By Travis Johnson
The Classification Board has revised its decision on the documentary Embrace, applying a new M rating instead of the previously assigned and considerably more restrictive MA15+.
The Board initially ruled that a sequence in the film involving women’s vulvas in close-up photographs as part of a discussion around body acceptance warranted a consumer advice notification. of ‘strong nudity’. The ruling received strong criticism from many corners, on the basis that the film can be viewed as an important body image education tool for teenagers, who would be constrained from viewing the film by the MA15+ rating.
Embrace director, Taryn Brumfitt, commented “I am thrilled that the right decision has been made. With rates of labiaplasty on the rise, particularly in teens, I knew how important it was to include the educational and informative vulva section in the film. Since the film’s release I have been told every day that it must be seen in schools and now it can be. The Classification Board’s decision means that Embrace can be more accessible to the people who need its message most.”
Andrew Mackie of distributor Transmission said, “We’re delighted that the original decision has been reviewed and overturned. Embrace continues to educate and inspire audiences, its box office success showing that issues of body image are relevant, with this film resonating with Australian audiences at sold-out screenings, despite the original rating limitations. This decision enables Taryn’s message to go further.”
