A
motion picture rating system is designated to classify films with regard to suitability for audiences in terms of issues such as sex, violence, substance abuse, profanity, impudence or other types of mature content. A particular issued rating can be called a
certification,
classification,
certificate or
rating. Ratings typically carry age recommendations in an advisory or restrictive capacity, and are often given in lieu of
censorship. In some jurisdictions the legal obligation of administering the rating may be imposed on
movie theaters.