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Please consult the following ratings system for the evaluation of films currently in theaters. Please note that films with themes specifically adult in nature will be rated as (Adult) in addition to being given an overall rating.
(CU) Completely Unacceptable
- Film contains levels of Sex, Violence, Profane Language and/or other objectionable content that are gratuitous to the degree that the film has absolutely no redeeming value either as a work of social commentary or as an entertaining diversion.
Examples: Fatal Attraction, Basic Instinct, Eyes Wide Shut, Eddie Murphy: Raw
(RU) Rather Unacceptable
- Film contains levels of Sex, Violence, Profane Language and/or other objectionable content that are extreme. As such only through extreme rationalization could someone consider the film fit for consumption. The only reason to see it would be as a study of the current state of Western culture.
Examples: American Beauty
(SA) Somewhat Acceptable
- Aspects of objectionable Sex, Violence and Profane Language and/or other questionable content exist, but either a) Not in a gratuitous manner, b) Not in great frequency or c) With specific redeeming intent. But be very careful.
Examples: Malcolm X, American History X, The Matrix
(RA) Rather Acceptable
- Overall, the film is suitable for general consumption with some concerns over thematic issues or minor objectionable content. But be on the lookout for more subtle Western themes that are of concern to Muslims such as romance and dating.
Examples: Shrek, Atlantis
(CA) Completely Acceptable
- Film content is either tame or fully socially redeeming in nature.
Examples: Jinnah, The Battle of Algiers, Bambi
E.T.-The Extra-Terrestrial (CA)
Summary: When E.T. - The Extra-Terrestrial debuted in 1982, Steven Spielberg was still trying to make a name for himself in Hollywood. We all knew what became of Spielberg, and as for E.T., the film has since become a classic of contemporary American cinema. To celebrate the 20th anniversary of its opening, Universal Pictures is re-releasing the film to allow another generation of children to be captivated by its touching story. As with so many great films, E.T.’s plot is simple: A young boy finds a crash-landed alien creature and takes care of him. From that simplicity springs a wonderful drama about childhood innocence. E.T. himself could just as easily have been Gentle Ben the bear or Lassie – they all substitute for one another interchangeably as far as storyline is concerned. However, by making the main character an alien, Spielberg solidified his place in movie-making as someone with the rare talent of being able to tell an old story in a refreshing new manner. As audiences watch the relationship between boy and alien grow, they become attached to the characters. And through humor and suspense, Spielberg weaves a tale for the ages. Parents and children alike will love the re-release of E.T. and with added scenes and enhanced special effects, it will no doubt do well at the box-office. Enjoy.
Blade 2 (RU-Adult)
Summary: Wesley Snipes reprises his role as the comic book vampire-slayer Blade, in the predictably named film - Blade 2. Unlike the first installment in the series, Blade 2 gives Snipes’ character a rest from roaming the urban streets in search of bloodsucking undead creatures to kill in the most gruesome of fashions he can think up. This time around, it is the vampires themselves who enlist Blade to assist in fighting a common demonic enemy that Blade would just as soon see terminated. Accepting the offer, Blade declares a temporary truce and joins with the vampires to go about the urban streets killing demons. It’s all very predictable and to be sure, it’s all extremely violent – there is an emphasis on “extremely”. Because of the over-the-top violence and gore, Blade 2 cannot be recommended for viewing.
Sorority Boys (CU-Adult)
Summary: What happens when a group of college frat boys are ordered by their fraternity brothers to pose as females and join a sorority? Filth, debauchery, vulgarity and pretty much everything else one would expect from a film hoping to get throngs of teen and college-age males packed into the theaters this spring. This film contains every sort of lewd reference, along with nudity, explicit sexual references and foul language. As such Muslims should AVOID THIS FILM AT ALL COSTS.
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