New Thai movie ratings restrict viewers

The rating system began in America 30 years ago and has been criticized for the secrecy of its decisions. A study from Harvard University indicated the MPAA has allowed more violence and sexually explicit content into their films over the past decade citing examples of content in R-rated movies a decade ago, and similar content in PG-13 movies of today.

However, the Thai movie rating system is more like a socialist government system in that the government, not the movie industry, will determine "suitability."

"The fear is the government will continue making decisions as an act of law rather than working with parents to help improve Thai culture and the lives of children living in Thailand. The banning of movies, unless they criticize or slander the monarchy, is considered by some as an act of restricting civil liberties and restricting constitutional rights granted under the new Thai Constitution, " said

Drew Noyes, Advisor to the Chairman of the Thailand Law Enforcement Investigation Association.

The minister said there were seven categories: educational films with the new rating "Sor" which the government will encourage people to see; films suitable for the general audience will carry the rating "Thor" which is similar to the "G" rating given on American-made and distributed films meant for General audiences; films suitable for those over 13  rated "Nor 13+" ; films suitable for those over 15 will be rated "Nor 15+" similar to R (Restricted) rating given by the American MPAA ; films suitable for those over 18 will be labeled "Nor 18+", ; films restricted for persons under 20 will be rated "Chor 20+". Films banned from being screened in the Kingdom will also be judged by the government and rated, but no rating designation was presented since no one will see the banned movies in Thailand.

Culture Minister Teera Salakpetch said that the ministry has finished making the six rating symbols and would submit them to the National Committee on Film and Video in mid-August before they are implemented.