THIS FILM IS NOT YET RATED

I never mention the theater I see these films in, but this time I'll make an exception since it was my first time in the IFC Center in New York City.  It's schmancier than your usual indie theater but the cookies are badass.  Also, the restroom is lit like a Wong Kar Wai film.

Kirby Dick's documentary investigates the Motion Picture Association of America & it's chairman Jack Vallente.  Dick interviews directors who've had to recut their films when receiving an NC-17 in order to get a wider release with an R rating.  Some of those filmmakers include Wayne (The Cooler) Kramer, Kevin Smith, John Waters & Matt (South Park) Stone.

But showing the uptight prudishness of the MPAA's ratings board isn't all the movie is about.  It asks the valid question of why the members of the ratings board are kept secret.  So Kirby Dick makes a ballsy move & hires private investigators to find the identities of these raters.  Then, this is ballsier, he submits his muckraking documentary for ratings approval.

Censorship is alive & well in America.  With the success of "unrated" DVD's, 1 has to wonder if the ratings board is obsolete.  This Film Is Not Yet Rated is thought provoking & evolved.  If you enjoy the artistic freedom that comes with film, you must see it.

"Come back with a healthy monkey or don't come back at all"- Brian K Vaughn

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