Rated R vs MA: What’s the Difference?
It’s a common misconception that all adult-rated movies are the same. But in reality, there are several different movie ratings that fall under the “adult” category. Two of the most well-known are Rated R and MA. While these two ratings may seem similar, there are some key differences between them. In this article, we’ll break down what Rated R and MA mean, and what sets them apart.
What Is a Rated R Movie?
Rated R is a movie rating given by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). To receive an R rating, a movie must contain content that is unsuitable for children under 17. This can include violence, sexual content, profanity, drug use, and more. The rating is intended to give parents and moviegoers an idea of what they can expect from the film.
Some examples of Rated R movies include The Matrix, Pulp Fiction, and The Exorcist. These films contain graphic violence, sexual content, and other adult themes that are not appropriate for children.
What Is an MA Movie?
MA is a newer movie rating that was introduced in 2013. It stands for “Mature Audiences,” and is similar to Rated R in that it is meant for viewers over 17. However, MA movies typically contain more intense or graphic content than Rated R films. This can include extreme violence, nudity, and more explicit sexual content.
MA movies are rated by the Classification and Rating Administration (CARA), which is a division of the MPAA. Some examples of MA movies include Deadpool, It Chapter Two, and The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo.
What Sets Rated R and MA Apart?
While Rated R and MA may sound similar, there are some key differences between the two. These include the type and intensity of content that is allowed in each rating.
Rated R movies are limited in terms of how much violence, sex, and other adult themes they can contain. The goal of the rating is to give parents an idea of what their children may be exposed to, and to ensure that young viewers are not allowed into the theater.
MA movies, on the other hand, are more unrestricted in terms of content. They are intended for more mature audiences who are able to handle more graphic or intense themes. For example, MA movies can contain more graphic violence or more explicit sexual content than Rated R films.
Another difference is that the MPAA places more restrictions on advertising for Rated R films than it does for MA movies. Rated R films cannot be advertised on television during prime-time hours, and trailers for these movies must be approved by the MPAA before being shown in theaters. MA movies, on the other hand, do not have these same advertising restrictions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while Rated R and MA are both adult movie ratings, there are some key differences between the two. Rated R films are intended for viewers over 17 and contain content that is unsuitable for children, while MA movies are also meant for mature audiences but can contain more graphic and intense themes. It’s important for parents and moviegoers to be aware of the ratings of the movies they are watching to ensure that they are appropriate for their age group.