02/07/2006

Family-Friendly Films Consistently Translate Into Box Office Success
Authoritative Study Shows

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Feb. 6 /PRNewswire/ -- Millions of moviegoers are lining up to see family-friendly movies reflecting traditional values and non-controversial themes, according to the results of an annual study of the domestic box office. Statistics from the survey show that the public's choices for their favorite films -- which they vote for with their wallets -- veers sharply from the selections by the various awards shows and critics' associations.

According to research conducted by the Christian Film & Television Commission(TM) from data compiled by Nielsen EDI for its Annual Report to the Entertainment Industry, 80 percent of the 10 most popular movies had strong or very strong moral content and acceptability ratings. In addition, only one of the top 10 movies, and only three of the top 25, were rated R by the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA).

The Report to the Entertainment Industry shows that movies with no or very few incidences of nudity, foul language and violence earned an average of $45,001,733 per movie, which was nearly $18 million more per movie, or 65 percent better than movies that contained those elements. Movies with the Commission's low acceptability ratings earned only $27,307,984 on average. In fact, 70 percent of the 10 most popular movies in 2005 had either no sexual content or only light or implied sexual references.

"Every year, our financial analysis proves that good guys always finish first," Baehr said. "Movies with traditional Judeo-Christian values and heroic virtues always do best at the box office."

Baehr's group rated 70 percent of the top 10 as acceptable for either older teenagers and adults or families with younger children.

The Commission's comprehensive analysis of the content in the 25 most popular movies assesses each film by more than 50 different criteria, including prevalence of violence, sexuality, consumption of alcohol or illicit drugs, occult references and more. Baehr's Annual Report to the Entertainment Industry includes an analysis of all the major movies released by the movie industry and will be revealed at the 14th Annual Faith & Values Awards Gala, to be held Thursday, March 2, at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, Calif.

The Gala will also honor the Best Films for Families and the Best Films for Mature Audience, as well as the most inspirational movie, television program, screenplay, and performances in movies and television.