Japanese Anime – Page 2 – Siren Hentai Collection

The ‘Siren Hentai Collection’ consists of twenty-nine DVDs classified from December 2003 to October 2008. Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, warned that, ‘…wherever possible titles have been presented uncut, but due to the graphic nature of the content, sometimes cuts have been made in order to comply with local government laws’.

Seventeen were either banned, reviewed, or confirmed as precut. The status of the remaining twelve is unclear.

Titles are in classification date order.

Campus

Directed by Shinichi Omata / 2001 / Japan / IMDb

In December 2003, a DVD of CAMPUS received an R (High level sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, admitted that ‘…minor cuts were made, but only in relation to any sexual violence connotations, which would not pass under any circumstances’.

In 2004, they issued it on a double-bill DVD with the similarly censored THE GIRL NEXT DOOR (2000).

They reissued it in April 2007 as a single feature as part of the ‘Hentai Collection’.

The Girl Next Door

Directed by Teruaki Murakami / 2000 / Japan / IMDb

In December 2003, a DVD of THE GIRL NEXT DOOR received an R (High level sex scenes, Adult themes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, admitted that ‘…minor cuts were made, but only in relation to any sexual violence connotations, which would not pass under any circumstances’.

In 2004, they issued it on a double-bill DVD with the similarly censored CAMPUS.

New Zealand refusal

In September 2004, New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) found Episode 2 (30:53) of THE GIRL NEXT DOOR to be ‘Objectionable’. Following its removal, Siren received an R18 (Violence and explicit sex scenes) for Episode 1 (32:00) and CAMPUS (2001) Episode 1 (31:21) and 2 (32:24).

It is likely the quoted running times are the same as the Australian DVD.

Second Siren DVD

They reissued it in April 2007 as a single feature as part of the ‘Hentai Collection’.

Darling

Directed by Susumu Kudô / 2003 / Japan / IMDb

In 2006, a DVD of DARLING was banned by the Classification Board.

January 11, 2006
Film 1(a): The film is classified RC in accordance with the National Classification Code, Films Table, 1. (a) as films that “depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified.”

– Classification Board

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, intended to release it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’. It is unknown whether it was modified before submission.

Hooligan

Directed by Kazumi Mikami / 2001 / Japan / IMDb

In 2006, a DVD of HOOLIGAN was banned by the Classification Board.

March 8, 2006
Film 1(a): The film is classified RC in accordance with the National Classification Code, Films Table, 1. (a) as films that “depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified.”

– Classification Board

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, intended to release it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’. It is unknown whether it was modified before submission.

A trailer can be found on the RXXX: PRESCRIPTION FOR PAIN (2002) DVD.

Spotlight

Directed by Kuboyama 1862 / 2002 / Japan / IMDb

In May 2006, the Classification Board banned a DVD of SPOTLIGHT. A censored resubmission resulted in the same outcome the following March.

May 16, 2006 & March 23, 2007
Film 1(a): The film is classified RC in accordance with the National Classification Code, Films Table, 1. (a) as films that “depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified.”

– Classification Board

An R18+ (High level animated sex scenes) was awarded to a censored version on 27 April 2007.

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in July.

What was censored?

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 25:48 (Episode 1) – 29:44 (Episode 2)
On-screen title – SPOTLIGHT: BETWEEN THE REALMS OF DESIRE AND ENVY
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

I can surmise what I think is missing. The problem arises when Masaki gives Yuna and Erica a ‘Special Lesson’. In Siren’s DVD it runs from 03:26 to 04:34 and shows them giving him a blowjob after he has told them they are worthless compared to Saori. Reviews of the uncut version describe him tying them up, humiliating and abusing them. After he apologises, they beg him to do it again.

Interestingly, Siren’s DVD includes glimpses of the missing footage elsewhere on the disc. The end credits include images from the preceding episode. Between 23:01 and 23:16 in Episode 1, Yuna and Erica are lying on the ground with dildos protruding between their legs. Additionally, at 00:10 in the U.S. trailer, they appear naked from the rear with their hands tied behind their backs.

Assuming Episode 1 should run nearly the same as Episode 2, then around four-minutes of footage could be missing. It is unknown if any other scenes were censored.

In October 2007, Siren received an R18 (Contains explicit sex scenes) from New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). Episode running times indicate it was the same as the Australian DVD.

My Brother’s Wife

Directed by Toshiaki Kanbara / 2004 / Japan / IMDb

In June 2006, the Classification Board banned a DVD of MY BROTHER’S WIFE.

June 1, 2006
Film 1(a): The film is classified RC in accordance with the National Classification Code, Films Table, 1. (a) as films that “depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified.”

– Classification Board

A modified version passed with an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes) in February 2007.

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in May.

Censored DVD

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 26:50 (Episode 1) -28:11 (Episode 2)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

It is difficult to judge the missing footage, but the shorter running time of Episode 1 indicates cuts. There may be further trims in Episode 2 when Misa, Miwa and Takeshi have a threesome (22:00). The end credits includes an image of the two women kissing that is missing from the preceding episode.

In August 2007, Siren had a DVD of MY BROTHER’S WIFE classified as ‘Objectionable’ by New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). Running times of both episodes, 1 (27:22) and 2 (26:45) were different to the Australian DVD. They found a New Zealand audience would construe Misa and Miwa to be high school uniforms during the threesome. Additionally, they cited ‘…a woman urinating juxtaposed with explicit animated sex’.

Censored DVD triple-bill

In August 2009, Siren reissued MY BROTHER’S WIFE as part of a box set titled THE BONDAGE COLLECTION.

It includes cut R18+ versions of BONDAGE MANSION (2000) and SLAVES TO PASSION (2001).

Professor Shino’s Classes In Seduction

aka Classes in Seduction (Classification Board title)

Directed by Yuichiro Miyake / 2004 / Japan / IMDb

On 1 May 2007, a DVD of PROFESSOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in July.

DVD review

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – Episode 1 – FIRST PERIOD-ATOMIC BONDING – 30:50

There were no noticeable cuts. Only one episode was produced for this OVA. Extras include a trailer for the feature and ANYTHING YOU CAN DO I CAN DO BETTER (2004), outtakes and a slide-show. Also included were trailers for Takashi Takai and Wataru Fujii’s DRAGON PINK (1994-1995) and Sōsuke Kokubunji’s HOT FOR TEACHER (2003). Siren never released either title.

Siren submitted the same DVD to New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). They found it ‘Objectionable’ and insisted on one excision ‘…to remove a gratuitous scene of sexual violence’. Siren then censored it from 30:52 to 27:26 for an R18 (Contains explicit sex scenes). The trailer, outtakes and a slide-show were removed, presumably due to the inclusion of images from the problematic scene. The resubmission deleted the trailers for DRAGON PINK (1994-1995 ) and HOT FOR TEACHER (2003), but added one for CAMPUS (2001).

Hentai crackdown

In July 2008, PROFESSOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION was one of four titles in the ‘Hentai Collection’ examined by the Classification Review Board. The six-member panel unanimously agreed to retain the original R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

See HOLY VIRGINS (2001) for the background to this case.

July 30, 2008
MEMBERS:
Ms Maureen Shelley (Convenor)
The Hon Trevor Griffin (Deputy Convenor)
Mrs Gillian Groom
Mr Rob Shilkin
Ms Kathryn Smith
Ms Ann Stark

APPLICANT
The Hon Robert Debus, Minister for Home Affairs

INTERESTED PARTIES
Australian Family Association (AFA) represented by Ms Angela Conway and Mr Damien Tudehope; and NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSW CCL) represented by Mr Stephen Blanks and Dr Brent Waters

BUSINESS
To review the Classification Board’s decision to classify the film CLASSES IN SEDUCTION R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes’.

DECISION AND REASONS FOR DECISION

1. Decision

The Classification Review Board (the Review Board) classified the film R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes’.

2. Legislative provisions

The ‘Classification (Publications, Film and Computer Games) Act 1995’ (the Act) governs the classification of films and the review of classification decisions. Section 9 provides that films are to be classified in accordance with the National Classification Code (the Code) and the classification guidelines. Relevantly, the Code in paragraph 5 of the Table under the heading ‘Films’ provides that:

Films that:

(a) depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified; or

(b) describe or depict in a way that is likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult, a person who is, or appears to be, a child under 18 (whether the person is engaged in sexual activity or not); or

(c) promote, incite or instruct in matters of crime or violence, are to be classified ‘RC’, and Films (except RC films and X 18+ films) that are unsuitable for a minor to see are to be classified R 18+.

The Code also sets out various principles to which classification decisions should give effect, as far as possible.

Section 11 of the Act requires that the matters to be taken into account in making a decision on the classification of a film include:

(a) the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults; and

(b) the literary, artistic or educational merit (if any) of the film; and

(c) the general character of the film, including whether it is of a medical, legal or scientific character; and

(d) the persons or class of persons to or amongst whom it is published or is intended or likely to be published.

Three essential principles underlie the use of the ‘Guidelines for the Classification of Films and Computer Games 2005’ (the Guidelines), determined under s 12 of the Act:

the importance of context

the assessment of impact, and

the six classifiable elements – themes, violence, sex, language, drug use and nudity.

