The rating game

I’M surprised that during his long and distinguished career, Kevin Thomas hasn’t gained more understanding of the motion picture rating system -- specifically, what Jack Valenti and the Motion Picture Assn. of America consider obscene or harmful to children (“Freddy and Jason Double Up for Horror,” Aug. 15).

As the rating system has consistently demonstrated since its inception 35 years ago, violence, brutality, bloodshed, savagery and anything related to death is acceptable entertainment for young people, while sex -- the source of all life and the only reason any of us are here -- is considered morally objectionable, and must be restricted to adults via an “X” or “NC-17” rating.

To sum up: death good, life bad. Starting to get the picture now, Mr. Thomas?

John Travers

Hollywood