Rating Controversy Over Film 'Bully' Confusing For Parents

Published On: Mar 29 2012 04:16:59 AM EDT
Updated On: Mar 30 2012 06:34:36 AM EDT

Massachusetts schools have had their own up close and tragic experience with bullying. Two suicides by 15-year-old Phoebe Prince and 11-year- old Carl Walker Hoover led to anti-bullying laws.

Now a documentary called "Bully" examines the behavior's cruel and sometimes deadly consequences. But the film's rating may confuse parents about whether it's appropriate for their children to see it.

The documentary "Bully" follows five kids and their families over a school year. Anti-bullying advocates said the movie is an important one for kids and parents to see.

"I think it's very effective in getting people to understand how damaging and cruel and sort of relentless these behaviors can be," said Elizabeth Englander of the Massachusetts Aggression Reduction Center.

The Motion Picture Association of America gave "Bully" an R rating for profanities. Filmmakers fought for a PG-13 rating and lost. So they decided to release it unrated instead.

That decision is already creating issues for theaters. The AMC theater chain has announced those under 17 who want to see "Bully" need to come with a parent or download a permission slip from its website and bring it with them to the theater. The rating controversy means parents have to get involved.

"A lot of times as a parent what you have to ask yourself is not whether it's a good movie or an important topic but is my kid ready for this," said Jim Steyer of Common Sense Media. The group offers parents independent film and TV reviews. They gave "Bully" a "13 Pause" rating.

"The truth is this is an issue that young people need to speak about with their parents and their teachers. It's one where 12- and 13-year-olds can see this stuff. They've heard the f-word before," said Steyer.

But Steyer acknowledges they may struggle with the film's two suicides, which is why his organization recommends parents watch too, and talk to their kids about it.

"Ask your child about the things that really rang true for them and what were the things they felt maybe they've seen or has happened in their school. Ask them to describe what they're thinking," said Englander.

Englander also warns that just because the film shows extreme bullying cases doesn't mean everyday aggression shouldn't be taken seriously as well. She hopes kids, parents and schools everywhere will take up the tough questions the film raises.

"What exactly is the role of adults in these problems? What is the role of other kids? When should we tolerate these behaviors? When should we never tolerate them?" said Englander.

The movie opens in New York and Los Angeles this week. It hits theaters nationwide in two weeks.


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