The Basics of Movie Ratings
Before we dive into the specifics of why Hustle is rated R, it’s important to understand movie ratings in general. The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) rates movies based on content that may be inappropriate for children. There are several categories of ratings, including G, PG, PG-13, R, and NC-17.
What Does an R Rating Mean?
An R rating means that the movie contains adult material and is not suitable for children under 17 years old. The content may include violence, sexual content, drug use, and strong language.
The Plot of Hustle
Hustle is a crime drama film that follows a group of former strip club employees who team up to scam their wealthy Wall Street clients. The movie is directed by Lorene Scafaria and stars Jennifer Lopez, Constance Wu, and Cardi B.
The Content that Led to an R Rating
The content that led to an R rating for Hustle includes pervasive language, sexual content, and drug use. The movie contains several scenes with explicit dialogue and sexual situations, as well as drug use and references.
The Impact of an R Rating
An R rating can have a significant impact on a movie’s box office performance. Many parents may choose not to take their children to see an R-rated movie, which can limit the movie’s potential audience. Additionally, some theaters may choose not to show R-rated movies, which can further limit the movie’s availability.
The Importance of Movie Ratings
Movie ratings are an important tool for parents to make informed decisions about what movies are appropriate for their children to see. While some may argue that movie ratings are too strict or not strict enough, they serve as a guide for parents and help to ensure that children are not exposed to inappropriate content.
The Controversy Surrounding Hustle’s Rating
There has been some controversy surrounding Hustle’s R rating. Some critics argue that the rating is too harsh, while others believe that it is appropriate given the movie’s content.
The Director’s Response
Director Lorene Scafaria has defended the movie’s R rating, stating that she wanted to accurately depict the lives of the characters in the film. She has also stated that she believes the movie’s themes of female empowerment and friendship outweigh any concerns about the rating.
The Bottom Line
In the end, the decision to give Hustle an R rating was made by the MPAA, based on their guidelines for movie ratings. While the rating may limit the movie’s audience, it is an important tool for parents to make informed decisions about what movies are appropriate for their children to see.
Final Thoughts
Whether you agree with the rating or not, Hustle is a movie that explores important themes and features strong performances from its cast. As with any movie, it’s important to make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you and your family to see.