Too Dark for kids?

[DaRkVeNgeanCe]

^
I dont doubt that it will, I for one cannot wait to see it!

[LucidDreamsXx3]

my son is 8 and I'm taking him to see tdk, i think he can handle it, right now hes watching candyman farewell to the flesh lol he likes watching that kind of stuff. ive let him watch things like silent hill, the resident evil movies, 30 days of night, ive even let him watch hannibal rising, the only thing i wont let him watch are movies with a lot of sex and nudity, and i dont hink thats going to be a factor in tdk. I mean he might not get everything thats going on in it but i dont think thats going to ruin it for him and besides hes smart enough to get most of it and he knows to wait til the end of the movie to ask me questions about the parts he doesnt understand so hes not gonna ruin it for the other people in the theater by talking.

[DaRkVeNgeanCe]

I wouldnt show my kid those movies at that age.

[tekken]

do it!

i'd say show them batman: gotham knight first. that thing is pretty dark and bloody. if they can stomach that and enjoy it, then i say go for it. don't stop kids from doing what they like.

[Mr. Para-Normal]

I think that this movie is a little to dark for the younger kids. I would say kids maybe 9, 10,11 and up maybe able to sit still for 2 and a half hours and not disrupt the movie for others in the no doubt sold out theater. But really this movie is not really targeted at kids sure there are action figures and stuff but still meh. You guys have noticed that for most superhero movies like hulk and ironman that have had burger king kids meal toys for them the dark knight does not. I would'nt recomend my younger cusins go see this movie because I know that they will not be able to sit still for that long lol. On a side note I hope no one bring a crying baby to this movie. That has happened to me twice recently once on iron-man and once when I went to see the hulk.

[LucidDreamsXx3]

hes fine with it though , hes the most lovable kid, hes not violent and he doesnt act out and he never curses, hes a really sweet kid, i dont think watching those kinds of movies has had an affect on him in a negative way or in any way really. like a lot of other people i used to watch the friday the 13th and nightmare on elm street movies when i was a kid , they were scary at that age but i wasnt traumatized by them and i didnt become a serial killer or anything, i liked watching them because they were fun to watch, i liked being scared.

[DAMU RYDER]

my son is 8 and I'm taking him to see tdk, i think he can handle it, right now hes watching candyman farewell to the flesh lol he likes watching that kind of stuff. ive let him watch things like silent hill, the resident evil movies, 30 days of night, ive even let him watch hannibal rising, the only thing i wont let him watch are movies with a lot of sex and nudity, and i dont hink thats going to be a factor in tdk. I mean he might not get everything thats going on in it but i dont think thats going to ruin it for him and besides hes smart enough to get most of it and he knows to wait til the end of the movie to ask me questions about the parts he doesnt understand so hes not gonna ruin it for the other people in the theater by talking.

lol aint nothing scary about that film, even thoughs its a hood classic.

[omerhead]

i think harvey dents face will scare the crap outta kids.

This TDK Two-Face is pretty gruesome for some kids, it reminds me of The Long Halloween Two-Face, mummy's and Terminator Cyborgs.

http://thefour11.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/dent-two-face.jpg

[Angel_Faerie]

Spoiler tags, dammit!

[omerhead]

Spoiler tags, dammit!

Ok, I put the spoiler tag.

[LucidDreamsXx3]

lol aint nothing scary about that film, even thoughs its a hood classic.

lol its scary for an 8 yr old especially when his friends told him candyman was real, now he keeps putting his hand over my mouth everytime i say candyman.

[JackMercy]

We're living in a lifetime where kids are watchin CSI, Bones, Niptuck, Shield, and certain movies can be shown uncensored on different channels.

Does this mean it's right that they see these shows?


It won't be anything we haven't seen already.


The Dark Knight is intense and graphic in its themes and associations, and while it may not be a Saw movie, it is still not a film I would consider appropriate for children. Thus the rating PG-13. And it's a hard PG-13.


I work at a theater myself as a doorman/box office/manager(on some days) and parents brought their kids to see SAW, Hostel, Rob Zombie's Halloween, Dewey Cox(not violent I know, but lots of cussing, sexual innuendos, and male genital shots), and etc. So The Dark Knight doesn't have anything to worry about in terms of its content.

Other than that I don't think we'll have a repeat of Batman Returns and the WB has learned their lesson.

I'm not saying you should be the moral decider for other people when working as a theater employee, but man, don't you have any morals yourself?

Just because "everyone else is doing it," does that make it right?

In terms of "WB learning their lesson," well...you might have a point. There's somewhat of a difference between marketing a movie to kids, and marketing its ancillary products to kids...

[LucidDreamsXx3]

This TDK Two-Face is pretty gruesome for some kids, it reminds me of The Long Halloween Two-Face, mummy's and Terminator Cyborgs.

http://thefour11.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/dent-two-face.jpg

i think that looks kinda funny not scary

[supermike87]

people i doubt little kids are gonna cut smiles on to there face's , put on a purple coat, wear clown make-up, and carry knive's, just because of tdk, i mean sure some of us adults might!!!!!!!! and i doubt any kid over 11yrs would be freaked out by the movie,

[Joker8906]

As far as WB learning from the Returns backlash uh that was because the previous Batman movie had been deemed ok for kids

begins was dark this is darker

as far as parenting goes while I wont lecture and tell u how to be a parent dont bring a kid who might be afraid to a theater and disrupte the movie cause on July 17th @ 12:00:59 when the projector goes on everyone needs to STFU and watch

[omerhead]

As far as WB learning from the Returns backlash uh that was because the previous Batman movie had been deemed ok for kids

begins was dark this is darker

as far as parenting goes while I wont lecture and tell u how to be a parent dont bring a kid who might be afraid to a theater and disrupte the movie cause on July 17th @ 12:00:59 when the projector goes on everyone needs to STFU and watch

I think TDK will be really dark with a purpose and Returns was meaningless gothic darkness.

[LucidDreamsXx3]

As far as WB learning from the Returns backlash uh that was because the previous Batman movie had been deemed ok for kids

begins was dark this is darker

as far as parenting goes while I wont lecture and tell u how to be a parent dont bring a kid who might be afraid to a theater and disrupte the movie cause on July 17th @ 12:00:59 when the projector goes on everyone needs to STFU and watch


i really hope no one brings their kid to a 1201 am showing, they probably should be in bed even though i have seen that before, my luck ill have a kid sitting behind me kicking the seat the whole movie cuz they cant sit still (like when i went to see incredible hulk) or ill have someone in front of me with a screaming baby that has to keep getting up to quiet there baby down.

[Joker8906]

parents who bring babies into a movie are just retards get a sitter or dont get knocked up end of story

[Joker8906]

I think TDK will be really dark with a purpose and Returns was meaningless gothic darkness.

agreed I personally hated Batman Returns

[tekken]

amen about the crying baby bringing parents, but i thought we were talking about kids.

i'd say 11+ is good.

[BatoutofHell]

You're looking at it in terms of graphic content only. I think what many people are ignoring is the darker nature and tone of the film. Nolan himself said that at the end of this film, Batman is in a very bad way. Not physically, but mentally. The entire ordeal with the Joker takes him to a very dark place in his own mind.

Seeing a superhero like Batman on the edge of becoming the villain. The fine line between good and evil, and what can push a person over the edge is what I think this movie is really about. And that's something that kids won't be able to understand, or appreciate.

-WsS?

Well, I agree with you that a lot of kids won't understand it all, I was talking about "too dark" meaning too scary or graphic. But I agree 100% that they won't be able to appreciate what it all means.

[Caladbolg]

Other than that I don't think we'll have a repeat of Batman Returns and the WB has learned their lesson.

The funny thing about Returns is it really wasnt dark in a serious sense except for the gross out factor.

New batman has taken the silly darkness and replaced it with mature darkness: urban pestilence etc.

So IMO TDK is technically darker. Should anyone change the tone we have established with Nolan? Hell no.

[theShape]

The whole "kids can't handle TDK!" shtick is a little much for me. I'd say this movie is watchable for anyone 8 years or older. Sure, youngsters might have a hard time grasping some of the themes and plot points in such a smart crime thiller, but they should be able to handle it and will, no doubt, love the action.

I think that parents these days are more wary of their children watching things with sex and nudity, rather than violence. Violence has become much less taboo, as you can see when looking at the content of PG-13 movies these days, and even some PG films.

Look at the bank robbery prologue. Several people are shot and killed, but there's no blood. There's no lingering camera angles, exposing bleeding bullet wounds or anything like that. You know why? Because this movie isn't ABOUT the violence, and Nolan knows that. Sure, if it was rated R, he could show more blood, but it's not necessary. This should be no worse than Iron Man, which, although lighter in tone, had its hero (Iron Man) straight up murdering terrorists with guns and rockets.

In my opinion, you have to know what you're child can handle when it comes to movies. If you're one of those parents that has raised your child on G and PG rated films and has a strict rule against letting them see more adult films, than obviously leave them at home when it comes to TDK. But if your child isn't sqeamish and has seen a few PG-13 or even R films by no, TDK should be a piece of cake.

[XxDarkRebelXx]

You know at this point just do what you think your kid can handle...I'm getting sick and tired of people saying yes or no, It's your kid you know what's best for them and now how they can handle movies.

[CaptainClown]

As long as you don't piss off all the movie goers with a kid screaming or talkign then fine take your kid, if they are caught slicing their own face though you are definitly failing as a parent.

[charl_huntress]

As a side note to this discussion, my sister asked me if she should let my niece and nephew see TDK because she "heard" its too violent for kids. She wanted my opinion because she knows of my hidden geek nature. Anyway, I'm not saying TDK is too violent, but all this talk might make some parents shy away. My niece is 11 and my nephew is 14. My sister read a review that said TDK should have been "R" rated. My nephew is crazy siked to see this since he's been a fan of The Batman cartoon.

[CaptainClown]

you should watch it first then decide.

[charl_huntress]

you should watch it first then decide.

I will, but I watched movies that I think were worse when I was younger. LOL...I watched Raw Deal when I was like 8 years old. I am fine and not in bad shape, but kids today....well...they are different. I'm not sure what to say because...I don't have any kids.

So much f-ing pressure..... :woot:

[CaptainClown]

Ya, I think we need an objective eye to figure if we "didn't turn out too bad" after seeing these movies. Also we aren't these kids either so what works for us definitly might not work for them. I think this movie might have its moments of freaking kids out though.

