The F word, also known as the “fuck” word, is considered one of the most offensive words in the English language. Its usage in media like movies and TV shows often leads to an automatic R rating from the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA). However, the specific criteria for an R rating versus a PG-13 rating when it comes to profanity is more complex than a simple count of F words.
What Does an R Rating Mean?
The MPAA’s R rating means the film contains adult material that is not appropriate for children under age 17. An R-rated movie may include strong language, graphic violence, nudity, drug use or other adult themes.[1]
The MPAA’s ratings board considers multiple factors when rating a film, including language, violence, sex, nudity, drug use, and overall theme. There are no hard and fast rules about how many uses of the F word lead to an automatic R rating. The ratings board looks at context and considers:
- How the language is used
- Who is using it
- Whether it seems realistically part of the character’s personality
- Whether the usage seems gratuitous or excessive
History of the F Word in Movies
Prior to the PG-13 rating, which was introduced in 1984, any film with profanity beyond a PG level automatically received an R. But since the creation of the PG-13 rating, which cautions parents of possibly inappropriate material for under 13, there is more flexibility around the use of strong profanity.
While there isn’t a definitive count, studies have shown that primary use of the F word more than twice in a non-sexual manner in a film will likely lead it to garner an R rating rather than a PG-13.[2] However, contextual factors can sway the rating one way or the other.
Here are some examples that illustrate the evolving standards:
- Gone with the Wind (1939) – This classic film contained two uses of “damn” which was considered scandalous at the time.
- The Graduate (1967) – Received an M rating (which later became PG) despite some profanity and sexual content.
- Midnight Cowboy (1969) – First and only X-rated (later changed to R) Best Picture Oscar winner for its profanity and sex scenes.
- Scarface (1983) – Received an X rating four times before edits got it down to an R rating.
- Beetlejuice (1988) – Said the F word 17 times but in a comedic context, thereby earning a PG rating.
- The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) – Featured over 500 F words but in context of true story, still received an R and not NC-17.
Context is why a film like The Wolf of Wall Street can contain over 500 F words and still only receive an R rating. Additionally, the fact that the F word is used in a non-sexual manner in most cases provides more leeway versus being used in a sexual way.
How Many F Words Make a Movie R Rated?
Again, there is no definitive answer, but here are some guidelines:
- 1-2 F words – More likely to get a PG-13 rating if used non-sexually and contextually appropriate.
- 3-5 F words – Could go either way PG-13 or R depending on overall context.
- 6-10 F words – Almost assured of getting an R rating, especially if used strongly or said by multiple characters.
- 10+ F words – Virtually guaranteed R rating except in some exceptional cases.
The 9 films that have won the Best Picture Oscar while rated R contained an average of 19 F words, with a range from 5 to over 500 words. So if a director wants to make an awards-contending drama, chances are it will contain more than enough profanity to garner an R rating. Comedies have more flexibility, earning PG-13 with a modest amount of profanity.
Exceptions to the F Word Rule
Despite the typical pattern, the MPAA ratings board can make exceptions in individual cases:
- The King’s Speech (2010) – This Best Picture winner contained 17 F words but received a PG-13 rating anyway since they were used therapeutically and not in anger.
- Bully (2011) – A documentary focused on the important topic of bullying that contained over 10 F words but initially got a R rating. This was later changed to PG-13 on appeal.
- The Social Network (2010) – Contained over 30 uses of the F word but still received a PG-13 rating.
These examples show that with the proper context and restraint, more than a dozen F words may still be permissible to get a PG-13 rating rather than an automatic R.
Does TV Censorship Differ from Movies?
Television standards are generally more restrictive than theatrical releases. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) prohibits obscene and profane content on broadcast TV and radio between 6am and 10pm when children may be watching or listening.[3]
On cable TV, which is not subject to FCC regulations, it is up to the networks’ own standards on what is allowed. Most scripted dramas and comedies on cable will permit some use of the F word and other profanity. But usage is still expected to be in moderation for basic cable channels. Premium cable networks like HBO place no restrictions on language.
For example, the acclaimed AMC drama Breaking Bad never exceeded 2-3 uses of the F word per season on basic cable TV. Meanwhile, HBO shows like The Sopranos were known for coarse language including 50+ uses of the F word per episode.
Conclusion
While there is no magic number dictating whether use of the F word leads to an automatic R rating, rough guidelines would be:
- 1-2 times – PG-13 possible
- 3-10 times – R likely
- 10+ times – R almost guaranteed
But exceptions can be made depending on overall context, especially if the profanity is not used in a sexual or aggressive manner. Television standards are generally more restrictive, prohibiting the F word on broadcast TV before 10pm. Premium cable networks like HBO impose no limitations.
The MPAA ratings board considers multiple criteria in addition to profanity when issuing age-related ratings. Their goal is to reflect the standards of most American parents, while accounting for context and creative freedom in filmmaking. But the F word is still considered one of the most potentially offensive and well-known red flags that youth ought not watch a movie without parental permission.