I would however like to make a small point about R-rated movies. There is a reason why movies are given R-ratings, i.e. the content of the movie is not suitable for viewing by those under 18. If you look at the trailer above, the first part (green screen) clearly states its an R-rated movie.
Last night however, I saw quite a number of people who brought their kids to watch the movie. Obviously this is not the first time I’ve seen this phenomena. I was distressed to see these parents bringing their kids along, but during the course of the movie, I became more and more perturbed by the fact that these kids were watching this movie which was filled with lust, blood and gore.
An 8 year old boy would have probably got his first hard-on looking at the “Oracle” scene. A shy 7 year old girl would have seen for the first time what a human head looks while its being chopped off. Another 13 year old boy would have learnt about how women, power, and a uniform are the most desirable things in life, even worth betraying your king and country for. I just hope their parents have an explanation (a tad more than just, “atu wayang tu lai”) for all the things that their young kids saw in this movie.
Perhaps I’m being overly reactive, but I still think these kids are better off not watching a movie such as this until they’re much older. In the end, its all about parental discretion. Perhaps the authorities can consider doing random checks as to whether these ratings are actually being adhered to, and if not, try to educate these parents regarding the ratings of the movies. Easier said than done? Well, its worth a try in my book.
End note: Before anyone accuses me of getting on a high horse, let me say I’ve watched my share of R-rated movies in my childhood too so this post is not intended to be condescending in any way. It’s just something for us all to ponder. (”,)