[Lots o lafs]

As long as there's no nudity in it who cares if a kid watches it. If he can get in he can see it that's my motto.

[Anubis Raptor]

If he can get in he can see it that's my motto.

Pretty much mine to.

[Lots o lafs]

Pretty much mine to.

Although I don't have kids I take my little cousins to all kinds of stuff.

[hiroyukibatosai]

once you see two face.....

[Crook]

As long as there's no nudity in it who cares if a kid watches it. If he can get in he can see it that's my motto.
Yeah.

Murder and mayhem? Ok for the kids. It's cool.

Breasts and vagina? Absolutely repulsive and should be banned from their eyes.

:o

[BubbaGump]

Breasts and vagina? Absolutely repulsive and should be banned from their eyes.

:o

Hear hear! :yay:

[charl_huntress]

As long as there's no nudity in it who cares if a kid watches it. If he can get in he can see it that's my motto.

Hope someone doesn't blow up a school/building/arena/etc in your area trying to imitate the Joker in TDK...if they do let me know how you feel about that:o

You have to censor stuff because certain sectors of society are not always capable of differentiating between real life and fiction. They may take the angst a character feels to a personal level and try to imitate something they saw to obtain the power of a fictional character. Stuff like that happens all the time, and children do that frequently.

I know my niece and nephew are good kids, but the reality of movies is potent and life-changing for some.

[CaptainClown]

Well this is kind of different, not because of the violence kids see that everyday. However the Joker is a very "likable" character and people love imitating him. Kids just need to be taught that is not the way to act...ever..

[charl_huntress]

Well this is kind of different, not because of the violence kids see that everyday. However the Joker is a very "likable" character and people love imitating him. Kids just need to be taught that is not the way to act...ever..

It takes a village to raise a child. People have to agree to standards. Anyways, I not saying it's too violent, I just think we all need to practice responsibility when it comes to children.

[CaptainClown]

It takes a village to raise a child. People have to agree to standards. Anyways, I not saying it's too violent, I just think we all need to practice responsibility when it comes to children.
Well the film might be violent, might not however kids just need to be taught that they should never act like that. Many parents take their kids to that kind of stuff and don't explain that its not the way to act and its a movie for fun. Some of these parents seem like they want a little friend who likes the same thing as them.

[Lots o lafs]

If your kid watches violent movies it doesn't mean he will be a mobster or a hood. If a kids parents do bad things then they will mimic them or if there parents/ guardian neglect them they will do stuff that is crazy for attention. If you don't let your kids do anything (such as not letting them see some movies, play some video games, watch some TV, or let them do some things<skateboarding, sports, computer>) then they will rebel in their teen, pre teen years, or young adult years(11- 21). They may even not like or hate you when they are older.

This is all because you didn't let them see The Dark Knight.

Any kid over 8 with parental supervision should be able to see it. P.S. if they saw BB than they should be able to see TDK. Does anyone remember the scarecrow or demon batman?

[ArkhamAsylum]

...just sell the kids...on ebay. use the money to go see it again. :)

[inflames]

I'm taking my 10 year old sister, she isn't really scared, kinda creeped out by joker but I just showed her a leaked two-face pic and she didnt freak

[Lots o lafs]

I have that one poster that says HA at the top and has the joker and blood all over it, well my cousin who is 9 saw it and was like awesome.

[Darth-IronMan]

Don't see it just go see Kung Fu Panda and wait till The Dark Knight is on DVD and rent it and watch it when the kids are in bed.

[ArkhamAsylum]

...if YOUR kids start crying and fussing during the movie...ill cut you. :)

[Lots o lafs]

Don't see it just go see Kung Fu Panda and wait till The Dark Knight is on DVD and rent it and watch it when the kids are in bed.

It's not a porno.

[ArkhamAsylum]

It's not a porno.


...or IS IT???

bowchicawowwow!

http://i144.photobucket.com/albums/r186/questionsleep6969/Joker/darkknight1.gif

[Lots o lafs]

Turn the light down REAL LOOOOW.(says in deep voice) Yeah. just listen to this.
<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3jwjS3Ee_SM&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3jwjS3Ee_SM&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

[Gianakin_]

That song is a comedic masterpiece.

[ForestAflame]

Honestly I don't know why you're concerned. If your kid has seen "Batman Begins" or any other PG-13 superhero movie, "The Dark Knight" will likely be no different. The intensity is there, but I read a review which says there is no blood-letting onscreen. So, if that's what you're concerned about, then there is none (and there never would be any because this is a PG-13 superhero film).

[Lots o lafs]

That song is a comedic masterpiece.

Yes......Yes it is.

[SonikDeath]

The new two face pics show that this film will be a little gory.

[Lots o lafs]

Who cares. Lets put a smile on that face.

[ForestAflame]

This a quote from somebody who has seen the film. "There is a distinct lack of gore but a high level of violence."

Which we come to expect from PG-13 superhero movies. So, anybody who thinks this'll be gory for your kids, there you go. There's no blood and gore, but there is intense violence.

[darkseid26]

kids 4-7 will think two-face is a little scary
kids 8-above will think two-face is awesome

[Lots o lafs]

Yeah. It's not too Dark.

[Tvar10]

did anyone hear anything about swears? I know batman begins had only 1 but this movie seems much more instense

[DaRkVeNgeanCe]

Who cares. Lets put a smile on that face.

NO! Lets CARVE a smile on that face ahahah!

[ForestAflame]

did anyone hear anything about swears? I know batman begins had only 1 but this movie seems much more instense

It's the same amount as BB.

[theMan-Bat]

Nolan's Dark Knight seems to be repeating Burton's Batman Returns "too scary for kids" issue. Promotional partner licensees are worried that the toys for kids will languish on store shelves. The Mattel toy company won't release the original version of the Ledger Joker doll, because they worry that it is "too scary for children" and won't sell.
http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,21598,23679928-5014243,00.html

If parents don't take their kids to see The Dark Knight and don't buy the merchandise for their kids, Warner Brothers might want the next film to be "lighter and kid-friendly" and might drop Nolan as they did with Burton if the tone of Nolan's next Batman film is to be the same as Nolan's Dark Knight. We might see another Schumacher-type take over. Hopefully Warner's won't repeat that mistake.

[Bat-Mite]

Nolan's Dark Knight seems to be repeating Burton's Batman Returns "too scary for kids" issue. Promotional partner licensees are worried that the toys for kids will languish on store shelves. The Mattel toy company won't release the original version of the Ledger Joker doll, because they worry that it is "too scary for children" and won't sell.
http://www.news.com.au/perthnow/story/0,21598,23679928-5014243,00.html

If parents don't take their kids to see The Dark Knight and don't buy the merchandise for their kids, Warner Brothers might want the next film to be "lighter and kid-friendly" and might drop Nolan as they did with Burton if the tone of Nolan's next Batman film is to be the same as Nolan's Dark Knight. We might see another Schumacher-type take over. Hopefully Warner's won't repeat that mistake.First of all, that article was debunked quite a while back as written by someone who had little knowledge of TDK merchandise. Because if you go to a Wal-Mart right now (assuming that their MM Joker figures haven't been snatched up), you will find the more adult marketed Joker right beside the more cartoony Joker mentioned in that article. Both are still being released to the public, it's just that exaggerated claims like the one in that article (as well as other factors) are causing the Movie Masters Joker to fly off the shelves very quickly.

As for WB changing directors because of merchandising issues, I don't think it's gonna happen. I mean, that's what killed the franchise the first time around. They now understand that the fans want Batman to be dark and serious. If they ever start treading into the campy Schumacher territory again, they know the backlash will be so great that it could kill the franchise all over again. And from what I hear, TDK merchandise is already selling wonderfully, so I don't think this will be a concern anyway. :yay:

[Keymaker]

Yeah, the film will be both a huge hit and a success with the critics. WB would be fools to **** this up...again.

[CrypticOne]

I've got an 11 year old son who is dying to see this. So far, a couple reviewers have stated that this film is a PG-13 stretched to the limit and perhaps should even be R rated. One critic even said that kids below 14 should not see it. Period.

My kid is pretty thick-skinned but I'll probably see it on my own first.

What about the rest of you?

I say take him. You only live once, right? Plus, its Batman, what could go wrong? He's there to protect you.

[theMan-Bat]

First of all, that article was debunked quite a while back as written by someone who had little knowledge of TDK merchandise. Because if you go to a Wal-Mart right now (assuming that their MM Joker figures haven't been snatched up), you will find the more adult marketed Joker right beside the more cartoony Joker mentioned in that article. Both are still being released to the public, it's just that exaggerated claims like the one in that article (as well as other factors) are causing the Movie Masters Joker to fly off the shelves very quickly.

Oh, so Mattel did release the original version of the Ledger Joker doll. That's good. They should. I'm an opposer of censorship in any form.


As for WB changing directors because of merchandising issues, I don't think it's gonna happen. I mean, that's what killed the franchise the first time around. They now understand that the fans want Batman to be dark and serious. If they ever start treading into the campy Schumacher territory again, they know the backlash will be so great that it could kill the franchise all over again. And from what I hear, TDK merchandise is already selling wonderfully, so I don't think this will be a concern anyway. :yay:

Hopefully. Don't be afraid of the dark, people.

[terry78]

Fathers, if your son is like 7 years old or older, take his ass. He'll love you for it, imo. It's Batman, come on.

[starscream]

little kids should see it :D its not like its a horror movie.

and my little cousin thinks the joker is assume and he is 8
:D

[Travesty]

I remember when I saw Robocop when I was 6-7 years old, and I saw Officer Murphy get blown to hell, and it didn't effect me or gross me out. Funny, when I was 6-7 years old, I knew that what I was watching was a friggin movie.

Bottom line: If your son/daughter can handle things and has a little bit of common sense, then take them to the movie. But, if they're little idiotic wusses, then go see Wall-E.:oldrazz:








Seriously.

[DACrowe]

It really depends on the kid and is up to the parents to know what they can handle best. But in general I'd say a 10 year old and up could handle it. I imagine most 7-10 year olds as well, but it is up to the parents really.

[jimpan.]

in sweden the dark knight is rated 15, meaning you must have turned 15 to see it. and they tend to be pretty loose on the ratings here, batman begins was rated 11 (7 with parent or guardian)

[Magma Dragon]

The TV spots mention the movie being pg-13 but in ontario (don't know about the rest of canada) it is rated pg.

