This Film Is Not Yet Rated

This Film Is Not Yet Rated
September 1, 2006
Netflix etc.
Documentary
DVD
B-

This film promises to be better than 1987's Hollywood Uncensored, offering as it does a more contemporary look at the movie-ratings system, although there is some historical background of course.  (Hello again, Mr. Hays.)  The problem is that the aptly named Kirby Dick strays from the subject of why and how the movies are rated by the MPAA and onto who these raters are.  Not that the thread of the lesbian private investigator is without entertainment value, but I feel like this aspect of the documentary is much less interesting than the clips, sometimes side by side, of what got an R-rating (usually violence, some straight content, and big studio) vs. what got an NC17 (usually penetration, anything remotely gay, and independent).  Watching the extras, I realized that the true "stars" of the movie are a trio of outrageous, funny, and insightful directors: Matt Stone (who had appeared in Bowling for Columbine), Kevin Smith (his line about Jersey Girl's poor box office should've been in the actual movie), and John Waters (the thing about "felching" is hilarious).  Instead of playing private dick, Kirby should've kept the focus on the people who make the controversial films.  Still, definitely worth watching, especially if you like movies about movies.

Obscene?

"I know a lot of perverts...."