What is the NC-17 rating ? How is it different from others? What is the age classification of information products for? As a rule, these questions are of interest to people who actively consume the products of modern mass culture. It includes video games, books, comics and, of course, cinematographic tapes. In our article today, we will tell you in detail on what principle the classification of films by age was created.
Hayes Codex
The issue of control over producers of art films arose at the beginning of the last century. The predecessor to the Motion Picture Association of America was the United States Film Producers and Distributors Association. In the 30s of the 20th century, the organization was headed by William Hayes, a conservative and a member of the Republican party. It was from his submission that the so-called Hayes Code was introduced.
This unofficial set of rules established censorship in American cinema, promoted by certain states at the request of concerned parent committees and Christian organizations. The Hayes Code tabooed films that could adversely affect the morale of the audience. For example, a church representative could not be an antagonist or a comedic character, and religion itself was forbidden to be shown from the negative side. The Code did not allow the depiction of criminals and villains in such a way that they aroused the sympathy of the audience. Intimate scenes (at that time only episodes with kisses and hugs) were allowed only in the main plot moments, and their duration and frankness were very limited.
According to the set of rules by William Hayes, the main values in the life of American citizens should have been marriage and family, and romantic relationships outside of marriage, albeit necessary from the point of view of the plot, should have been condemned in every possible way. Since 1934, the Association's permit visa has become a must for every film producer. Films that did not meet the requirements of the code could be produced, but they had no chance of a successful rental. Almost all the cinemas of the United States of America belonged to members of the association, and therefore such films simply would not be shown in them.
In the 60s, the Hayes Codex was very outdated, as American filmmakers could no longer compete on equal footage with the French films of the New Wave and Italian neorealism.
American Film Association Rating System
This system was introduced in the United States by the American Film Association (MPAA). Depending on what grade the film will receive, its audience may be limited by excluding people who have not reached the age of majority from it. Despite the fact that the system was first adopted on November 1, 1968, it remains relevant to this day.
The government of the United States of America has nothing to do with this classification and, therefore, has no influence on film production in the United States. Thus, cinema in America is actively self-regulating and continues to function effectively in the global cinema market.
Let's take a closer look at each rating.
General audiences
It is put on those films that people of all ages are allowed to watch. G rating is proof that there are no elements in the movie that could cause a negative reaction in parents or badly affect children. There are no sex scenes or episodes in which the characters take psychotropic drugs. The moments where the heroes use brute force are minimal. It is possible to use words that go beyond cultural communication, but only those that can be heard in everyday life. Profanity in such paintings is completely absent.
PG - Parental guidance suggested
Watching films with such a rating is recommended in the presence of parents. Why? This is not an adult movie, but some scenes may not be suitable for a young audience. Frank intimate episodes and episodes with the use of narcotic substances in such films are not allowed, but scenes of violence, nudity and slight curses can be present to a limited extent.
PG-13 - Parents strongly cautioned
He shows that the film may not be suitable for viewing by children who are not yet 13 years old. Films rated PG-13 may contain violent scenes (moderate or gross), as well as episodes with nudity or open sexual connotation. In addition, some heroes may use psychotropic drugs and use curses (in moderation) in their speech.
R - Restricted
Persons who have not reached the age of seventeen are allowed to view only accompanied by a parent or legal representative. This rating means that members of the Commission of the American Film Association found materials intended only for an adult audience. As a rule, it is staged due to the presence of violent fighting scenes in the film, scenes with the use of narcotic substances, frank intimate moments and the abundant use of obscene language. Before going to the cinema with their teenage child, parents should definitely familiarize themselves with the content of the picture.
NC-17 Rating - No One 17 & Under Admitted
It shows that the film is intended only for adults and is strictly not recommended for viewers under the age of 18. Also referred to as "Rating X". Such films may contain lengthy violent battle scenes. As well as frank intimate episodes and a large number of obscene expressions. Although films rated NC-17 are for adults, this does not mean that they are necessarily obscene or pornographic.
NC-21
Films with this rating are not allowed to be watched by viewers under the age of 21. Active only in some states. In fact, it is the same as the NC-17 rating, but with reference to a different age.
Unrated
For films that have not received the MPAA rating, they often use the designation NR (Not Rated), and for films released on large screens before the adoption of the age classification (that is, before November 1, 1968), the designation U (Unrated). However, these designations are not officially accepted by the American Association.
How is it determined?
To determine the appropriate age rating of the film, a special commission is assembled for each specific picture, which is engaged in its viewing and analysis. After familiarization and discussion, a vote takes place, then the film is given a suitable rating.
If the creators of the film (producers or directors) do not agree with the final verdict of the commission, then they have every right to appeal. In such a situation, the creation of a second commission, which consists of 14-18 participants. Members of the commission re-familiarize themselves with the controversial picture and consider claims from the filmmakers presented in the appeal. During the viewing, episodes are identified on which the future rating of the film directly depends, after which, with the official decision of the commission, they are sent back to the people involved in the creation of the film project. Then the filmmakers choose what to do next: cut out these scenes, remount / remount, or agree with the decision made by the members of the commission.
Advantages and disadvantages
The classification of films by age, adopted by the American Film Association, appeared under the influence of changes in moral guidelines and audience interests. It is the result of the interaction of citizens and large Hollywood companies. Producers who promote independent films often criticize this system for being too biased. They argue that in independent films quite often they put the stigma of "adult cinema," even if they are not. But despite this, even the famous director Quentin Tarantino admitted that the MPAA system is much better than government control.
However, the American age classification also has a flip side to the coin. The fact is that film production is a multi-billion dollar business, in which, as it is understood, really huge profit comes first. Hollywood producers, of course, do not want to give up revenue and lose an audience of children and adolescents. To do this, they go to great lengths so that the film receives the lowest possible age limit. As a result, many films are released with a rating of PG-13. As a result, this does not always have a good effect on their quality.
Now you know what the age classification of films is and how films rated NC-17 differ from others. We hope you find this information useful!