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Does Blockbuster Edit Their Movies?

I have heard reports that Blockbuster edits [censors] some of their movies. Some really "spicy" R-rated movies supposedly have some scenes cut to tone them down. Also, I was told that in their version of the movie, TITANIC, the scene in which Leonardo DiCaprio sketches Kate Winslet has the nudity cut out, and this movie just has a PG-13 rating. Obviously, any alteration in a movie's rental release would have to be approved by the film's distributor.

So, fact, or urban myth? I am just starting to rent movies again, and I need to know for sure. And please, let's not get into a Blockbuster bashing!
fatparrot

Showing 2 responses by newmanoc

newmanoc
295 posts
 
"This really makes me sick and is obviously just a big business decision. I agree with SDCampbell and go to Hollywood video or my local store instead."

Philjolet:
Why on earth should this make you (or Roger Ebert) sick? I can understand you objecting if you are given an edited movie that isn't labeled as such - that should not happen. But studios edit all pictures for content before release based on marketing decisions (e.g., PG 13 has a broader audience and generally makes more money than does R). If the studio wants to release a toned down movie for Blockbuster to rent to interested customers, wonderful - I for one would like to see more such options. I can’t fathom an objection to this.
newmanoc
295 posts
 
As I understand it, directors usually have no control over what the ultimate commercial cut of their movies look like (hence, the Director's Cut releases). These final cuts are done by the people who pony up the dough to get the movie made in the first place (the studios).

As to saying that any changes made to the release should be clearly labeled, I agree. We have no argument.
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