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Why do parents bring little kids to R-rated movies?

Jan 29, 2007, 03:41 PM | by Gilbert Cruz

Categories: Film

Denzel_l In the summer of 2004, I caught a late show of the Denzel Washington remake of The Manchurian Candidate (pictured). The trailers had begun when a woman and her toddler walked in. The child proceeded to cry intermittently throughout the entire film, which was rated R for violence (I believe Denzel bites a piece out of Liev Schreiber's back at one point).

That same summer, my father and I were sitting in an Upper West Side theater on a Sunday afternoon, watching the abysmal Exorcist: The Beginning. Several rows in front of us and to the left was an entire family—mother, father, two kids and a baby in a stroller. The baby whined, the kids ran throughout the aisles. At one point, on screen, a child gets ripped apart by hyenas.

I think you see where I'm going with this. This Christian Science Monitor article, about taking children to R-rated movies, makes me wonder: who are these parents? First of all, who knows what permanent damage all that sex and violence is inflicting upon that poor child? (The article focuses on how some proposed changes meant to make the ratings system more transparent could help parents who may not realize just how much inappropriate content a particular movie might display, but really, do you need a more explicitly detailed "R" to know not to take kids to an Exorcist film?)  Second, a theater full of grownups just paid ten dollars to see a movie—rent Cars and keep your dang kids at home. Third, if you're not sure what adult content a movie has in store, check out this site, which minutely details in almost a comic way instances of sex/nudity, violence, profanity, etc. (it also summarizes what a film's lesson may be, if for some reason you find that important).

What are your experiences with kids in R-rated movies (or even violent PG-13 rated movies)? Do you bring your rugrats if you can't find a babysitter? Have you ever been shocked at the sight of a young'n at a grown-up movie? Is it the MPAA's responsibility to be more precise in their ratings? The theater's responsibility to more effectively manage who is going into R-rated theaters? The parent's responsibility to be better parents? Your responsibility to say something?

So much to ponder.

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Alex Fri, Aug 8, 2008 at 09:52 PM EST

I think a kid can be any age to see a G or PG rated movie, as long as you can tell that your child will be interested in it. PG-13 minimum age, I think should be 11. Then again, you should take into consideration how much you know your child. As for R-rated movies, 13. Trust me. I'm 13, and we already know that stuff. (That, "stuff".) Although, other parents may have different views on this. As long as your crying baby doesn't complain through the whole movie, I'm good. I personally have never seen a R-rated movie, so I don't have any experiences with crazy children. Although I found a PG crowd to be roudy. I just have to be able to deal with that.

Zeus Wed, Aug 6, 2008 at 01:21 PM EST

I believe the same thing the other people are saying. I mean, look at "The Happening" for instance, gory, especially the time when the man at the window shot that older kid right in the face after he knocked on the door and kept on yelling dicusting names to the fellows inside. And the person that cranked up the lawnmore and let it run over him. The little kid I saw there was petrified. How come people can't just let their kids stay at home with a baby sitter and let them take care of the child while the parent goes out to see the special "R" rated movie. I think it would be a whole lot better then filling their little mind with sex and stuff.

BaconPie Thu, Jul 24, 2008 at 11:32 PM EST

Just saw the Dark Night. Intense, bloody, scarily violent film. I counted no fewer than 10 children under the age of 5. Many more between 6-12. And of course, guess where the movie theater is: in the worst section of my city. Shocking? No - expected. And normal folks can no longer say anything for fear of confrontation, lawsuits, etc. Ignorance breeds violence. I feel like the world is ending when I see things like this go unquestioned. People should have a license to have kids.

Kari Martin Sat, Jun 28, 2008 at 08:29 AM EST

I saw The Happening yesterday. Three women and a 4 year old sat in front of us. Lions were ripping arms from people about 20 minutes into the movie. The little girl started crying and got up to leave. The young grandmother pulled her back and made her sit down. no coddling, no shielding, no nothing. I was pretty angry and informed a manager. He said that there was nothing he could do and he was correct. Very sad commentary on "parenting" today.

decapitor Wed, Apr 16, 2008 at 03:34 PM EST

the type of parents that would take a small child to an R rated movie are most likely not doing any other part of their parenting correctly either. There should be child services agents at the movies using them as a fly trap for abused children.

Miguel Thu, Mar 6, 2008 at 07:23 PM EST

A lot of violence for me never hurt me, but to some kids it does, like the very gore movies they have now will have you at the neck. Some parents are really morons to let there kids watch those gore movies, the kids turn out to follow no rules as they keep watching.

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.... Wed, Dec 12, 2007 at 09:44 PM EST

I am 16 years old, I believe the only problem with rated R movies is that they show nudity, I thought that was for unrated movies. If i wanted to see breasts going up and down and guys just enjoying themselves by touching them then i would watch unrated movies, i wanted an action movie but without that much action if you know what i mean. (nudity should be for unrated movies not rated R and they should stop showing nudity in movie theatres.) I hate seeing little kids that look like they are 11 (or kids that are 11) in the movie theatre watching rated R movies, where most the time, nudity is shown. How a parent can allow their child to watch this is way beyond me. (to tell the truth, i think people who can stand nudity in R rated movies are sickos no offence for people who do watch it. Thats just my opinion

M Thu, Nov 15, 2007 at 07:43 PM EST

Was horrified during "Fight Club" to see a guy walk in with a 5 year old during the last 10 minutes, just in time to see Ed Norton shoot himself in the face. After the movie, I really let the dad have it. His defense? "We like the movies, but we don't like Lion King or that sort of thing" Interestingly, the kid seemed really touched that I cared - he kept smiling at me, really sweet & shy. For the record, I now have two little boys, age 3 and 5. And I haven't even let them see Lion King yet, as I think it'd be way too scary. Kids often like stuff "younger" than you'd expect.
On a side note though: I've also heard grown-ups "shushing" noisy kids during screenings of kids' movies (Lassie, Cars, etc). I have no sympathy there. It's a kids' movie, there will be kids there. Sorry, but that's one case where the child-free need to get the DVD. Kids make noise, even when they're not being "bad".

Lori Sun, Jul 8, 2007 at 01:49 PM EST

If I have a movie unduely disturbed by kids, I always complain AFTER the movie and get free movie passes as an apology. If enough people did this, then the theaters wouldn't find it profitable to allow kids in the R-rated movies. Just a suggestion.

