page below:
Pre-order Pre-Code Essentials!​​​​​​​​
Thank you for your support!
-Kim
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thanks for stopping by!
I See a Dark Theater is a website dedicated to classic movie-going—and loving—in the City of Angels. Whether it's coverage on screenings, special presentations, or Q&As around Los Angeles that you're looking for, or commentary on the wonderful and sometimes wacky world of classic cinema, you've come to the right place for a variety of pieces written with zeal, awe, and (occasionally) wit. Enjoy.