This Film Is Not Yet Rated

I watched a fantastic documentary tonight. Entitled This Film Is Not Yet Rated, and put out by the Independent Film Channel, it focuses on the secret organization known as the Motion Picture Association of America, specifically the arbitrary way it gives out NC-17 ratings. Director Kirby Dick interviews numerous directors who have received the rating, including Kevin Smith, Matt Stone, John Waters, who, as always, is his entertaining self, and Kimberley Peirce, director and co-writer of Boys Don’t Cry, and also various First Amendment attorneys and film historians. Interspersed throughout is footage of his investigation of the board as the MPAA is a secret organization, with none of its members disclosed save for the chairman. Oh, and Jack Valenti, creator of the MPAA. Dick felt that the public had a right to know who was dictating morals in film. He’s absolutely right.

I have two great loves in my life: film and free speech. My major in college was film, specifically animation, but as a former drug-abusing musician, I dropped out. My passion for cartoons and movies in general has never waned, although my tastes might not be everyone’s cup of tea. In my eyes, Troma movies are just as enjoyable as Rashomon or Citizen Kane. On the free speech tip, I think I am into my seventh year as a member of the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund, a wonderful organization dedicated to protecting comic retailers and creators’ rights. Censorship in any form is terrible and should never be allowed by a country that proclaims itself to be free.

Back to the film. It was informative and entertaining without being preachy and one comes away from it feeling that the MPAA bullies its way into imposing its own values on creative types. For example, they don’t have a problem with violence or mainstream, heterosexual, Missionary-style sex, but throw in another woman or same-sex partners and BAM! Instant NC-17. Shoot someone but don’t show any blood? Have a PG-13! To me, this is completely ass-backwards. Sure, there are a few action films I like, but mostly for how they are shot. The composition of a scene matters more to me than how many explosions per foot of film are stuffed in. Except when it comes to Troma style or independent films. Then it is all about creativity and attempt. Plus, it helps if a movie can make me laugh. I am a sucker for a comedic script, but there must be a brain in there. Getting laughs through uncomfortable means is cheap and easy. Sheesh. I guess I am rather picky in my tastes. I guess that explains why I only go to like one film in a theatre a year, yet I watch tons of dvds and IFC. Anyway, try to catch This Film Is Not Yet Rated or even rent it, although that might be difficult. The MPAA gave it a NC-17, so Blockbuster and Wal-mart won't carry it.