R-Rated Movies and Movie Ratings Around the World: A Memorable Journey Through Childhood Viewing

When I was 12, we didn’t have R-rated movies. Love scenes were always from the shoulders and up, and a passionate kiss was considered risqué. But times have changed, and the rules have evolved. Allowances and restrictions vary greatly depending on where you are in the world.

Childhood Viewing Experiences Around the World

In my country, local theaters don’t always adhere strictly to movie ratings. Sometimes, parents bring their children to watch R-rated movies without even checking the ratings. For instance, I still remember a lady bringing two children, aged 7 or 8, to watch Watchmen. They left after the first 30 minutes, evidently mistaken it for a superhero movie like Spiderman.

While there wasn’t an R rating in the UK during my youth, movies were categorized differently. An R-rated film could be classified as 15 or 18, depending on the censors' assessment. The UK’s movie rating system follows a unique structure, with U-rated films being equivalent to G-rated films, PG for audiences over seven, 12 for those considered equivalent to PG-13, 12A for kids under 12, allowed at cinema screenings with an adult, 15 for films that may be too strong for 12-year-olds, or R-rated films appropriate for 18-year-olds. Movies like Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice could sometimes slip through with a 12 rating due to the lack of content considered severe.

Personal Experiences and Observations

From as far back as I can remember, I was allowed to watch whatever movies I wanted, irrespective of their ratings. I especially enjoyed horror movies, which often contained elements that would earn an R rating, such as violence, language, and nudity. I would sometimes duck behind my dad's recliner during terrifying moments, calming myself with the mantra, “It’s just a movie. It can't hurt you.” This lesson stayed with me, and I eventually shared family movie nights with my children.

Sharing Horror with My Son

When my son was 6, I chose Child's Play as our family movie of the week. I explained to him that we were going to watch a scary movie, attempting to demystify the experience by pointing out that it was made by many professional people and actors who were paid well. His reaction was surprisingly flat: “It looks real but it’s not real,” he said. “It’s all just pretend.” While I hoped for a deeper understanding, it was clear that he lacked the ability to suspend disbelief.

On the other hand, my daughter had a completely different reaction. During the most intense moments, she would cover her eyes and nuzzle up under my arm, seeking solace. However, she also developed a fear of horror movies due to severe nightmares. After a few years, she eventually allowed herself to return to these movie nights. When I asked if she was sure about the movie Mama, she confirmed, “That was so fake,” in a condescending tone befitting a tween.

Parental Perspectives and Advice

Parental involvement in movie ratings and content is crucial. Understanding your child’s reaction is key. If they lack the ability to suspend disbelief, they may struggle with certain themes. For others, the fear might turn into nightmares. It’s important to gauge your child's readiness and comfort with the material before choosing a movie. Sharing the experience can be invaluable, but it’s equally important to provide reassurance and support when needed.

Whether it’s a 12A, 15, or 18-rated movie, discussing the movie’s content and themes with your child before the viewing can set the right expectations and help them navigate their feelings about the film. You can emphasize the fictional nature of the movie and reassure them that it’s just pretend.