This code is designed to keep in close
harmony with the mores, culture, the moral sense and change in our society.
The objectives of the code are:
1. To encourage artistic
expression by expanding creative freedom
2. To assure the freedom
which encourages the artist remains responsible and sensitive to the standards
of the larger society
Censorship is an odious enteprise. We oppose censorship and classification by governments because they are alien to the American tradition of freedom.
Much of this nations strength and purpose is drawn from the premise that the humblest of citizens has the freedom of his own choice. Censorship destroys this freedom of choice.
It is within this framework that the Motion Picture Association continues to recognize its obligation to the society of which it is an integral part.
In our society parents are the arbiters of family conduct. Parents have the primary responsibility ot guide their children in the kind of lives they lead, they character they build, the books they read, and the movies and other entertainment to which they are exposed.
The creators of motion pictures undertake a responsibility to make available pertinent information about their pictures which will assist parents to fulfill their responsibilities.
But this alone is not enough. In further recognition of our obligation to the public, and most especially to parents, we have extended the Code operation to include a nationwide voluntary film rating program which has as its prime objective a sensitive concern for children. Motion pictures will be viewed by a Code and Rating Administration which, when it reviews a motion picture as to its conformity with the standards od the Code, will issue ratings. It is our intent that all motion pictures exhibited in the United States will carry a rating. These ratings are:
(G) SUGGESTED FOR GENERAL AUDIENCES
This category includes motion pictures that in the opinion of the Code and rating Administration would be acceptable for all audineces, without consideration of age.
(M) SUGGESTED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES- ADULTS AND MATURE YOUNG PEOPLE
This cateogry includes motion pictures that in the opinion of the Code and Rating Administration, because of their theme, content and treatment, might require more mature judgment by viewers, and about which parents should exercise their discretion.
(R) RESTRICTED-persons under 16 not admitted unless accompanied by parents or adult guardian
This cateogry includes motion pictures that in the opinion of the Code and Rating Administration, because of their theme, content or treatment, should not be presented to persons under 16 unless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
(X) PERSONS UNDER 16 NOT ADMITTED
This category includes motion pictures submitted to the Code and Rating Administration which in the opinionof the Code and Rating Administration are rated (X) because of the treatment of sex, violence, crime or profanity. Pictures rated (X) do not qualify for a Code Seal. Pictures rated (X) should not be presented to persons under 16.
The program contemplates that any distributors outside the membership of the Association who choose not to submit their motion pictures tothe Code and Rating Administration will self-apply the (X) rating.
The ratings and their meanings will be conveyed by advertising; by displays at theaters; and in other ways. Thus, audiences, especially parents, will be alerted to the theme, content, and treatmentof movies. Therefore, parents can determine whether a particular picture is one which children should see at the discretion of the parent; or only when accompanied by a parent; or should not see.
We believe self-restraint, self-regulation, to be in the American tradition. The results of self-discipline are always imperfect because that is the nature of all things mortal. But this Code, and its administration, will make clear that freedom of expression does not mean toleration of license.
The test of self-restraint-the rule of reason...lies in the treatment of a subject for the screen.
All members of the Motiion Picture Association, as well as the National Association of Theatre Owners, the International Film Importers and Distributors of America, and other independent producer-distributors are cooperating in this endeavour. Most motion pictures exhibited in the United States will be submitted for Code approval and rating, or for rating only, to the Code and Rating Administration. The presence of the Seal indicates to the public that a picture has received Code approval.
We believe in and pledge our support to
these deep and fundamental values in a democratic society:
Freedom of choice...
The right of creative man to achieve artistic
excellencde...
The importance of the role of the parent
as the guide of the family's comfort...
STANDARDS FOR PRODUCTION
In furtherance of the objectives of the Code to accord with the mores, the culture, and the moral sense of our society, the principles stated above and the following standards shall govern the Administrator in his consideration of motion pictures submitted for Code approval:
Commentary on the Ratings System
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