That scene wasn't all that bold for it's time. During the early 20th century it was quite "innocent" for men to express their admiration, even love, for each other. Homosexuality wasn't acceptable, but emotions in males were recognized as normal.
Sex was kept "under wraps". It wasn't something to be discussed in "polite (public) company". It wasn't until the 50s/60s, with advancing technology in communications, the advent of "mass media", that society's little dirty secrets began seeing the light of day. Though most knew what went on behind closed doors, they feigned public shock, and mortification, at such things being uncovered. Scientific research projects into Human Sexuality? WTF?
That's roughly when men's feelings took on a darker, more "perverted" sense. Something to be socially avoided at all costs, because that could hint at, lead to, "dirty" sex. It was during the 60s/70s that heterosexuality was emerging from the shadows, and the public couldn't get enough of it. X rated films in major theaters? OMG! (Where can I get a ticket?)
During the 70s/80s homosexuality began coming out of the closet. And, then, the AIDS crisis hit, making it not only "immoral", but fatal. It wouldn't be until the late 80s, and into the 90s, that being "gay" began to be understood, and more socially acceptable. Yet, still, Today, we have a ways to go, but we're getting there.
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