The MPAA has agreed to overturn the “R” rating on director Julian Schnabel”s “Miral”.
Schnabel and producer Jon Kilik had contested the ratings board’s decision that denied the film the more consumer-friendly “PG-13.” Their appeal succeeded.
“I understand the MPAA is by nature a protective organization, but I felt very strongly that they didn”t need to protect teenagers from my film,” said Schnabel in a statement. “Quite the contrary, teenagers are the intended audience for Miral”s story. I am very happy the MPAA proved to be open minded and ultimately agreed.”
Producer Jon Kilik agreed. “We are happy to have the MPAA find that our film respected the guidelines of their rating system,” he said. “To have lost the ability to share Miral with the generation most affected by the story”s message would have been at odds with the meaning and purpose of our film.”
The film depicts the autobiographical struggles of author and journalist Rula Jebreal, on whose book the film is based. The book and film follow the titular character as she grows up as a Palestinian in war-torn East Jerusalem, witnessing the effects of a seemingly endless war on all facets of her life and society beyond.
It stars Freida Pinto (“Slumdog Millionaire”), Omar Metwally (“Munich”), and Hiam Abbass (“The Visitor”).
Schnabel last directed the critically acclaimed “The Diving Bell and Butterfly,” for which he received an Academy Award nomination.
“Miral” is scheduled for release by The Weinstein Company on March 25.