3. Procedure

Prior to the review meeting, the Convenor determined that given the provision of Regulation 21 (2) (d) the application was of sufficient complexity that a decision would be not likely to be completed within 20 business days as more than one application of a similar nature had been received at the one time and that the Convenor had agreed to hear submissions from interested parties namely the NSW CCL and the AFA.

The Review Board met on 30 July 2008 in response to the receipt of an application from the Minister for Home Affairs on 18 July 2008 to determine its validity.

The Review Board determined that it had received a valid application from the Minister and noted the Convenor’s decision regarding the complexity of the application and that it would be likely to be processed within 40 business days.

The Minister had advised in writing on 18 July that he would not be making written or oral submissions on the application for review. The original applicant made an undated written submission received by the Convenor on 25 July 2008 and distributed to the Review Board prior to the review meeting.

Six members of the Review Board viewed the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008. Arrangements were made for the NSW CCL and the AFA to view the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008.

The Review Board heard oral submissions from Dr Brent Waters and Mr Stephen Blanks representing the NSW CCL and from Mr Damien Tudehope and Ms Angela Conway from the AFA. No written submissions were made by the NSW CCL or the AFA.

The Review Board then considered the matter.

4. Evidence and other material taken into account

In reaching its decision the Review Board had regard to the following:

(i) The Minister’s application for review

(ii) The original applicant’s written submissions

(iii) The oral submissions from the NSW CCL and the AFA

(iv) the relevant provisions in the Act, the Code and the Guidelines, and

(v) the Classification Board’s report

5. Synopsis

The animated film in the anime genre depicts Professor Shino instructing students, mostly in sexual activity. She guides two students through their first sexual experiences, participating herself at times. She implicitly masturbates a third student during a martial arts class. She participates in sex with other students.

6. Findings on material questions of fact

The Review Board found that the film contains aspects or scenes of importance under various classifiable elements:

(a) Themes – the theme of the use of positional power is depicted through the professor’s interaction with her students.

(b) Violence – there is little depiction of violence in the film.

(c) Language – there is little use of coarse language in the film.

(d) Sex – there are numerous depictions of sexual activity during the film including masturbation, cunnilingus, fellatio, vaginal intercourse and ejaculation. Animated sex scenes, in the anime style, include the Professor fellating a male while he mouths her breasts.

At 13 minutes a prolonged sexual scene is depicted whereby the Professor guides two students through their first sexual experience. The scene includes the Professor guiding the students through masturbation, fellatio and rear entry vaginal intercourse. The Professor participates by digitally stimulating the female student’s vagina and fellating the male student.

At 21 minutes the Professor is depicted participating in a sex scene with three male students. She fellates one, digitally masturbates a second while engaging in vaginal intercourse with a third. Two male students ejaculate on her buttocks and the third ejaculates on her face.

(e) Drug Use – there is little drug use depicted in the film.

(f) Nudity – there is male and female full and partial animated nudity depicted in the film mostly in relation to sex scenes.

7. Reasons for the decision

The Review Board noted the conflicting submissions of the NSW CCL and the AFA in regard to the classification of the film and took into account the views expressed. While the submission of the NSW CCL did not provide much assistance to the Review Board, the Review Board noted the very real offence taken by the AFA regarding the content of the film, particularly in relation to the teacher-student relationship.

While some adults would find the depictions within the film offensive, the Review Board unanimously determined that the film could be accommodated by the R 18+ classification because the impact of the sex scenes was greatly diminished by the animated nature of the film and the stylisation.

Further, while the film depicts “students” with a “professor” the context was such that it appeared that they were young adults rather than school-age students.

8. Summary

The Review Board unanimously determined that the film is classified R18+ with the consumer advice of “high level animated sex scenes”.

– Classification Review Board report

Hentai Teacher box set

In January 2009, Siren reissued PROFESSOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION as part of a hentai box set titled THE TEACHER COLLECTION.

It includes T & A TEACHER (2004) and MAPLE COLORS (2004).

MeiKing

Directed by Sougetsu Mimura – Teruaki Murakami / 1999-2001 / Japan / IMDb

On 29 June 2007, a DVD of MEIKING PART 1 (EPISODES 1 & 2) received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

MEIKING PART 2 (EPISODES 3 & 4) received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes, Animated violence) on 17 July 2007.

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, released PART 1 in September and PART 2 in October as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’.

Censored discs

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 36:43 (Episode 1) – 35:13 (Episode 2) – 30:00 (Episode 3) – 31:50 (Episode 4)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

Episode 1 – I could not identify any obvious cuts. There is only one sex scene that begins at 26:00.

Episode 2 – Siren’s DVD contains images in the end credits that are not present in the episode.

Slave auction
Siren’s DVD begins at 05:32 with the auctioneer removing the woman’s top and ends at 06:26 when the Lord shouts, Stop this!’.
End credits – 30:32 to 30:36. Contains these images revealing the censorship.
Scene 1 – A close-up is shown of the slave’s vagina and a 00:02 shot of the auctioneer pushing his fingers in and out.
Scene 2 – 00:02 shot of her distressed face.

Episode 3 – Siren’s DVD contains images in the end credits that are not present in the episode.

Interrogation
In Siren’s DVD, 09:31 to 09:56, the Guard says to the female prisoner, ‘I’ve never seen anyone withstand such pain, even a man, I’m impressed’. The torturer says to Francis, ‘Leader, I’m sorry’, before being decapitated. A rear view of the chained female prisoner follows before the scene ends with a close-up of her face.
End credits – 25:55 to 26:11. Contains these images revealing the censorship.
Scene 1 – One of the guards having rear entry sex with the prisoner.
Online reviews also mention her performing oral sex on Francis.

Episode 4 – I could not identify any obvious cuts.

Neither disc contains any DVD extras or trailers.

In November 2007, New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) awarded MEIKING PART 1 an R18 (Violence and explicit sex scenes) and PART 2 an R18 (Contains explicit sex scenes). Their Register Page lists the episodes as 35:43 (1), 35:13 (2), 35:43 (3) and 31:53 (4) with no DVD extras or trailers. It is unclear if it is a direct import of Siren’s Australian DVD or a different cut. Siren Entertainment (NZ) Ltd submitted Part 1 and Gamewizz Digital Entertainment submitted Part 2.

Cool Devices

Directed by Various / 1995-1997 / Japan / IMDb

There is one report of a customs confiscation of COOL DEVICES – OPERATIONS: 1-11.

2001 – DVD, NuTech Digital 3-disc box set (USA).

OPERATIONS: 1-4 (Disc 1) and OPERATIONS: 9-11 (Disc 3) were reportedly released.

OPERATIONS: 5-8 (Disc 2) was seized due to ‘sexual violence’. It contains four episodes.

• OPERATION 05: SEEK 1 (SLAVE GIRL MARINO) (1996)
• OPERATION 06: SEEK 2 (SM QUEEN SAKI) (1996)
• OPERATION 07: YELLOW STAR (1996)
• OPERATION 08: SLAVE WARRIOR MAYA 1 (1996)

Australian DVDs

On 19 July 2007, a DVD titled COOL DEVICES received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes, High level themes). It contained two episodes.

• OPERATION 01: CURIOUS FRUIT (1995) – 27:45
• OPERATION 02: SACRED GIRL (1995) – 25:22

It was released in October as COOL DEVICES: VOLUME 1.

On 28 August 2007, a DVD titled COOL DEVICES PART 2 – EPISODES 3 TO 6 received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes, High level themes). It contained two full episodes and part of a third

• OPERATION 03A: LOVER DOLL (1996) – LOVE DOLL (DVD menu title) – No onscreen title – 07:18
• OPERATION 03B: WINTER SWIMSUIT (1996) – SWIMSUIT (DVD menu title) – FUYUNO MIZUGI (Onscreen title) – 05:12
• OPERATION 10: BINDING (1997) – BINDING (DVD menu and onscreen title) – 23:55
• OPERATION 11: FALLEN ANGEL RINA (1997) – FALLEN ANGEL (DVD menu title) – IDOL FALLEN ANGEL RINA (Onscreen title) – 24:09

It was released in November as COOL DEVICES: VOLUME 2.

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued both volumes as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’. It is unknown if any of the episodes were precut before submission.

Missing Episodes

No doubt fearing an RC rating from the Classification Board, Siren declined to submit the following six episodes. A seventh, OPERATION 03: LOVER DOLL/WINTER SWIMSUIT/ENEMA (1996), was partially released.

• OPERATION 03C: ENEMA (1996)
• OPERATION 04: KIREI (1996)
• OPERATION 05: SEEK 1 (SLAVE GIRL MARINO) (1996)
• OPERATION 06: SEEK 2 (SM QUEEN SAKI) (1996)
• OPERATION 07: YELLOW STAR (1996)
• OPERATION 08: SLAVE WARRIOR MAYA 1 (1996)
• OPERATION 09: SLAVE WARRIOR MAYA 2 (1997)

These are the most notorious episodes in the series.

New Zealand troubles

In December 2007, New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) found Siren’s DVD of COOL DEVICES: VOLUME 1 to be ‘Objectionable’ if it included OPERATION 02: SACRED GIRL (1995). Excisions were recommended to the applicant, Gamewizz Digital Entertainment, but were not made.

COOL DEVICES: VOLUME 2 was never submitted.

Love Doll

Directed by Rion Kujô – Kitagawa Reizou / 1997-2001 / Japan / IMDb

On 20 September 2007, a precut DVD of LOVE DOLL received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, released it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in December.