[Hole Shot]

Every critic is saying the movie isn't appropriate for younger audiences.

[Hurm...]

The TV spots mention the movie being pg-13 but in ontario (don't know about the rest of canada) it is rated pg.It's the same thing. It just proves that Canadians are hardcore :oldrazz:

http://www.media-awareness.ca/english/resources/ratings_classification_systems/film_classification/ont_film_classification.cfm


PG icon




Parental Guidance (PG) Parental Guidance Advised.

Guidelines
Language: Limited use of stronger expletives and/or slurs and/or mild sexual references.
Violence: Restrained portrayals of non-graphic violence, integral to the plot. The portrayals are not prolonged; there are no close-ups; bloodletting and/or tissue damage is limited.
Nudity: Brief nudity in a non-sexual context, non-exploitative close-up.
Sexual Activity: Embracing, kissing in a loving context; mild sexual innuendo.
Horror: Exciting horror scenes and some grotesque images may be allowed in a fantasy or comedic context, but there will be no detailed and/or prolonged focus on gory images or suffering.
Psychological Impact: Sensitive to treatments of scenes and situations that may cause adverse psychological impact on children. May include frightening or emotionally upsetting situations involving threats, injury, illness, family problems, or death to young people, family member and animals (particularly pets).

It warrants the PG rating in Ontario.

[the GRIN Reaper]

When grown adults say things are real disturbing, certain images stayed with them for days, it being the first scary Batman movie, the horrifying real life analogies to a post 9/11 world ... yeah, I'd leave the kiddies at home. If Nolan didn't feel confident in letting his own kids see it, I'd wait a few years. haha

[ForestAflame]

Every critic is saying the movie isn't appropriate for younger audiences.

Only a few uptight critics are saying Nolan squeezed by with a PG-13.

This is going to be a dark serious violent film...but it's not gonna be anything we haven't seen before in PG-13 films.

[SonikDeath]

Its rated M in Australia, which is 15 and over, but 12 + should be fine.

[Lots o lafs]

A lot of parents hypocrites. I bet that most of you intentionally showed your son or daughter something far worse than TDK. It's not a rated R so whats the big deal? It's just a movie. You think the joker will scare your 8 year old... naw, show em leather face....... that will scare the hell outta them. Rated M... thats a little bit much. What's the age that you can get a motorcycle licence in australia?

[Caladbolg]

Sort of rellevant...

I remember in the theater for Batman begins in 05 there was a lone elderly woman quietly watching the film, and I realized since she obviously appeared to not be the fanbase for this movie, it might be to screen the film for the younger family members. Perhaps someone told that it was very gritty.

[batmaluco]

Keeping my fingers crossed that it is.
QFT! :cwink:

Btw, here in Brazil this movie was rated 12+

[YsoSerious]

Yes it's too dark for kids, so leave your freakin' rugrats at home so I can enjoy it!

[CaptainBeaver91]

Yes it's too dark for kids, so leave your freakin' rugrats at home so I can enjoy it!


Exactly.

[Lots o lafs]

It's not too dark. Your overreacting.

[SonikDeath]

Yes it's too dark for kids, so leave your freakin' rugrats at home so I can enjoy it!

:woot::hehe::hehe:

[returntovoid]

On the TDK IMDB page there's a parents guide for The Dark Knight.

Here's the link.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0468569/parentalguide

[SonikDeath]

On the TDK IMDB page there's a parents guide for The Dark Knight.

Here's the link.

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0468569/parentalguide

I went to the link and under Violence and Gore it says:

"Batman gets in fist fights with many men, since he is BATMAN!"

:lmao:

[terry78]

I don't think it's that bad. Most fanboys want these flicks to be dark and gritty secretly so parents won't bring their kids, but if it's a popular name...kids will be there. As a parent sometimes you just give in to that ****.

[Nivek]

I went to the link and under Violence and Gore it says:

"Batman gets in fist fights with many men, since he is BATMAN!"

:lmao:


That is pretty funny!

[DarthAlani]

I don't know about u guys but i'm a little tired of people whiney ass kids ruining a movie experience by crying like little *****es every 5 seconds.

[Tyler1451]

im not thick-skinned, im just thick-headed.

[MattBearPig]

I hope people vomit when they see Two-Face.

[Hole Shot]

If kids are so warped these days by their Xboxes that you're not really worried about the violence then how about the next question - would they appreciate the story?

Maybe there is enough action and wow to carry them in between the stuff they may find boring. But if it's not, it's a 2.5 hour movie that might result in a lot of squirming in between the fun stuff.

[returntovoid]

Besides the pencil impaling, stomach bomb and Harvey Dent scarring there's probably nothing else disturbing in TDK.

[Die Laughing]

I am hoping there are no kids at my 12:00am opening night show, but I doubt it. If there are, hopefully those mature enough to sit quietly.

I still remember Star Wars Episode One...nuthouse full of children's laughter (but I blame Lucas for that).

:hoboj: - Ahahahahaha!

[fu manchu]

LOL....yeah, i don't want any kids at the theater the day i'm watching it. i'm so glad that i don't have kids to worry about.

[Sam18]

When I went to see BB some douche couple brought their effin baby to the theater. Little thing cried for like half an hour until the mom finally got up and left with it.

[Hole Shot]

Two Words = Evil Clown

Nice clowns are scary enough. Evil Clowns can **** kids up! I speak from experience.

[Banquet]

Just saw an advert on tv for the dark knight toys. Had a little kid dressed as Batman with a mask and cape that opened into wings like a transformer. He was chasing the Joker supposably, and I was like, "oh man, lets see Joker jr.!" but little Batman just shot a dart at a shadow of a kid in a suit and crazy looking hair. :funny:

I dunno, I think it's kind of twisted that thousands of children will be playing with an action figure of a demented mass murder dressed as an evil clown.

[Sentinel X]

Why do people ask these questions?...*sigh*
Only you know your child...you have to make the call, the movie is going to be a lot more violent than the average PG-13 superhero flicks. I don't think its that bad, its not like children are strapped down in their seats and their eyes are forced open to watch...if a scene seems scary just turn around, duck in your seat, and close your ears (thats how I did it when I was younger). If a kid is 6 and under it may be a problem but over 6...yeah, just tell him/her to turn around whenever something scary comes up and if its too late to do so......oh well, they'll live :hehe:

[Darth-IronMan]

It's not to dark for me or my own kids, but it is to dark for you and your kids. Were just looking out for you... thats why this film should be rated nc-17 or X and nobody but my mature ass should see it.

[XxDarkRebelXx]

Yes it's too dark for kids, so leave your freakin' rugrats at home so I can enjoy it!

:lmao:

[XxDarkRebelXx]

I went to the link and under Violence and Gore it says:

"Batman gets in fist fights with many men, since he is BATMAN!"

:lmao:

hahaha that is funny :lmao:

[danoyse]

My friend's 4-year-old is obsessed with Batman and he will not be seeing TDK. He hasn't seen BB either. Too young, and we all know it's going to scare the daylights out of him, so forget about it. His parents want to see it, but they're getting a sitter.

And it doesn't really matter because he doesn't really understand that there is a new movie out anyway. There are so many toys and cartoons that he's fine just playing with them and making up his own Batman stories that he doesn't need to see the new movies until he's older.

It really depends on your own kid to decide whether or not to take them. From what I've seen/heard so far, I would be leery of taking kids under 10. At the very least I would probably see it for myself first before deciding if it was OK for them or not.

I think they've done a good job in the ads making it clear how violent and dark it's going to be. Everyone I know with small kids is pretty much staying away from this one.

[Caladbolg]

It's not to dark for me or my own kids, but it is to dark for you and your kids. Were just looking out for you... thats why this film should be rated nc-17 or X and nobody but my mature ass should see it.

Oh the irony... LOL ;)

[DAMU RYDER]

Trust me this movie is not on batman returns level. TDK will not be no more darker than that trash movie anyway. i bet majority of bat fans born 1984-1989 saw returns in theater and it aint scare you and mess up your well being. But again its up to the parent. if your child is a softy and gonna cry when they see some dude in white makeup dont bring him.

[Darth-IronMan]

Oh the irony... LOL ;)

:cwink:

[Darth-IronMan]

Trust me this movie is not on batman returns level. TDK will not be no more darker than that trash movie anyway. i bet majority of bat fans born 1984-1989 saw returns in theater and it aint scare you and mess up your well being. But again its up to the parent. if your child is a softy and gonna cry when they see some dude in white makeup dont bring him.

I was six or seven when Returns came out and the Penguin scared the **** out of me. When he bit that dudes nose I had to bury my face in my mothers safely bosom.

[Spider-Bat]

Depends on the kid, that is always the case. If your kid would go to Shrek and cry when Shrek gets mad, don't bring him, if he can watch a scary movie and think it's funny, that kid'll be fine. All kids are different. And it depends on the parent too, and what they expose them to.

As for darkness, I thought it was funny to see them doing promotions for TDK with dominoes Pizza and toys in cereal, when this one doesn't seem to fit in that category, this is too dark and serious for that, if it was '95 and Batman forever then fine, but TDK, I don't think should be marketed on a pizza box. I'm happy to see it all over, I just think it's funny. It would be like if they had a V for Vendetta cereal.

[returntovoid]

I was six or seven when Returns came out and the Penguin scared the **** out of me. When he bit that dudes nose I had to bury my face in my mothers safely bosom.

TDK will be violent but not like the gross Penguin biting a persons nose and puking black mucus kinda way in Batman Returns IMO.

[ArkhamAsylum]

TDK will be violent but not like the gross Penguin biting a persons nose and puking black mucus kinda way in Batman Returns IMO.


ha ha! mmmm yummy!

[returntovoid]

There was also a scene in Batman Returns where Catwoman slashes a persons face and there's quite a bit of blood in the face.

[sasquatchs]

I find the whole darkness debate to be not much more than a silly hook for news articles and reviews, but this Nolan article has some good quotes

http://jam.canoe.ca/Movies/Artists/N/Nolan_Christopher/2008/07/11/6132511-sun.html

Though I don't necessarily agree that literal takes get under the skin more

[ThatDamnNinja]

If your kid is over 10, use your discretion.

If your kid is under 10, see the movie first, then decide. Not because I think I know best, and I'm trying to tell people who to parent their kids, but because I am already dreading sharing the theatre with a bunch of crying children and their dumbf**k parents who thought it couldn't possibly be too much for their five year old because it's Batman.

