Should Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness Have Been Rated R?
Should 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' Have Been Rated R?
Should 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' Have Been Rated R? This is a question that has gained a lot of attention among viewers and movie critics alike. While the movie has received praise for its action and storytelling, the rating has been a topic of debate. Some argue that the film should have been rated R, citing the amount of violence and profanity. Others believe that a PG-13 rating was appropriate. Let's explore the nuances of this topic in detail.
PG-13 Was Overkill
One perspective is that a PG-13 rating was sufficient for 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.' As someone who is open to gore and violence, I find it difficult to believe that a movie with the level of profanity heard in this film, like 'crap' and 'ass,' should deserve an R rating more than one with graphic violence.
The MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) seems to agree with this view. According to their standards, a film replete with profanity, as this movie was, should indeed warrant an R rating if it included more graphic violence or explicit gore. However, the movie did not showcase violent scenes that were gruesome to the extent seen in, for example, a horror film like Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Therefore, a PG-13 rating was justified.
Expert Skirting the Ratings Line
Sam Raimi, the director of 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness,' is known for his talent in navigating the ratings line between PG-13 and R. He expertly balanced the elements of the film to ensure it did not cross into an R rating while still providing the necessary tension and excitement. Sam Raimi's masterful handling of the content made the PG-13 rating appropriate for the film.
Intended R Rating
Recent observations suggest that the film was initially intended for a more R-rated audience. Reviewers and viewers alike have noted that certain scenes seemed to be in line with an R rating. However, the film ended up with a PG-13 rating due to industry constraints and marketing strategies. Marvel Studios has acknowledged that their target audience has an average age of 33, and they aim to cater to a broad spectrum of viewers, including families and younger fans.
Compromises for Broader Appeal
Recent debuts in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) have seen a shift towards meeting audience expectations. Filmmakers make these compromises to ensure that the movie appeals to all age groups, from teenagers to older adults. By maintaining a PG-13 rating, the filmmakers can avoid scaring off families and younger viewers, who make up a significant portion of the audience base.
Appropriate for All Ages
While the film includes an appropriate amount of violence and action, the level of gore and explicit content is limited. Comparatively, Netflix's Marvel series have faced stricter ratings due to their darker and more graphic content. This suggests that 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness' falls within the acceptable range for a PG-13 rating. Additionally, the film does not feature excessive profanity, which could have warranted an R rating.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis of the film's content, its director's expertise, and the intended audience, it is clear that a PG-13 rating was appropriate for 'Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.' The film provides exciting action and a thrilling narrative without crossing into the realm of an R rating. Whether you love or hate gore, the violence depicted in the movie is well-balanced and suitable for a broader audience, including children and younger viewers.