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MPAA Updates Rating Guidelines for Greater Transparency

11/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Motion Picture Association's ratings board, established by parents, updated its guidelines to increase transparency about how films are rated for nudity, violence, and language.
The online guide explains how ratings are determined and notes that it addresses sensitive topics like rape and suicide for the first time.
Kelly McMahon, chair of the ratings division, says the guidelines clarify the board's process for parents amid debates over film content.

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Story summary

The Motion Picture Association's ratings board, established by parents, updated its guidelines to increase transparency about how films are rated for nudity, violence, and language.
The online guide explains how ratings are determined and notes that it addresses sensitive topics like rape and suicide for the first time.
Kelly McMahon, chair of the ratings division, says the guidelines clarify the board's process for parents amid debates over film content.