Since its release, Bo Burnham’s Eighth Grade has been lauded as an earnest depiction of what life is like for 13-year-olds. However, the Motion Picture Association of America’s “R” rating of the film is preventing teenagers and those who are actually in eighth grade from seeing it. Luckily, Burnham is trying to combat this.
As a result, this Wednesday, A24 is hosting a night of free Eighth Grade screenings in all 50 states, with no age restriction enforced.
Burnam and the film’s star, Elsie Fisher (who plays Kayla), announced the news in a video. Eighth Grade‘s website reads, “If you’ve been through 8th grade, Eighth Grade is for you.”
This Wednesday in all 50 states— a night of free #EighthGrade screenings open to all ages. It will be Rated L for LIT. cities/theaters: https://t.co/GxkrPjFedL pic.twitter.com/VRaK984uiE
— A24 (@A24) August 6, 2018
According to UPROXX, “language and some sexual material” were cited for the film’s “R” rating. But according to some parents — and even Common Sense Media — the rating is an overreaction.
“But despite the swearing and some suggestive comments and conversations about hook-up culture, implied masturbation, sharing nude photos, and ‘how far’ Kayla has gone or is willing to go physically with a boy, this is a good (if slightly cringeworthy) movie to watch with your teen,” wrote Common Sense Media. “There’s so much here for parents and their teens to unpack, from mean-girl behavior and too much/inappropriate screen use to the importance of being careful around older teens (particularly for girls) and saying no to unwanted sexual advances. Ultimately, it also promotes open communication between teens and their parents, as well as courage, since Kayla learns to love and speak up for herself.”
Find a free screening near you here.