Laura Mon, Jun 4, 2007 at 08:59 PM EST

You said it! I just went to the newest Pirates movie. Great movie for my sister and I (we are in our 20s), but some numbskulls, make a LOT of numbskulls brought thier 4 to 6 year olds. At the child hanging scene, you could hear "Mommy! There's a kid up there!" and such forth throughout the flick. Gad, if these parents have to explain have the violence, sexual jokes, etc to thier kids, they better not complain to the theater. They were idiots to begin with.

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Antonio Sat, Feb 3, 2007 at 09:48 AM EST

I think theaters should screen who goes in to see a movie. Yes, I know that they see money as more important. However, they could offset their loss by attracting people who just want to see a movie without the little ones in the audience.

Kali Rosales Wed, Jan 31, 2007 at 02:12 PM EST

I work at a movie theater and this happens to me 24-seven. parents will scream at me cuz there 5 year old is terrifiyed while seeing saw 3 "ummm hello IDIOT this movie is "r" and does have blood and guts and other discsting stuff" i swear they dont use their brains!!!! well i didnt really call the costomer an idiot...but i wanted to!

Kate Wed, Jan 31, 2007 at 08:45 AM EST

Amen Christina W. There were several movies I saw that would be deemed "too scray or graphic for 7-8 year olds to watch", but I saw them and was in awe,not scared. It basically comes down to this: Babies, toddlers, and at least children age 6 and under should really not attend movies for adult audiences. They can't comprehend the material let alone stay still. And who can blame them, they're kids! Parents, I understand the need to go out and see a movie once in a while, but if you can't get a sitter, then don't go. Even if you do do it, sit on the lower level on an end so if your baby/toddler starts acting up, TAKE THEM OUTSIDE. Trying to calm them down in the theater is distracting and down out rude for others. Or better yet, go to movie theater that caters to families. My local theater has "Mommy & me" showtimes for mom's with babies and kids, and its either chick flick movies or at least pg-13.

Christina W. Wed, Jan 31, 2007 at 02:37 AM EST

Cont. from last post. Look, I won't deny that I was very, very mature for my age (and my parents never would have allowed me to see a film they didn't have confidence I could handle, or that was overly violent -- hence, I wasn't allowed to see Hoffa in the theater), but I think we often overestimate how "damaged" children can become from watching movies. I think it is also important to point out that I never saw PG-13 or R-rated films as a child in-lieu of a babysitter, I argued, begged and sometimes bartered to be allowed to see them. Furthermore, my parents would never put-up with me being disruptive at a kiddy flick - let alone a more adult-oriented picture. I get annoyed with the babbling toddlers or annoying tweens at movies they clearly shouldn't be watching the same as anyone else, but I think it is important to note that just because it might not be right for some kids, doesn't mean that every 10 year old who saw Jurassic Park was terrified. Some of us were in heaven.

Christina W. Wed, Jan 31, 2007 at 02:23 AM EST

I think it totally depends on the child and the film. For instance, my parents saw Batman when it first opened in 1989 (I was 6 and a half), my mom told me about it, and I begged her to take me. Twice. I saw Single White Female in the theater when I was 9 with my mom and older sister (who was 15); my mother was forced to sit through JFK 3 times - because yup, I became obsessed with the Kennedy assassination in the third grade, and badgered her into taking me twice (she saw it first with my father). Although they wouldn't take me to see Indecent Proposal in the theater, my parents did let me watch it on Hotel Pay Per-View a few months later (I was 10). I saw Jurassic Park at a 10 PM show opening night, which coincided with my last day of 4th grade. The only time I was ever censored re: movie choices was with Disclosure, when I was 12. I read the book instead, and when I did see the film 6 months later (on video), I flaunted the fact that the book was far more graphic than the film.

t3hdow Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:34 PM EST

LOL Jer

That story was awesome.

CBC Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 02:54 PM EST

I went to see The Descent perhaps one of the most violent and terrifying movies to come out in a while. A family walked in with four kids under the age of 10. It was disgusting.

Jer Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 01:58 PM EST

When my wife and I went to see Return of the King at an 8:30 Saturday show that was about half full, a couple in front of us had brought their 3 or 4 year old daughter. About 20 minutes in, the daughter was bored and walking back and forth in their row, and humming songs. Finally I leaned forward and "shh"ed them. After a couple more minutes, my wife leaned forward and said "You need to take her out of here." The lady turned around and said to my wife "I hope you don't ever have kids." I said "Clearly, you shouldn't have either."

jenjen Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 01:04 PM EST

brandonk, sometimes I hate it when parents bring kids to a kids movie (bad experience during "Cars"), especially when they bring five kids under the age of five and at least three of them are having a really bad day..........

Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 12:56 PM EST

I have taken my son to a PG-13 movie. I took him to The Hulk, because he was infatuated with the Incredible Hulk. I did the research and when I discovered it was rated for a bare assed Eric Bana and Cartoonish violence decided to let him go. It couldn't be any worse than the crap they show on Nickelodeon or Cartoon network that he watches at daycare.

Howard Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 12:53 PM EST

Hamburger Royal, the MPAA system is a disaster just for the reasons you mention. Then add in the fact that it's not enforced, and it' really a mess.

Grace, you might not want to refer to going to a film as "adult movies".

Honeybee's idea is a great one, but it means nothing unless theaters enforce it. But the bottom line is what Ceballos -and others - wrote: it's parent's responsibility to be better parents, and that occasionally means you don't get to see a movie on the night you want if someone else can't watch the kids.

KTS Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 12:27 PM EST

Two things.

First my personal experiences with movies. I saw "Basic Instinct" while seated in a theater between my father and my maternal grandmother. Mind you I was 19/20+ at the time. It was one of the most uncomfortable experiences of my life. My dad kept cracking jokes in order to try and ease the ickiness factor. My husband still makes fun of me for not knowing better.

My family went to see "Clash of the Titans" when it came out. Both parents, me and my younger brother (-3 1/2 years from me). They probably should have checked it out first as he ended up sleeping in their bed for about 6 months after that.

As for those who say it's up to the parents, I have to disagree. Children aren't able to make the decision from themselves not to go to a movie their parents take them to. It is society's job to protect the helpless. I can't imagine a child seeing one of the "Saw" movies. I could only sit through 10 minutes of I and I'm 36.

no-idol Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 11:18 AM EST

I agree with honeybee.