Missing episode & precuts

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – Missing (Episode 1) – 22:29 (Episode 2) – 27:36 (Episode 3) – 28:28 (Episode 4)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

Episode 1 – Siren removed this entirely. Online reviews mention a scat scene involving the Bishop and Rachel being abused by a vase of roses. At 00:32 in Episode 2, there is a 00:05 flashback to a scene that is presumably from Episode 1.

Episode 2 (Renamed as Episode 1) – Siren’s DVD contains images in the end credits and Art Gallery DVD extra that are not present in the episode. Three scenes can be confirmed as censored from images present in the end credits.

Rachel 1
In Siren’s DVD, 06:30 to 07:07, a masturbating Rachel is whipped and told not to enjoy herself so much. It ends with two naked men walking in and leaning over her.
End credits – 19:43 to 19:56. Contains these images revealing the scene should have continued past 07:07.
Scene 1 – Rachel with sperm on her face.
Scene 2 – A bowl of faeces.
Scene 3 – Rachel on all fours in front of Duke Dusse.
Scene 4 – Rachel on the floor, looking back over her shoulder.

Rachel 2
In Siren’s DVD, Rachel is sleeping as the shadows of four men gather over her. The screen fades to black at 11:20 and returns to show them having sex.
End credits – 20:04 to 20:10. Contains these images missing from the cut at 11:20.
Scene 1 – Rachel has her top torn off.
Scene 2 – The four men look down menacingly at her and laugh.
Scene 4 – Close-up of her eyes.

Rachel 3
In Siren’s DVD, 19:10 to 19:13, Rachel walks back to the castle and opens the door. She says, ‘Alsid’, and a voice replies, ‘I’ve been waiting for you’.
End credits – 20:56 to 21:07. Contains these images revealing the scene should have continued past 19:13.
Scene 1 – Duke Dusse, George and the female assistant with two Dobermanns.
Scene 2 – Duke Dusse shouting in anger.
Scene 3 – Rachel cowering in the doorway.
Scene 4 – The exterior of the castle with the moon in the background.

Episode 3 (Renamed as Episode 2) – In Siren’s DVD, 23:30 to 24:07, Duke Dusse picks up a whip and says, ‘I’m going to make you keep your promise Rachel’, just before the end credits begin. Following the end credits, 26:03 to 26:25, a beaten Rachel is shown on the floor as the Duke asks her if it hurts. Presumably, her beating was removed.

Episode 4 (Renamed as Episode 3) – I could not identify any obvious cuts. For the first time on Siren’s DVD, we are introduced to the character of Marcia, who bullied her in the missing Episode 1.

DVD extras include an Art Gallery (10 images) and trailers for MAPLE COLORS (2004), PROFESSOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION (2004), and SEX WARD (2001).

In March 2008, Siren’s censored DVD was submitted to New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) by Gamewizz Digital Entertainment. It received an R18 (Contains explicit sex scenes) only after the removal of the MAPLE COLORS (2004) trailer that was deemed ‘Objectionable’.

Rxxx: Prescription for Pain

Directed by Norihiko Nagahama / 2002 / Japan

On 26 September 2007, a precut DVD of RXXX: PRESCRIPTION FOR PAIN received an R18+ (High level themes and sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, released it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in December.

Censored DVD

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 26:39 (Episode 1) – 29:34 (Episode 2)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

Episode 1 – Siren’s DVD contains images in the end credits that are not present in the episode.

Dr Shiozaki & Serika
In the end credits, 25:10 to 25:16, Siren’s DVD shows Dr Shiozaki having sex with Serika. It is missing from the preceding episode, but it looks like it should appear somewhere between 08:35 and 12:37. In Siren’s DVD, Serika says, ‘Stop joking around. I haven’t forgotten’, before the screen fades. The scene of him sexually assaulting her is missing. It returns with Dr Shiozaki saying, ‘Hey Serika’.

Dr Shiozaki & 3 Nurses
An art gallery DVD extra (01:55) has images of Dr Shiozaki and the nurses having sex that is not in either episode. It looks like it should appear towards the end of Episode 1.

Episode 2 – There are no obvious cuts, but if present, the running time suggests they are minimal.

Other extras include trailers for I LOVE YOU (2001), LITTLE MONICA (2002) and the banned HOOLIGAN (2001).

In February 2008, Roadshow Entertainment had a DVD of RXXX: PRESCRIPTION FOR PAIN classified as ‘Objectionable’ by New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). The running times of both episodes and the extras indicate it was the same as their censored Australian release. Despite the cuts, they still found it portrayed ‘sexual violence as an acceptable and arousing activity’.

Hentai box set

In December 2008, Siren reissued RXXX: PRESCRIPTION FOR PAIN as part of a box set titled THE NURSES COLLECTION.

It includes SEX WARD (2001) and NAUGHTY NURSES (2003).

Slaves to Passion

Directed by Kanzaburou Oda / 2001 / Japan

In January 2008, the Classification Board banned a DVD of SLAVES TO PASSION due to ‘…offensive and gratuitous depictions of incest’.

January 25, 2008
Film 1(a): The film is classified RC in accordance with the National Classification Code, Films Table, 1. (a) as films that “depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified.”

– Classification Board

A modified version passed with an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes) in February 2008.

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in May.

Censored DVD

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD
Episode 1 – 29:14 to end of Japanese credits – 30:24 to end of blank screen – No English credits
Episode 2 – 25:55 to end of Japanese credits – 26:54 to end of English credits
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

Episode 1 – I cannot comment on whether this is a complete version. There are no obvious trims, but if present, the running time suggests they are minimal.

Episode 2 – Siren’s DVD contains images in the extras and end credits that are not present in the episode. The following three scenes can be confirmed as censored.

Karen & Ayamto
Ayamto says to Karen, ‘there is no way I would do the same with a trashy whore like you’. Next, Karen is lying naked on the bed before the scene ends at 06:01. There is no footage of them having sex.
Shots of Ayamoto whipping her and a naked Karen with him behind, appear in the end credit from 23:56 to 24:10. Additionally, the slide-show DVD extra includes several images from the missing sex scene.

Kayuki & the Master
09:50- Kayuki says to Miss Reika, ‘Master was really my biological father’.
The flashback to her abuse at the hands of the Master is missing.
Siren’s DVD continues with footage of the Master dying from poison as Kayuki says, ‘I couldn’t bear the fact that the only family I had in this world was a monster’.
Shots of Kayuki holding a penis, a close-up of her screaming, and the naked Master on top of her are shown from 24:31 to 24:41 in the end credits. Again, the slide-show DVD extra includes images not present in the episode.

Ayamoto, Karen & Miss Reika
I do not recall the fact that Karen and Miss Reika are sisters being made clear in either episode. Siren’s DVD reveals it in an Episode 1 deleted scene. As Karen has sex with the two men, she says, ‘…don’t talk to me about my sister, I hate her, but I bet in the next episode I’m gonna fuck her anyway’.
On Siren’s DVD, the threesome takes place from 13:50 to 18:10, but does not include sex between Karen and Miss Reika. It does depict them being whipped by Ayamoto before the scene ends with them on the bed giving him a blow job. The slide-show DVD extra includes images of the missing sex scene between Karen and Miss Reika.

In May 2008, Vendetta Films received R18 (Contains explicit sex scenes) from New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). The episode running times indicate it is the same as the censored Australian DVD.

Hentai DVD box set

In August 2009, Siren reissued SLAVES TO PASSION as part of a box set titled THE BONDAGE COLLECTION.

It includes cut R18+ versions of BONDAGE MANSION (2000) and MY BROTHER’S WIFE (2004).

T & A Teacher

Directed by Hideki Araki / 2004 / Japan / IMDb

On 1 February 2008, a precut DVD of T & A TEACHER received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes, Violence).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in May.

Censored details

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – Episode 1 – 25:07 (Japanese credits) or 26:39 (Inc. English credits)
Critical Mass Video (us) – uncut

Siren’s DVD ends with a close-up of Yuuki’s face as she drops a photo. The end credits begin at 23:33, but should continue for nearly another minute. Images from the photographs are shown before Yuuki denies Togawa’s accusation that she seduced, raped and attempted to kick his brother to death. Nine more men surround her, before the OVA ends with her naked on the floor, shouting ‘No’. Siren was likely too cautious with this cut, as the impending assault is implied only.

An image from the censored sequence appears in the slide show. It shows Yuuki with two men behind and Togawa’s hand under her chin.

Apart from the slide show, the only other extras are trailers for PROFESSOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION, I LOVE YOU (2001) and SEX WARD (2001).

In May 2008, New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC) found T & A TEACHER to be ‘Objectionable’ due to a scene that, ‘…conveys the message that women will respond to male sexual domination’. The OVA was the same as Siren’s censored version, but the submitted DVD dropped the slide show and the three trailers.

Catholic complaints

In July 2008, T & A TEACHER was one of four titles in the ‘Hentai Collection’ examined by the Classification Review Board. The six-member panel unanimously agreed to change the consumer advice of the censored DVD from ‘High level animated sex scenes, Violence’ to ‘High level animated sex scenes and sexualised violence’.

See HOLY VIRGINS (2001) for the background to this case.

