When you’re looking for a new movie to watch or a new book to read, ratings can be a helpful way to narrow down your choices.
After all, why waste your time on something that’s not worth watching or reading?
A rating system is important for any content-sharing platform. It helps to ensure that users know which content is appropriate for a certain audience and which is not.
For example, if a platform only allows content rated “G” to be shared, then users can be confident that all the content they see will be suitable for younger audiences.
This is important because it helps to create a safe and user-friendly environment.
Without a rating system, users would have to rely on the platform’s moderation team to remove any inappropriate content, which could take some time.
A rating system also helps to promote healthy discussions by ensuring that all users are on the same page in terms of what content is appropriate.
In short, a rating system is an essential tool for any content-sharing platform.
The rating systems are highly diverse. In this article, we will discuss TV-MA and Rated R ratings along with some other metrics.
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What is TV-MA?
The TV-MA rating is reserved for shows that feature mature content that is not suitable for younger viewers.
This includes content that may be graphic or disturbing, as well as themes and language that may not be appropriate for all ages.
While some viewers may enjoy this type of content, it is important to be aware of the rating before watching.
This way, you can make an informed decision about whether or not the show is right for you.
Keep in mind that TV MArated shows are not necessarily bad or inappropriate, but they may not be suitable for everyone.
If you do choose to watch a TV-MA show, be prepared for mature content, and viewer discretion is advised.
Why Is It Important to Put TV-MA Warnings?
It is highly important for producers of any show to display TV-MA warnings. There are several reasons for that.
For instance, some people enjoy watching graphic content, whether it’s in movies or television shows.
Others, however, find it too disturbing or simply don’t like it. That’s perfectly okay!
Everyone has different preferences, and not everyone enjoys the same things. Some people might like horror movies, while others prefer comedies.
It’s important to respect other people’s choices and not force them to watch something that they’re not comfortable with.
Just because a fraction enjoys graphic content doesn’t mean that everyone else does.
Some people simply don’t like it, and that’s perfectly fine. That’s exactly what ratings are there for.
These warnings also save you from embarrassment.
Let’s say you recently went to see a movie with your young nephew and were surprised to hear a lot of profanity throughout the film.
You had no idea that the movie contained such language and it made you uncomfortable.
After the movie, you realized that you should have looked for a TV-MA warning beforehand.
Had you seen the warning, you would have been prepared for the language and could have made a decision about whether or not to take your nephew to see the movie.
By providing these warnings, movie theaters and streaming services help to ensure that people have a positive experience when they watch a film.
Are TV-MA Rating Programs Fun To Watch?
Yes, they are.
You must remember that the rating is assigned to television programs that are not suitable for children under the age of 17.
This rating is usually reserved for programs that contain strong language, violence, or sexual content.
While TV-MA programs may be unsuitable for younger viewers, they can be enjoyed by adults who are looking for entertainment that is more mature in nature.
If you are considering watching a TV-MA program, be sure to check the rating information before you start watching.
This will help you make sure that the program is appropriate for your viewing discretion.
What is a Rated R Movie?
Have you ever wondered what it means when a movie is rated R?
The Rating Board of the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) is responsible for classifying films according to their content.
Movies that are rated R typically contain more mature themes, violence, and language than those that are rated PG-13.
In order to be classified as an R-rated film, a movie must be submitted to the MPAA for review. The Board then looks at the film as a whole and makes a decision based on the content.
While there are no set criteria for what earns a film an R rating, generally speaking, it is reserved for movies that are not suitable for children under the age of 17.
How Is A Movie Assigned a Rated R rating?
A movie is assigned a Rated R rating by the Motion Picture Association of America’s Classification and Rating Administration.
The administration uses a set of guidelines to determine what ratings to give movies.
The guidelines take into account the film’s content, context, and tone.
For example, a movie that includes violence but also has an important message about humanity would be given a different rating than a movie that includes violence for no apparent reason.
The administration also takes into account the age of the target audience when making its decision.
A movie that is intended for adults would be given a different rating than a movie that is intended for children.
Why Should I Prevent My Child From Watching Rated R Movies?
Parents naturally want to protect their children from inappropriate content, and for good reason.
Children’s brains are still developing, and they may not have the maturity to understand complex themes or concepts.
Additionally, children are more susceptible to nightmares and anxiety after watching disturbing images. As a result, it is generally advisable to avoid exposing children to R-rated films.
These movies often contain graphic violence, sexual content, and profanity, which can be highly disturbing for young viewers.
In some cases, children may even imitate what they see on screen.
So while it may be tempting to let your kids watch that new blockbuster movie, it’s important to consider whether the content is really appropriate for them.