And IF there happens to be an R-rated film that might actually be a good movie (such as Schindler's List or that sort of thing) that a parent feels their child is mature enough to see....well that's what DVD/rental places are for.

My kid's are loving that we feel they're old enough to start watching "grown-up" movies....but those movies are African Queen, Halls of Montezuma and Citizen Kane, etc. After months of giving us grief how all their friends saw PG-13 movies and we wouldn't allow it (they're still not 13)...so one day we borrowed a copy of Jurassic park, knowing they were old enough to handle it and maybe even enjoy, but young enough that they were going to wish on some level that they hadn't seen it (scary). They never questioned our judgement again...I even fast-forwarded through the scenes I didn't feel comfortable them seeing (Some have been mentioned in previous posts) We were able to make our point without them seeing someone getting eaten.

Hamburger Royal Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 11:03 AM EST

I have to confess I don't quite get the MPAA ratings. Why do they offer ratings - and skewed ones at that (blown-off head - PG-13, breast - NC-17)- when the theaters are not enforcing them? Here in Europe, the film industry ratings are usually comparatively transparent and enforced. For instance, in Germany, the FSK (Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle - the German MPAA) rates film in the categories FSK-0 (General Audience), FSK-6/12/16/18 (no one under that age permitted - and, yes, the theaters DO check IDs) and FSK-12A (12 and older permitted, or six years and older in company of 18+ guardian). I can understand such a rating system to "prevent minors from harmful influences", but one that does not prevent? Wouldn't a system like the mind-the-kids site detailing what from of graphic or topical matter is seen be more effective (akin an expansion of the "Rated [] for...") without an age cap that no one needs to observe to begin with?

Hamburger Royal Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 11:03 AM EST

I have to confess I don't quite get the MPAA ratings. Why do they offer ratings - and skewed ones at that (blown-off head - PG-13, breast - NC-17)- when the theaters are not enforcing them? Here in Europe, the film industry ratings are usually comparatively transparent and enforced. For instance, in Germany, the FSK (Freiwillige Selbstkontrolle - the German MPAA) rates film in the categories FSK-0 (General Audience), FSK-6/12/16/18 (no one under that age permitted - and, yes, the theaters DO check IDs) and FSK-12A (12 and older permitted, or six years and older in company of 18+ guardian). I can understand such a rating system to "prevent minors from harmful influences", but one that does not prevent? Wouldn't a system like the mind-the-kids site detailing what from of graphic or topical matter is seen be more effective (akin an expansion of the "Rated [] for...") without an age cap that no one needs to observe to begin with?

grace Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 11:01 AM EST

I don't have any recent horror stories to share, because I haven't been to any adult movies in a long time. Because I stay home with my kids!

Movie theaters should just plain not allow young kids into violent movies. Maybe it's not their job to make parental decisions, but I really do feel that violence - especially all the recent torture/horror films - have to be warping these kids. If even one kid starts to think that killing people is cool or okay, then that's one kid too many. Plus, it's just annoying to have kids there when adults are trying to have a nice evening. If I do pay for a sitter for my kids, I sure don't want to put up with someone else's kids for the night!

Honeybee Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:52 AM EST

I think the solution is simple. No kids under 13 in an R rated film. Period. If the parents want the kids to see the film (such as the many who let their kids see the ultra gory "Passion of the Christ" - let them rent it and show it to them. Or, as they did in that case, arrange private screenings at their churches.

I've been to many, many R-rated films where the kids played in the ailes while the parents watched the sex and violence. I don't want to speculate as to why they do it. I don't care if they are idiots or too cheap for a babysitter. It's not appropriate, and it is unfair to many people - especially the many parents who go to grown up movies once and a while to escape their kids.

thwarted Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:48 AM EST

I was standing in a long line to see Freddy vs. Jason on a Friday night around 10, and was shocked to see a mom waiting in line with her kid, who looked about 6 or 7 years old.

Kid: "I don't want to go! I'll be scared!"
Mom: "You won't be scared. I took you to see Halloween and you weren't scared, were you?"

I'm not even kidding you. Of course, the kid proceeded to scream throughout the whole thing.

Victoria Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:42 AM EST

I went to see the first showing of snakes on a plane the night it opened and there were 2 6 year olds sitting behind us with their parents. It was already 10 pm (bedtime in my opinion) and the whole theater was excited, screaming "motherf*cking snakes" constantly. Their reaction to the violence and cursing I didn't get to see, but during the sex scene they cried. i felt awful for those kids.

no-idol Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:30 AM EST

I used to pre-view a movie if it says PG ! it does mean parental guidance which means there's something that prompts them to think a parent might want to know prior to viewing...kids are a little older now so I take my chances with the PG thing. Some folks just don't think.

As far as church, be a little forgiving there, churchgoer, if anything MORE kids should be at church. It is a parents reponsibility to teach their child the appropriate manners for different circumstances. A 2yr old can't possibly sit through a whole service...but kudos to the mom who tries to get them to sit as long as possible before taking them out of the church, eventually any 2+yr old can sit through an entire hour long service without fussing if they know they're going to have to....my kids did - they were told they HAD to AND they better keep quiet cause those were the rules at church.

Ang Knee Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:21 AM EST

It's worse when they bring the little dickenses to church. The acoustics! And you can't stand up and shout, "YOU'RE A TERRIBLE MOTHER!" You have to pray it out.

Macy Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 10:00 AM EST

I used to go with a guy who told me his mother took him to an adult movie when he was five. Needless to say his mother was warped and he did not follow far behind. The relationship was over in no time. People that do things like this have a real problem, either morally or ethically. If one cannot get a baby sitter stay home!

alyssa Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 09:41 AM EST

In Canada, where I live, an R rating means no kids. Not even if they're with their parents. So this isn't a problem.

mafia princess Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 08:50 AM EST

the first rated R movie I saw was (and I can't really remember depending on the years they came out) either Lethal Weapon, The Color Purple, or Aliens. The thing is I was AT LEAST over the age of 9. I think it's rude (along with the cell phones, incessant talkers etc.) to subject babies to these movies. I remember we went to see Sin City and someone brought a baby! WTF?

