This movie is remembered for shattering sexual innuendo boundaries. There are countless sexual references, including one racy conversation between the two leads that likens horse racing to sexual intercourse and gay characters. However, though the innuendos might have been eyebrow-raising back then, they are quite mild by today's standards. No nudity.

One major plot point revolves around finding stolen pictures of Carmen Sternwood that are presumably pornographic. However, due to censoring, nothing is mentioned outright.

The villains in the film are evil and intimidating. There are several brandishings of guns, and several people are shot (bloodlessly). Marlowe is drugged and kidnapped.

Some social drinking. Bacall and Bogart are never seen without their cigarettes, which are prevelant in almost every frame. The opening and closing credits of the film are accompanied by silhouettes of Bogart and Bacall lighting each other's cigarettes.

The villains are evil and intimidating.