'M3GAN' Was "Way Gorier" According To Film's Writer

Screenwriter Akela Cooper sat down recently with The Los Angeles Times to dish about the newly released film, M3GAN, an A.I. horror movie which she wrote, that is putting up big numbers at the box office, even as you read.

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The Malignant writer had much to say about her new film, based on a story from James Wan, which includes some insight as to what went on during production of M3GAN, and events that took place that changed the film's rating outlook before its theatrical release.

"No shade to Universal, love them, and I understand that once the trailer went viral teenagers got involved and you want them to be able to see it," says Cooper, who understands why those in charge of the film focused on a PG-13 rating, instead of a blood-soaked R rating. Originally written as a much gorier film, Akela Cooper later said that the script, "did kill a bunch more people, including a couple of characters whom James Wan was like, 'I like what you did with those people, but I want them to live.' "

After M3GAN's official trailer released in October of last year, news spread quick about the new "killer doll movie" and it was only a matter of time before #M3GAN began trending on social media. With all the film's new attention, though, came a growing concern for those making M3GAN, and that concern was how to make M3GAN accessible for teenagers.

"There should be an unrated version at some point... I heard it is on the books," says Cooper, who sounds hopeful to see the gorier version of M3GAN that she wrote. And why not be hopeful? Back when M3GAN was first announced, many horror fans were excited about the proposed killer doll movie, and they assumed it would be R rated. Excitement for the film turned a bit sour, however, when it was announced that M3GAN was in fact going to be neutered, given a PG-13 rating (for violent content and terror, some strong language and a suggestive reference) to cater towards a teen audience.

Whether it was the right choice of not, M3GAN is killing it at the box office, blowing past the million dollar mark on its first day of release. No doubt getting a physical release after its theatrical run, it will be interesting to see if those responsible for the eventual Blu-ray and DVD release of M3GAN will be able to include an unrated version of the film, as well.