KTS Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 08:32 AM EST

I have two kids under 6 and I can count the number of times I've been in a movie theater since my oldest was born on one hand. Is it better to see a movie in a theater rather than wait for it to come out on dvd or cable? In a lot of instances I would have to say yes. Does that make it okay to take young children to inappropriate movies? Absolutely not. Don't have enough money or the right person to act as babysitter? Don't go. Or, as my husband and I have, go separately. It's rude and indecent to take children to inappropriate films featuring adult content. I'm not a prude, I'm not even conservative but I'm tired of parents passing off responsibility for their children, their actions and their upbringing just because of inconvenience. If you don't have another option for your children DON'T GO. It's a movie, not food, not water, not sunlight. It's not required for sustenance thus you will survive if you have to wait for dvd, or even God forbid if you have to miss it.

Kate Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 08:19 AM EST

I'm 50/50 on this one because my family took me to R rated movies growing up. It was wonderful to see some classics on the big screen at that age. However, my parents were very strict to instruct me that I was be quiet, not talk during the movie, and to be respectful of others in the theater. If there was a gory/sex scene, my mom was right there covering my eyes, standard protocol. Granted some movies where parents bring kids makes me say "What are they thinking?", but in the long run I hope it makes kids appreciate going to the movies and not "downloading" them off the internet. However, its really not kids who are the problem in theaters now, its adults and punk teenagers. Seriously, having some punk-ass teen thinking he's cool talking really loud during the movie and putting his feet up on the chair next to my head? This is why movie managers need to sit in on movies. Also, turn off the damn phone. If you make it a point to be unavailable for a couple of hours, keep it that way.

bud Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 07:38 AM EST

The movie was Traffic. A man sat behind me with his five/six year old and proceded to explain the entire film to him out loud. Someone finally told him to stop and he did. That's only one of many.

karla Tue, Jan 30, 2007 at 04:21 AM EST

When my sister and I were younger, my parents wouldn't even let us go see an R-rated movie with friends (let alone take us to one themselves) until we were 17. We weren't even allowed to see PG-13 movies until we were 13.

t3hdow Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 11:45 PM EST

To some of the earlier bloggers, what was so horrible about Phone Booth? Sure it had its cheesy moments - even Keifer Sutherland as the sniper sounded like a cackling cartoon villian - but once the movie got going, it sucked me in until the oddly anticlimactic end. At least it was short and didn't overstay its welcome.

As for this topic, I admit it's harder to relate to the rest of you, since I can't recall too many young kids being brought to inappropriate films. Either there's an alarming number of responsible people where I leave (doubtful) or I'm just oblivious to it. Or maybe I mostly quit going to the movies and watch DVDs.

Though I must comment I didn't watch many R-rated movies in theaters as a kid. I watched Rumble in the Bronx (with Jackie Chan) when I was 10, but it was no gorier than what was on TV or the videogames I played (and I played many violent games). I turned out ok though, and maybe that's the mentality a few parents have. It still doesn't make it ok though.

Tmichlin Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 11:20 PM EST

I am a parent of 2 young boys and would never consider bringing them to an R-rated movie. The cost of movies today - it is actually cheaper to pay for a babysitter than for a ticket for two kids to a movie.

When I was around 5 my mom took me and my 8 year brother to see Ammetyville Horor. Brillant idea! She had both of us in bed with her for over a week because of the nightmares. I still cannot go into a basement and not be afraid.

brandonk Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 10:46 PM EST

I absolutely hate it when parents bring children to adult movies. The one that springs to mind is "Underworld: Evolution," and the kids were like 7 or 8. I don't think adults need to see much violence and gore, but kids should definitely be off-limits.

Jess B. Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 10:44 PM EST

People just don't have common sense anymore, I swear. Even if you don't have an ethical problem with taking a little kid to an R-rated movie, you ought to be considerate of the other movie-goers and leave the kid at home. It's bad enough that some adults can't be quiet in movies -- do we really need disruptive kids, too?

I have no problem with R-rated movies. And, hell, I even saw a good number of them before I was 18. But people who bring young kids to R-rated movies? There's just no excuse!

Caroline Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 09:57 PM EST

When my bf and I saw BORAT, there was a woman in there with her 2 young boys. After the movie was over, my bf yelled at her, "You're a terrible mother". The boys kept laughing the whole way through it. It made the audience very uncomfortable. That idiot couldn't wait for home video.

Caroline Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 09:56 PM EST

When my bf and I saw BORAT, there was a woman in there with her 2 young boys. After the movie was over, my bf yelled at her, "You're a terrible mother"

Jeanne Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 09:33 PM EST

Last summer when I saw Miami Vice there was a woman with a crying baby in the theater.I think she left after several people told her to shut the baby up and one guy loudly proclaimed so the entire theater would hear: "YOU'RE AN AWFUL MOTHER!"

Sarah Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 09:27 PM EST

I remember when I went and saw "Saw II" (hehe) with a few friends. We were sitting and watching the film...freaking out and covering our eyes, while right behind us, a whole family, with 3 young chidren ranging from 5-8 years old, were watching the same movie, asking their parents: "What's happening to that girl?" Seriously people, that's some messed up stuff. That movie scared me! How traumatized must those kids be?!

Chris Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 09:20 PM EST


I saw Scream II, and in the first terrifying killing scene of Jada Pinkett a toddler starts screaming at the top of his lungs. From the front row.

Only a truly terrible parent would do bring their child to a horror movie!

JoGirl Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 09:10 PM EST

A friend of mine was taken to see a Clockwork Orange when he was 11 years old. I'm 35, and that film still disturbs me! I can only imagine what the experience did to him. Of course, taking a young kid out to see an R-rated movie is probably a symptom of much larger parenting issues that in themselves are much more damaging than seeing a bunch of fake gore on-screen.

Pede Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 08:06 PM EST

I know I'm just repeating what everyone else has said, but judging by the number of posts this is a fairly serious & common occurrence. My boyfriend & I went to see SawIII and there were many whole families there with small children. Every time there was a graphic scene all I could do was wonder what the kids were thinking & how it would affect them.

trw1570 Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:51 PM EST

The one time I really remember being appalled was the one time I saw a couple of women bringing their 3 and 4 year olds in to see Pulp Fiction. The kids didn't make much noise but I almost think I'd rather they had run up and down the aisles than sit and motionlessly watch that movie.