July 30, 2008
MEMBERS:
Ms Maureen Shelley (Convenor)
The Hon Trevor Griffin (Deputy Convenor)
Mrs Gillian Groom
Mr Rob Shilkin
Ms Kathryn Smith
Ms Ann Stark

APPLICANT
The Hon Robert Debus, Minister for Home Affairs

INTERESTED PARTIES
Australian Family Association (AFA) represented by Ms Angela Conway and Mr Damien Tudehope; and NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSW CCL) represented by Mr Stephen Blanks and Dr Brent Waters

BUSINESS
To review the Classification Board’s decision to classify the film T &A TEACHER R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes, Violence’.

DECISION AND REASONS FOR DECISION

1. Decision

The Classification Review Board (the Review Board) classified the film R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes and sexualised violence’.

2. Legislative provisions

The ‘Classification (Publications, Film and Computer Games) Act 1995′(the Act) governs the classification of films and the review of classification decisions. Section 9 provides that films are to be classified in accordance with the National Classification Code (the Code) and the classification guidelines.

Relevantly, the Code in paragraph 5 of the Table under the heading ‘Films’ provides that:

Films that:

(a) depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified; or

(b) describe or depict in a way that is likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult, a person who is, or appears to be, a child under 18 (whether the person is engaged in sexual activity or not); or

(c) promote, incite or instruct in matters of crime or violence, are to be classified ‘RC’, and

Films (except RC films and X 18+ films) that are unsuitable for a minor to see are to be classified R 18+.

The Code also sets out various principles to which classification decisions should give effect, as far as possible.

Section 11 of the Act requires that the matters to be taken into account in making a decision on the classification of a film include:

(a) the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults; and

(b) the literary, artistic or educational merit (if any) of the film; and

(c) the general character of the film, including whether it is of a medical, legal or scientific character; and

(d) the persons or class of persons to or amongst whom it is published or is intended or likely to be published.

Three essential principles underlie the use of the ‘Guidelines for the Classification of Films and Computer Games 2005’ (the Guidelines), determined under s 12 of the Act:

the importance of context

the assessment of impact, and

the six classifiable elements – themes, violence, sex, language, drug use and nudity.

3. Procedure

Prior to the review meeting, the Convenor determined that given the provision of Regulation 21 (2) (d) the application was of sufficient complexity that a decision would be not likely to be completed within 20 business days as more than one application of a similar nature had been received at the one time and that the Convenor had agreed to hear submissions from interested parties namely the NSW CCL and the AFA.

The Review Board met on 30 July 2008 in response to the receipt of an application from the Minister for Home Affairs on 18 July 2008 to determine its validity.

The Review Board determined that it had received a valid application from the Minister and noted the Convenor’s decision regarding the complexity of the application and that it would be likely to be processed within 40 business days.

The Minister had advised in writing on 18 July that he would not be making written or oral submissions on the application for review. The original applicant made an undated written submission received by the Convenor on 25 July 2008 and distributed to the Review Board prior to the review meeting.

Six members of the Review Board viewed the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008. Arrangements were made for the NSW CCL and the AFA to view the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008.

The Review Board heard oral submissions from Dr Brent Waters and Mr Stephen Blanks representing the NSW CCL and from Mr Damien Tudehope and Ms Angela Conway from the AFA.

No written submissions were made by the NSW CCL or the AFA.

The Review Board then considered the matter.

4. Evidence and other material taken into account

In reaching its decision the Review Board had regard to the following:

(i) The Minister’s application for review

(ii) The original applicant’s written submissions

(iii) The oral submissions from the NSW CCL and the AFA

(iv) the relevant provisions in the Act, the Code and the Guidelines, and

(v) the Classification Board’s report

5. Synopsis

A teacher, who is proficient in martial arts, expresses bewilderment by her almost uncontrollable sexual urges that result in her masturbating on school premises, digitally stimulating a male student’s penis through his clothes during his martial arts class and engaging in sexual activity with another student.

The teacher also strikes out impulsively injuring a student following his sexual harassment of another teacher and injures a further student following a consensual sexual experience. This student is hospitalised and she visits him in hospital and engages in sexual activity with him while he is wearing a neck brace.

6. Findings on material questions of fact

The Review Board found that the film contains aspects or scenes of importance under various classifiable elements:

(a) Themes – the theme of the abuse of positional power is depicted. The teacher is also depicted in a sexually provocative pose in front of the principal, who is also her father.

(b) Violence – There are several violent scenes, two that result in injury to students following sexual behaviour or activity thus sexualising the violence.

(c) Language – There is little use of coarse language.

(d) Sex – There are detailed and graphic depictions of sexual activity including masturbation, cunnilingus, fellatio, digital and penile anal and vaginal penetration, and ejaculation.

The depictions of male and female genitalia are anatomically correct and are presented in close up and are present as part of sex scenes.

(e) Drug Use – There is little drug use depicted in the film.

(f) Nudity – There are animated depictions of male and female full and partial nudity including frontal and rear nudity mostly involving sexual scenes.

7. Reasons for the decision

The Review Board noted the conflicting submissions of the NSW CCL and the AFA in regard to the classification of the film and took into account the views expressed. While the submission of the NSW CCL did not provide much assistance to the Review Board, the Review Board noted the very real offence taken by the AFA regarding the content of the film, particularly in relation to the teacher-student relationship.

Whilst some adults may find the themes and sexual depictions offensive, the Review Board unanimously determined that the film could be accommodated by the R18+ classification because the impact of the sex scenes and sexualised violence was greatly diminished by the animated character of the film.

However, given the community’s concerns regarding sex violence, the Review Board determined that the film should carry consumer advice regarding the impact of the sexualised violence as well as the high impact of the sex scenes.

8. Summary

The Review Board unanimously determined that the film should be classified R18+ with the consumer advice “high impact animated sex scenes and sexualised violence”

– Classification Review Board report

Hentai DVD box set

In January 2009, Siren reissued T & A TEACHER as part of a hentai box set titled THE TEACHERS COLLECTION.

It includes PROFFESOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION (2004) and MAPLE COLORS (2004).

Holy Virgins

Directed by Kansaburou Oda / 2001 / Japan / IMDb

On 11 March 2008, a precut DVD of HOLY VIRGINS received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it on DVD as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in June.

Censorship clues

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD- 28:25 (Episode 1) – 28:59 (Episode 2)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut

Clues to what is missing remain in the trailer (01:02), the slideshow DVD extra (33 images) and the end-credit images. I identified two cut scenes in each episode, but without viewing the uncut version, I cannot confirm if this is all that was removed.

Episode 1 – Doctor Fuwa examines Ririka, Satsuki & Makoto.
Siren DVD – 7:34 to 10:08. Does not contain the following images or footage.
End credits – 25:12 to 25:24.
Scene 1 – Rear view of Makoto with blood streaks on her body and Fuwa using a swab to collect the blood.
Scene 2 – The face of a blindfolded Makoto who appears to be speaking.
Scene 3 – Fuwa with his head between Ririka’s legs as he examines her.
Scene 4 – Satsuki urinating into a beaker, followed by Fuwa examining it.
Slide-show DVD extra.
Slide 3 – Ririka collecting a swab from a blindfolded and bloody Makoto.
Slide 4 – Makoto between Ririka’s legs.
Slide 11 – A bloody and blindfolded Makoto, with Fuwa behind her.
Slide 12 – A blindfolded Satsuki squatting above the beaker.
Slide 18 – An open-legged Ririka being examined.
Trailer.
00:24 to 00:28 – Footage of Ririka being examined.

Episode 1 – Satsuki & Sister Kate.
Siren DVD – 10:21 to 13:08. Does not show Sister Kate wearing her veil while they have sex.
Slide-show DVD extra.
Slide 5 – A veiled Sister Kate and Satsuki kiss. This is the cover art of the DVD.
Slide 6 – A veiled Sister Kate and Satsuki scissoring.
Slide 7 – A veiled Sister Kate dreams of a demon.

Episode 2 – Ririka & Doctor Fuwa.
Siren DVD – 4:42 to 6:37. Does not contain the following images or footage.
End credits – 25:36 to 25:42.
Scene 1 – An open-legged Ririka being examined by Doctor Fuwa.
Slide-show DVD extra.
Slide 25 – An open-legged Ririka being examined by Doctor Fuwa.

Episode 2 – Father Musili & three women.
Siren DVD – 13:38 to 18:35. Does not contain the following images or footage.
Slide-show DVD extra.
Slide 22 – A tied Makoto with a penis in front of her.

Unknown image.
Siren DVD – It is unclear where this fits into either episode, so it may indicate an entire missing scene.
Slide-show DVD extra.
Slide 24 – A nun, possibly Sister Kate, tied up with her legs open. It also appears on the DVD menu.

Other extras include trailers for CAMPUS (2001), MAPLE COLORS (2004) and SEX WARD (2001).

Do not offend the pilgrims

World Youth Day, a Catholic youth festival, was held in Sydney from 15 to 20 July 2008. While shopping in JB Hi-Fi, some of the attendees found HOLY VIRGINS for sale.

Multiple complaints followed and soon the Government was involved.

July 20, 2008
The R-rated DVDs, including titles BONDAGE MANSION and HOLY VIRGINS, contain scenes not fit to be described in a family newspaper.

The Sunday Herald Sun found the explicit DVDs on sale at JB Hi-Fi’s Lonsdale St store.