It might scare the sh** out of an 11 year old, but the 11 year old probably won't cry.

[isaias7]

THIS IS JUST STUPID,IT DEPENDS ON THE KIDS.

my nephew was 3years old when he saw BB and he liked it,he is 4years old now and we were watching the whole movie and he pay better attention now and liked the movie.

[Crook]

If anyone has watched the Bale interview that just aired on NBC, he says that he can't exactly pinpoint what is the safe age limit, but says "9 or 10 may be appropriate" as a starting age.

[CaptainClown]

THIS IS JUST STUPID,IT DEPENDS ON THE KIDS.

my nephew was 3years old when he saw BB and he liked it,he is 4years old now and we were watching the whole movie and he pay better attention now and liked the movie.
but BB is like child games next to TDK..

[ForestAflame]

but BB is like child games next to TDK..

I seriously doubt that. :o

[CaptainClown]

I seriously doubt that. :o
really? I have seen more action and on screen death in the prologue then all of BB.

[Nathan Petrelli]

I was raised on horror movies. I used to watch The Exorcist all the time, before I even started school. I'm all for not censoring my future children.. But after seeing The Dark Knight, I would be pretty unsure about letting my children witness Heath Ledgers portrayal of The Joker. Go see it yoursel first, then decide.

[SuperBatman]

I seriously doubt that. :o

The Dark Knight is going to be a whole lot darker than Batman Begins was.

[ForestAflame]

This is what Nolan said about TDK.

"If you assess the film carefully, and analyze it and compare to other films it's not a particularly violent film, actually. There is no blood -- very few people get shot and killed compared with other action films."

[Nathan Petrelli]

Thats true Forest. But you need to remember. The Joker is a pretty scary guy, he does make jokes, but he is an unpredictable schizophrenic sadistic psychopath who likes to brainwash people and forces people to kill each other for his own enjoyment

He also said that he likes using a knife to kill people because it takes longer for them to die

Then you have Two-Face.. Half his face is completely burnt off, and he has borderline personality disorder..

[sandmjuggalos]

Holy Argyle Socks Batman! This thread is still going strong? :whatever:

My god, you would think people would realize that it is up to the parents own discretion. Ho hum....back to real life.

[Lots o lafs]

I'm betting you guys are over reacting all though I hope it's a gruesome deathfest with lots of violence and homicidal language.

[CrimsonRed]

I say this is a bit kid safe, all the frightning and "grusome" scenes have no to very little blood and are quickly edited. Heaven forbid we see a pencil in some guys eye socket.

Two face isn't scary, thanks to the cgi (bleh). IMo, 89 Batman was more gory/bloody.I mean, Joker gets the f&*^in s%^& beat out of him in the interrigation room and he dosen't bleed once.Keaton's batman gives jack one head butt and blood pours out of his mouth. SO basically, if your kids saw the first burton films, they'll be fine with this. IMO, anyway

[TheScarecrow]

I wouldn't recommend this movie for kids. I really doubt they'd get much out of it.

[Magenta666]

I say this is a bit kid safe, all the frightning and "grusome" scenes have no to very little blood and are quickly edited. Heaven forbid we see a pencil in some guys eye socket.

Two face isn't scary, thanks to the cgi (bleh). IMo, 89 Batman was more gory/bloody.I mean, Joker gets the f&*^in s%^& beat out of him in the interrigation room and he dosen't bleed once.Keaton's batman gives jack one head butt and blood pours out of his mouth. SO basically, if your kids saw the first burton films, they'll be fine with this. IMO, anyway

i dont know, this movie had a lot of heavy emotional deaths....

rachel for instance

i found it hard to watch as harvey is yelling about "why did they save him"

its mos def a dark movie, and while little kids might not get a lot of it, there is no way they will miss the heaviness of it all

[djchristensen]

I wouldn't put a kid any younger than 13 in that movie, they will be old enough to understand the Joker and Two face, Batman, but they might not be able to comprehend the deepness of the Jokers Madness.

[Nepenthes]

The first time I saw it today I was by myself at the earliest session. A kid and his mother sat next to me and he was talking like he knew a little about batman. I was alone and waaay to excited and couldn't help talking to them like a weirdo stranger. He was 11 and knew the The Batman cartoon, Batman Begins, Burton, not so much TAS (he knew of it), but somehow he knew who Harvey Dent was. I said I think you're really gonna like this movie. He talked alot to his mum about plot points and then when i spoke to him at the end he seemed kinda dumbfounded. His mum was laughing alot too, so no real problems I guess.

I'd expect the plot and nuances are going to be lost on children more than anything might terrify them. This kid left with a whole new idea of Batman though, I told him and his mother that if he wants to they should buy a comic called Hush it's better than the movie

[Nivek]

Ugh, Hush? Sheesh man...

[Shofie]

I'm taking my 5 and 8 year old nephews to see it.

I really wouldn't suggest that. It's not bloody really, but it is extremely violent in several places, and there's some scenes of Batman beating up some dogs that might really upset children, especially ones that young.

(And no offense, but I really dislike it when people take kids that young to see movies that aren't children's movies, since there's a high chance the kids will freak out and need to leave, but the people taking them almost always try to hang on as long as they can and thus, do a number on ruining the movie for everyone else)

I seriously do not recommend taking younger children to see this unless they're very, very mature for their age, or just very, very jaded little people.

[Mikelus]

Some people are really thick, most critics and reviewers are saying TDK is not for little children, that it could've been rated R, etc. Parents have to be responsible and think about their actions, instead of just reacting like children themselves.

[Shofie]

I honestly think the only reason it didn't get an R rating was because there wasn't much blood in it. It was pretty shockingly violent though, for a PG-13 movie. There was a teeeeeeeeny bit of bad language (I think only one or two bad words, I can't recall now, but it wasn't a lot), and one implied sex scene (although that's not graphic at all, but it could have the kiddies asking "What were those two doing?"

[terry78]

The toys and merchandising is what's doing it. We can say this isn't for kids all we want, but the stuff on Cocoa Puffs boxes, Lunchables, and Happy Meals say otherwise. My cousin that teaches down in Indianpolis said all his 7 year olds in his class can't wait to see this.

[TheCaptain]

implied sex scene?? between who, if you don't mind me asking.

[djchristensen]

implied sex scene?? between who, if you don't mind me asking.

At the Dent Gala ,after Bruce chokes out Dent, and goes to a secret door, there is a older gent and a younger mistress just standing up off of the couch. She askes if that is a saferoom, and then the door closes. She looks in bewilderment.:brucebat:

[jdlynch1]

Yeah that was awkward.

[stryper2000]

I've got an 11 year old son who is dying to see this. So far, a couple reviewers have stated that this film is a PG-13 stretched to the limit and perhaps should even be R rated. One critic even said that kids below 14 should not see it. Period.

My kid is pretty thick-skinned but I'll probably see it on my own first.

What about the rest of you?

If he can handle looking at the Harvey Dent scenes later in the movie, he should be fine. They're kinda gross

Also the movie does have it's share of violence of course , but thats all i can say for my opinion on it

[Banquet]

The PG-13 rating kind of held the movie back to me. I know Nolan and co. wanted to keep the movie open to children because it is Batman, and yet mature so to take it to a new level in cinema, but really.... just having blood absent doesn't suddenly make it okay for children. In fact, plenty of movies PG and PG-13 and even some cartoons have blood in them. It was the themes that I found disturbing, even as an adult. The "why so serious" scene was really tense and scary, and I know there would plenty of children who would be disturbed by it.

But the point is, why did they have to restrain showing blood when the violence was impactful enough that it really wouldn't have mattered as far as being appropriate for children goes? A little blood splatter when someone's face was cut, or a bleeding head when someone's face is smashed repeatedly into a wall, etc wouldn't have made it any more scary and violent than it already was. It seemed off not to have those things.

[Staxeon]

I have 4, 9, and 10 year old sons. After watching this last night with my wife we both agreed its not going to be seen by them, regardless of how excited they are about it.

Not just for Two-Face in his appearance but pretty much every scene with the Joker is disturbing on some level. How many times does he hold a knife to the mouth of someone in the movie? Geesh, in the interrogation room I started feeling bad for Heath, not the Joker.

There's just alot that I don't think a child can understand in this movie. Subtext and instability of the Joker mainly. But the graphic nature in which he portrays it is extremely visceral.

My kids would love to see this, and Iron Man, but there's times you just need to step-up and be a parent and establish limits.

[Anita18]

I actually sat next to two kids last night at the screening. One was maybe 10, and the other was maybe 8. I was a little bit worried, but both their parents were there so I figured it would be okay.

They didn't make a PEEP during the entire movie. So, yeah, it definitely depends on the kid.

[Banquet]

I actually sat next to two kids last night at the screening. One was maybe 10, and the other was maybe 8. I was a little bit worried, but both their parents were there so I figured it would be okay.

They didn't make a PEEP during the entire movie. So, yeah, it definitely depends on the kid.

they were probably amazed into silence like the rest of us :woot:

[strikerbatman2]

Idk, the joker could influence kid's I mean he influences adults

Look at cell phone guy

[Banquet]

Idk, the joker could influence kid's I mean he influences adults

Look at cell phone guy

Wasn't cell phone guy schizophrenic?

Also, I wouldn't put it past the Joker to employ children as his goons, you know, like a real terrorist.

[Staxeon]

I actually sat next to two kids last night at the screening. One was maybe 10, and the other was maybe 8. I was a little bit worried, but both their parents were there so I figured it would be okay.

They didn't make a PEEP during the entire movie. So, yeah, it definitely depends on the kid.

Its usually not during the movie you've gotta worry about. Its the nights of nightmares or copycat behavior at home later.

[strikerbatman2]

Wasn't cell phone guy schizophrenic.


Same mental capacity

[tw9876z]

i saw TDK last night and i have to say that a kid should be able to handle it.
I think 7-8 year olds will love it and be lightly scared, something which i know i enjoyed from movies at that age.

a movie scaring a kid isnt going to scar him/her. people act like a kid being scarred will ruin their lives and turn them out all wrong. It wont. I remember when i was little and movies scared me it was really fun. I wish i could get that feeling in movies again.

[inflames]

The first time I saw it today I was by myself at the earliest session. A kid and his mother sat next to me and he was talking like he knew a little about batman. I was alone and waaay to excited and couldn't help talking to them like a weirdo stranger. He was 11 and knew the The Batman cartoon, Batman Begins, Burton, not so much TAS (he knew of it), but somehow he knew who Harvey Dent was. I said I think you're really gonna like this movie. He talked alot to his mum about plot points and then when i spoke to him at the end he seemed kinda dumbfounded. His mum was laughing alot too, so no real problems I guess.

