Universal Comments on VAN HELSING Super Bowl Spot

When have things gone too far when it comes to censorship? My guess is when a movie studio even has to think about explaining themselves for a movie trailer that was approved by the MPAA.

By: Brad Brevet
Published: Thursday, February 5th 2004 at 10:07 PM

When have things gone too far when it comes to censorship? My guess is when a movie studio even has to think about explaining themselves for a movie trailer that was approved by the MPAA, which is what Universal Pictures has done concerning their upcoming monster film Van Helsing.

Universal published the following message:

"Van Helsing" is a motion picture adventure that features imaginative use of fantasy characters such as Dracula, The Frankenstein Monster and The Wolf Man — characters that have been staples of movies and popular culture for more than 60 years. Writer/director Stephen Sommers has established himself as a filmmaker who creates entertainment enjoyed by audiences of all ages. The tone and content of "Van Helsing" have been designed to continue that tradition and fit well within the Motion Picture Association of America parameters established for a PG-13 rating. The 60-second advertisement for the film that ran during the Super Bowl was approved by the MPAA. While the spot contained images of fanged fantasy creatures, it did not feature any blood or gore, nor any depiction of realistic graphic violence.

Have things gone too far? I would have to say YES!