"Ratings Creep" is the situation where content that used to automatically get a film an R-Rating is now more commonly seen in PG-13 films and what used to be regulated to PG-13 is not PG, and finally PG to G.

In the old days, I can't believe I'm referring to the 1980's as "the old days", the PG-13 Rating didn't exist. Back then, films were more likely to get an R-Rating and these R-Rated films essentially came in two flavors "Hard R's" and "Soft R's". Friday the 13th is an example of a Hard-R while An Officer and A Gentleman would be a Soft-R. The former has brutal violence and disturbing images, the latter is lighter faire but still was intended for adults. With the introduction of PG-13 in the mid-80's, the Soft-R's were demoted to the new rating and thus opening harsher entertainment for teens.

Just because the MPAA says PG-13, it doesn't necessarily follow that its appropriate for 13 year olds. Never let the MPAA tell you what is acceptable for your child. Always pay attention to what is actually in a film and look beyond the sometimes misleading ratings system.

Labels: miscellaneous, movie watching tip