A request to consider a less distracting way of displaying mandatory health warnings in films
We, the undersigned viewers, filmmakers, artists, technicians and members of the public, respectfully request that mandatory health-warning cards and other statutory visual notices not be displayed over the images during a film, wherever an alternative method of displaying the required information is possible.

We fully understand and support the importance of public-health awareness, including warnings relating to smoking and tobacco use. This petition is not requesting that these warnings be removed.

Instead, we are requesting that the required warnings be displayed at the beginning of the film and at the beginning of the second half, as applicable, rather than appearing over the film's images during scenes.

Why are we making this request?
Cinema is a visual medium. Every frame is carefully composed by filmmakers, cinematographers and artists. The placement of a warning card over the image can cover part of the composition, distract the viewer and interrupt the emotional or narrative flow of a scene.

For the audience, the experience can shift from watching the film to noticing the warning itself.

We believe there may be a way to achieve both objectives: maintaining public-health awareness while allowing the audience to experience the film without repeated visual interruptions.

Our request
We respectfully request the concerned authorities and policymakers to consider:

• Displaying mandatory health warnings at the beginning of the film and at the beginning of the second half, as applicable.
• Avoiding the placement of warning cards over the film's images wherever regulations can accommodate an alternative.
• Preserving the visual composition and uninterrupted storytelling of films.
• Continuing to provide audiences with necessary public-health information in a clear and effective manner.

We are not demanding that warnings disappear.

We are requesting that they be displayed at the designated points before the film's scenes begin, so that the warning is seen, understood and acknowledged, while the film itself can remain uninterrupted.

This is a request for consideration and dialogue between filmmakers, audiences, health authorities and the film-certification system.

Let the warning be seen.
Then let the film be seen.

If you agree that mandatory warnings can be communicated without interrupting the visual experience of cinema, please sign this petition and support this request.