Anime Age Ratings in Vietnam
Hey there, fellow anime enthusiasts! Have you ever wondered why anime age ratings can vary so drastically from one country to another? I mean, why do some anime series that are rated 18+ in the United States receive a PG-13 equivalent rating in Australia? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of anime age ratings and explore the intriguing reasons behind this phenomenon.
The Inconsistencies of Anime Age Ratings
It’s no secret that age ratings for anime have been a contentious issue since the early days of VHS. Back then, most VHS anime publishers didn’t bother with any real warnings on their boxes, except for explicit adult content. Unfortunately, this lack of clarity resulted in R-rated shows being rented by unsuspecting kids, leading to frustrated parents and angry customers.
To address this issue, the popular rental mega-chain Blockbuster Video took matters into their own hands by slapping a generic “Youth Restricted Viewing” sticker on all anime. Although this sticker was meant to narrow down the target audience, it also inadvertently categorized all anime as R-rated in their computer system. Imagine the struggle of convincing your parents to let you rent anime when you were just a kid!
The Birth of Anime Age Ratings
Thankfully, due to fan suggestions and retailer pressure, anime publishers eventually started putting age ratings on their boxes. However, these ratings were somewhat arbitrary and varied from one publisher to another. Pioneer, for example, had a “3up,” “13up,” and “17up” system, which was adopted by a few other publishers. Some publishers opted to use the age ratings of American TV broadcasters. Essentially, it was up to the publishers to decide which category a particular anime would fall into, leading to the wild inconsistencies we witness today.
In contrast, other countries have government-related bodies dedicated to assigning age ratings to home video products. These centralized systems help maintain consistency and provide clearer guidelines for viewers. Unfortunately, in the United States, publishers have more freedom to choose the age ratings they believe are appropriate, often leading to uninformed or desensitized decisions.
Challenging the Rating System
There isn’t a perfect rating system that satisfies everyone. Even the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA), which determines movie ratings in the United States, faces constant criticism for their sometimes arbitrary or unfair standards. The UK’s BBFC ratings system also endures endless snark and ridicule. Each person has their own barometer for what they deem appropriate or not.
Fortunately, with the advent of the internet, parents now have the power to research titles before exposing their children to potentially unsuitable content. They aren’t solely reliant on arcane and irrelevant rating systems anymore. However, it’s important to note that the internet can be a double-edged sword, as children might stumble upon content that goes beyond their age appropriateness.
In conclusion, anime age ratings can be a perplexing and inconsistent subject. While some countries have well-established and regulated rating systems, the United States allows publishers more freedom in determining age ratings, which can lead to discrepancies. As viewers, we must rely on our own judgment, research, and the guidance of responsible adults to ensure we’re watching anime that aligns with our values and preferences.
So next time you encounter a varying anime age rating, remember that it’s not a simple matter of slapping on a label. It’s a complex interplay of cultural, societal, and individual perspectives.
That’s it for now, folks! Thanks for joining us on this intriguing journey into the world of anime age ratings. We hope you found this article informative and entertaining. If you want more captivating content like this, head over to Fecomic for all things manga and anime!
