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Early versions of the film had puppet sex so graphic that the Motion Picture Association of America gave the movie an NC-17 rating, which prohibits any moviegoer under 17 from seeing it. But the version of the movie submitted last week, with tamer puppet passion, squeaked out an R, which admits those under 17 if accompanied by a parent or guardian. To argue the studio's case, America producer Scott Rudin prepared a 45-page memo citing such explicit films as American Psycho, Eyes Wide Shut and In the Cut, all of which received an R rating .. The MPAA declined to comment on the controversy but released its explanation for the rating: "For graphic crude and sexual humor, violent images and strong language -- all involving puppets."