Erik G asked:
Many R-rated movies are released on DVD, and some of them are available in unrated versions that come with the extra *** and violence and outsell the original theatrical versions. Isn’t it time that we should go to the other way- releasing edited versions of R-rated movies (PG-13 or even PG)?
Many R-rated movies are released on DVD, and some of them are available in unrated versions that come with the extra *** and violence and outsell the original theatrical versions. Isn’t it time that we should go to the other way- releasing edited versions of R-rated movies (PG-13 or even PG)?
Consider these following examples. Hollywood studios could release PG-13 or PG versions of R-rated titles. They are already shown as in-flight airline versions, Middle Eastern versions with the *** scenes edited out, and European versions with the violence toned down. This is why that edited airline/Middle Eastern/European versions of R-rated film titles should be sold in the United States. These will please American audiences with sensitivities and moral and/or religious convictions.
That’s why I’m asking you the following questions: What do you think? Should edited versions of R-rated movies be released on DVD?
yes
They actually tried this not long ago. The directors and producers made a big fuss, saying it violated the creative intent or some such nonsense. They threatened to sue the studios, so they nixed the idea.
I think they should. Like you said, not only do these edited versions already exist (edited for tv versions), but the consumer has a right to access these versions if they wish. There is a huge untapped market for these.
There are so many good films that have value but due to minor content elements shouldn’t be viewed by children. There’s also adults who just appreciate the toned down vulgarity, ludeness and violence, but still enjoy the story.
*I think maybe the writers and directors are just afraid the edited versions would outsell the regular ones, proving that people aren’t as into all the extremity in films as they like to say. Then they’d have to restrain themselves when they make new movies, and they don’t want any more restraints than they already have. If anything, they’d probably like to go even more over the top!
No, I think they should be released on DVD the same way they were released in the theater. I don’t like it when studios mess around with films and reedit them for any reason.