The Régie du cinéma is the governmental organization in charge of surveillance and control in matters related to cinema. It rates all films for the general public in the province of Quebec, regardless of format (film, videotape, DVD, etc.). The Régie also gives permits to distributors, cinema owners and retailers who sell and rent video materials. Finally, it controls the distribution rights of cinematographic works and ensures that copyright is respected.
The rating of a film must appear, when appropriate, in the entrance to cinemas, in advertisements published in newspapers and on the Régie's labels that appear on videos. The ratings may also contain additional information in the form of advisories. For example; "Not suitable for young children," "Vulgar language," "Violence," and "Explicit sexuality."
These are the classifications and what they mean:
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| Visa général May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons of all ages. Guidelines A classification of "Visa général" means that the film so classified is unlikely to disturb an average viewer. It in no way indicates that the film is considered to be "suitable" for children. Only a "for children" notice would indicate that such a film would be appropriate for younger viewers.
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| 13 years and over May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons 13 years of age or over. Children 12 years of age and under may be admitted to a public showing of the film, but only if accompanied by an adult. Guidelines When rating a film as "13 years and over", the examiners consider: - certain manifestations of violence (senseless destruction, physical harm, graphic violence, etc.);
- the representation of sexuality (extremely detailed intimate scenes, sexual relationships promoting dominance or disturbing situations, etc.); certain themes (suicide, family break-ups, mental instability, marginal behaviour, etc.).
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| 16 years and over May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons 16 years of age or over.
Guidelines These films may contain complex sequences, including violent or erotic elements, as well as certain problematic situations encountered by adults. However, the examiners are required to conduct a rigorous evaluation when considering the following: - detailed and complacent images of unwarranted or sustained violence;
- particularly troubling images; the manner in which sexuality is depicted.
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| 18 years and over May be viewed, rented or purchased by persons 18 years of age or over.
Guidelines Films restricted to an adult audience usually contain: - explicit representations of sexuality;
- exacerbated violence, particularly those depicting torture or other forms of cruelty heightened through special effects to a level of harrowing realism; closely associated erotic behaviour and violence
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For more information on film ratings in Québec, please contact:
Régie du cinéma
455, rue Sainte-Hélène
Montréal, Québec H2Y 2L3
Tel: (514) 873-2371 or toll free: 1-800-463-2463
Fax: (514) 864-3229
Email: classement@rcq.qc.ca
Web site: http://www.rcq.qc.ca/