Why Is the Rating System Important For Movies?
People go to the movies for all sorts of reasons. Some people go to have fun and escape from the stresses of daily life.
Others go to increase their knowledge about the world and learn new things while hile some go to see their favorite stars on the big screen.
No matter what the reason, going to the movies is an enjoyable experience.
Plus, movies are a great source of entertainment. They can make us laugh, cry, and feel all sorts of emotions.
They can also take us on an adventure, transport us to another place and time, and introduce us to new cultures. In short, movies can be a lot of fun.
Also, they are a great way to learn about the world. They can teach us about history, science, and other topics that we might not otherwise have an interest in.
They can also raise awareness about important issues, such as social injustice or environmental conservation.
By watching movies, we all get a better understanding of the world around us.
However, some movies contain graphic content, which is not safe for everyone to watch. This is exactly why a rating system is in place.
By providing clear and concise warnings about graphic content, the rating system helps viewers to make informed decisions about what they watch.
In addition, the rating system can also help parents to keep their children from being exposed to inappropriate material.
By ensuring that all movies are properly rated, the rating system helps to create a safer and more enjoyable viewing experience for all.
Why Is Graphic Content Troublesome For Some Users?
Graphic content can be a trigger for some people who are sensitive to that sort of thing. It can cause them to relive a traumatic experience or to feel fear and anxiety.
If you are sensitive to graphic content, it’s important to be aware of what might trigger you and to avoid those triggers if possible.
If you do come across graphic content, try to take deep breaths and remind yourself that it’s not real.
Focus on something else until the feeling passes. It’s also important to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through and can offer support.
With a little care and caution, you can protect yourself from getting overwhelmed by graphic content.
Final Thoughts
The main difference between a TV-MA rated show and a Rated R movie is that TV-MA is geared towards mature audiences while Rated R is restricted to adults only.
The amount of violence, gore, sexual content, and profanity that is allowed in these two types of media varies greatly.
However, there are no specific guidelines. At the end of the day, it is at the viewer’s discretion whether they want to watch a particular content or not.
FAQs
What's the Difference Between TV-MA and Rated R? - Home Smitten? ›
TV-MA is an abbreviation for Mature Audience. This rating is just to alert you that the content you're about to watch isn't suitable for audiences under 17. R is a movie rating. This means it's not suitable for audiences under 13.
Is TV-MA scarier than rated R? ›Although the TV-MA rating means a program is technically made for 17-year-olds (18 in some cases), programs with this rating can sometimes be more graphic and severe than what R-rated movies would typically allow, thanks to the existence of premium cable networks and certain online streaming services.
What is the TV-MA rating? ›TV-MA Mature Audience Only This program is specifically designed to be viewed by adults and therefore may be unsuitable for children under 17. This program contains one or more of the following: graphic violence (V), explicit sexual activity (S), or crude indecent language (L).
Is TV-MA more mature than TV-14? ›TV-14 - these shows may be unsuitable for children under 14. TV-MA - these programs are intended to be viewed by mature, adult audiences and may be unsuitable for children under 17.
What does TV-MA mean on Netflix? ›Rated PG-13: Parents strongly cautioned – Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. Rated R: Restricted – Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. Rated X: No one under 17 admitted.
What is higher than R-rated? ›MPAA has five rating categories
The new ratings system began with four categories: G (general audiences), M (mature audiences, changed in 1969 to PG, parental guidance suggested), R (restricted, no children under 17 allowed without parents or adult guardians), and X (no one under 17 admitted).
TV-MA is the strongest rating the industry gives, with the M standing for "mature." TV-MA is reserved for shows whose level of explicit sexuality, graphic violence and/or strong language -- along with mature themes -- make them unsuitable for children 16 or younger.
Is Game of Thrones rated R? ›Why is Game Of Thrones rated 18+, while other similar shows are only rated 16?
Is breaking bad rated R? ›Why is Breaking Bad rated 18? He says there is not much swearing or sex, it's rated 18 because of the drugs and violence.
How many F words are allowed in TV-14? ›
Trivia. There are several companies or TV stations not subject to the FCC's rules that have broken the general implied rule that "crude indecent" language (ex. multiple F-bombs) is not allowed at the TV-14 rating.
What is the most mature TV rating? ›- TV-Y: All Children. ...
- TV-Y7: Directed to Older Children. ...
- TV-Y7 FV: Directed to Older Children - Fantasy Violence. ...
- TV-G: General Audience. ...
- TV-PG: Parental Guidance Suggested. ...
- TV-14: Parents Strongly Cautioned. ...
- TV-MA: Mature Audience Only.
