Viva Films releases 'Rated X' trailer for 'Tragic Theater'

MANILA, Philippines - Director Tikoy Aguiluz was dismayed with the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board's (MTRCB) decision to mark the trailer of “Tragic Theater” as Rated X.

“Tragic Theater” is a movie based on G.M. Coronel's same-titled novel about the exorcism at the Manila Film Center.

On Aguiluz's Facebook post, he said the movie trailer was given Rated X twice as the board perceived it as “too scary.”

“Akala ko ba horror film ito?” he added.

Based on the MTRCB's implementing rules and regulations, a film or trailer is given a Rated X or is said “not suitable for public exhibition” if the Board deems it depicting “a patently lewd, offensive, or demeaning manner, excretory functions and sexual conduct; clearly constitutes an attack against any race, creed, or religion; and condones or encourages the use of illegal drugs and substances.”

It is also gives the Rated X to movies that "tends to undermine the faith and confidence of the people in their government and/or duly-constituted authorities; it glorifies criminals or condones crimes; it is libelous or defamatory to the good name and reputation of any person, whether living or dead; or it may constitute contempt of court or of a quasi-judicial tribunal, or may pertain to matters which are subjudicial in nature.”

As the MTRCB's authority is limited to movies, TV programs and commercials "intended for public exhibition in theaters and television, and related publicity materials and/or promotional materials,” the Viva Films decided to release the uncut trailer of the film on the internet.

Viva Films is reportedly set to submit another trailer of the film to the MTRCB for approval.

Watch the uncut trailer of “Tragic Theater” below.