An NC-17 movie, short for “No Children Under 17 Admitted,” is a film rating assigned by the Motion Picture Association (MPA) indicating that the movie contains explicit or graphic content considered unsuitable for children under the age of 17. Unlike an R rating, which permits children under 17 to attend with a parent or adult guardian, an NC-17 rating strictly prohibits attendance by anyone under 17, regardless of accompaniment. This rating often signifies scenes of extreme violence, graphic sexuality, or pervasive coarse language.
The Evolution of the NC-17 Rating
The NC-17 rating wasn’t always in existence. To truly understand its significance, one must understand its origins.
Replacing the X Rating
Prior to 1990, the MPA’s rating system included an “X” rating. However, this rating became synonymous with pornography, even though many films labeled “X” were simply artistically daring and sexually explicit in ways mainstream studios weren’t yet comfortable with. The problem arose because the MPA didn’t trademark the “X” rating, leading to its widespread use by the adult film industry. This association stigmatized legitimate filmmakers who received the “X” rating for their work, making it difficult to market and distribute their films.
In 1990, the MPA replaced the “X” rating with the NC-17 rating in an effort to differentiate between artistic films with adult themes and hardcore pornography. The intention was to provide a legitimate rating for films that explored adult content without being commercially associated with the negative connotations of the “X” rating. The NC-17 rating aimed to provide a clear signal to parents about the content of a film and to allow adult audiences to make informed decisions about what they wanted to see.
Consequences of the NC-17 Rating
Despite its well-intentioned origins, the NC-17 rating has had a complicated history. Many mainstream movie theaters refuse to screen NC-17 films, fearing a lack of audience and potential backlash from parents. Major retailers often decline to sell or rent NC-17 rated movies, further limiting their distribution.
This often forces filmmakers to either heavily censor their films to achieve an R rating, which would allow for a wider release and audience reach, or to accept the limited exposure and financial challenges associated with the NC-17 rating. Consequently, many filmmakers strategically aim for an R rating, often making difficult choices to cut or modify scenes that might push their films into NC-17 territory.
Overcoming the Stigma: NC-17 Success Stories
Despite the challenges, some films have successfully navigated the complexities of the NC-17 rating and achieved critical acclaim and even moderate commercial success.
Examples of Critically Acclaimed NC-17 Films
Films like Henry & June (1990), the first film to receive an NC-17 rating, and Showgirls (1995), while initially controversial, have found audiences and sparked critical discussion. More recently, films like Blue Is the Warmest Color (2013) and Cuties (2020) have generated significant debate and attention due to their NC-17 ratings and explorations of complex themes.
These examples demonstrate that the NC-17 rating doesn’t necessarily equate to low quality or lack of artistic merit. Some filmmakers intentionally embrace the rating to tell stories that push boundaries and explore challenging subjects in a frank and unflinching manner. However, the path to success remains difficult, and many films that receive an NC-17 rating struggle to find an audience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About NC-17 Movies
Here are some frequently asked questions to help clarify the nuances of the NC-17 rating.
1. What kind of content usually earns a film an NC-17 rating?
Films typically receive an NC-17 rating due to explicit sexual content, graphic violence, excessive profanity, or a combination of these factors. The key distinction is the level of intensity and explicitness. While an R-rated film may contain some sexual content or violence, an NC-17 film presents these elements in a far more graphic and detailed manner.
2. Can anyone under 17 see an NC-17 movie if they’re with their parents?
No. The core principle of the NC-17 rating is that no one under the age of 17 is admitted to screenings, regardless of parental accompaniment. This is the fundamental difference between the NC-17 and R ratings.
3. Are NC-17 movies considered pornography?
Generally, no. While an NC-17 movie can contain explicit sexual content, it differs from pornography in its narrative context, artistic intent, and production value. NC-17 films often explore complex themes and character development, whereas pornography typically focuses solely on sexual acts. However, the line can be blurry, and some NC-17 films may be perceived as bordering on pornography by some viewers.
4. Why don’t more movies get the NC-17 rating?
The primary reason is the limited distribution and commercial viability associated with the rating. Many filmmakers prefer to edit their films to achieve an R rating, which opens up wider release opportunities and a larger potential audience.
5. Is the MPA rating system mandatory?
No, the MPA rating system is voluntary. Filmmakers are not legally required to submit their films for rating. However, most studios and distributors do so because the ratings provide guidance to parents and influence theatrical release and distribution deals.
6. Does an unrated movie mean it’s automatically more explicit than an NC-17 movie?
Not necessarily. An unrated movie simply means that the filmmaker chose not to submit the film to the MPA for rating. It could be more explicit than an NC-17 film, or it could be milder. Often, independent or art-house films remain unrated.
7. How does the MPA decide on the ratings?
The MPA employs a board of parents who view films and make rating decisions based on their assessment of the film’s content and its suitability for children of different ages. The ratings are intended to reflect the consensus of parents’ opinions about what is appropriate for their children.
8. Can a movie’s NC-17 rating be appealed?
Yes, filmmakers can appeal an NC-17 rating by requesting a re-evaluation from the MPA. The appeals process involves presenting arguments and potentially making cuts to the film in an attempt to secure a lower rating.
9. Are there different standards for NC-17 movies in different countries?
Yes. Movie rating systems vary significantly across different countries. A film that receives an NC-17 rating in the United States may receive a different rating or be banned altogether in other countries.
10. Are there any benefits to having an NC-17 rating?
While challenging, an NC-17 rating can attract attention and generate publicity for a film. It can also signal to audiences that the film is pushing boundaries and exploring mature themes in a serious and unflinching manner. For some filmmakers, the NC-17 rating is a badge of honor, signifying their commitment to artistic vision over commercial concerns.
11. What are some strategies filmmakers use to avoid an NC-17 rating?
Filmmakers may employ various strategies to avoid an NC-17 rating, including:
- Cutting or modifying scenes that are deemed too explicit or graphic.
- Using suggestive rather than explicit imagery.
- Focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of the story rather than gratuitous violence or sexuality.
- Adding comedic elements to offset the intensity of the content.
12. Where can I watch NC-17 movies?
Finding NC-17 movies can be challenging due to limited theatrical screenings and retail availability. However, many NC-17 films are available on streaming platforms, DVD, and Blu-ray. Additionally, some art-house cinemas may occasionally screen NC-17 films. You can also often rent or buy the digital version. Checking online databases and reviews can help identify platforms where specific NC-17 titles are available.