Final answer:
The first studio film to be rated "X" by the MPAA was 'Midnight Cowboy' in 1969. Ratings such as 'G', 'PG', 'PG-13', 'R', and 'NC-17' help guide parents in determining the suitability of films for children and adolescents.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first studio film to receive an "X" rating under the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) system was Midnight Cowboy in 1969. The "X" rating, which was replaced by "NC-17" in 1990, was initially created to designate films that were intended for adult audiences only, due to their content.
The MPAA film rating system was introduced in the 1960s to provide guidance to parents about the suitability of films for children. A film receiving an "X" rating meant that no one under the age of 17 should be admitted, making it clear that it contained content meant solely for adult viewers.
Utilizing the MPAA ratings, ranging from 'G' for General audiences to 'NC-17' for adults only, studios must navigate content creation carefully to ensure their films reach the intended audience without exceeding the boundaries of the appropriate rating categories.