An X Rating
Cabaret holds the unique distinction of being the first musical ever made to be given an X-rating. The rating was later changed, but at the time of release, Cabaret was awarded an X due to its sexual content and focus on hedonistic lifestyles. An X rating is used to classify films that should only be viewed by adults. It no longer exists but was awarded to several films in the ’70s and ’80s.
Liza Minnelli in ‘Cabaret,’ 1972. Photo by Moviestore Collection / Shutterstock
When making their decision, the ratings board cited the film’s many scenes involving sexual innuendo, casual sexual talk, profanity, abortion, and several examples of anti-Semitism. Overseas, too, the film was rated in the extreme. It got an X rating upon release in the UK, but this was later changed to a 15 rating.