Last week the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) lowered the R rating for the documentary "Bully" to PG13 just in time for the April 13th expansion release to markets nation wide. According to the documentary's website, the intense scene that has been the forefront of the battle with the MPAA was left fully in tact. The emotional scene where a young teen is harassed on the bus apparently contains explicit language. The director felt editing was not an option and refused to do so since it is important to the validity of the film. Three uses of explicit language was cut from else where in the film, allowing the MPAA to lower the rating.
A PG13 rating is important because it will allow educators, parents, organizations, and cities across the nation to show the film to teens for educational purposes. The intended audience of teens will be able to view the film without restrictions.
Millions of children are bullied every year, but many adults don't think it's a problem, stating that "kids will be kids." This stops children/teens from coming forward and talking about bullying. They may feel embarrassed, confused, uncomfortable, and unheard.
Today, we can't escape bullying. It's happening in our schools, at our activities, in our homes, and on line. It is hard to find a safe place away from the giggles, the means words, and the hurtful posts. It doesn't matter what age you are either. Bullying happens to anyone, anywhere, any age.
The controversy behind the rating on the documentary "Bully" has brought the problem of bullying to the forefront, causing everyone to start talking. Now, we need to keep talking!
The documentary "Bully" is in theatres nationwide on April 13, 2012. For more information on the film go to http://thebullyproject.com
Make sure you take time to see the film.
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