I'd expect the plot and nuances are going to be lost on children more than anything might terrify them. This kid left with a whole new idea of Batman though, I told him and his mother that if he wants to they should buy a comic called Hush it's better than the movieyour saying Hush is better than the movie? really?....wow..

[Banquet]

Its usually not during the movie you've gotta worry about. Its the nights of nightmares or copycat behavior at home later.

I know if I was a kid I'd idolize this Joker, even though he was the bad guy. Not sure how idolizing a homicidal sociopath would effect me, maybe get me to be more comfortable around people who are similar to it in real life. Though I really liked bugs bunny as a kid and it didn't make me like carrots, so who knows. If you're uncomfortable letting kids see it, then don't, I guess.

[blueblazer2]

This movie is not going to be that dark . Since this movie is targeted towards all ages . Most of the Deaths will probably be off screen . And the violence is not going to be over the top like wanted , 300, kill bill etc

[Damobi]

I wouldn't take children under 8-9 to see it.

[Staxeon]

I know if I was a kid I'd idolize this Joker, even though he was the bad guy. Not sure how idolizing a homicidal sociopath would effect me, maybe get me to be more comfortable around people who are similar to it in real life. Though I really liked bugs bunny as a kid and it didn't make me like carrots, so who knows. If you're uncomfortable letting kids see it, then don't, I guess.

No, I'm not, for the same reason they don't watch wrestling anymore. Two of my boys are 15 months apart in age so they play alot together. They started emulating wrestling moves.

I don't need them to start stacking up all my money into giant pyramids to slide down. That'll wrinkle my benjamins something fierce.

[CaptainClown]

No, I'm not, for the same reason they don't watch wrestling anymore. Two of my boys are 15 months apart in age so they play alot together. They started emulating wrestling moves.

I don't need them to start stacking up all my money into giant pyramids to slide down. That'll wrinkle my benjamins something fierce.
dad look i am the joker burning your money!

[Staxeon]

dad look i am the joker burning your money!

*sobs*

Don't cry Dad, its only half...

[Peege]

^^ :lmao:

No way I'm going to let my kid see this until he's at least 13. I was pretty friggen shocked. Actually I still am...

[laudanum09]

I re-enacted the Joker buzzer scene from 89 along with the quill pen thing on my action figures when I was a kid. Im a college graduate and I've never even got into a single fist fight. I think its entire subjective, theres a line, maybe thin, between idolizing and play-acting. When I was a kid I would really get into my world of fantasy and action figures, but its not like I ever thought they were REAL by god.

[CaptainClown]

ya unfortunately not everyone is like that. I have met guys who have done insane stunts to imitate Scarface.Hell gangster rap got a whole generation thinking they should fight and do crazy stuff, its foolish to underestimate the power of media today.

[SuperBatman]

*sobs*

Don't cry Dad, its only half...

The Kid: Dad It's not about the money it's about sending a message.

[Peege]

That whole sceen in the interogation room when the Joker talks about knives... If my kid saw the movie I'd want to hide the cutlery.

[laudanum09]

^I agree but if someone like me can handle that line between fantasy and reality, but because of critics reviews and stifling parents, is not allowed to see it, then that'd be a shame. Not only that, but the most spoiled and self-centered relatives I know are the ones that were raised the strictest. answer was always NO so once it was YES they'd go nuts. My little cousin was never allowed to play with toy guns, and I knew from babysitting him during that time, that all he thought about was wanting to buy this particular laser gun. No doubt knowing he couldn't get it made him think about it even more. Not to say let the tikes do whatever the heck they like, but by showing maturity and comfort with taboo things, that just shows that your kids can treat them the same way.

and yeah, it is subjective. kids today are twsited around by the media a lot, but honestly it has a lot to do with how the kid is raised and his/her own personal morale and intelligence. Its a bit Darwinian, but some people are more prone to media brainwashing and others, therefore being objective about it is really difficult. it should be up to the parents not some rating board.

[Peege]

The Kid: Dad It's not about the money it's about sending a message.

This movie could have easily been rated R. When the DVD comes out and it's the director's cut you'll hear get-renching screems during the money burning sceen.

[CaptainClown]

^I agree but if someone like me can handle that line between fantasy and reality, but because of critics reviews and stifling parents, is not allowed to see it, then that'd be a shame. Not only that, but the most spoiled and self-centered relatives I know are the ones that were raised the strictest. answer was always NO so once it was YES they'd go nuts. My little cousin was never allowed to play with toy guns, and I knew from babysitting him during that time, that all he thought about was wanting to buy this particular laser gun. No doubt knowing he couldn't get it made him think about it even more. Not to say let the tikes do whatever the heck they like, but by showing maturity and comfort with taboo things, that just shows that your kids can treat them the same way.

and yeah, it is subjective. kids today are twsited around by the media a lot, but honestly it has a lot to do with how the kid is raised and his/her own personal morale and intelligence. Its a bit Darwinian, but some people are more prone to media brainwashing and others, therefore being objective about it is really difficult. it should be up to the parents not some rating board.There is a difference though between letting a kids play with toy guns and letting them imulate a character dedicated to anarchy. It is in the responsibility of the parent and thus far I have yet to see many parents responsible enough to know what their child should watch.

Sheltering them from everything just hinders their growth and keeps them in a state of ignorance making them not grow up.
However exposing them to everything before they are ready would just create some twisted kids who think that through these violent movies is how the world works.

[Staxeon]

That whole sceen in the interogation room when the Joker talks about knives... If my kid saw the movie I'd want to hide the cutlery.

See, and that's the thing. Like laudanum09 mentioned, back in 89 he did things with his action figures and it didn't amount to anything. But times are different now, everyone is ultrasensitive to things. If one of my sons even mentioned the THOUGHT of holding a knife to someone's mouth I'd have calls from teachers, school meetings, probably mandatory counsilling, etc. etc.

Meh. They don't need to see it. There's plenty of other stuff for them to do, they only have a nintendo DS each, plus a gamecube in their room, and the Wii in the living room.

[laudanum09]

^ Yeah totally. The hypersensitivity of the world is creating neurotic, spazzed out little freaks. The line between fantasy and reality blurring is psychosis. (technically why the joker is not insane but super-sane!)

And hey CaptainClown, dont take your kids. Its more than just anarchy=chaos and violence. Its the idea that every system has a tipping point. Joker's 'its all part of the plan' speech was a perfect commentary on today's situation. A car full of soldiers blow up? Its okay. Mom and Dad at home chew their steaks in contention, slightly off put, but certainly not enough to throw away the meal. I mean it happens every night...if I threw away a meal for everytime that happened I'd be starved dead...Its all part of the plan...but...introduce a little anarchy, upset the established order...and then everyone loses their minds!!!

-its a hell of a point. the philosophical validity of joker's nihilism reminds me of a Nietzschean ubermensch. the men of the future. or as in arkham asylum, super-sanity. We can't say our own make-up isn't being effected by the world of WOW, Money, cars and tits? We'll evolve if we manage to stay alive long enough and the Joker is a slight glimpse of what the children of tomorrow will look like, IMHO.

sorry for the diatribe, but its just what this laudanum feels to be the truthies.

[deathfromabove]

This kid left with a whole new idea of Batman though, I told him and his mother that if he wants to they should buy a comic called Hush it's better than the movie

thats horrible advice. hush was in no way shape or form better than the dark knight...:huh:

[CaptainClown]

^ Yeah totally. The hypersensitivity of the world is creating neurotic, spazzed out little freaks. The line between fantasy and reality blurring is psychosis. (technically why the joker is not insane but super-sane!)

And hey CaptainClown, dont take your kids. Its more than just anarchy=chaos and violence. Its the idea that every system has a tipping point. Joker's 'its all part of the plan' speech was a perfect commentary on today's situation. A car full of soldiers blow up? Its okay. Mom and Dad at home chew their steaks in contention, slightly off put, but certainly not enough to throw away the meal. I mean it happens every night...if I threw away a meal for everytime that happened I'd be starved dead...Its all part of the plan...but...introduce a little anarchy, upset the established order...and then everyone loses their minds!!!

-its a hell of a point. the philosophical validity of joker's nihilism reminds me of a Nietzschean ubermensch. the men of the future. or as in arkham asylum, super-sanity. We can't say our own make-up isn't being effected by the world of WOW, Money, cars and tits? We'll evolve if we manage to stay alive long enough and the Joker is a slight glimpse of what the children of tomorrow will look like, IMHO.

sorry for the diatribe, but its just what this laudanum feels to be the truthies.
ya that sounds awesome, but ya I would show my kids later or after I know that my kids know that Joker is wrong.
thats horrible advice. hush was in no way shape or form better than the dark knight...:huh:
QFT. Hush felt like an early Michael Bay movie, all action not really anything else there.

[Lots o lafs]

A 9 year old will not be scared in this movie. There is no on screen gore.

[CaptainClown]

well gore is not always what scares kids..
http://gopvixen.blogs.com/gop_vixen/images/al_gore_3.jpg

[adhokk7]

Assuming the kids in question want to see the movie, I say take them and let them decide for themselves if it was "too dark" (I don't even know what that's supposed to mean). This whole idea of protecting the innocence of children by withholding information from them seems awfully naive to me. Maybe you should talk about the movie with your kids after seeing it, explain the more complicated parts, answer their questions, and stress the difference between reality and fantasy, but assuming that withholding information from children will be to their benefit just doesn't make sense. The lesson learned from being shielded is one of weakness. The lesson learned from being trusted is confidence. I'm know I'm generalizing, so if your kid is the exception to this, fine. But I also know that for many of us, once we were old enough to realize we could go behind our parents' backs and expose ourselves to whatever evil our parents thought we couldn't handle, we did it with a vengeance and I don't think that's what you really want. If I could (and maybe it's a good thing that I can't; I don't know), I would tell every child in the world that whatever it is your parents, your teachers, your preachers, your government, any one at all is trying to keep you from learning about, that's exactly what you should be learning about and you should do whatever it takes to gain access to that information. :woot:

[Lots o lafs]

Reviewers are B!T{H$. They don't know anything. It's pg-13, this is somewhat like that whole Star War ep-3 freak out. O god he gets burnt to a pulp. If your kids have seen ep. 3 they can see TDK.
Actually the joker seams to know everything he's doing and openly wants to do it.

