A movie receives an NC-17 rating from the Motion Picture Association (MPA) when its content is deemed by the rating board to be suitable for adults only; specifically, it contains explicit sexual activity, excessive violence, or other adult material that the board believes most parents would find unsuitable for children 17 and under. This rating essentially prohibits anyone under 17 from seeing the film in a theater, significantly limiting its audience and potential for financial success.
The Path to NC-17: An In-Depth Examination
The process of a film receiving an NC-17 rating is neither arbitrary nor easily predicted. It’s a complex evaluation conducted by the MPA’s rating board, composed of parents who reside in the Los Angeles area. These parents, representing a cross-section of backgrounds and experiences, review each film submitted and apply a set of guidelines, albeit guidelines often perceived as ambiguous and subjective. Understanding this process is crucial for filmmakers and audiences alike.
MPA Rating System Overview
The MPA rating system serves as a guide for parents to determine the age-appropriateness of films for their children. From G (General Audiences) to NC-17 (No One 17 and Under Admitted), each rating signifies a different level of content suitability. The goal, according to the MPA, is to provide parents with the information they need to make informed decisions about what their children watch. However, the NC-17 rating is unique in its severity and the associated limitations.
The Role of the Rating Board
The MPA rating board plays a pivotal role in the film industry. They are the gatekeepers, deciding which films can reach a broader audience and which will be relegated to a niche market. Their decisions are based on their collective interpretation of the rating system’s guidelines, considering factors like the context, frequency, and explicitness of the mature content. It’s important to remember that the board’s perspective reflects perceived societal norms and parental concerns at the time of the rating.
What Specifically Triggers an NC-17?
While the MPA doesn’t provide an exhaustive list, certain elements almost guarantee an NC-17 rating:
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Explicit sexual acts: This includes graphic depictions of intercourse, oral sex, and other forms of sexual activity. The focus is on realism and detail.
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Extreme violence: Gratuitous and prolonged depictions of violence, especially when accompanied by sadistic or dehumanizing elements, can trigger an NC-17.
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Cumulatively disturbing content: Even if no single scene warrants an NC-17, the combined effect of various mature elements, such as strong language, drug use, and suggestive nudity, can lead to this rating.
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Sexualized violence: Any combination of sexual content and violence is highly scrutinized and often results in an NC-17 rating.
The Business Implications of an NC-17
The NC-17 rating presents significant financial challenges for filmmakers. Many theaters refuse to screen NC-17 films, and major retailers often refuse to sell them. The advertising opportunities for NC-17 films are also severely limited. Consequently, a film with this rating faces a drastically reduced audience and a lower potential for profit. This can be devastating for independent filmmakers who rely on box office revenue to recoup their investments. This is why many filmmakers will recut their movies to avoid the rating.
Navigating the NC-17 Landscape: FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions designed to provide a deeper understanding of the NC-17 rating and its implications.
FAQ 1: Is an NC-17 rating the same as an X rating?
No. The X rating was never trademarked or controlled by the MPA. It became associated with hardcore pornography and was often used by films that refused to submit to the MPA for rating. The NC-17 rating, introduced in 1990, is a registered trademark of the MPA and is intended for films with serious artistic merit that explore adult themes.
FAQ 2: Can a movie appeal an NC-17 rating?
Yes. If filmmakers believe their film was unfairly rated, they can appeal the decision to the MPA’s Rating Appeals Board. This board comprises industry representatives who review the film and the original rating decision. The appeal process can be costly and time-consuming, but it offers filmmakers a chance to overturn the NC-17 rating.
FAQ 3: Does the MPA consider artistic merit when assigning an NC-17 rating?
While the MPA states its board consists of parents and not film critics, artistic merit is often a subject of debate in NC-17 decisions. Some argue that films with significant artistic value should be judged differently than exploitation films. The board considers the context and overall message of the film when making its determination.
FAQ 4: Are there different standards for violence versus sexual content in NC-17 ratings?
Many argue that the MPA applies a stricter standard to sexual content than to violence. Films with extreme violence sometimes receive an R rating, while even implied or suggestive sexual content can trigger an NC-17. This disparity has been a point of contention for filmmakers and critics alike.
FAQ 5: Can a director release an unrated version of their film instead of dealing with the MPA?
Yes. Directors are not obligated to submit their films to the MPA. Releasing an unrated version allows them to avoid the rating system altogether. However, this can still limit distribution and exhibition opportunities, as many theaters and retailers prefer to screen or sell films with MPA ratings.
FAQ 6: Has any major studio ever released a wide-release NC-17 film?
Rarely. Due to the severe limitations, major studios generally avoid releasing NC-17 films in wide release. While some independent distributors have taken the risk, the financial rewards are often limited. “Showgirls” is often cited as a high profile, major studio film that originally received the rating, and was edited down to an R rating.
FAQ 7: How has the NC-17 rating affected the careers of filmmakers?
The impact varies. For some, an NC-17 rating has been a career killer, limiting their access to funding and distribution. For others, it has been a badge of honor, signifying their willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventional filmmaking.
FAQ 8: What is the difference between “softcore” and NC-17 content?
This is subjective, but “softcore” generally implies less explicit or graphic depictions of sexual activity. NC-17 content typically involves explicit, detailed, and prolonged depictions of sexual acts or extremely graphic violence. The line can be blurry, and the rating board’s interpretation is the ultimate determinant.
FAQ 9: Do foreign films face different scrutiny when being rated for NC-17 in the US?
No. The MPA applies the same standards to foreign films as it does to domestic productions. However, cultural context may be considered, but the core guidelines regarding explicit content remain the same.
FAQ 10: Is there a way to predict if a film will get an NC-17 rating during production?
It’s difficult to predict with certainty. Filmmakers can review the MPA’s rating guidelines and consult with legal counsel experienced in film ratings. However, the board’s subjective interpretation means there’s always an element of uncertainty. Focusing on narrative and artistic purpose can influence the perception of the content.
FAQ 11: What happens if a theater allows someone under 17 to watch an NC-17 film?
The theater faces potential legal and financial penalties. Enforcement varies, but theaters are generally responsible for ensuring that only adults are admitted to NC-17 screenings. The specific penalties depend on local laws and regulations.
FAQ 12: Are there any famous films that were initially rated NC-17 and then successfully appealed for an R rating?
Yes, many films have been edited to move from NC-17 to R. The aforementioned “Showgirls” is a well-known example. “Henry & June”, and “Bad Lieutenant” are also other famous films that were eventually re-edited to avoid the rating. The success of an appeal often depends on the willingness of the filmmakers to make cuts and compromises.
Conclusion: The NC-17’s Enduring Influence
The NC-17 rating remains a controversial and impactful aspect of the film industry. While it’s intended to protect children from unsuitable content, it also creates significant barriers for filmmakers who explore complex and challenging themes. Understanding the nuances of the rating process and its implications is crucial for both filmmakers and audiences navigating the landscape of adult-oriented cinema. Despite the limitations it imposes, the NC-17 rating continues to spark debate and shape the boundaries of artistic expression in film.