This May, the supernatural horror movie, Hokum makes its way into cinemas. The film – written and directed by Damian McCarthy – stars Adam Scott, Peter Coonan, David Wilmot, and Austin Amelio, and tells the story of an author who encounters something very disturbing
Describing the movie, Black Bear Pictures said: “When reclusive novelist Ohm Bauman (Scott) retreats to a remote Irish inn to scatter his parents’ ashes, the staff’s tales of an ancient witch haunting the honeymoon suite take hold of his mind. Soon, disturbing visions and a shocking disappearance draw him into a nightmarish confrontation with the darkest corners of his past.”
When Hokum makes its way into cinemas, expect it to be a popular film with horror fans. Filmmaker Damian McCarthy has a history of horror, having previously directed Oddity and Caveat, and these films should raise this film’s profile considerably.
But when Hokum does arrive in cinemas, will it be a suitable horror for all? Will it be too scary for teenage horror fans?
Let’s take a look at the rating.
__
Hokum US age rating
In the US, Hokum has been rated ‘R’ by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPA), which means the movie is classed as ‘restricted’ viewing. Hokum has received this rating due to some violent/disturbing content and language.
In the US, restricted viewing means no one under the age of 17 can view an ‘R’ rated movie unaccompanied. The MPA believe the film contains some material which might not be suitable for all ages.
However, in the US, audiences below the age of 17 can watch an ‘R’ rated movie in a US cinema. The stipulation is that younger audiences must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
So, is Hokum suitable for a US horror-obsessed teen or is it too scary? That kind of comes down to you to decide.
The MPA’s rating system exists as guidance. The organisation has given this an ‘R’ rating, but presumes you will decide if the movie is suitable, based on the information provided, and act accordingly.
__
Hokum UK age rating
In the UK, things are different. Hokum has been awarded a ‘15’ certificate by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). The film has received this rating due to “strong horror, violence, language, (and) suicide references.”
In the UK ‘15’ certificate movies are deemed suitable for audiences aged 15 or over only, meaning no one below the age of 15 is permitted to watch a ‘15’ certificate film in a UK cinema. As such, the BBFC believe Hokum is not suitable for all teens, as it might be inappropriate or simply too scary.
So, can a teen watch Hokum in a UK cinema? Only if that teen is 15 or above.
__
__
Thank you for stopping by It’s A Stampede! to read this post about Hokum. For more posts be sure to check out the recommended reads below.
It's A Stampede! 
Leave a comment