Home Affairs Minister Bob Debus vowed to investigate how the films came to be classified and also was asking state governments to consider banning their open sale.

JB Hi-Fi boss Richard Uechritz said he would remove the films and also investigate how they came to be on sale.

– Open display of porn DVDs
– heraldsun.com.au

R18+ Hentai titles reviewed

Bob Debus (Labor), the Minister for Home Affairs, immediately called for a review of four DVDs from the ‘Siren Hentai Collection’. The titles appear chosen based on their titles or cover art.

July 23, 2008
The Classification Review Board has received four applications to review the classification of the anime films [PROFESSOR SHINO’S] CLASSES IN SEDUCTION, T & A TEACHER, HOLY VIRGINS and BONDAGE MANSION.

CLASSES IN SEDUCTION was classified R 18+ (Restricted) with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes’ by the Classification Board on 1 May 2007.

T & A TEACHER was classified R 18+ (Restricted) with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes, Violence’ by the Classification Board on 21 February 2008.

HOLY VIRGINS was classified R 18+ (Restricted) with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes’ by the Classification Board on 11 March 2008.

BONDAGE MANSION was classified R 18+ (Restricted) with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes and themes’ by the Classification Board on 9 April 2008.

The reviews are in response to applications from the Minister for Home Affairs. Under the Commonwealth Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995, the Minister for Home Affairs may make an application for a review at any time.

The Classification Review Board will meet on Wednesday 30 July 2008 to consider the applications.

The Classification Review Board has invited the Australian Family Association and the NSW Council for Civil Liberties to apply for standing as interested parties at the reviews.

– Review announced for the anime films Classes in Seduction, T & A Teacher, Holy Virgins and Bondage Mansion
– Classification Review Board

DVD banned

A 5-1 majority decision resulted in HOLY VIRGINS being Refused Classification.

July 30, 2008
MEMBERS:
Ms Maureen Shelley (Convenor)
The Hon Trevor Griffin (Deputy Convenor)
Mrs Gillian Groom
Mr Rob Shilkin
Ms Kathryn Smith
Ms Ann Stark

APPLICANT
The Hon Robert Debus, Minister for Home Affairs

INTERESTED PARTIES
Australian Family Association (AFA) represented by Ms Angela Conway and Mr Damien Tudehope; and NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSW CCL) represented by Mr Stephen Blanks and Dr Brent Waters

BUSINESS
To review the Classification Board’s decision to classify the film HOLY VIRGINS R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes’.

DECISION AND REASONS FOR DECISION

1. Decision

In a 5-1 majority decision the Classification Review Board (the Review Board) classified the film ‘RC’.

2. Legislative provisions

The ‘Classification (Publications, Film and Computer Games) Act 1995’ (the Act) governs the classification of films and the review of classification decisions. Section 9 provides that films are to be classified in accordance with the National Classification Code (the Code) and the classification guidelines. Relevantly, the Code in paragraph 5 of the Table under the heading ‘Films’ provides that:

Films that:

(a) depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified; or

(b) describe or depict in a way that is likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult, a person who is, or appears to be, a child under 18 (whether the person is engaged in sexual activity or not); or

(c) promote, incite or instruct in matters of crime or violence, are to be classified ‘RC’, and Films (except RC films and X 18+ films) that are unsuitable for a minor to see are to be classified R 18+.

The Code also sets out various principles to which classification decisions should give effect, as far as possible.

Section 11 of the Act requires that the matters to be taken into account in making a decision on the classification of a film include:

(a) the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults; and

(b) the literary, artistic or educational merit (if any) of the film; and

(c) the general character of the film, including whether it is of a medical, legal or scientific character; and

(d) the persons or class of persons to or amongst whom it is published or is intended or likely to be published.

Three essential principles underlie the use of the ‘Guidelines for the Classification of Films and Computer Games 2005’ (the Guidelines), determined under s 12 of the Act:

the importance of context

the assessment of impact, and

the six classifiable elements – themes, violence, sex, language, drug use and nudity.

3. Procedure

Prior to the review meeting, the Convenor determined that given the provision of Regulation 21 (2) (d) the application was of sufficient complexity that a decision would be not likely to be completed within 20 business days as more than one application of a similar nature had been received at the one time and that the Convenor had agreed to hear submissions from interested parties namely the NSW CCL and the AFA.

The Review Board met on 30 July 2008 in response to the receipt of an application from the Minister for Home Affairs on 18 July 2008 to determine its validity.

The Review Board determined that it had received a valid application from the Minister and noted the Convenor’s decision regarding the complexity of the application and that it would be likely to be processed within 40 business days.

The Minister had advised in writing on 18 July that he would not be making written or oral submissions on the application for review. The original applicant made an undated written submission received by the Convenor on 25 July 2008 and distributed to the Review Board prior to the review meeting.

Six members of the Review Board viewed the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008. Arrangements were made for the NSW CCL and the AFA to view the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008.

The Review Board heard oral submissions from Dr Brent Waters and Mr Stephen Blanks representing the NSW CCL and from Mr Damien Tudehope and Ms Angela Conway from the AFA.

No written submissions were made by the NSW CCL or the AFA. The Review Board then considered the matter.

4. Evidence and other material taken into account

In reaching its decision the Review Board had regard to the following:

(i) The Minister’s application for review

(ii) The original applicant’s written submissions

(iii) The oral submissions from the NSW CCL and the AFA

(iv) the film,

(v) the relevant provisions in the Act, the Code and the Guidelines, and

(vi) the Classification Board’s report

5. Synopsis

The film is a two episode Japanese animated film, in the anime style, in which characters are depicted participating consensually, unknowingly or unwittingly in explicit sex.

The plot concerns a doctor who is unsuccessful in his medical practice, due to his poor treatment of his patients, and passes time by having sex with his nurse. The doctor and nurse travel to an island to investigate the narcolepsy of a novitiate (a holy virgin) in a convent.

After a range of sexual encounters are depicted, he concludes that a satanic cult led by the local priest is responsible for the novitiate’s condition. He confronts the priest and after the three novitiates repeat the words “Tres Marias” the priest’s power is broken and the novitiate recovers.

6. Findings on material questions of fact

The Review Board found that the film contains aspects or scenes of importance under various classifiable elements:

(a) Themes – a range of themes were depicted including blasphemy and sexual exploitation of young and innocent females by authority figures including a nun, the doctor and the priest. Whilst these themes may be offensive to some adults, it is noted that under the Guidelines, there are virtually no restrictions on the treatment of themes at R18+ classification.

(b) Violence – the film contains a number of scenes depicting violence including novitiates being held without consent in bondage, explosions and an attack on Dr Fawa by tentacles wrapping around his neck. The tentacles are depicted coming out of a vagina-like opening in a plant. The impact of the violence is not more than high, although the non-consensual bondage is considered as part of the exploitative treatment of the blonde novitiate’s character.

(c) Language – There is little use of coarse language in the film.

(d) Sex – The majority of members of the Review Board determined that the film contains a number of depictions of animated sexual activity that are high to very high in impact given the depictions of at least one of novitiates as a person younger than 18 years.

The film shows numerous sequences of explicit animated sexual activity including fellatio, cunnilingus, front-entry vaginal intercourse, digital-vaginal penetration (including of unconscious patients) and rear-entry vaginal intercourse. Fisting is depicted in episode 1 and bondage activity in episode 2. The novitiates are nonconsensual participants of the bondage.

Of particular concern to the majority of the Review Board was the depiction of the blonde novitiate. The character is shown as being much shorter than the others in the story, wears pigtails tied with red ribbons, holds a teddy bear such as a child would in seeking comfort, and – in the scene where she unwittingly participates in fellatio on the instructions of the doctor – she is shown kneeling before the doctor with him patting her head as if she is a child. In this scene the novitiate appears most childlike in her voice, manner and lack of understanding of what is taking place.

(e) Drug Use – There is little depiction of drug use in the film.

(f) Nudity – There are a number of scenes of nudity of the novitiates, the nun, the doctor and the nurse.

7. Reasons for the decision

The Review Board noted the conflicting submissions of the NSW CCL and the AFA in regard to the classification of the film and took into account the views expressed. While the submission of the NSW CCL did not provide much assistance to the Review Board, the Review Board noted the very real offence taken by the AFA regarding the content of the film, particularly in relation to the teacher-student relationship.

While the impact of the sex scenes is greatly diminished by the animation of the film, the depiction of the blonde novitiate unwittingly and at times unconsciously involved in sex scenes is exploitative and, in the view of the majority, given that she appears to be depicted as a child younger than 18 years, the impact of the scenes involving her is very high.

Minority view

It was the view of the minority that impact of the sex scenes was no more than high and that none of the females was depicted as being under 18.

The animation genre uses styling that shows characters as being young and this includes large eyes and small chins such as seen on young persons. However, this styling does not depict the characters as childlike or as children. Given the stylisation and animation, it is the minority view that the film can be accommodated at the R18+ classification as the impact of the sex scenes is no more than high.

8. Summary

The Review Board, in a 5-1 majority, determined that the impact of the sex scenes involving the blonde novitiate are exploitative and as she is depicted as a child under 18 years that the depictions are likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult. As such the film must be refused classification under section 1(b) of the Code. The minority view was that the depiction of the characters was in accordance with the anime genre, that the impact of the classifiable elements was greatly diminished by animated nature of the film and that as the impact was no more than high, the film could be accommodated by the R18+ classification.

