In the 1930's, a popular belief was that producing a film promoting deviant behavior would influence the viewer to commit perverse acts, as well. When "Red Dust"" was released to the public in 1932, it was known to be one of the most provocative movies of its time. It portrays a love affair, prostitution, and alcoholism without blatantly exposing it to the audience; however, the heavy implication of these deviate acts violated the production code, but it remained available to the public. The Catholic Church was outraged and attempted to remove it from society, but they were ultimately unsuccessful, as a banned movie amplifies one's curiosity. However, when analyzing "Red Dust"" through a modern-day cultural lens, this movie is considered tame to the majority of cinemas produced today. While there are acts that society as a whole deems "wrong " or immoral, it is not to be inferred that every behavior in the film is universally unwelcome. After examining each unethical act in "Red Dust, " one can conclude that these behaviors would be repulsive to American society during the 1930's.
Examining the film from an absolutist perspective, the behaviors in "Red Dust"" can be considered deviant in all aspects. In 1932, sex was an act that was only considered to be acceptable between husband and wife. Dennis seduced another man's wife, creating a love triangle along with visually explicit scenes throughout the film. This act would not be shown in a film prior to "Red Dust,"" as it would not pass the moral standards created by the production code. During this era, any behavior that was considered morally wrong was unacceptable to show on film, as its viewers would begin adjust their standards and react accordingly. However, when considering the film through a relative perspective, it cannot be concluded that all of the acts in "Red Dust"" were completely destructive. It is never clearly indicated whether or not Vantine was a prostitute.