TV-MA: designed for adults and may be unsuitable for kids under 17; contains one or more of the following: graphic violence (V), strong sexual activity (S), and/or crude language (L)
What is R21 on Netflix? ›This PIN will be needed for your child to view content that is of a specific rating: G, PG, PG13, or NC16/M18. All content that is R21 will need a PIN to be accessed. For example, if your child is 13, you can set the restriction at PG13 so that they will need to enter the PIN to access anything rated PG13 and up.
Is there R rated content on Netflix? ›Netflix features a massive library of movies and television series available for streaming. Among them are dozens of R-rating films, ranging from seemingly innocuous comedies with questionable themes to all-out horror.
Why is the Outer Banks rated TV-MA? ›Besides some kissing and brief instances of sexual exploration that aren't graphic, there isn't much sexuality in the series. Rather the show has earned its TV-MA rating for strong language and intense violence. Murder is littered throughout the series.
How many times can you say the F word in a PG-13 movie? ›The restrictions set by the Us ratings board mean the F-word can only be used once in a PG-13 movie.
What is not allowed in R-rated movies? ›An R-rated motion picture may include adult themes, adult activity, hard language, intense or persistent violence, sexually-oriented nudity, drug abuse or other elements, so that parents are counseled to take this rating very seriously.
Is there anything past rated R? ›NC-17. The NC-17 rating is the highest rating (even higher than the R-rating) that a film can be given, and it means the movie is for adults only (ages 18 and older) and no one age 17 or younger will be admitted. This rating, prior to 1990, was previously rated X.
Is TV-MA the same as R-rated? ›R is merely the second extreme rating for television, whereas TV-MA is the most extreme. TV-MA is worse than R because it contains both R and NC-17-rated material. R is OK for viewers under 17 as long as they're accompanied by an adult, but TV-MA is never appropriate for viewers under 18.
Why is everything rated TV-MA? ›
TV-MA is a rating allocated to a television program by the TV Parental Guidelines that was created only for mature audiences. With the help of this rating, the TVPG alerts viewers that the content of the show has graphic sexual activity, graphic violence, foul language, or any combination of these elements.
What is the R rating in the US? ›R: RESTRICTED. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. NC-17: NO ONE 17 AND UNDER ADMITTED.
What is the 100 rated MA for? ›Sex, Romance & Nudity.
Why is the old man rated TV-MA? ›Parents need to know that The Old Man is a mature action-thriller series that has lots of violence. Guns and knives are used, and brutal, extended physical fights -- often leading to character deaths -- are shown in graphic detail.
What are the 5 movie classification ratings? ›- GGeneral Audiences. All Ages Admitted. ...
- PGParental Guidance Suggested. Some Material May Not Be Suitable For Children. ...
- PG-13Parents Strongly Cautioned. Some Material May Be Inappropriate For Children Under 13. ...
- RRestricted. ...
- NC-17No one 17 and Under Admitted.
House Of The Dragon Age Rating: What Ages Can Really Watch This One? Game of Thrones: House of the Dragon is rated TV-MA for violence, language, and nudity. And it hits ALL the high marks in those categories.
Why is House of Dragon rated MA? ›Parents need to know that House of the Dragon is a prequel to the fantasy drama series Game of Thrones, and features all the strong content the franchise is known for. There's lots of extended graphic violence, strong sexual content (including simulated sex acts and nudity), cursing, and drinking.
Why is True Blood rated MA? ›There's lots of nudity, simulated sex scenes, gruesome fantasy violence, strong language (including "s--t" and "f--k"), drinking, drug use, and other mature content.
Why is Shameless rated TV-MA? ›Expect graphic depictions of sex, full-frontal nudity, and occasional drug use (including pot, cocaine, and abuse of prescription drugs), along with ongoing alcohol abuse (by kids and adults). Kids engage in iffy, illegal behavior that doesn't typically result in negative consequences.
Can my 12 year old son watch Breaking Bad? ›If your kid knows that doing drugs is not the way to go and to never ever do them then this show is fine for people 12+. There are some gory parts but you legit can close your eyes if you can't watch. There is some sex in it but they really don't show a lot so there is nothing to really worry about it.
Can a 12 year old watch better call Saul? ›
Not only are those present throughout the series but there are also references to drugs as well. Some characters are even seen doing cocaine in Season 5 episode 2 and 3 and there are references to methamphetamine as well. So, Better Call Saul I'd say is best for ages 13 and up.
Can they say the F-word on USA? ›Syfy and USA now allow the f-word without muting, to the delight of show creators.
