Movie ratings are designed to provide viewers, particularly parents, with information about the content and age-appropriateness of a film, helping them make informed decisions about what they choose to watch. These ratings, assigned by independent bodies like the MPA (Motion Picture Association) in the United States, offer a shorthand guide to potentially objectionable material, ranging from violence and language to sexual content and drug use.
The Rating System: A Deeper Dive
The mechanisms behind movie ratings are far more complex than simply assigning a letter grade. Several key factors contribute to the final rating, including the prevalence, intensity, and context of potentially objectionable content. The raters themselves are parents, independent of the film industry, who bring their own sensitivities and perspectives to the process.
The MPA rating system, perhaps the most widely recognized, uses the following categories:
-
G (General Audiences): Suitable for all ages. The film contains nothing that most parents would find offensive for viewing by children.
-
PG (Parental Guidance Suggested): Some material may not be suitable for young children. Parents urged to give “parental guidance.” May contain some material parents might not like for their young children.
-
PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned): Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Parents are urged to be cautious. Some material may be inappropriate for pre-teenagers.
-
R (Restricted): Contains some adult material. Parents are urged to learn more about the film before taking their young children. R-rated films may include adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or any combination of these elements.
-
NC-17 (No One 17 and Under Admitted): Contains clearly adult content. Children are not admitted.
Beyond the MPA, other countries often have their own, distinct rating systems. In the UK, for example, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) uses different symbols and descriptions, focusing on the likely impact of the film on viewers. These international differences highlight the culturally specific nature of what’s considered acceptable or objectionable.
The Rating Process: From Submission to Certification
The process begins when a film’s producers submit their movie to the rating organization, in most cases on a voluntary basis. They pay a fee, which helps fund the operation. The film is then viewed by a panel of raters, each of whom independently assesses the content based on established guidelines.
These guidelines are not always publicly available in exhaustive detail, but the MPA, for instance, provides broad descriptions of what each rating level typically entails. Raters consider the context in which potentially objectionable content is presented. For instance, violence in a historical drama might be viewed differently than violence in a lighthearted comedy.
After individual assessments, the panel discusses their findings and attempts to reach a consensus on the appropriate rating. If the producers disagree with the assigned rating, they have the option to appeal the decision. This appeal is usually heard by a larger committee within the rating organization.
The Impact of Ratings: Box Office and Beyond
Movie ratings can significantly impact a film’s box office success. A G or PG rating often broadens the potential audience, leading to higher ticket sales. However, an R rating might limit the audience but can also signal to viewers that the film tackles more mature themes or offers a grittier, more realistic portrayal of certain topics.
Beyond box office, ratings can also influence a film’s distribution and marketing. Some retailers may refuse to sell NC-17 rated movies, and advertising restrictions often apply to films with more restrictive ratings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about movie ratings, answered in detail to further clarify the process and its implications:
What happens if a film is not rated?
Films are not legally required to be rated in the US. However, unrated films may face difficulties in distribution, as many theaters and retailers prefer to show or sell rated movies. An “Unrated” designation also often implies the film contains material that could warrant a restrictive rating, potentially deterring family audiences.
Are movie ratings laws?
No, movie ratings are not laws in most regions. They are voluntary guidelines provided by independent organizations or government bodies. However, some countries or municipalities may have laws regulating the showing of certain films to minors.
Who decides what goes into the rating system?
In the US, the MPA’s Classification and Rating Administration (CARA) is comprised of parents who make the rating decisions. The MPA itself, which represents major film studios, oversees the process and establishes the general guidelines. These guidelines evolve over time to reflect changing societal standards.
Can a movie’s rating be changed after it’s released?
It is rare, but possible. Producers can re-submit a film with edits to try and obtain a different rating. This often involves removing or altering scenes that contributed to the initial rating. Re-rating can be a strategic move to broaden the film’s appeal.
How accurate are movie ratings?
The accuracy of ratings is subjective and depends on individual viewers’ sensibilities. While the ratings provide a general indication of content, they cannot account for every possible reaction. It’s always advisable to read reviews or learn more about a film before deciding to watch it, especially with children.
Are independent films rated differently than studio films?
The rating process is supposed to be the same regardless of whether a film is produced by a major studio or an independent filmmaker. However, some argue that independent films are held to a higher standard, particularly regarding mature themes or explicit content.
What are the international movie rating systems like?
Movie rating systems vary significantly across countries. The UK’s BBFC, as mentioned, uses different categories and symbols. Other countries, like Germany, have government-run rating boards. These systems often reflect the cultural values and sensitivities of the specific region.
How do streaming services handle movie ratings?
Streaming services typically display the same movie ratings assigned by the official rating organizations. They may also provide additional content warnings or age verification measures to help parents manage their children’s viewing habits. Many offer parental controls to restrict access to content based on rating.
What are the criteria for an R rating?
An R rating typically indicates that a film contains some adult material, such as strong language, violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse, or adult themes. The intensity and frequency of these elements influence the rating. However, the overall tone and context are also considered.
What’s the difference between PG and PG-13?
PG (Parental Guidance Suggested) means some material may not be suitable for young children, prompting parents to give “parental guidance.” PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned) indicates some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. The latter implies potentially more intense or mature content than a PG film.
How are animated movies rated?
Animated movies are subject to the same rating criteria as live-action films. Violence, language, and suggestive content can all contribute to a higher rating, even in animated form. Parents should not assume that an animated movie is automatically suitable for all children.
Are movie ratings influenced by public opinion?
While the rating process is intended to be objective, public opinion can indirectly influence the broader guidelines and standards used by rating organizations. Controversial films often spark discussions about the appropriateness of ratings and can prompt reviews and adjustments to the rating system.
Conclusion: Navigating the Cinematic Landscape
Movie ratings serve as a valuable, though imperfect, tool for navigating the vast cinematic landscape. Understanding how these ratings are determined and what they represent empowers viewers to make informed choices, ensuring a more enjoyable and age-appropriate viewing experience. By critically evaluating ratings and seeking additional information about films, we can all become more discerning consumers of entertainment.