Gibson's new Passion gets 15 certificate (Softer Version Coming To UK Cinemas)

ITV.COM ^ | 2-28-05

[My Favorite Headache]

Gibson's new Passion gets 15 certificate 12.43PM, Mon Feb 28 2005

A new version of Mel Gibson's controversial Biblical epic The Passion of The Christ is to be released in UK cinemas this Easter.

The new film, called The Passion - Recut is about six minutes shorter than the original and has been awarded a 15 certificate from the British Board of Film Classification.

The Passion of The Christ, released in cinemas 12 months ago, was given an 18 certificate because of some of it violent scenes.

But Gibson has now assembled the new slightly 'softer' version which he hopes will appeal to those who thought the intensity of the original film was prohibitive.

"I hope to cater to those people that perhaps might not have seen the original because of it's intensity or brutality" he said.

[My Favorite Headache]

Let's see..The Passion was ruled too violent and anti-semitic as well as racist by those in Hollywood. No nominations at the Hollywood Foreign Press' Golden Globes,no SAG nominations...zero...and now a SOFTER version has been cut for the weak stomachs? C'mon Mel...just re-release it the original way to theaters every Easter and keep the money pouring in...it could become a theatrical tradition imo.

[YankeeinOkieville]

is it a good thing to get a certificate (or 15)?

[tjwmason]

is it a good thing to get a certificate (or 15)?

The system is a voluntary association created by the film industry in response to fears the local councils might start to ban films (this was ages ago, it now has statutory powers in relation to video). Pretty much all films get a certificate from the B.B.F.C. which range from 'Uc' (univserally suitable, particularly good for young children), to 18 (those under 18 should not see the film). Cinemas (theoretically) do not admit those under age to see the film. This will mean that those aged 15-17 can see 'The Passion' without any trouble - albeit in a cut form.

[YankeeinOkieville]

Thanks - you're very good at explaining.