'Bully' Granted PG-13 Rating by MPAA

Following an extended battle with the Motion Picture Association of America, the documentary film Bully has at long last been granted a PG-13 rating.

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"I feel completely vindicated with this resolution," said Lee Hirsch, the film's director in a statement. "The support and guidance we have received throughout this process has been incredible."

In the months leading up to today's momentous decision, the film failed to get a PG-13 rating by just one vote despite an outpouring of support and petitions by schools, parents, celebrities and politicians.

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At the center of the documentary's contentious struggle with the MPAA is a pivotal scene that shows teen Alex Libby being bullied and harassed on a bus. Director Lee Hirsch felt editing the scene was not an option, and chose to release the film in selective markets on March 30 as unrated.

"The scene that mattered remains untouched and intact, which is a true sign that we have won this battle," adds Hirsh. "With an array of great partners, a fabulous educator's guide and extensive online tools, we can now bring this film unhindered, to youth and adults across our country."

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The newly-rated Bully hits theaters April 15.