– Classification Review Board report

Confused outcome

The media release, issued on the day of the review, listed BONDAGE MANSION as Refused Classification.

It was later revealed that the disc submitted to the Review Board contained trailers and extra material not present on the R18+ version.

July 30, 2008
The Classification Review Board in a majority decision determined that the film BONDAGE MANSION is classified RC (Refused Classification).

The Classification Review Board in a majority decision that the film HOLY VIRGINS is classified RC (Refused Classification).

In the Classification Review Board’s opinion, T & A TEACHER and [PROFESSOR SHINO’S] CLASSES IN SEDUCTION both warrant an R 18+ classification because while the sex scenes have a high level of impact, the Classification Review Board Convenor, Maureen Shelley said “the anime genre and the fact that the characters appear 18 or older means the film can be accommodated in this legally restricted category”.

With regards to the RC classifications of HOLY VIRGINS and BONDAGE MANSION, the Convenor said that “HOLY VIRGINS was refused classification because of the sexual depictions of characters who appear to be under 18. Similarly, BONDAGE MANSION is RC because of a trailer depicting a character, who appears to be under 18, engaged in an explicit sexual act and there is no context for this depiction.”

– Classification Review Board

Not for sale here

Following the controversy, JB Hi-Fi removed the entire ‘Siren Hentai Collection’ from its stores.

August 2, 2008
I know someone who works at JB and can confirm that nationwide the Hentai titles have been pulled from their shelves and all orders cancelled.

They weren’t told the full story. Just that they’d no longer be selling hentai. Since it’s really only the Siren range that’s available they’d have lost a bit of business. There were several JBs that did quite well with hentai titles.

Still, the story that all staff are hearing is that one of the high high-ups in management found out what hentai was and that we were selling them (possibly via complaining mothers and the like?) and gave the word to end it all. They either didn’t like the idea of JB selling the stuff, or didn’t want any more complaints.

In any case, for you hentai fans, want titles? Go to the EzyDVD website and type “hentai” in the search bar. It’ll bring up the whole Siren range including the upcoming titles (as they become known to EzyDVD).

– Porn in my anime section?
– madboards.madman.com.au [dead link]

Revised outcome

The correct R18+ version of BONDAGE MANSION, minus the trailers and DVD extras, was reviewed in August. A modified media release replaced the one issued on 30 July.

August 13, 2008
On 13 August 2008, a three-member panel of the Classification Review Board unanimously determined that the film BONDAGE MANSION is classified R 18+, with the consumer advice, ‘High level animated sex scenes and themes.

“In the Classification Review Board’s opinion, BONDAGE MANSION warrants an R 18+ classification because while the sex scenes have a high level of impact, the Classification Review Board Convenor, Maureen Shelley said “the anime genre and that the characters appear 18 or older means the film can be accommodated in this legally restricted category. However, the connection between sexual activity and the themes remains a concern. Restricting this material to adult audiences will ensure that children under 18 will not legally have access to the material”.

Films classified R 18+ are legally restricted to adults. Persons aged under 18 years cannot be admitted to films classified R 18+. Some material classified R 18+ may be offensive to sections of the adult community.

A six-member panel of the Classification Review Board convened on 30 July 2008 to classify three anime films.

The Classification Review Board in a majority decision determined that the film T & A TEACHER is classified R 18+ with the consumer advice, ‘High level animated sex scenes and sexualised violence’.

The Classification Review Board unanimously determined that the film CLASSES IN SEDUCTION is classified R 18+ with the consumer advice, ‘High level animated sex scenes’. Similarly, the high level animated sex scenes means that this film, while having a high impact, can be accommodated to a restricted category that cannot legally be accessed by people under the age of 18. “The Review Board noted the high level theme of sexual induction of students by teachers,” Ms Shelley said. “Whilst themes with a high impact can be accommodated in the R18+ category, it is important that minors do not have legal access to material that may be disturbing to them. The classification does not indicate approval of the theme but that in an animated feature, adults should have the mature perspective required to evaluate the scenes depicted.”

The Classification Review Board in a majority decision determined that the film HOLY VIRGINS is classified RC (Refused Classification).

With regards to the RC classification of HOLY VIRGINS, the Convenor said that “HOLY VIRGINS was refused classification because of the sexual depictions of characters who appear to be under 18.” Films that are classified RC are immediately banned throughout Australia. They cannot be sold, hired or imported into the country.

The reviews were in response to four applications from the Minister for Home Affairs to review the R 18+ classifications given to each of the four anime films by the Classification Board.

In reviewing the classification, the Classification Review Board worked within the framework of the National Classification Scheme, applying the provisions of the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995, the National Classification Code and the Guidelines for the Classification of Films and Computer Games.

The Classification Review Board is an independent merits review body. Meeting in camera, it makes a fresh classification decision upon receipt of an application for review. This Classification Review Board decision takes the place of the original decision made by the Classification Board.
The Classification Review Board’s reasons for these decisions will appear on the Classification website when finalised.

– Classification Review Board

God’s view on Hentai

The Classification Review Board had invited the Australian Family Association to attend the reviews.

2008
The AFA recently participated as an interested party in the review of the classification of four anime DVD titles previously rated R18+. The review was held at the request of the responsible federal Minister for Home Affairs, the Hon Bob Debus, after complaints were made by a member of the public.

Angela Conway and Sydney solicitor Mr Damien Tudehope represented the AFA at the hearing. The anime films were essentially animated pornographic films with feeble and far-fetched plots revolving around sexual acts and sexual initiations of various kinds. The pornographic detail was quite high relative to usual anime drawing conventions. Disturbingly, three of the films revolved around the involvement of teacher or other authority figures in sexual interference, coaching and molestation of characters who could quite easily be interpreted as below eighteen. A fourth film included sexualised violence, sado-masochistic themes and depictions of menace and threatened violence, and a strong implication of coerced sexual behaviour.

In most “mainstream” porn, themes of coercion are frequently only suggested or implied. In many such films, legal overseas but illegal here, depictions of the female participant’s lack of consent are blurred and are recast as consent. Yes that is the old rape myth you thought we had dispensed with a long time ago. Our X rating rules are more restrictive than those found in places like the US.

In one of the titles, a doctor and an older women molest or sexually initiate and even rape a character who, for the AFA at least, was clearly a child. It was this title, HOLY VIRGINS, that was eventually reclassified as RC (Refused Classification) on the strength of a majority decision to accept the obvious immaturity of the young character. The AFA put a strong case that the character was obviously too young.

The other films, despite their concerning themes retained their R18+ classification. This experience highlights some gaps in our current classification system.

This review enabled us to argue strongly against any notion that animation of itself was sufficient to allow a film to be classified R rather than X or RC. The Council for Civil Liberties supported the view that animation automatically reduced the impact of depictions and themes. This simplistic view was rejected by the Review Board which recognised that at least in the case of one of the films, animation can sometimes still have very high impact. The AFA had argued that the films should have been classified either X or RC.

At the end of the process, three pornographic animated films, that may not have been allowed into the X category if they had been live action, are now able to be sold at any video store with an R rating. This, despite their depictions of violence, fetishes, sexualised violence and underage participants, would probably not have been permissible if they were live action. In many ways, in contrast to the X classification rules, the R classification has very little restriction on the type of content that can be depicted. Our R classification is currently awarded to films with horrific levels of explicit violence, sexual violence, torture, coercion and terror. These anime films are not WOLF CREEK or HOSTEL, but they do explicitly depict sexualised violence, coercion and adult (including teachers) sexual molestation of characters who quite clearly, through height, demeanour, behaviour or wearing of school uniforms, are under eighteen years of age.

Given that more sophisticated animations will become more common, and given that we may soon be having a real debate about R rated video games, it seems it may be time to start thinking again about what we as a community want from our classification system, and especially what kinds of restrictions we should have in regard to the types of content available in that category now.

There is a good body of literature about the harmful impacts of violent depictions and enactment in films and video games. While most people understand that depictions of violence can be artistically important, do we then take an indiscriminate view on all violence. In HOSTEL 2, a bleak, almost meaningless narrative of horrific violence and torture with strong sexualised overtones constituted the film’s contribution to cinematic “art”. APOCALYPTO, by comparison, or even films like FULL METAL JACKET, present a violent narrative conceptualised with meanings about the human condition.

– Angela Conway, AFA National Spokesperson & Victorian President
– Family Update, Vol. 23 No. 4
– Australian Family Association

Siren feel the heat

After losing their JB-Hi-Fi sales, Siren moved the ‘Hentai Collection’ to a dedicated website.

March 29, 2009
The Pope flies to Sydney, and a million pilgrims duly follow. Killing time between wholesome Catholic activities, said pilgrims stop off in a VERY popular music/DVD shop to peruse the latest in family entertainment.

While shopping, they find copies of HOLY VIRGINS on the shelf in the Anime section. Complaints (x100) to the store manager – and eventually the Government – ensue. The result? Surprise, surprise – the Pope and the pilgrims may be long gone, but you can’t find the Hentai Collection in most stores anymore, even though these titles have been given an R rating by the Government-run Classification Board.

Welcome to the www.hentaicollection.com.au website. With enough support we’ll start putting out more titles so sign up, drop us a line and send your suggestions. We want to hear what you think.

