Ratings for movies have existed in countries like the US and Japan for years. Chinese audiences, however, have been left in the dark when it comes to film content, with some parents forced to leave movies early when their children become frightened by violent adult content.
Now, Beijing-based Bonastar theatre company has said it would be the first theatre company in the country to introduce a film rating system, Xinhua reported.
“The Bona theatres’ rating system is coming soon. Scenes featuring sexual and violent content have been appearing in more movies, and are not appropriate for children. Theatres should be responsible for their audiences,” the company announced on popular Chinese microblogging site Sina Weibo.
Directors and film industry professionals have expressed support for the move.
“Clothing comes in both adult and children’s styles, shouldn’t film be the same way?” said director Li Yang to the Beijing Daily newspaper.
Chinese movies have triggered controversy in recent years for edgy scenes and performances, such as a bedroom scene in director Zhang Yimou’s latest hit, “The Flowers of War”.
Bonastar marketing manager Jin Bo said that although loosened restrictions for Chinese films will ultimately promote the industry’s development and benefit audiences, there are still scenes in certain films that are not suitable for all viewers.
Zhang Huailin, marketing manager of Wanhe Theatre, told Beijing Daily that Bonastar’s move demonstrates social responsibility on the part of the Chinese film industry.
