The MPAA is an interesting microcosm of the endless hypocrisy that can be found in American culture, and this documentary takes a radical stance against that. It's very thorough about the highly problematic -arguably fascist- antics of this organization, commenting on a variety of topics (sex vs violence; straight vs lgbt sex scenes; studio films being favoured over indies; a lack of media literacy and progressive values from its raters; the influence of special interest groups; the ridiculous appeal process; a total lack of critical self-reflection within the organization). Very informative and still relevant to this day, especially with American films becoming more edgeless and devoid of sex since the release of this documentary (which is not just due to the MPAA, but the film points out effectively how ratings used to be more lenient in the 70s compared to the 00s). Like Kirby Dick says at one point: judgement about edgy subject matter should be passed down to the parents, as the current MPAA system of indirect censorship coming from an anonymous board is completely irresponsible. This does lead to the biggest weak spot about this documentary, however, which are the interstitial bits about a P.I. firm exposing the people on the MPAA board in 2005. It wasn't nearly as interesting to watch and some of the editing felt petty, almost revealing these people as if they're exposing secret criminals. I also think there could've been more creativity in the filmmaking, as most of the presentation is fairly predictable (interviews; film clips; stock music). Overall, I'd recommend it. In my opinion this should be at the forefront of the censorship debate, instead of the constant, ignorant complaining about 'wokeness' on Twitter.

6.5/10