[Conebone69]

This is not too dark for kids at all

[Banquet]

Assuming the kids in question want to see the movie, I say take them and let them decide for themselves if it was "too dark" (I don't even know what that's supposed to mean). This whole idea of protecting the innocence of children by withholding information from them seems awfully naive to me. Maybe you should talk about the movie with your kids after seeing it, explain the more complicated parts, answer their questions, and stress the difference between reality and fantasy, but assuming that withholding information from children will be to their benefit just doesn't make sense. The lesson learned from being shielded is one of weakness. The lesson learned from being trusted is confidence. I'm know I'm generalizing, so if your kid is the exception to this, fine. But I also know that for many of us, once we were old enough to realize we could go behind our parents' backs and expose ourselves to whatever evil our parents thought we couldn't handle, we did it with a vengeance and I don't think that's what you really want. If I could (and maybe it's a good thing that I can't; I don't know), I would tell every child in the world that whatever it is your parents, your teachers, your preachers, your government, any one at all is trying to keep you from learning about, that's exactly what you should be learning about and you should do whatever it takes to gain access to that information. :woot:

dang adhokk, you should be role model of the year. Then all the kids in the world can explode their brains with sex and drugs and violence, so they can be.. um, trusting and confident about how their authority figures aren't.. um, to be trusted? And then they won't have to worry about discovering adult things "with a vengence" because they will already know and won't be weak or...oh nevermind just have my strong, confident jaded babies already!

[Octoberist]

This is not too dark for kids at all

then again, you're a crazy person, so I don't know.

[adhokk7]

dang adhokk, you should be role model of the year. Then all the kids in the world can explode their brains with sex and drugs and violence, so they can be.. um, trusting and confident about how their authority figures aren't.. um, to be trusted? And then they won't have to worry about discovering adult things "with a vengence" because they will already know and won't be weak or...oh nevermind just have my strong, confident jaded babies already!

I think you may have missed the part where I said that, essentially, it might not be a bad idea for parents to discuss the movie with the kids after seeing it, to explain the more complicated parts, to answer their questions, and to stress the difference between reality and fantasy. Guiding a child through complicated or sophisticated subject matter is a *good* thing, was my point there, whereas simply shoving a child's head in the sand (or strapping duct tape over their eyes and ears, if you prefer) and pretending their absolute ignorance can somehow protect them from bad ideas is naive and is probably destined to backfire. I'm saying, in short, that on this subject, I'd rather side with Neil Gaiman, Alan Moore, Frank Miller, and Stephen King than with Fredric Wertham. To each their own, though.

[Banquet]

I think you may have missed the part where I said that, essentially, it might not be a bad idea for parents to discuss the movie with the kids after seeing it, to explain the more complicated parts, to answer their questions, and to stress the difference between reality and fantasy. Guiding a child through complicated or sophisticated subject matter is a *good* thing, was my point there, whereas simply shoving a child's head in the sand (or strapping duct tape over their eyes and ears, if you prefer) and pretending their absolute ignorance can somehow protect them from bad ideas is naive and is probably destined to backfire. I'm saying, in short, that on this subject, I'd rather side with Neil Gaiman, Alan Moore, Frank Miller, and Stephen King than with Fredric Wertham. To each their own, though.

Sure, when children happen upon complicated issues in their own lives, but to take them to a movie knowing it will go way over their heads only to have to explain difficult and decidedly adult moral issues to them later and make them understand it in the context of a work of fiction, it gets kind of... unnecessary.

In any case, I totally respect your opinion and just wanted to declare that someone to have my babies at least once tonight. :whatever:

[CaptainClown]

some people get this idea of not showing a kid tdk or any extreme movie is a way of censoring them. That is not the case, just at a young age it isn't necessarily ok

[adhokk7]

In any case, I totally respect your opinion and just wanted to declare that someone to have my babies at least once tonight. :whatever:

I'd *totally* have your babies at least once tonight. Nothing like a good midnight snack. :hehe: :grin:

[Banquet]

I'd *totally* have your babies at least once tonight. Nothing like a good midnight snack. :hehe: :grin:

Good good! I'm glad someone can enjoy them before their shelf life expires. :funny:

[beyond_death]

I've seen it twice now, and I'm of the opinion that it IS a bit too dark for kids. I saw a few kids in my cinema that looked about 4-5 so I dont know how they handled it, but even for me, there were a few scenes that made me go holy crap that was freaky.

[Lots o lafs]

where do you live?

[SonikDeath]

I saw it, and im 21 and even i thought it was scary, i jumped but that couldve been because of the volume, cinemas are always loud. The film was pretty dark.

[ray243]

The thing is...kids May bored with the deeper meaning inside TDK.

[Lots o lafs]

Where is TDK showing already?

[jdlynch1]

Yeah but the whole sex scene at Harvey's party and the fake Batman being hung with a noose could traumatize a couple of kids.

[Orb]

Any pop ups?

[jdlynch1]

Like to scare? The whole noose scene scared the s*** out of me.

[djchristensen]

It just proves, you should be 13 and older to see this film, no kids, if you see any adults in the theatres this weekend. Give them a friendly warning the kids may not like this movie. if the kids won't shut up or the people talking or texting, it is totally fine to throw popcorn and tell them SHHH!, if not get the theatre police to remove them.

[terry78]

It just proves, you should be 13 and older to see this film, no kids, if you see any adults in the theatres this weekend. Give them a friendly warning the kids may not like this movie. if the kids won't shut up or the people talking or texting, it is totally fine to throw popcorn and tell them SHHH!, if not get the theatre police to remove them.

Friendly warning = getting your ass beat by a parent.

[Lots o lafs]

A 10 year old can get into the movie without parents... so... he should be able to see it with his parents.

[Shofie]

Or better yet, a 10 year old shouldn't see it alone, period. It's one thing if a parent deems it a worthy risk to take their young child in to see it, at least the parents can explain confusing parts or scary things...but no way in hell theaters should be letting a 10 year old kid in to see this by themselves.

[Vaako]

someone brought a 4th grader into the cinema. he was laughing the whole time.

[souvlaki]

Yeah but the whole sex scene at Harvey's party and the fake Batman being hung with a noose could traumatize a couple of kids.

Actually, when the fake Batman hung on the noose hit the Mayor's window, I have to be honest, I jumped as well. I saw Batman 89 in the theater when I was eight, and that scared the crap out of me. I can't even imagine what this movie would have done to me if I saw it when I was a kid. Probably would have scarred me for life.

[Adam Munroe]

Coming from someone who has seen the movie, I frankly wouldnt be comfortable bringing a kid under 13 to see this film. The vast majority of the violence is off screen (even the pencil trick is edited so you dont actually see the pencil penetrating skin for even a millisecond), but the tone of the film, along with the effects for two-face may be upsetting for some children. The best thing to do is to screen this one first. I assure you, two-faces effects are what make this film come close to crossing the rated r line.

[Adam Munroe]

Coming from someone who has seen the movie, I frankly wouldnt be comfortable bringing a kid under 13 to see this film. The vast majority of the violence is off screen (even the pencil trick is edited so you dont actually see the pencil penetrating skin for even a millisecond), but the tone of the film, along with the effects for two-face may be upsetting for some children. The best thing to do is to screen this one first. I assure you, two-faces effects are what make this film come close to crossing the rated r line.

[DAMU RYDER]

Friendly warning = getting your ass beat by a parent.

lol i co sign that

[Mr. E]

In terms of violence, everything was handled extremely well. Close to an R rating? I don't think so. Some of the things in the film will go right over their (and maybe some of the adults) heads. It was more emotionally gripping than anything else, and most kids won't even understand it. I would say kids 10 and up could handle this one. The violence and death is smart for the most part, not grusome and mean.

[djchristensen]

lol i co sign that

Then just throw skittles at them when their kid starts crying and daddy won't take them out to cry outside. But I feel that if a teen/adult is texting, talking loudly, you have full right to ask them to put the phone away and tell them to be quiet.

[Secret Fawful]

How much does the sex scene show? Is it just two fully dressed people standing up off of each other? Or is there nudity?

[djchristensen]

How much does the sex scene show? Is it just two fully dressed people standing up off of each other? Or is there nudity?

None, both he and she are ugly.

[StillTheKing]

If I remember right it was just the guy zipping up his pants and the girl buttoning her shirt up

[Ace of Knaves]

i havnt seen he film but from what people have said most of the violence is suggested and not actually full on shown. but i was wondering is there enough action scenes to keep kids entertained for 21/2 hours because if not i think they would get bored or not understand the complexities of the film?

[starvingwriter]

That's why I go to midnight showings. Most parents won't have little 5 year olds out that late and I can enjoy the movie with my 11 year old and not listen to screaming traumatized little children.

I wouldn't take my 5 year old to this movie, even though he wants to see it. He's gonna have to wait until he's a little older and then can catch it on DVD.

[Staxeon]

A 10 year old can get into the movie without parents... so... he should be able to see it with his parents.

How? For one its rated PG-13. For two, I don't even think its legal to leave a 10 year old unsupervised by themselves.

[terry78]

How? For one its rated PG-13. For two, I don't even think its legal to leave a 10 year old unsupervised by themselves.

Depends on where you live. Most theatres are commandeered by teenagers, who don't check ID and don't give a rat's ass who gets in.

[Staxeon]

Depends on where you live. Most theatres are commandeered by teenagers, who don't check ID and don't give a rat's ass who gets in.

True, but I'm more so speaking to the kind of parent who would drop their 10 year old off at the movie theater with $20 and say "have a good time". Or the mall, or any similar situation. They're not daycare centers, someone needs to supervise them.

I'm directing my reply to the notion that "A 10 year old can get into the movie without parents". We've all been discussing the idea of parents taking their children to the movie with them. The sheer thought of a 10 year old going to see TDK strikes me as not only ridiculous on many levels, but downright illegal.

[inflames]

True, but I'm more so speaking to the kind of parent who would drop their 10 year old off at the movie theater with $20 and say "have a good time". Or the mall, or any similar situation. They're not daycare centers, someone needs to supervise them.

