Q&A for How to Understand Movie Ratings

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I have never heard of a movie rated NC-17. What is it?

Community Answer

These movies feature extreme content, and are not usually shown in theaters. They might feature intense, realistic, and gratuitous violence, like Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, or they might feature lengthy scenes of explicit sex, such as Verhoeven's Turkish Delight. These films used to be called "X-rated" films, and, while there are some good ones (two are listed here), it is good to know what you're getting into before watching one. Treat these on an individual basis, and do your research before watching them, especially if you plan to watch one with others.

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Question

What does AT mean in movie rating?

Sarah

Community Answer

AT is not a movie rating, so AT doesn't mean anything in regards to movie ratings.

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What if I want to watch a movie from another country but I can't find the rating?

Community Answer

It's best to look around on lots of websites. If you still can't find anything, perhaps ask around (maybe online).

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What does aberrational behavior mean in a film rating?

Shane Turner

Community Answer

It means it contains behavior that is way out of the ordinary, whether it be violence or sex.

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Question

I'm a kid and our family is usually invited to watch PG-13 movies (I come from a foreign country but that's the MPAA rating). What should I do?

Community Answer

If you feel comfortable with or are allowed to watch the movie, go ahead! Some PG-13 movies are ok for kids to watch. Otherwise, politely decline and suggest another movie to watch or game to play instead.

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My parents don't think I can handle lots of violence (I'm a preteen) and say I will get nightmares. I'm not afraid of blood. How do I convince them otherwise?

Trivia_lover

Community Answer

Being more responsible might be a good start. Almost all parents are very protective over their children, and I'm sure they just care about your well-being. Try suggesting a movie with only a moderate amount of violence, something rated PG-13 perhaps, and show them you can handle it. Then try to work your way up to a higher rating.

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If some states that restrict R ratings to adults only, do the theaters still play NC17 movies?

Austin Dickerson

Community Answer

If the theater is suitable for the public, the theater may only show people of all ages films rated G, PG, PG-13, and R. Films rated NC-17 may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas.

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How do Belgium movie ratings work?

Austin Dickerson

Community Answer

There are only two categories. CAT.1 means general audiences. CAT.2 means not recommended for under 16.

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Question

What is an X rating?

Community Answer

X is the same thing as NC-17. It's used to designate certain films containing excessive violence or explicit sexuality.

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Does PG-13 allow strong violence?

Community Answer

In a PG-13 rating, there may be intense violence, but no blood should be displayed.

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What does an II rating mean?

Community Answer

That is the old Hong Kong rating system. Hong Kong has three level of ratings: Level I (suitable for all), Level II (parental guidance suggested) and Level III (restricted to 18 and above). Level II was created in 1995, but now Level II has 2 categories: Level IIA (not suitable for children) and Level IIB (not suitable for young persons and children).

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Question

Is this only USA film ratings, or is this global?

Community Answer

This is the system for film ratings in the US; other countries have their own rating systems for entertainment.

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What is the complete opposite of a "G" rating?

Queenie Lawrie

Community Answer

That would be the NC17 rating. That rating denotes a film restricted to viewers aged 18+.

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Question

Are film ratings important for scriptwriters when writing a script?

Community Answer

Screenwriters can write their movie script, and the MPAA rates the movie when it is being made. Screenwriters write whatever they want, and if the movie will be made based on the script's quality, not its rating. After it has been made is when it is decided what it will be rated.

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Question

What is the rating NR? (Higher than NC-17.)

Naomi

Community Answer

NR stands for not rated. So if you want to watch a movie but it's NR, then check the reviews first or just wait until it's rated.

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Question

What profanity can PG movies have?

Community Answer

It varies from no profanity to an occasional use of the word "stupid" or "idiot". Also, it's important to know the date the film was released, as older movies' ratings tend to be a bit more lenient with their profanities.

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Would it be suitable for a 10-year-old to watch Childs Play (1988)?

Angelina Petova

Community Answer

It depends on the type of child. Ask the child if they like horror movies, or if it scares them, because they can make their own choices by themselves. So technically it depends on the child.

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