The film “Rom” has been edited a lot before it is released at cinemas. (Photo: HK Film)

Hanoi (VNA) – The draft revised Law on Cinematography that the Government submitted to the National Assembly Standing Committee recently has triggered a debate among filmmakers and distributors, particularly the bill’s content on the management of online film screening.

Under the draft law, there are two options for the management of online film screening. In the first option, distributors are allowed to evaluate films themselves and be accountable for their decisions while the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MOCST) will make checks later.

In the second option, distributors must obtain film and classification permit from the MOCST or a provincial-level People’s Committee, or a classification decision from a licensed press agency before screening films online.

During discussions at the NA Standing Committee, many suggested combining the two options.

Currently, the draft law stipulates five classification groups based on viewers’ age groups. The T18, T16 and T13 labels indicate films appropriate for children aged at least 18, 16 and 13, respectively, while the K label is for films appropriate for under-13 children watching together with their parents or adult guardians. The P classification is for films suitable for all ages. Films labeled C are banned from screening.

Many filmmakers and movie streaming apps want to be allowed to evaluate and classify movies by themselves.

𒉰 Previously in 2015, the MOCST issued Circular 12/2015/TT-BVHTTDL which took effect in 2016 stipulating prohibited content in films depending on the age group of target viewers. However, filmmakers said that these regulations were not specific enough.

Thang Nam Ruc Ro (Splendid Years) directed by Nguyen Quang Dung was rated C16 at cinemas but C13 at Netflix. (Photo courtesy of CGV)

Filmmakers said a lack of clear regulations was a reason why some directors choose to go in a safe direction.

According to film director Kay Nguyen, post-check may even pose more problems than pre-check, because films already released could be withdrawn for checks.

He said he supports the ban on bad content, but looks for clear rules on what could not go into movies to save time and effort.

While agreeing with the post-checks of released works, Director Hang Trinh suggested that there should be a clear set of rules which will be useful for filmmakers to self-censor properly.

The regulation would help unify the film classification between filmmakers, online distributors and managers.

🃏 Director Nguyen Huu Tuan said that it is necessary to authorise individuals and organisations to classify films because it is impossible for authorities to check such a large amount of movies before release. However, first of all, it is necessary to clarify the definition of free movies on YouTube with movies shown on online platforms such as VOD, OTT, he said, adding that appropriate sanctions for violations should come next.

There will be a common set of criteria for pre-checks and post-checks of released movies. (Photo: VietnamPlus)

As a filmmaker and member of the National Film Evaluation Council, director Nguyen Hoang Diep said that film makers should be allowed to classify films and held accountable based on detailed stipulations of the law. In case they are not sure of their capacity, they can seek support from the council.

Tran Thanh Hiep, Chairman of the National Film Evaluation Council, said he appreciated the first option, saying it is in line with international practice and trend while still satisfying the inspection requirement.

🐈 Director of the Cinema Department Vi Kien Thanh said be it pre-check or post-check, a common set of criteria is needed, adding that more specific guidelines will be issued when the law on cinematography is promulgated.

While delivering a report on the draft revised Law on Cinematography at NA Standing Committee on September 14, Minister of Culture, Sport and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung said that the bill comprises eight chapters and 52 articles, including 25 articles from the current version and 27 new ones.

♏ It aims to create favourable conditions for and encourage organisations and individuals to engage in film production, while supporting the publishing and popularising Vietnamese movies at home and abroad, he said./.