Censorship in Disney’s Hamilton: An In-Depth Analysis

Since its Broadway premiere, Hamilton has captured the attention of theatergoers and audiences worldwide with its powerful narrative and groundbreaking musical score. However, the decision by Disney to release the film with a PG-13 rating has raised questions regarding the extent to which certain words were censored. In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the specific instances of censorship, examining exactly which words were muted and the reasoning behind Disney's decision.

The Censored F-Word in “Yorktown”

The film’s most notable instance of censorship is the muted f-word used in the song “Yorktown (Come Judgment Day),” specifically during the line: “I get the f up again.” In this instance, Hercules Mulligan, played by Leslie Odom Jr., uses an expletive to express his frustration and determination. The decision to mute the f-word was likely made to ensure the film remained PG-13, as the use of strong profanity is typically a red flag for this rating category. According to MPAA guidelines, words like “damn” or “hell” are permissible in PG-13 films, but stronger expletives require a more stringent rating.

The Censored F-Word in “Washington on your Side”

A second instance of censorship occurs in the song “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story” during the line: “Southern motherf**ing Republicans.” This phrase, spoken by Thomas Jefferson (played by Daveed Diggs), carries additional weight given the importance of this scene in the story. The decision to mute this expletive likely reflects a broader strategy to maintain the film’s PG-13 rating while preserving the integrity of the narrative. It’s worth noting that, while muted, the sentiment and impact of the expletive remain clear to the audience, potentially providing a more nuanced interpretation of the character's response.

Words Beyond the PG-13 Limit

It’s been reported that some other expletives, such as “damn,” were not censored in the Disney release of the film. This raises the question of why certain words were censored while others were not. One possible explanation is that the MPAA guidelines have evolved over time, and the panel responsible for rating the film may have taken a conservative approach to ensure compliance with new standards or public perceptions. Additionally, the targeted censorship of certain words might have been seen as a way to give the film the broadest possible audience without fully compromising its artistic and narrative quality.

The Impact of Censorship on the Movie

The overall impact of these censorships remains a subject of debate. Some argue that the muted profanity detracts from the authenticity and energy of the original performance, while others maintain that maintaining a PG-13 rating is essential for widespread appeal. The decision to mute these words might also be seen as a nod to the film’s young target demographic, ensuring that Hamilton remains accessible to a younger audience while still conveying its powerful message of change and revolution.

Conclusion

While the censored words in Disney’s Hamilton, “Yorktown (Come Judgment Day)” and “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story,” may not significantly alter the core narrative, they do provide an interesting glimpse into the delicate balance between artistic expression and commercial sensibilities. The decision to mute these words, while keeping others like “damn” intact, reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry to navigate the often conflicting goals of artistic freedom and popular appeal.