The MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) film rating system has five levels that determine the suitability of films for certain audiences based on content. The two most restrictive ratings are NC-17, indicating no one 17 or under can be admitted to see the film, and R, indicating those under 17 require accompanying parent or adult guardian. But what exactly is the difference between these two ratings in terms of content, and how are they determined?
MPAA Ratings Overview
The current MPAA ratings are:
- G – General Audiences, all ages admitted
- PG – Parental Guidance Suggested, some material may not be suitable for children
- PG-13 – Parents Strongly Cautioned, some material may be inappropriate for children under 13
- R – Restricted, under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian
- NC-17 – No one 17 or under admitted
The ratings provide guidelines for parents regarding a film’s content and are determined by the Classification and Rating Administration (CARA), an independent division of the MPAA. Films can be rated G, PG, PG-13, or R without any restrictions on their distribution and release. However, an NC-17 limits the potential audience and number of theaters willing to exhibit the film.
History of the NC-17 Rating
The NC-17 rating was introduced in 1990 to replace the earlier X rating, which had become associated with pornography. NC-17 indicates that the content is only suitable for adults, whereas pornographic films that are not submitted for rating instead self-apply the non-trademarked XXX rating.
When first introduced, NC-17 meant “No Children Under 17 Admitted”. In 1996, the meaning was revised to “No One 17 and Under Admitted” to make enforcement easier for theaters.
Why the X Rating was Replaced
By the late 1980s, the X rating had become informally linked to pornographic films. This created a stigma for serious films with mature content not intended to titillate that received an X rating. For example, the critically acclaimed 1978 film Midnight Cowboy received an X despite its Oscar-win for Best Picture.
Filmmakers began seeking edits to avoid the financially undesirable X. The MPAA thus introduced the new, trademarked NC-17 to allow films with mature content to avoid the porn stigma.
Guidelines for R vs. NC-17 Ratings
The main guidelines distinguishing R from NC-17 are:
Nudity
R ratings permit some nudity within context, but generally not sexually graphic or prolonged scenes. NC-17 can include more extensive nudity and simulated sex.
Violence
Extreme gory violence is permitted in R films, but not gratuitous or exploitative violence related to sexuality that would warrant an NC-17.
Language
Any language can be used in R films without restriction. An NC-17 is not usually determined solely for language.
Drug Use
Drug use is permitted in R films, but scenes intended to titillate rather than serve the story may receive NC-17.
Key Differences in Rating Standards
While decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, some key differences help distinguish when films receive an R vs. an NC-17:
| R Rating | NC-17 Rating |
|---|---|
| Brief nudity in a non-sexual context | Extensive, sexually oriented nudity |
| Implied sex scenes with no graphic details | Graphic and prolonged depictions of sex |
| Moderate violence with some blood/gore | Extreme and sadistic violence |
| Coarse language | No restrictions on language alone |
| Brief drug use related to story | Gratuitous drug use meant to titillate |
While an R film may imply sex by showing aftermath or clothing, an NC-17 would show graphic detail. Any depiction of violence in an NC-17 would be more gratuitous than serving the story. Overall, an NC-17 contains more frequent and explicit content at a level meant to provoke a response versus contributing to narrative or character development.
Appealing MPAA Ratings
Film studios can appeal ratings if they feel the assigned rating is too restrictive. Appeals are heard by the Classification and Rating Appeals Board which has industry representatives unaffiliated with CARA.
Studios often work with the MPAA ahead of time or edit films already rated to try avoiding an NC-17, which imposes distribution limitations. Films are rarely released with an NC-17 rating. Recent examples include Showgirls (1995), Lust, Caution (2007), Blue is the Warmest Color (2013), and A Serbian Film (2010).
If edits are made seeking a revised rating, the edited version is resubmitted for re-rating. If denied, additional appeals can be requested, though ultimate discretion lies with the MPAA.
Criticisms of the Ratings System
While serving a guidance purpose, the MPAA system has drawbacks:
- Criteria is vague and contradictory rulings occurs
- Sexuality is judged more harshly than violence
- Independent films face greater difficulty earning R ratings
- NC-17 stigma limits distribution like the old X rating
- Oversight is not transparent and accountability is limited
Despite shortcomings, the familiarity and brand recognition of MPAA ratings mean they will likely remain in use unless an improved replacement system is introduced industry-wide.
Conclusion
In summary, the main differences between R and NC-17 ratings are:
- NC-17 allows more nudity and graphic sexuality than R
- NC-17 may have extreme violence lacking narrative purpose
- NC-17 allows gratuitous drug use meant to provoke vs serve the story
- R contains mature content that is more implied than explicit
The NC-17 designation permits content exclusively for adult audiences, whereas the R rating means mature material remains accessible to older minors with parental approval.
While no absolute standard applies, the MPAA aims to give guidance to parents and viewers. Filmmakers wishing to avoid an NC-17 often edit content or language prior to release. However, the subjective nature of ratings continues to stir debate on what standards should apply.