– True Story
– hentaicollection.com.au [dead link]

From complaint to Refused Classification, took around two weeks. In a follow-up post, they state the series was ‘badly merchandised in some retail stores’. It refers to them being mixed with general anime DVDs.

April 14, 2009
You may have noticed Hentai titles have been removed from our site.

The Hentai releases were badly merchandised in some retail stores which led to complaints, which led to the removal of the range.

We recognize there is a demand for these titles and we are doing what we can to continue the range. We expect to release new titles but at this stage we cannot say when – maybe in the fourth quarter this year.

In the meantime you can visit the new home for hentai: www.hentaicollection.com.au

– sirenvisual.com.au [dead link]

Bondage Mansion

Directed by Norihiko Nagahama / 2000 / Japan / IMDb

On 9 April 2008, a precut DVD of BONDAGE MANSION received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes and themes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, issued it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in June.

Censorship revealed

In July, the newly released BONDAGE MANSION was one of four titles in the ‘Hentai Collection’ examined by the Classification Review Board.

See HOLY VIRGINS (2001) for the background to this case.

On 30 July, the Board announced that BONDAGE MANSION had been banned due to the inclusion of ‘…a trailer depicting a character, who appears to be under 18, engaged in an explicit sexual act and there is no context for this depiction’.

Siren had removed trailers and extras from the version classified in April, but accidentally included them on the DVD viewed by the Classification Review Board. On 30 July, the Board announced BONDAGE MANSION as Refused Classification.

Realising their error, Siren resubmitted the censored DVD for a fresh review. On 6 August, the Board confirmed April’s R18+ (High level animated sex scenes and themes) was correct.

Only Episode 1 was reexamined, confirming Siren had precut it for the original R18+ rating.

August 6, 2008
MEMBERS:
Ms Maureen Shelley (Convenor)
The Hon Trevor Griffin (Deputy Convenor)
Ms Ann Stark

APPLICANT
The Hon Robert Debus, Minister for Home Affairs

INTERESTED PARTIES
Australian Family Association (AFA) represented by Ms Angela Conway and Mr Damien Tudehope; and NSW Council for Civil Liberties (NSW CCL) represented by Mr Stephen Blanks and Dr Brent Waters

BUSINESS
To review the Classification Board’s decision to classify the film BONDAGE MANSION R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes and themes’.

DECISION AND REASONS FOR DECISION

1. Decision

The Classification Review Board (the Review Board) classified the film R 18+ with the consumer advice ‘High level animated sex scenes and themes’.

2. Legislative provisions

The ‘Classification (Publications, Film and Computer Games) Act 1995’ (the Act) governs the classification of films and the review of classification decisions. Section 9 provides that films are to be classified in accordance with the National Classification Code (the Code) and the classification guidelines. Relevantly, the Code in paragraph 5 of the Table under the heading ‘Films’ provides that:

Films that:

(a) depict, express or otherwise deal with matters of sex, drug misuse or addiction, crime, cruelty, violence or revolting or abhorrent phenomena in such a way that they offend against the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults to the extent that they should not be classified; or

(b) describe or depict in a way that is likely to cause offence to a reasonable adult, a person who is, or appears to be, a child under 18 (whether the person is engaged in sexual activity or not); or

(c) promote, incite or instruct in matters of crime or violence, are to be classified ‘RC’, and Films (except RC films and X 18+ films) that are unsuitable for a minor to see are to be classified R 18+.

The Code also sets out various principles to which classification decisions should give effect, as far as possible.

Section 11 of the Act requires that the matters to be taken into account in making a decision on the classification of a film include:

(a) the standards of morality, decency and propriety generally accepted by reasonable adults; and

(b) the literary, artistic or educational merit (if any) of the film; and

(c) the general character of the film, including whether it is of a medical, legal or scientific character; and

(d) the persons or class of persons to or amongst whom it is published or is intended or likely to be published..

Three essential principles underlie the use of the ‘Guidelines for the Classification of Films and Computer Games 2005’ (the Guidelines), determined under s 12 of the Act:

the importance of context

the assessment of impact, and

the six classifiable elements – themes, violence, sex, language, drug use and nudity.

3. Procedure

Prior to the review meeting, the Convenor determined that given the provision of Regulation 21 (2) (d) the application was of sufficient complexity that a decision would be not likely to be completed within 20 business days as more than one application of a similar nature had been received at the one time and that the Convenor had agreed to hear submissions from interested parties namely the NSW CCL and the AFA.

The Review Board met on 30 July 2008 in response to the receipt of an application ­­from the Minister for Home Affairs on 18 July 2008 to determine its validity.

The Review Board determined that it had received a valid application from the Minister and noted the Convenor’s decision regarding the complexity of the application and that it would be likely to be processed within 40 business days.

The Minister had advised in writing on 18 July that he would not be making written or oral submissions on the application for review. The original applicant made an undated written submission received by the Convenor on 25 July 2008 and distributed to the Review Board prior to the review meeting.

Six members of the Review Board viewed the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008. Arrangements were made for the NSW CCL and the AFA to view the film prior to the meeting on 30 July 2008.

The Review Board heard oral submissions from Dr Brent Waters and Mr Stephen Blanks representing the NSW CCL and from Mr Damien Tudehope and Ms Angela Conway from the AFA. No written submissions were made by the NSW CCL or the AFA.

It was found that the DVD submitted to the Review Board was not the same as that submitted to the Classification Board in that it contained trailers and extra material.

Mr Griffin, Ms Stark and Ms Shelley met on 6 August as a three-member panel of the Review Board to consider the matter including viewing Episode I again. The Review Board determined that the film is classified R18+ subject to confirmation from the Convenor that Episode II was the same as viewed by the panel prior to 30 July.

Following this meeting, the Convenor reviewed Episode II of the film and confirmed it was the same as viewed by all members prior to the 30 July meeting.

Mr Griffin, Ms Stark and the Convenor held a teleconference on the matter on 13 August 2008 where they discussed the material further and commenced drafting the reasons for decision.

4. Evidence and other material taken into account

In reaching its decision the Review Board had regard to the following:

(i) The Minister’s application for review

(ii) The original applicant’s written submissions

(iii) The oral submissions from the NSW CCL and the AFA

(iv) the relevant provisions in the Act, the Code and the Guidelines, and

(v) the Classification Board’s report

5. Synopsis

A young female and male live in the mansion owned by the young man’s father. The father on his death bed extracts a promise from his son that he will contact his cousin and invite him to live at the mansion. The cousin proposes a three month trial where the cousin who sexually satisfies the young female the most will win her, the mansion and the family fortune. The son is at first reluctant to agree but the young female persuades him. The sexual depictions involving bondage become more explicit as time passes. The son dies during one sexual act, the cousin kicks his dead body, the young female is depicted with twin sons one with blond and the other with black hair and the mansion is crumbling.

6. Findings on material questions of fact

The Review Board found that the film contains aspects or scenes of importance under various classifiable elements:

(a) Themes – the theme of coercion in regard to sex is depicted as is bondage fantasies in considerable detail.

(b) Violence – there are some scenes of violence, apart from the sexualised violence in the film, including shooting of birds with wound and blood detail and the shooting of one of the male characters with blood detail and the kicking of the body of a deceased male character. The impact of these scenes, in the context of a bondage fantasy animated feature, is high.

(c) Language – there is some use of coarse language in the film.

(d) Sex – Various scenes of sexual activity are depicted including digital vaginal stimulation, fellatio, cunnilingus, penile rear entry vaginal penetration, penile anal penetration, digital anal penetration, penile frontal vaginal penetration, fetishes and other sexual practices such as the use of hot wax and slings, a “scold’s bridle”, hand restraints, whipping, vaginal penetration using implements including a batteryoperated dildo and the handle of a sickle, threesomes, and sexual intercourse in the presence of others including male and female servants being ordered to watch sexual activity.

The depiction of sex scenes with the sickle at 1 and 2 mins of Episode II was noted. The tool has a sharpened edge, glints in the light, is depicted as having a thick, long handle and is used by a slightly menacing character (referred to as the caretaker) to sexually stimulate the lady of the family. The scenes contain some sense of menace although the female is depicted in appearance and through voice over as consenting to the activity from which she appears to derive pleasure.

The lady is shown as remembering the scene and feeling some remorse.

(e) Drug Use – there is limited depictions of drug use in the film. The blond “villain” of the piece is depicted as a smoker.

(f) Nudity – there is full and partial front and rear nudity of male and female characters mostly in sexual settings. One scene depicts the “lady of the family” sitting before a basin with legs spread with partial frontal female nudity of the pubic area.

7. Reasons for the decision

The Review Board noted the conflicting submissions of the NSW CCL and the AFA in regard to the classification of the film and took into account the views expressed.

The submission of the NSW CCL did not provide much assistance to the Review Board given that much of it related to a comparative assessment of films classified 12 years earlier or relied on community standards pertaining to a period during the last century. Mr Blanks remarks in relation to the application of the guidelines were of assistance.

The Review Board noted the offence taken by the representatives of the AFA regarding the content of the film in relation to the bondage theme, the cumulative impact of the scenes and the sexualised violence depicted, and the sense of menace in the “sickle” scenes.

The Review Board also noted the Classification Board’s reasons for allowing the film to be accommodated within the R 18+ classification.