My sister once had the brilliant idea to bring my then 4 year old nephew to see Bruce Almighty. I wasn't thrilled but she didn't want him to get upset when we left the house without him. He was okay during the movie but a lot of the trailers were too scary for him. Over the summer she started to invite him to see Pirates of the Caribbean 2 but that would have been way too much for him since he scares easily so I convinced her to leave him behind. I took him to see Barnyard later to make up for leaving him.

wildecat Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:49 PM EST

I had a friend who brought her 10 year old nephew to see Jurassic Park. They had a long talk beforehand about how it was all make-believe and special effects and he seemed OK. However, when the dino killed "Newman" in the car, the kid ran into the bathroom and threw up. Needless to say, my friend felt HORRIBLE, but I always remember that when I have to decide what's OK for my own kids to see. My husband and I will always see the movie (like the Harry Potters) first and then decide.

But, as a parent, what bugs me even more is the PG-13 movies with their "Happy Meal" tie-ins. The rating says it's probably not appropriate for little kids, but then they're peddling toys to 6 year olds. I hate having to be the "Mean Mommy" because I won't let my kids see "Pirates of the Caribbean 2." I know for a fact that those scenes on on Davy Jones's boat will cause weeks of nightmares (actually, that disaster of a movie was a nightmare to begin with, but that's another post!)

EP Sato Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:47 PM EST

As a movie goer who's been hitting up the local cinema pretty much every weekend for the last 28 years or so (I'm now 30), I grew up as one of those kids who was taken to R rated movies. For me the experience inspired creativity, and a knowledge that had people calling me "precocious" my entire life afterwards. Given what the experience did for me, I can't hate when others do it.

That said, when my friends took their toddler to see "pulp fiction" and the kid cried throughout the entire movie, it grated on even my nerves.

But they still aren't as bad as the jerks who ANSWER their ringing cel phones in the movie. Seriously, cels have been around forever now. How can so many still be so ignorant about proper etiquette?

Silent E Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:46 PM EST

It all comes down to parenting skills. I have an 8 year old that I rarely take to even kid-friendly movies, because cute and animated does not automatically mean appropriate in my opinion. I know that some folks with small babies think they are too young to be affected, but at what cost? When you have a child, you have to be the grown-up whether you like it or not! My movie-going experience is ruined when a child comes into a grown up movie. I spend the whole movie thinking like a MOM and worrying about the kid. Someone needs to!

Emma Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:40 PM EST

The worst situation I remember was going to see American Psycho and some parent brought their three- or four-year-old. They left AFTER the naked chainsaw scene, as if that made it okay. I do agree that with older kids (say 11 or 12) it is a decision based on whether that particular kid can handle the content of the movie, but there's a limit. I'm about to become a mom and I'm a little wary of movies like Star Wars 3 where Anakin is being burned alive after three of his limbs have been cut off. But pretty much every kid I know has seen it and is okay. I figure if you've already seen the movie and you know your kid will be okay, let them watch it with you on DVD so you can talk to them about it. But if I paid $12 to see a movie, I don't want to hear you talking to your kid about it while I'm watching.

Fatima Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:26 PM EST

Showing kids R rated movies is a matter of parenting style. BRINGING kids to R-rated movies shouldn't be allowed. Maybe you have a very mature 11 year old, but in no way should kids be crying and talking in movies and it being thought of as ok.

Devin Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:20 PM EST

I hate kids being at movies to be honest, even when I know they're going to be there at an
all ages" film, so children being at a movie meant for adults is even more irritating. Though, I'm pretty sure I went to see "Jurassic Park" on my fifth birthday. I'm pretty sure I didn't make a peep (I guess I was just mature for my age), and I wasn't really scared of it that much either. I think it really depends on the child quite honestly. But yeah, in general, kids at movies are a no-no.

Brie Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:17 PM EST

I used to work at a theater that started a no kids under 6 after 6 in R-Rated films policy and I can't tell you the number of times I was personally yelled at because I wouldn't sell a ticket for a R-rated film to a parent holding a baby or toddler. Some parents are so irresponsible that the don't even think that with movies being as expensive as they are today- it doesn't cost that much more for a sitter, plus the added benefit of not traumatizing a young child with the gory and explicit scenes. Unfortunately, the policy didn't stop clueless parents for bringing there 9 year old to see some horror slasher flick because the child wanted to see it and the parents really had no idea what it was really about.

By the way- I saw my first R-rated film when I was fifteen. And I had to beg and beg my dad to take me with him to see Con Air at the second run theater since my mom was sick. I wish my parent's were the norm.

ericalina Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:10 PM EST

We saw a dad with two songs (probably 6 and 8, def under 10) at A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE. The violence alone is ridiculous in that movie (um, title?) but the sex scenes would have any parent blush to watch with their kids. We speculated the whole way home what their car ride home must have been like!

Mia Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:08 PM EST

I remember watching Jurassic Park and some mother brought her very adorable two daughters (who looked to be around 3 & 5 years old). When the T-Rex scene came on screen, the two little girls started screaming hysterically. I'm sure these kids still have anxiety issue to this day. There is a part of me that thinks the theatre should have been more responsible. Then I think that these parents are really the only ones to blame -- come on, did they think the movie was about purple-stuffed dinosaurs named Barney??

Matt DeFeo Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 07:03 PM EST

Worst instance of parents bringing a child to an R rated movie? A young couple bringing their kid to Kill Bill Vol. 1. All I could think about the entire movie is how this little girl (in a velvet dress and with an ice cream sundae) was about to have her childhood ruined.

Dre Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:51 PM EST

Rebecca-

What child needs to see Schindler's list or Saving Private Ryan? Maybe a teenager, but younger than that? Please! They should have a warped sense of reality, that's what makes them kids! Let adults deal with the hardships of reality and keep kids out of R rated films!

Val Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:43 PM EST

I went to Jurassic Park and sat next to a father and daughter. The little girl could not have been more than three. During the scene with the T-Rex the little girl cried and said to her father, "Daddy I'm going to have nightmares." Yikes!

Joe Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:37 PM EST

I have been to horror movies, like Halloween sequels or Saw movies, where people brought toddlers. Unreal. What are they picking up subconciously?

DW Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:31 PM EST

And theatre owners wonder about dwindling ticket sales - it has gotten so bad - with not only parents bringing ill-behaved children into adult films, but many adults behaving like infants - that I see 99% of films in the comfort of my bedroom with my 65 inch HD tv and a region free dvd player!! There isn't ANY incentive to make me see a film in a noisy, dirty, stinky theatre with ill bred heathens anymore - the dvd will be out in 2 - 6 month and I can wait!

Shani Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:30 PM EST

I spent several years as the manager of a multiplex, and I was shocked at the behavior of many parents, who thought nothing of taking small children to see movies clearly inappropriate for them. Almost as alarming was the number of parents who would come up to me and ask why a film had a particilar rating. They had no problem with their pre-teen seeing a film rated R for violence, but nudity? No way. If that doesn't encapsulate a lot that's wrong with American culture, I don't know what does.

