The upcoming Marilyn Monroe biopic Blonde earned a rare NC-17 rating by the Motion Picture Association.
According to Collider, Andrew Dominik's upcoming film starring Ana de Armas sports the restriction due to "some sexual content." Netflix confirmed that the film will premiere on the streaming platform while also experiencing a limited theatrical release. While the streaming service has yet to respond to the rating, many expected Blonde to be hit with the restriction. The film is based on Joyce Carol Oates' novel of the same title which features several sexually explicit scenes.
An NC-17 was widely considered to be the "kiss of death" due to the limitations it places on audiences but the advent of streaming services has prompted a change in attitude towards the restriction. Even traditionally violent franchises like Mortal Kombat have avoided the restriction for fear that it could turn away potential audience-goers.
While no plot details have been released, Blonde is expected to chronicle the life of Hollywood superstar Marilyn Monroe. Despite Oates' assistance that her story is largely fictionalized and shouldn't be considered a biography, many elements were inspired by Monroe's tumultuous life as a successful actor and sex symbol.
After over a decade of delays, Blonde has been confirmed for a 2022 release, As of now, a specific release date has yet to be announced but fans can expect an update in the coming months.
Source: Collider