So the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) — the UK equivalent of the US ratings org MPAA — has reclassified the 1964 film Mary Poppins from a U rating, meaning “Universal - suitable for all,” to a PG, due to “discriminatory language.” According to BBC News, this is down to multiple uses of the term “hottentot,” now considered an offensive reference to an indigenous African people.
Feel free to discuss whether this reclassification is appropriate, or if it will have any actual impact (does anyone today even use the word “hottentot”?). But I think the more interesting question is:
What movies beyond ‘Mary Poppins’ deserve a rethink of their official ratings?
Ratings clearly have always reflected the current thinking about what is appropriate or inappropriate, so what older movies might warrant a rethink, either to acknowledge their suitability to audiences of all ages or to restrict them to more discerning adults?
Why does the classification need to change? Why not a notice up front about potentially offensive language, just like photosenstivity. It's of it's time. It's not reclassification, it's cancel culture gone mad.
Why does the classification need to change? Why not a notice up front about potentially offensive language, just like photosenstivity. It's of it's time. It's not reclassification, it's cancel culture gone mad.