Mike Morrison Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:20 PM EST

Last night at Pan's Labrynth a mother brought her two kids 4-6ish and proceeded to read to the them the entire movie! "Luckily" the gory bloody and violent scenes were too loud for me to hear her reading!

aa Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:20 PM EST

crazy, my family and i were discussing this just last night. its not just r rated horror movies either; a woman i know took her 4 year old to see titanic and was shocked that she couldn't sit still for over three hours! who are these people?

Rebecca Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:10 PM EST

I feel pretty certain that most people on this discussion board saw R-rated movies when they were young and not to their detriment. And many R-rated movies include important topics that people SHOULD discuss with their kids: see Schindler's List or Saving Private Ryan. Children's movies today do not address a whole range of important issues - if the only movie you are showing your child is Over the Hedge then they are going to wind up with a pretty warped view of the world.

Now, of course this comment is going to get a lot of heat so let me say also that some adult movies (and some children's movies too) are probably not appropriate, because the sex and violence is explicit without serving a purpose. And you can't show a kid a movie without discussing it afterward. Video is probably better and if your kids can't sit through a movie then don't take them. But its hardly child abuse to allow a child to see a great film and discuss it with them.

Ariella Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:01 PM EST

Of course I agree that screaming little kids in movies are annoying, and I can't believe some of the horror stories I'm reading. I have to confess, though, that I just remembered that I took my two cousins to see Jurassic Park III (which was rated PG-13) six years ago when they were 8 and 11. They assured me that they had seen the first two so it was no big deal and their mom said it was ok. The 8 year old boy got scared in the middle and wanted to leave, but his older sister didn't and I couldn't just leave her there, so I sat him on my lap and let him hide his face in my chest for most of it. I felt really guilty, but what else could I do, I wasn't going to drag a screaming 11 year old out of there against her will. And afterwards, the younger boy said it wasn't that bad and that he was glad he had stayed and how great the movie was, as if it had never happened. I doubt he was permanently scarred, the kids didn't make a fuss or noise, but it sucks I can relate to all the bad parents

*lauren* Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:01 PM EST

Nothing is more disturbing then seeing a mother bring their 8 year old to see "Sin City." A security guard yelled at me to take my feet off the seats, but didn't seem to have a problem with all of the under 10 kids in the audience. What the f***?

Jen Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 06:00 PM EST

I saw a kid who must have been about 5 years old when I saw "Borat". Definitely not appropriate, although I didn't hear the kid making noise. Really, it's the parents decision, though I would NEVER take a kid to an R-rated or even PG-13 movie until they were much older. I was not allowed to see PG-13 movies until I was about 12, and even later for R-rated movies, and I wasn't allowed to see the South Park movie when it came out when I was freshman in high school! It stunk for me because I missed out on a lot of movies that everyone else got to see, but I've obviously survived. Meanwhile, if my parents wanted to see a movie they'd either leave me with my grandma or, a lot more often, wait until DVD (or, video back then). The parents who take their kids to see movies are selfish and think more about their movie enjoyment than the well-being and enjoyment of their kids. Definitely not a parental instinct!

Jane Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:54 PM EST

I think the worst breach of the movie going experience that I have seen was when I went to see Scary Movie 2.Imagine my surprise when 10 minutes into the movie, I see parents and 2 kids under the age of ten walking into the theater!Parents,for every reason imaginable,keep your kids at home when going to see an R-rated movie.Especially one that starts at 10p.m.!!!!

Ceballos Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:49 PM EST

Gilbert...it's the parents' responsibility to be better parents. Period.

Peter Lynn Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:45 PM EST

If I ran a theatre, I'd have absolutely no problem letting children of any age into R-rated movies. I'd simply jack up the ticket price to around $500 for children under 10, thus making it financially prohibitive.

Sarah Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:44 PM EST

I'm a teacher...and nothing frustrates me more when a 7 year old comes to school and tells the other children in my classroom what happened in some R rated movie...and I mean gory detail by gory detail. I have absolutely no problem telling that child that "you are talking about a movie that is R rated. There are lots of kids who parents don't want their kids seeing that kind of movie so I am going to ask you to stop talking about it." Fine...let them go home to their parents and tell them what the teacher said. At least I can advocate for other parents who believe r rated movies are inappropriate for young children! What ever happened to letting kids be kids...why do some parents insist in letting them grow up too fast? Let them have some innocence for a while!

annie Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:43 PM EST

my boyfriend and i went to see "snakes on a plane" and about 10 minutes after the movie started, a woman walked in with her son who couldn't have been more than 8 or 9. we just gave each other a look and as soon as those snakes started attacking the kid was running down the steps out of the theater with his mom chasing after him. some people should not be allowed to have children.

Patricia Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:43 PM EST

I went to see Saw 3 with a nearly empty theatre, and then a man with his 8-10 year old son sat right in front of us. The kid was well behaved but it was annoying to see a parent taking his kid to see something that graphic.

Kitty Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:40 PM EST

Never mind R - which SHOULD be enough of a warning. How about PG-13 - Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Parents (I use the term loosely) brought their 5 year olds - who sobbed and screamed at the dementors, death scenes, etc. My 70+ mom was upset too - but at least she didn't run up and down the aisles.

Dan Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:37 PM EST

Bet they'd leave the kid with a sitter or stay home and rent a DVD if the theater charged $50 for anyone younger than 12 going to an R rated movie. One small independent theater in our area doesn't allow under 18's at all on weekend showings. And you can get food and "adult" drinks during the movie there too. I wonder how many adults would come out instead of renting DVDs if they knew there was at least one evening the theater was free of anyone under 18.

Kent Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:35 PM EST

I geuss my latest beefs with kids in movie theaters are a little older. Over the summer I went to go see Pulse, a movie about ghosts in electronics. Fittingly I was stuck in a theater with what seemed like 150 preteens with cell phones calling and texting each other while they ran around and destroyed my sanity.
I was so irritated by the experience I couln`t even figure out if that movie was any good, I just wished it was real so those ghosts would kill some of those kids!

KC Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:34 PM EST

went to see a midnight show of king kong. we thought it would be the only safe time. no one would bring a little kid to a midnight show of a 3+ hour movie. WRONG. woman in the front row had 4 kids under 10. they talked and yelled in chinese the entire time. finally some one in the theater "asked" her to "shut her f'en kids up". she slapped her kid and loudly yelled at them. now THAT'S good parenting.

