Persons who want to publicly exhibit films in the Cayman Islands are reminded that the local Film Control Board views and assigns ratings to all movies that haven’t already been rated by an internationally recognised film control board.

Under The Film Exhibition Control Law (2015), which came into effect on 1 January 2016, Cayman’s board is responsible for assessing the content of, and then rating, local films that will be shown locally. For each movie that is rated, the board will issue a Public Rating Certificate, which carries a $25 fee.

‘These ratings are meant to provide clarity for the viewing public in regards to film content. For adults in particular, the ratings will help with their decision making as to what is appropriate viewing for children who are in their care’, Commerce Minister Wayne Panton said.

According to the law, unrated movies are considered unsuitable for children, and children will not be permitted to view them. Furthermore, these movies cannot be publicly exhibited before 7pm. Failure to abide by these conditions will result in a penalty of at least CI$2,000.

Movies that have been rated by another internationally recognised film control board – such as the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) – are handled differently. Persons who own or control such a movie are not required to apply for a local rating certificate prior to the public exhibition of the film. They also are not prohibited from exhibiting the film to a child if the rating permits viewing by a minor.

Cayman’s board also is responsible for determining if a film, although rated by an international board, is suitable for local exhibition. If it is considered unsuitable, the board has the option of banning the film from being exhibited in the Cayman Islands.

To submit a film or a trailer for review, persons should complete aFilm Review Rating Submission Form and email it, along with the movie, to the Department of Commerce and Investment on [email protected], at least seven days before the intended screening date. DVD submissions can be made either by mail, along with a completed form, or in person at the Business Licensing Counter on the first floor of the Government Administration Building.

If submitting multiple films at once, the recommended submission date is three weeks prior to screening.

END

IMAGE:kfcb.co.ke