Yesterday I requested the key to classification of films and received this reply which I have transcribed in full as it all makes sense to me.
Good Idea. The explanation for the American Bishops certification (AI II III and L) is here: http://www.usccborg/movies/criteria.shtml
Despite reading it through a number of times I'm still not sure that I perfectly understand it. but think it is the following
"A" means adult in concept (as opposed to being made for kids. It is a serious work It does not present forms of unhealthy titillation for example meaningless violence, gratuitous swearing etc.)
I -III is the degree of adult content which corresponds with the acessibility of the film to each age range from young through adolescent to adult.
L indicates that some adults might find the content troubling.Although this designation is on the same level as A-III, aspects of the film make it stronger in content.
All films with A and L designation are wholesome and meaningful from a Catholic point of view although they may have some violence, swearing and sexual references in them.
The other certificates (based on UK and US designations) are as follows -
U (Universal) is for general viewing.
PG (parental guidance) is for general viewing, but it is recommended that children are accompanied by parents/guardians.
PG - 13 or 15 means that the film is not regarded as suitable for children below the stated age.It is recommended that children above this age be accompanied by parents/guardians.
12, 15, 17 are ages below which the film is not considered suitable
Note. Because this is a free-entry private film club set up strictly for educational (in our case catechetical) purposes we do not need to pay public viewing licence fees. The certificates are not legally binding restrictions as they would be in public cinemas.
Hope this is OK.
PC.
CB - 1-12-2009
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