I'm directing my reply to the notion that "A 10 year old can get into the movie without parents". We've all been discussing the idea of parents taking their children to the movie with them. The sheer thought of a 10 year old going to see TDK strikes me as not only ridiculous on many levels, but downright illegal.I'm taking my sister thats 10 and im 18, and it isnt illegal if you have permission (which I do) so w/e:whatever:

[Staxeon]

I'm taking my sister thats 10 and im 18, and it isnt illegal if you have permission (which I do) so w/e:whatever:

I meant a 10 year old going to TDK alone. Or leaving a 10 year old alone anywhere for that matter, would be illegal in the sense of neglect. Parental permission is not the issue.

[jdlynch1]

Hey I don't mind if there is kids, I only get pissed when peoples phones go off or someone brings a baby or a child who won't stop crying or shut up. That's why movie theatres should be like small communist countries and beat the crap out of anyone who annoys other movie goers without any liabilities to the theatre. :woot:

[Travesty]

Hey I don't mind if there is kids, I only get pissed when peoples phones go off or someone brings a baby or a child who won't stop crying or shut up. That's why movie theatres should be like small communist countries and beat the crap out of anyone who annoys other movie goers without any liabilities to the theatre. :woot:Oh man, have I almost gotten my ass handed to me by fathers whos babies are crying at the theater.

I'll tell someone to be quite, and if they don't listen, then I'll purposefully sit in between them and whoever there with, and just act like I'm in their living room.

But babies! I just straight up tell the parents to take it outside QUICKLY. Most of the time, people will just all yell, "yeah, get the kid out", and then everythings solved, but sometimes the parents snap. And I don't take to kindly to people who feel its ok to bring a crying child to a theater, and then get onto ME, as if I'm ruining their experience.

[TNC9852002]

Bale said that children under 9 or 10 should stay away from TDK and I wholeheartedly agree. Not only would it probably bore little kids to tears, but it has a lot of violence and scary moments that might not be very entertaining for a kid to watch.

-TNC

[Ace of Knaves]

yea i had a full blown fight with some dad when i went to see the first hellboy. i just said to him not aggresivly "why bring a baby to the cinema?" especially one with all sorts of noise and explosions like hellboy. he just started screwing at me, handed the baby to his wife and swung for me!!! so it ended up being a punch up which resulted in us both kicked out!! i spose i done everyone else in the cinema a favour though getting him out aswell!!

[zeptron]

Originally Posted by Kotaku.com.au

Kid Freaked Out By The Dark Knight: Parent Or Government To Blame?


A mother with an eight-year old child decides to take her son to see a movie. Kung Fu Panda? Nope. How about Get Smart? Forget it. This mum decides that The Dark Knight is appropriate. Doesn't matter that the film has an M rating, there's Batman Lego, and kids play with Lego! Infallible logic there.

It's a true story, according to an article by Alison Stephenson on News.com.au. Here's a quote from the mum in question:


"I'm horrified, this movie is rated M and I almost feel it's heavier than an R rated film. I had to cover his eyes and talk to him throughout to cover some of the dialogue.

"I mean these companies market Lego products to children like my son. This movie should definitely be rated higher. We're going to go and get some sunshine and go somewhere happier!"

I'm not sure what the mother was expecting - an M rated movie is hardly appropriate for an eight-year old - but what is apparent is that her understanding of classification symbols is vague at best. Shame there's no government initiative designed to educate her, isn't it?


They didn't read the rating enough. It's PG-13 not PG. Some reviewers warned that they shouldn't take children to watch the Dark Knight because there is some scary scenes that children shouldn't watch.

Hopefully this won't turn into another Batman Returns situation... or else we'll be getting another campy Batman movie again >.<

And then after the 2nd campy Batman movie, they'll reboot the franchise again!

[Ace of Knaves]

what a stupid ignorant women. it sorta reminds me of them people a few years back who complained and tried to sue mcdonalds for making them fat! some people just dont deserve life

[bcgvh]

Well, I just got back from seeing it, and I'm totally in shock of how amazing this movie really is......I think it may be safe to say that we got our rated R Batman movie. :woot: I was surprised at how violent and intense this movie got at times. Joker's scenes even had me on the edge and that rarely happens. What an awesome movie!!! But, yes, I think this is definitely an adult movie and it's freakin' dark...

[CaptainClown]

Too Dark for children? maybe Should you take your child to see it? no I honestly can now safely say I would not take my kid to see this movie. Amazing, not dark but just disturbing.

[comic_book_guy]

i doubt this film will be that violent, obviously if i had kids i would watch it alone first and see...but it can be that bad.

[StrainedEyes]

They didn't read the rating enough. It's PG-13 not PG. Some reviewers warned that they shouldn't take children to watch the Dark Knight because there is some scary scenes that children shouldn't watch.

Hopefully this won't turn into another Batman Returns situation... or else we'll be getting another campy Batman movie again >.<

And then after the 2nd campy Batman movie, they'll reboot the franchise again!

God, if some woman was talking to her kid in an effort to cover up dialogue during a movie I was trying to watch, I'd tell her and her kid to get the **** out of there.

[Tron5000]

True, but I'm more so speaking to the kind of parent who would drop their 10 year old off at the movie theater with $20 and say "have a good time". Or the mall, or any similar situation. They're not daycare centers, someone needs to supervise them.

I'm directing my reply to the notion that "A 10 year old can get into the movie without parents". We've all been discussing the idea of parents taking their children to the movie with them. The sheer thought of a 10 year old going to see TDK strikes me as not only ridiculous on many levels, but downright illegal.

10 year olds can get into the movie. PG-13 just means that parental guidance is suggested for those under 13, not required.

Then again, my mom once bought me NIghtmare on Elm Street tickets and came back after the show. But I was a good kid. I behaved myself in public.

[Tron5000]

Oh, and I don't think it's too dark for most kids. My dad would've taken me to see this when I was like 7 or 8. I think the fear toxin from BB was probably more downright "scary" than anything in TDK. TDK did have some intense scenes, as well as violence and death, but most of it was not graphic in nature. We rarely saw blood, although Harvey's face is pretty jacked up.

[terry78]

If your brats are playing Gears of War and **** without any nightmares, they'll be fine with this.

[Batman2005]

the scene with the fat guy complaining about his insides was pretty hard for me to watch.
the joker had scary scenes as well.

[Ace of Knaves]

If your brats are playing Gears of War and **** without any nightmares, they'll be fine with this.

thats the thing, so many kids these days are used to violence i dont think it will disturb them. but its questionable whether they should see a film about terrorism and phychological torture. over here theres so many kids running round stabbing people im afraid the media will start having a song and dance about the links between violence and films and games

[BLACK-SPIDEY]

thats the thing, so many kids these days are used to violence i dont think it will disturb them. but its questionable whether they should see a film about terrorism and phychological torture. over here theres so many kids running round stabbing people im afraid the media will start having a song and dance about the links between violence and films and games

yeah when i was playing GOW some 9 year old was swearing and stuff......wow......whats with kids today?

[MaskedManJRK]

Just from Two-Face's look and other things, like Joker's Magic Trick, unless the kid is, like, super-mature, I'd wait around the 10-11 mark. But, that's just me.

[comic_guy04]

Oh man, have I almost gotten my ass handed to me by fathers whos babies are crying at the theater.

I'll tell someone to be quite, and if they don't listen, then I'll purposefully sit in between them and whoever there with, and just act like I'm in their living room.

But babies! I just straight up tell the parents to take it outside QUICKLY. Most of the time, people will just all yell, "yeah, get the kid out", and then everythings solved, but sometimes the parents snap. And I don't take to kindly to people who feel its ok to bring a crying child to a theater, and then get onto ME, as if I'm ruining their experience.

Amen to that brotha, that happened to me last time when I saw The Hulk. This time if it happens and the dad wants to get loud, if he's of average size I might be inclined to knock his ass out. To all you parents with babies who want to see TDK GET A GODDAMN BABY SITTER, leave them with your mother or whoever you have who's trustworthy. Taking a baby to a movie with explosions probably isn't gonna work out, and especially on opening day, noone payed $8.00 to listen to your kid scream.

[Metal Spidey]

It depends on how mature you kid is. I was a mature kid and I was allowed to watch R rated films and I never got nightmares or turned violent or whatever.

[comic_guy04]

It depends on how mature you kid is. I was a mature kid and I was allowed to watch R rated films and I never got nightmares or turned violent or whatever.

Same with me, most of our generation(last 25 years) have been raised on Death Wish, Robocop, Terminator ect and turned out fine. Sheltering kids isn't a good idea because when they are finally exposed to it they won't know how to react.

[Nightwatcher11]

Yea my brother would flip out from seeing Heath and his performance.... not to mention Two Face. Nope aint gonna happen, I'll let him watch it on Blu-ray or DVD, maybe.

[Leenie]

Well, I don't have kids, but after seeing the movie, I would NOT let my kids watch it until they got older (at least 11 or 12 years of age).

There are so many reasons to not bring children to see this movie:

1. It's a REALLY long movie, and kids have short attention spans, so they are more than likely to get impatient.

2. The plot alone would go over their heads.

3. It's very dark, intense, and disturbing.

[Eddie Brock]

It is too dark for kids. Whilst we adults laugh away at the Joker scenes, it's just not appropriate for a child to see a man slam a pencil into someone's head. And the kidnapped fake Batman video? That disturbed even me - which was a good thing, but it wouldn't be if I was a kid. And I have to agree with Leenie, the plot is too heavy for them to even follow - so they wouldn't enjoy it like we have.

[Obsidian]

Same with me, most of our generation(last 25 years) have been raised on Death Wish, Robocop, Terminator ect and turned out fine. Sheltering kids isn't a good idea because when they are finally exposed to it they won't know how to react.

However there is a difference between sheltering kids and acting responsibly by exercising discretion with regard to what movies a child can see.

[Steelsheen]

yes this movie is too dark for kids. i wouldnt recommend anybody under 12 to see this movie (for one thing they wont understand that nuances in the story anyway). i had grown adults in the two viewings i've had who were squirming with Two Face and the violence with the Joker.

[Browncoat]

The story and length is a bit much for kids, but I don't think it's too dark. Obviously, you don't take a 5 year old, but Bale was right...9 or 10. Two-Face was the most grisly thing in the movie, but the Joker scenes aren't graphic (though intense) enough for me to say it should have been R. There were a few kids definitely under 10 in my theater who didn't get scared, were very well behaved, really enjoyed the movie, and their parents had no complaints either.

