What PG Movies Deserve a PG-13 Rating Instead?

When it comes to movie ratings, sometimes the PG designation does not fully capture the content of a film. Here, we explore some movies that were rated PG but could have benefited from a PG-13 rating instead. Specifically, we will look at films that were released after the introduction of the PG-13 rating in 1984.

Key Factors Influencing PG vs. PG-13 Ratings

Movie ratings are not based on subjective interpretation alone. The MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) considers a variety of factors when assigning ratings, including the presence of violence, gore, language, drug use, sexual content, and thematic elements. In some cases, filmmakers and distributors may aim for a PG rating to appeal to a wider audience, but the content may be more mature or intense than the rating suggests.

Examples of PG Movies that Deserve a PG-13 Rating

Let's delve into some specific examples of PG-rated movies that could have been rated PG-13. These films were released after 1984, the year the PG-13 rating was introduced, and include:

The Goonies

Released in 1985, "The Goonies" is an adventure film that follows a group of orphans on a treasure hunt. While the film is primarily a family-friendly adventure, it does contain some scenes of kid-on-kid rivalry and physical comedy that could be considered a bit more intense for a PG movie. Some viewers and critics argue that a PG-13 rating would have better reflected the film's content.

The Mission

Released in 1986, "The Mission" is a historical epic that details the life of Johann de Brebeuf and his interactions with Native American tribes in the 17th century. The film includes graphic scenes of violence, including torture and decapitation, which are more than what is typically allowed in a PG movie. A PG-13 rating would have been more appropriate.

Big

Released in 1988, "Big" tells the story of a pre-teen boy who is magically transformed into a 20-something man. While the film is light-hearted and comedic, it does contain some mature themes and suggestive humor, particularly in the music videos scene. A PG-13 rating would have been more fitting for the film's more sophisticated tone.

Spaceballs

Released in 1987, "Spaceballs" is a comedy-fantasy film that satirizes science fiction movies. It contains some mild violence and sexual innuendo, but not enough to warrant an R rating. However, a PG-13 rating would have served to indicate the film's more adult humor and references, which are more noticeable to an older audience.

Beetlejuice

Released in 1988, "Beetlejuice" is a spooky, dark comedy about a mischievous spirit who helps a family move into their new house. It includes graphic gore and some frightening scenes that could be too intense for a PG movie. A PG-13 rating would have been more suitable, especially for young children who might find the movie too scary.

Alice in Wonderland (2010)

While not covered previously, the 2010 adaptation of "Alice in Wonderland" is another film that deserves a PG-13 rating. Released in 2010, this version of the story, directed by Tim Burton, is notably more gory than the original. The movie contains many scenes of violence and gross-out elements that are more suited to a PG-13 rating. The film's graphic nature requires a more appropriate age rating.

Conclusion

Movie ratings play a significant role in determining audience suitability, and sometimes a film may warrant a more stringent rating than what it currently holds. By examining the content of specific films, we can gain insight into how ratings could be more accurately applied. Whether it's intense violence, graphic gore, or mature themes, a PG-13 rating can provide a better indication of a film's content for a broader audience. These revisions could help ensure that moviegoers can make more informed decisions before watching a film.