Isabel Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:28 PM EST

The last two movies I saw were "The Departed" and "Apocolypto." Both of them had parents bringing in their little kids. They both had to be under age 10. I personally don't think kids under that age should be let into a movie. Even with the parent. Especially since they always end up crying or making noise. (Atleast from my experience)

allison Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:25 PM EST

My boyfriend and I caught a 10:00 showing of The Descent a few months back. There was a young couple with a young child in the front row. Talk about a dumb move. I couldn't believe it. The first time the monsters attacked, the kid screamed. So did I, but I'm 25 and I can get over it. I remember being 5 and unable to get over "Large Marge's" ghost from Pee Wee Herman.

Jeff Commings Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:25 PM EST

I at last turned around and said calmly, "Miss, the only one anyone should feel sorry for here is that poor baby for having a worthless mother like you."
They just stood there, mouths agape, as we walked away.

Brilliant! Brilliant!

I, too, was ahast at parents who brought preteens in to see the "South Park" movie. When the "Uncle F***a" somg came on, I looked over at the parents. They didn't flinch. When Saddam brought out the sex toy, she didn't flinch again. I was surprised that the kids were well-behaved, but my enjoyment of the movie was ruined.

I also saw a woman bring her young child in to see "Fargo." Between the sex scenes, getting shot in the face and the wood chipper, the kid was inconsolable, and the mother -- two rows in front of me -- looked surprised when the kid got upset.

Himmy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:24 PM EST

This might sound really bad, but I love reading that parental warning site to make sure the movies I do watch have sex and violence in them. I don't want to pay $10 to watch a movie I think is going to have sex and then be disappointed. It's akin to the TV warnings nowadays. If the show has a complete alphabet soup (TV-MA DLSV) I am so there!

Terri Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:22 PM EST

There was a baby in a carriage in the center aisle of the theater when I went to see "Pulp Fiction" years ago. The kid didn't fuss, and may well have slept through the whole thing, but it sure made my viewing experience uncomfortable. Just the juxtaposition of a baby carriage and the stuff on the screen seemed so wrong.

mike k Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:22 PM EST

a couple brought their little boy to see Blood Diamond close to midnight one night a couple weeks back. talk about a violent movie! the kid cried and wandered so much that employees had to ask them to leave.

Sarah Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:22 PM EST

OMG!! I just went to see Smokin' Aces last night and was sickened to hear a baby crying across the theater...not only is the movie rated R and incredibly bloody and violent, but the show started at 9pm! When we walked out after I saw the parents, who were maybe 19 years old, with a hysterical 2 year old! 2 years old!! What were they thinking? I was ready to say something but thought to restrain myself. But I also thought about the theater, and shouldn't they take some responsibility here? They won't let kids under 17 into certain films without an adult, but in this case the parents looked like kids themselves, bringing a toddler in to that bloodfest. And what about the rest of us in the theater that had to hear the kid screaming? What a mess. Sorry for the rant, but it's fresh in my mind since this just happened last night!

redgie Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:20 PM EST

Saw Children of Men with a stroller right beside me. Tried to move the stroller to get to the seat, and the mother- about 10 rows up- yelled out "excuse me, that's my baby!. The baby couldnt have been more than 6months. She started to cry 5 minutes into the movie, and the mother took her, and rocked her to sleep right by the fire exit. She put the baby back into the stroller and asked me to "please watch her"!!! The baby started crying again, and again, and after about the 4th attempt to put her back to sleep, mommy and baby left.
Next time, Spring for the babysitter first-or a parenting book- before the movie ticket!!

Patti Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:19 PM EST

We took our 9 year old son to For Your Consideration after checking it out thoroughly. He really didn't get all the lesbian references in the "movie". It was fine. We also took him to see Spamalot - he cracked up since he had seen the Holy Grail (rated "G" by the way - who knew!) - again the gay references were lost on him.

Brian Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:17 PM EST

I remember when I saw "Hannibal" a few years back and there were several families with young children watching that movie. What kid doesn't love seeing entrails or brains being cooked.
I think the problem is that some parents are too lazy (or too poor) to spend the money on a baby-sitter and so they just decide to inconvenience everyone else and scar their kids in the process.

Lauren Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:15 PM EST

When I saw V For Vendetta, a parent brought their toddler in for the movie. I could not believe it. What on god's earth was that person thinking. I also had a parent bring a baby into Superman Returns and the kid cried throughout the whole thing. Movies are not appropriate places to bring babies!

Amber Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:12 PM EST

I am always mortified by people bringing their kids to R-rated movies. I remember Stephen King writing an article about a mother taking her young child to "The Passion of the Christ." He made some really good points in that article. If I go to see, oh say "Cars" at a Saturday matinee, then I expect loud children running around like maniacs. I have a 4 month old and we took her with us to "Night at the Museum" one Saturday afternoon, but she slept through it. We also took her to "Dreamgirls" because she loves anything with music and I knew there was nothing violent in the film. She loved it, so much in fact that she started chattering loudly to Eddie Murphey. I took her out because the people in the theater paid good money to see an adult movie. Even though she wasn't fussing at all and was enjoying herself, it's my life choice and other audience members shouldn't have to have their viewing experience ruined by my child.

Andy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:12 PM EST

I'm with Vicky: super kudos to ABW. High five!

Michelle Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:09 PM EST

Funny I came across this article. I went to see "Smokin Aces" this weekend and could barely enjoy the movie since there was a 9 year old girl and her 11 year old brother sitting next to me with their father. Besides the horror movie previews, the movie was filled with violence, bad language, drug use and some nudity. The worst part?? This little girl was actually laughing at parts of the movie that should only be funny to an adult. She laughed at someone getting shot. I was so disturbed. This is my biggest pet peeve. Why bring your child to witness this??? Ugh, it bugs me more than I can type in this comments section.

Ruby Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:03 PM EST

Though not rated R, I went and saw Mission Impossible 3 this summer and a family with a young girl was sitting a few rows behind us. Halfway during the movie, during one of the big scenes, the girl started crying. The father stood up in the middle of the theatre, and instead of taking her outside, started screaming at her to shutup in front of everyone. It did settle her down (or frightened her), but I actually thing the father was way more disrtuptive than the daughter.

