This panel for the 1998 Society of Cinema Studies conference will examine the
Motion Picture Association of America's ratings system.  It will address
race, class, gender, violence, and other socio-cultural issues in the context
of the ongoing negotiation between producers, exhibitors, special interests
groups, the government, and trade organizations in determining the rating (or
lack of one) for a film.  Papers could explore MPAA policy similarites and
differences between other countries, the recent television ratings system and
its relationship to feature film ratings, or current or past controversies
surrounding individual film or genres such as Adrian Lyne's Lolita or
Showgirls.  Please contact Kevin S. Sandler, Sheffield Hallam University at
[log in to unmask] or by phone at (248) 737-4681 or fax (248) 737-5116 send
proposals to 3302 Winchester, West Bloomfield, Michigan 48322  USA.
 
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Screen-L is sponsored by the Telecommunication & Film Dept., the 
University of Alabama.