What words can't be said on TV? ›Federal law prohibits obscene, indecent and profane content from being broadcast on the radio or TV. That may seem clear enough, but determining what obscene, indecent and profane mean can be difficult, depending on who you talk to.
What does rated D mean? ›TV Parental Guidelines may have one or more letters added to the basic rating to let parents know when a show may contain violence, sex, adult language, or suggestive dialogue. D – suggestive dialogue (usually means talks about sex) L – coarse or crude language. S – sexual situations. V – violence.
Do TV stations know when you change the channel? ›The short answer is no. The broadcast signal from the off air transmitter to your antenna is one way.
Why is the bear rated TV MA? ›Parents need to know that The Bear is an edgy dramatic comedy series intended for older viewers. Themes center around suicide, family relationships, and grieving the loss of a former life. There's also lots of cursing and cigarette smoking. People are sometimes shown drinking, too.
Is TV-MA 18 and up? ›TV-MA: Mature Audience Only
This program is specifically designed to be viewed by adults and therefore may be unsuitable for children under 17. This program may contain one or more of the following: crude indecent language (L), explicit sexual activity (S), or graphic violence (V).
In Outer Banks you can expect to see violence, characters in peril, underage drinking and drug use, sexual situations, and profanity used by some of the characters. To sum it up, Outer Banks is not kid friendly for kids under 16.
Is Y7 worse than PG? ›TV-Y7-FV (Directed to Older Children - Fantasy Violence) - Programs where fantasy violence may be more intense or more combative than other programs in this category will be designated TV-Y7-FV. Equivalent to soft PG for movies and soft E10+ for video games.
How do you find hidden content on Netflix? ›There are two ways to access the secret collections. You can do it from any desktop by typing 'netflix.com/browse/genre/' into the URL and adding a unique ID code. Alternatively, if you use Netflix on a TV, you can simply type in the code to the 'search' bar. It does not work on mobile or tablets.
What is the series with sexualized violence on Netflix? ›
Nearly two months after tackling New York's corrupted justice system in Ava DuVernay's When They See Us, Netflix has unveiled its new true-crime limited series, Unbelievable. The series follows teenager Marie Adler who claims she was sexually assaulted, only to be deemed “unbelievable” by local law enforcement.
What does M18 mean on Netflix? ›M18 Depictions of violence and gore with strong details. Infrequent depictions of torture with strong details. Non-explicit depictions of sexual violence. R21 Frequent depictions of violence and gore with strong details.
What was the first R-rated movie in the US? ›“Greetings” (1968) was the first R-rated U.S. film. “Red Dawn” (1984) was the first PG-13 movie.
Does Hulu have rated R movies? ›Setting Up Hulu Parental Controls
However, if you set up a profile for a child 13 or above and do not opt for a Kids profile, your child will be able to access any content on Hulu, including mature content such as R-rated films and shows rated TV-MA.
But 2022 will see the streaming service provide its first ever movie that is intended for adults only. Blonde has been rated NC-17 in the States - the equivalent to an 18s certificate in Ireland - for its sexual content, making it the first ever Netflix movie to receive that certification.
Is TV MA worse than R on Disney plus? ›Now when you log into Disney+ and activate the parental control settings, you can flip to TV-MA, the highest setting. (TV-MA is the R-rating for TV and its highest maturity rating.
Is TV MA appropriate for 12 year olds? ›TV-MA: designed for adults and may be unsuitable for kids under 17; contains one or more of the following: graphic violence (V), strong sexual activity (S), and/or crude language (L)
Is NC 17 worse than MA? ›Tv-ma is essentially a warning that pearls may need clutching and that someone will likely get murdered or some cursing may occur. nc-17 is a film rating, saying that no one under 17 should be permitted to view the film whatsoever.
Is TV 14 the same as Rated R? ›Many TV-14 rated shows contain depictions of nudity and/or violence that would most likely receive an R rating from the MPA.
What was Disney's first R-rated movie? ›One of the earliest films from this outfit was a historical movie for Disney, it's very first R-rated release: Down and Out in Beverly Hills.
What R21 shows are on Disney Plus? ›
A new collection of R21-content on Star has been recently added, which include Black Swan, Borat: Cultural Learnings Of America For Make Benefit Glorious Nation…, Love, Simon, Homeland, Modern Family, Snowfall, The Favorite and Mayans M.C.
Is there anything rated MA on Disney? ›Marvel shows “The Punisher,” “Daredevil,” “Jessica Jones,” “Luke Cage,” “Iron Fist” and “The Defenders” are all rated TV-MA and were added to Disney+ on March 16, 2022. Users are prompted with a new window when they open the Disney+ app, which then asks for a password and to confirm that TV-MA content is okay.