The Review Board determined that the impact of the film, while high, was greatly minimised by the animated character of the film, its likely audience, the genre and the stylisation of the genre that impacts on the visuals, and the very unrealistic plot line.

The Review Board concluded that the film would, nonetheless, be very likely to be offensive to some adults.

The Review Board noted the principles contained in the Code that adults should be able to read, hear and see what they want, that minors should be protected from material likely to harm or disturb them, and the need to take account of community concerns about depictions that condone or incite violence, particularly sexual violence; and the portrayal of persons in a demeaning manner.

It may be the view of some adults that the characters are portrayed in a demeaning manner however, it was the Review Board’s determination that the portrayal of the male and female characters – while offensive to some – was not demeaning in terms of the definition within the Guidelines.

In regard to the community’s concern regarding sexual violence, as articulated by the AFA, the Review Board determined that the depictions – while offensive to some – were not such that the film should be refused classification. Should the film have contained the same content and been a live action film, with real people, then such a film may be refused classification.

However, the animation and the anime genre remarkably diminish both the impact and the realism of the violence, sexualised violence and the sexual activity in the film.

The Review Board agreed that there may be animated films with similar content that may be refused classification but it was the unanimous determination of the panel that this was not one of them.

An R 18+ classification is a legally restrictive classification that should prevent minors from seeing the film, and allow adults who want to see such a film to do so.

The DVD cover, while explicit, is of a standard that is generally accepted for R 18+ films and those who did not wish to view such a film would be protected from seeing the depictions contained therein by the visual cues given on the DVD cover.

8. Summary

The film is classified R 18+ with the consumer advice high level animated sex scenes and themes.

– Classification Review Board report

What was missing?

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 30:30 (Episode 1) – 28:28 (Episode 2)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

Episode 1: PLUNDER OR RAPE – Siren’s DVD contains images in the end credits that are not present in the episode.

Hayoto & the woman
A bowl is shown on the floor, followed by the two of them facing one another. The next shot shows the woman’s shocked face and her hands on the ground. A jump in the music, at 06:13, indicates a cut. The scene continues with her performing oral sex on Hayoto. Missing are shots of her urinating into the bowl.
End credits – 27:41 to 27:43. Contains images revealing the censorship.
Scene 1 – The woman with the bowl between her open legs.

Episode 2: No English language title – I could not identify any obvious cuts.
Two flashbacks at 00:27 to 00:28 and 16:36 to 16:38 show the image, removed from Episode 1, of the woman with the bowl between her legs.

The Classification Review Board cited a trailer as the reason for the Refused Classification decision. There are four on the R18+ DVD: BONDAGE MANSION, LITTLE MONICA, GIRL NEXT DOOR, and DEBTS OF DESIRE, indicating a missing fifth trailer.

In July 2008, Vendetta Films received R18 (Contains explicit sex scenes) from New Zealand’s Office of Film and Literature Classification (OFLC). It is a version of Siren’s DVD that is missing the four trailers. The episode times, 1 (30:35) and 2 (28:58), indicate they are similar to the Australian release.

Three censored Hentai

In August 2009, Siren reissued BONDAGE MANSION (2000) as part of a hentai box set titled THE BONDAGE COLLECTION.

It includes cut R18+ versions of SLAVES TO PASSION (2001) and MY BROTHER’S WIFE (2004).

Debts of Desire

Directed by Yūji Yanase / 2002 / Japan / IMDb

On 14 April 2008, a precut DVD of DEBTS OF DESIRE received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, released it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in July.

Suspected precuts

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 30:24 (Episode 1) – 27:50 (Episode 2)
Critical Mass (us) – DVD – Part of VANILLA SERIES – Uncut (Not viewed)

Episode 1 – There are no obvious cuts, but if present, the running time suggests they are minimal.

Episode 2 – Siren’s DVD contains images in the end credits that are not present in the episode.

Mai & Masaki 1
In the end credits, 25:19 to 25:24, Siren’s DVD shows Mai on her back and urinating while being penetrated by Masaki. It is missing from the preceding episode and should appear between 7:10 and 7:58.

Mai & Masaki 2
Masaki says, You’re so cute, Mai’, as he cuts off her underwear. Siren’s DVD then fades at 17:14 to the two of them standing in the shower. Footage of him inserting her with an enema balloon are missing.

Extras include trailers for DEBTS OF DESIRE, ANYONE YOU CAN DO, I CAN DO BETTER! (2004), BONDAGE MANSION (2000) and PROFESSOR SHINO’S CLASSES IN SEDUCTION (2004). Reviews of the Critical Mass DVD mention a stills gallery which is missing from Siren’s DVD.

Beat Angel Escalayer

Directed by Ichika Doshita / 2002 / Japan / IMDb

On 7 July 2008, a precut DVD of BEAT ANGEL ESCALYER received an R18+ (High level animated sex scenes).

Siren Visual Entertainment, the applicant, released it as part of their ‘Hentai Collection’ in November.

Tentacle troubles

Geoff W. reports
Siren Visual Entertainment (au) – DVD – 28:22 (Episode 1) – 27:24 (Episode 2) – 28:08 or 29:08 with English credits (Episode 3)
Kitty Media (us) – DVD – Uncut

Episode 1 – I could not identify any obvious cuts.

Episode 2 – Siren’s DVD censors the following scene and uses other footage to mask the cuts.

Sayuka’s tentacle attack
It begins at approximately 05:30 with the tentacles of a red octopus enveloping Sayuka. Missing are images of it removing her bra, wrapping tentacles around her breasts and a brief shot of her exposed breasts before a downward pan. An obvious cut occurs after Siren’s DVD shows a tentacle going into her mouth. Missing is it entering between her legs as a group of robot creatures look on and cheer. To cover their self-censorship, Siren reused several earlier shots, including that of a fully clothed Sayuka.

Episode 3 – I could not identify any obvious cuts.

Although the DVD menu lists only two episodes, all three play. There are no extras.

Siren Hentai Collection

12 x Unconfirmed DVD / Rated 2006-2008 / Japan

Geoff W. reports
The following is a list of the remaining twelve DVDs classified R18+ by the Classification Board.

I could not identify any clear censorship in the seven I viewed. However, it would take a side-by-side comparison with an uncut version to absolutely conform there were no precuts. One, MAIL ORDER MAIDEN 28 (1996), was classified but never released and four I have never viewed. All deserve further examination.

Titles are in classification date order.

ENDLESS SERENADE (2000) – IMDb
11 January 2006 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Classified with I LOVE YOU (2001), but released separately
Released – 19 June 2006
Viewed – No
NZ OFLC – September 2006 – R18 (Explicit sex scenes)
Episode 1 – 33:33

I LOVE YOU (2001) – IMDb
11 January 2006 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Classified with ENDLESS SERENADE (2000), but released separately
Released – 8 March 2006
Viewed – No
NZ OFLC – June 2006 – R18 (Explicit sex scenes)
Episode 1 – 31:03 & Episode 2 – 31:06

LITTLE MONICA (2002) – IMDb
15 May 2006 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Classified as THE STORY OF LITTLE MONICA
Released – 10 August 2006
Episode 1 – 30:50 & Episode 2 – 31:05
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – January 2007 – Objectionable – Censored R18 (Explicit sex scenes)
Episode 1 – 30:51 (22:11 Censored) & Episode 2 – 31:04 (27:29 censored)
Slideshow – One image removed

NAUGHTY NURSES (2003) – IMDb
29 May 2006 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Released – 20 November 2006
Episode 1 – 29:43 & Episode 2 – 29:42
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – January 2007 – R18 (Explicit sex scenes)

SEX WARD (2001)
29 May 2006 – R18+ (Mainly concerned with sex, High level themes)
Released – 20 November 2006
Viewed – No
NZ OFLC – January 2007 – Objectionable – Censored R18 (Explicit sex scenes)
Episode 1 – 31:03 (29:35 Censored) & Episode 2 – 32:13 (29:19 censored)

ANYONE YOU CAN DO, I CAN DO BETTER! (2004) – IMDb
23 November 2006 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Released – 8 March 2007
Viewed – No
NZ OFLC – May 2007 – R18 (Explicit sex scenes)
Episode 1 – 29.10 & Episode 2 – 29:02

MAPLE COLORS (2004) – IMDb
9 May 2007 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Released – 9 August 2007
Episode 1 – 31:00 & Episode 2 – 29:09
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – November 2007 – Objectionable

MAIL ORDER MAIDEN 28 (1996) – IMDb
20 July 2007 – R18+ (High level sexual themes, High level animated sex scenes)
Never released
Viewed – No
NZ OFLC – No submission

CONSENTING ADULTERY (2006) – IMDb
5 June 2008 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Released – 21 August 2008
Episode 1 – 30:19 & Episode 2 – 28:50
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – No submission

WOMEN AT WORK (2005) – IMDb
5 June 2008 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Released – 18 September 2008
Episode 1 – 26:05, Episode 2 – 26:06
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – No submission

WIFE EATER (2003) – IMDb
13 June 2008 – R18+ (High level animated sex scenes)
Released – 16 October 2008
Episode 1 – 30:11 & Episode 2 – 29:49
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – No submission

VIRGIN TOUCH (2002) – IMDb
27 June 2008 – R18+ (Animated sexual activity)
Released – 16 October 2008
Episode 1 – 29:20 & Episode 2 – 28:58
Viewed – Yes, no obvious cuts
NZ OFLC – No submission