MPAA: The Big Fish in Film

Starting out in an industry, especially forming your own business, it is vital to know the key players and be able to network. In an industry such as entertainment, the old adage “It is all about who you know!” rings true and in the film industry, this concept could make or break a business. While in most industries, it is smart and productive to start at the local level by networking with city or state associations and commissions, the film industry has one major player at the helm; the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA).

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In analyzing the film industry and the steps it takes to create a successful production company, my instincts lead me to my local film institutions, the Colorado Film and Video Association which partners with the Colorado Office of Film/Television/Media. These organizations have amazing programs, incentives, events, and supportive resources aimed to help Colorado filmmakers and media professionals navigate this unpredictable industry. While delving through the various channels of these groups however, I was consistently navigated to a MPAA reference and soon discovered the all-encompassing power of this association.

MPAA is comprised of the six major U.S. motion picture studios, which include Walt Disney, Sony and Universal. They control and monitor major functions in the film industry such as getting a film rating (their board of parents make that fateful and expensive decision between PG-13 and R), registering movie titles, and gaining approval for all film related advertisements. In order for any rated film to be released, it must go through their channels and attain approval.

Although they seem like the all-powerful rule-maker, MPAA’s main mission is to be an advocate and fight for the rights of the film industry by educating professionals, creating and defending legislation and establishing programs that fight for and maintain an advantageous environment. They create new initiatives and technologies that assist professionals as well as ensure a healthy and respectable future for this creative medium. They are extremely committed to intellectual property rights education and protection from pirating and also act as the champion for the rights of the artist. They actively pursue those who illegally mass-produce, identify and shut down criminal websites and campaign for new laws to protect the rights of filmmakers.

Being a small fish in a big pond can be a terrifying thought and so often large groups and associations (especially the thought of a collaboration of several major players) can seem intimidating and threatening. MPAA, although comprised of potential long-term competitors, is designed to promote fair trade and competition and create a business atmosphere where smaller companies stand a fighting chance. They promote the ideals of job creation, economy stimulation and spreading art to the masses. In starting a small production company, their standards are what I would have to abide by with regards to ratings and advertising. They give detailed advice about how to properly attain the necessary requirements but are also a great resource and possible protection for any projects that I may someday attach my company name to. With a persona of community, artistic expression and a thriving business for all, MPAA has a direct affect on the film industry and while my local resources are vital, this big fish is the gatekeeper.