[CaptainClown]

If your brats are playing Gears of War and **** without any nightmares, they'll be fine with this.
Its not a matter of having nightmares at this point. This movie could easily inspire some really bratty ****ed up kids. For the good of children they should just not see it

[CaptainClown]

Same with me, most of our generation(last 25 years) have been raised on Death Wish, Robocop, Terminator ect and turned out fine. Sheltering kids isn't a good idea because when they are finally exposed to it they won't know how to react.It isn't really sheltering them from violence. It is more like not showing kids how to be evil. Our generation has had some violent movies but the Joker is on a whole other level of evil and disturbing. I really felt like going out blowing up buildings and doing wild and crazy stuff after seeing that performance.Now, if I am thinking that, then god knows what the kid who is neglected by his parents is thinking..

[adhokk7]

Its not a matter of having nightmares at this point. This movie could easily inspire some really bratty ****ed up kids. For the good of children they should just not see it

Yes, for the good of the children. It's really good of you to look out for the children. :hehe:

http://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk295/adhokk7/hpsc30.jpg

[CaptainClown]

actually for the good of the children is not a good way of putting it. For us in the future and not having to deal with a wannabe don't take your kid.

[webhead921]

I absolutely loved this movie. It was absolutely fantastic, and without a doubt the best Batman film in my opinion.

However, this movie should not have been rated PG 13. I was terrified in this movie. It is probably one of the most suspenseful movies I have ever seen. It's dark, surprising, violent, twisted, and just plain scary. Honestly, if the daredevil director's cut got an R rating, this should definitely get an R rating. This movie makes daredevil director's cut look like barney

[Tron5000]

Its not a matter of having nightmares at this point. This movie could easily inspire some really bratty ****ed up kids. For the good of children they should just not see it

So you speak for "the good of children." Glad you weren't my dad. I'd never have seen Die Hard, or Nightmare on Elm Street, or Halloween...And I wasn't a "****ed up kid."

A kid who isn't easily scared or isn't a moron who thinks he can do the crazy things that the bad guy does in a movie is perfectly fine seeing this film. Plus, it could also teach the kids a few lessons. About knowing what lines you can't cross, good triumphs over evil, not everything is always as it appears, look deeper than the surface...

[adhokk7]

So you speak for "the good of children." Glad you weren't my dad. I'd never have seen Die Hard, or Nightmare on Elm Street, or Halloween...And I wasn't a "****ed up kid."

A kid who isn't easily scared or isn't a moron who thinks he can do the crazy things that the bad guy does in a movie is perfectly fine seeing this film. Plus, it could also teach the kids a few lessons. About knowing what lines you can't cross, good triumphs over evil, not everything is always as it appears, look deeper than the surface...

100% agree.

[CaptainClown]

So you speak for "the good of children." Glad you weren't my dad. I'd never have seen Die Hard, or Nightmare on Elm Street, or Halloween...And I wasn't a "****ed up kid."

A kid who isn't easily scared or isn't a moron who thinks he can do the crazy things that the bad guy does in a movie is perfectly fine seeing this film. Plus, it could also teach the kids a few lessons. About knowing what lines you can't cross, good triumphs over evil, not everything is always as it appears, look deeper than the surface...
again, not the good of the children as in their innocence. They have already seen violent movies probably so its not the violence that is why they shouldn't see it. THey shouldn't see it because Jokers way of thinking is so seductive that it would be easy for kids to immitate. This is also a generalization of kids, but a majority i have met are not ready for a movie like this. Die Hard, Nightmare on Elm, halloween, hell even robo cop were very gory movies. This movie however is on a different level of why I would censor it though.

It is not about violence but the message that is given. Especially with an antagonist even people like myself want to emulate. If you want to show your kids violence thats your own thing, but this could definitly cause some really deranged kids.

[Tron5000]

again, not the good of the children as in their innocence. They have already seen violent movies probably so its not the violence that is why they shouldn't see it. THey shouldn't see it because Jokers way of thinking is so seductive that it would be easy for kids to immitate. This is also a generalization of kids, but a majority i have met are not ready for a movie like this. Die Hard, Nightmare on Elm, halloween, hell even robo cop were very gory movies. This movie however is on a different level of why I would censor it though.

It is not about violence but the message that is given. Especially with an antagonist even people like myself want to emulate. If you want to show your kids violence thats your own thing, but this could definitly cause some really deranged kids.

Sorry, I just disagree with the notion that a film can "cause some really deranged kids." Crazy kids are crazy; the movies didn't do that to them. Now, if a kid has been abused his entire life, sees this film and thinks, "Joker's kinda crazy and cool...I could cause anarchy like that,"...well, that kid's F'ed anyway. He was going to be loony no matter what.

[CaptainClown]

Sorry, I just disagree with the notion that a film can "cause some really deranged kids." Crazy kids are crazy; the movies didn't do that to them. Now, if a kid has been abused his entire life, sees this film and thinks, "Joker's kinda crazy and cool...I could cause anarchy like that,"...well, that kid's F'ed anyway. He was going to be loony no matter what.
Thsi is more or less a society that has been neglecting their kids and they are reaching out for attention in bizaree manners. That is how we got that whole emo scene. Hell even gangster rap in the suburbs. People are impressionable whether you like it or not. THe main antagonist is eccentric, charismatic, funny, and absolutly evil. To emulate him would make you the "coolest" guy ever. To figure that this character won't have an impact on your child would just simply be ignorant.

Let the kids be kids, anyway, why do they have to see all this crazy kinds of movies. Whatever happened to ghost busters orwilly wonka and the chocolate factory.

[Franklin Richards]

It's not about ****in' up your kids. It's about jading them too soon.


Let them be kids a bit longer.


:thing: :thing: :thing:

[Massakre]

the scene with the fat guy complaining about his insides was pretty hard for me to watch.
the joker had scary scenes as well.

that was pretty intense.. they were on some Saw-type stuff right there

[Frosty81]

Poor parenting is far worse than any movie.

It's funny because this past Sunday I was talking with my grandma about the books I like to read growing up. It was all horror stories, murder stuff. She said at one point she was concerned. I grew up on action movies that were very graphically violent. Everyone I knew did. That said, brought up in a healthy environment, I would consider myself balanced. As an adult, I don't have the stomach for gore and whatnot. It has a different meaning now.

[Ace of Knaves]

ive said this before but ill say it again because someone brought it back up. blaming physchos and deranged kids on films and video games is the biggest cop out ever. people no matter what age who see a violent film or play a violent game(manhunt especially) that do evil things or copy them are ****ed up anyway there is no way the particular medium can be blamed. it happened in england a couple years back where some kid smashed his friends head in with a hammer and all the media n that blamed it on manhunt which got it banned(bastards i love that game!!). this kid was obviously deranged anyway and its just ignorant and lazy to think a game or film can just flick a switch in someones brain and make them do this stuff.

[Tron5000]

Poor parenting is far worse than any movie.

It's funny because this past Sunday I was talking with my grandma about the books I like to read growing up. It was all horror stories, murder stuff. She said at one point she was concerned. I grew up on action movies that were very graphically violent. Everyone I knew did. That said, brought up in a healthy environment, I would consider myself balanced. As an adult, I don't have the stomach for gore and whatnot. It has a different meaning now.

Word. If you raise your kids correctly, no matter what they watch, they won't become the Joker.

[Franklin Richards]

It's not about them growing up and becoming the Joker. It's about them growing up too soon.


Don't take your kids to see this movie. Let them sneak in or pirate it like we had too. At least they'll have earned it.


:doom: :doom: :doom:

[DarthSkywalker]

It is all about your kid. If they trust you and you can talk to them, you can take them to this film. If you are an awful parent and your kid loses it, your fault.

[android fusion]

Well, after watching this film, I can rightfully say ,IMO, that it was indeed terrifying. But the sense of fear I felt was the most amazing fear I have ever felt. It was the mix of hype/anticipation, excitement, my love of the Joker, and awe of the Imax, that created an amazing sense of fear. Now, let me get back on topic…

I think this argument is really pointless. We should not be debating over whether or not a child should see this movie or not, but be discussing if the parent can make the right choice in knowing if their child can handle it. Children, just like adults, are different and are each capable of dealing with things differently. They have different morals, tastes, and fears just like us. It is up to the parent, to decide whether or not their child is capable of watching a dark movie, judging by their previous history. If a child is known to be scarred easily, or has emotional/behavioral issues, brining them to TDK is obviously a bad idea. A thick-skinned well-rounded kid on the other hand, with no history of such, will most likely be fine. It shouldn’t be a matter of sheltering them from bad material, its about deciding whether they are capable of handling the type of film it is.

Let’s take the movie "It" for example, a novel originally written by Stephen King. Very similar to TDK. Its about a clown reeking havoc among humanity…but in this case, the clown is a pure monster, lives in the gutters, and eats little children. It’s a movie that has scared millions of people, including kids, bringing about phobias of clowns to a whole lot of people. This movie for a better use of words was ****ing scary. My best friend and I watched this movie in 2nd grade, we were around 7-8 years old. After watching it, we thought the movie was by far the funniest thing we had ever seen. The fact that something as insane as a clown in a gutters, was eating children, was just so incredibly stupid that it just made it hilarious. We realized this was a movie, it wasn’t real, and we were the type of children who had a strong grip on reality. Meanwhile, another kid could watch that movie and be scared stiffless. It is about the child’s capability to handle scary material.

So parents, its up to you, is your child the kind of kid that can handle TDK, or will you have to wait a few years. Bottom line, in my opinion… I think if a child is easily scared or not able to handle that kind of material, they should not see the movie. As well as children with behavior/emotional problems. The ideas and messages the Joker gives out can very well have a bad influence on the type of child who isn’t mentally stable.

Ps: In my own opinion though, I think taking a young child to the Imax to see it, no matter what kind of person, is just a little too much though. The Imax can bring about a sense of fear that you just can’t get watching it at home. I say wait till a kid is (atlesast) 10 years of age, if you're gonna see it there.

[Sawyer]

Well, I don't have kids, but after seeing the movie, I would NOT let my kids watch it until they got older (at least 11 or 12 years of age).

There are so many reasons to not bring children to see this movie:

1. It's a REALLY long movie, and kids have short attention spans, so they are more than likely to get impatient.

2. The plot alone would go over their heads.

3. It's very dark, intense, and disturbing.

Same. Hell, even the scene where The Joker was holding the knife in Gamble's mouth had me squirming a little bit. And I'm 18.

It's a great film, but it aint a superhero movie. It's more of a crime epic. Kids wouldn't really appreciate it.