The Story of the Rating System

The rating system was announced on November 1, 1968 and was put into use nationwide by the end of the month. The initial plan had been to have just three ratings, G for general audiences, M for mature audiences, and R for restricted. Most American theaters refuse to screen unrated movies for fear of upsetting their customers. Even though the rating system isn't mandatory, most filmmakers are compelled to submit to it anyway.