LGBTQ+ Representation 'Same as Horror' For Age Ratings, Hungarian Government Says
September 16, 2021The Hungarian media regulator has published new guidelines to help media outlets and producers comply with a new act that makes it illegal to depict homosexuality anywhere where minors may see it. However, in their new guidelines, homosexuality is age rated on par with some of the goriest horror films on the market.
The guidelines do not prevent outright depiction of homosexuality or gender diversity, and does not raise the age rating of media where these topics are not "the defining feature." However, depictions of virtues, or the benefits of homosexuality/changing gender, deserve much higher age ratings in the new system.
"The protection of minors does not mean that certain issues are taboo. Rather, it assesses the entire context and message with regard to the age-appropriate intellectual and processing capabilities of minors," the regulator, NMHH, said.
Under the revised guidelines, Oscar-winning Spanish director Pedro Almodovar's All About My Mother or The L Word series fall under the same age classification as the horror series Saw or The Exorcist, the regulator said.
Streaming platforms like Netflix and HBO have not responded to how the new guidelines will affect their content.
"Programs that portray sexuality for its own sake, or promote homosexuality or gender change fall under the fifth (not recommended to under-18s) age classification," the NMHH said in its updated publication.
"General gestures expressing tenderness, like a kiss on the cheeks, a hug, holding hands while walking, or a kiss cannot be considered problematic, unless they are portrayed for their own sake or constitute a central element of the program," it said.
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