Vicky Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 05:02 PM EST

Wow ABW. Take a bow. That was a nice comeback.

Growl Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:58 PM EST

GAH! I hate this.

Now, I should say first that I watched some sick sh*t when I was young, being quite fond of horror and fantasy. I also started sneaking into my dad's dirty movies collection when I was in the 4th grade. But I turned out ok. I'm a feminist and a pacifist, so I can't blame the movies.

But, I think R-Rated movies should be a place where people can get AWAY from children.

Stacy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:57 PM EST

We recently saw a mother with her approximately 8 year old son at The Departed. Loved the movie, but with the violence and the language, I was horrified to see a kid there!!

Nose Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:56 PM EST

I saw The Departed with a 5-year old boy sitting in front of me with a group of about 7 adults. I also had a child sitting next to me for The Return of the King. How is a 5 year old supposed to sit still and be quiet for 4 hours? It was terrible.

Kati Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:53 PM EST

When The Rock came out, I was 13 and convinced my parents it was not only rated PG-13 but that it was educational and totally appropriate to bring my 10 and 7-year-old sisters to as well. The only explanation I have for how I managed to pull that off is that I was a good kid and my parents are none too bright. It doesn't really explain why I wanted to go see it, though... we may never know.

Roy Batty Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:53 PM EST

As long as the children don't disturb the audience by talking/screaming or
wandering throughout the theater, it's really none of my, or yes even
your, business. However, I couldn't believe a parent brought his 5-6 year old to "South Park: Bigger, Longer and Uncut." Anyone who saw this brutally funny -- and very adult -- film knows what I'm talking about.

Vicky Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:51 PM EST

If these crazy parents are bringing their underage children to the theater to watch R-rated movies, I don't even want to imagine what these crazies are letting their children watch on DVD. DVD's are way more accesible and if these people let their kids run around movie theaters, I'm sure they have very little control over what they watch at home. I blame the parents. Although the theaters should probably modify their rules about R-rated movies.

Hutchy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:51 PM EST

No No I have the all-time worst, I mean un-toppable, inappropriate kids in movie story. A few years back, I actually saw some guy with a kid maybe 4 years old.....in that Nic Cage snuff film movie "8 MM". I'm serious. No, I'm not kidding. I actually literally squirmed in my seat with that kid there, I mean I was there and saw it with my own 2 eyes and STILL can't believe that happened!! Personally I love to go see movies on any weekend that involves the opening weekend of any movie involving rap (or any rap star trying to cross over to acting), dance-offs, Tyler Perry, mistaken-identity teen comedy, grotesque horror, or any rip-off of "Scary Movie" type comedy. I'm therefore guaranteed a nice calm theater with people who have a clue why they are there.

ABW Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:50 PM EST

Years ago, a friend of mine and I went to an 11 PM showing of the horror thriller "Misery" in midtown Manhattan. In the middle of the film, a noxious, familiar smell suddenly entered our air space. We turned and saw two yuppie women changing an infant's diaper. Honestly, the baby couldn't have been more than 3 months old. I didn't say anything. But my friend did, telling them how inconsiderate it was to bring a newborn to an R-rated movie like that, especially so late at night. This infuriated the women, who spent the rest of the film insulting my friend and kicking his seat.

When the movie ended, they followed us out of the theatre, continuing to hurl curses at my friend, until one of them finally bellowed to me, "Hey, you, we feel sorry for you having such a loser friend."

I at last turned around and said calmly, "Miss, the only one anyone should feel sorry for here is that poor baby for having a worthless mother like you."

They just stood there, mouths agape, as we walked away.

Sassy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:50 PM EST

I also worked at a theater during my high school and college years. I've seen and heard everything but two incidents have always stayed with me. One was when a couple brought there 3 year old son to a midnight showing of Basic Instinct. I was appalled. The other was when a customer came to me and complained of a child screaming in a theater and the mother was just sitting there. So I told the mother she would have to leave. Well she started screaming at me and put up such a fight that my manager gave her a refund. I was furious. I'm sure she came back the next week and let her child scream again.

Andy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:49 PM EST

A story has always stuck with me: I remember reading about someone going to see Starship Troopers, and witnessing a whole bunch of families in the theater. The parents would cover their children's eyes for the sex and shower scenes, but they had no problem letting them witness the gorey violence. Some patents must be worried that their kids will grow up to be perverted sex addicts, but they have no problem if they aspire to be homicidal.

I think parents need to do two things. First, they need to teach their children responsible movie-going behavior: sit quietly and intently, don't make a fuss and enjoy the movie. Second, they need to take their children to see Barnyard and Happy Feet instead of something they want to see. Being a parent involves cinema-sacrifices, and I guess some morons can't seem to live with that.

Howard Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:48 PM EST

Gatey, you have to remember that there are a whole lot of people out there who have no concept of manners or any consideration for anyone else but themselves. It's unfortunate, but there's very little in that vein that surprises me anymore.

Jess Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:48 PM EST

For the record, all parents should be using this site: www.kids-in-mind.com. It breaks down a movie's appropriateness into categories of vulgarity, sexual themes/imagery, violence, and includes portions on alcohol use or difficult conversations that might ensue from taking a child to said movie.

Jess Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:48 PM EST

For the record, all parents should be using this site: www.kids-in-mind.com. It breaks down a movie's appropriateness into categories of vulgarity, sexual themes/imagery, violence, and includes portions on alcohol use or difficult conversations that might ensue from taking a child to said movie.

jim Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:46 PM EST

A trip to planned parenthood would prevent alot of these "poor" parents from taking their kids to movies because they can't afford a sitter and are too selfish to do what's in their child's best interest. I will never forget a young woman with a 6 or 7 year old walked in.. the kid was fine he had his little books and didn't make a sound.. until Leatherface showed up with his chainsaw.. and she kept shushing him when he started crying.. finally after 20 minutes she got up and took him out to thunderous applause and comments from other movie goers.

Jill Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:44 PM EST

Ahh, I'm going to get yelled at here, so I'll preface -- it's NEVER ok to take little kids to these types of films. That said, I think besides the baby sitter issue there's another reason why. I think it was more common back in the 1970s and earlier to take kids to inappropriate movies. I know I saw the Exorcist, the Omen, Amityville Horror and the R-rated version of Saturday Night Fever in the theaters, all before my 11th birthday. So did the kids I went to school with. I suspect some people feel like they got through those films unscarred, so taking their kids won't do any damage. I don't agree with that at all, but there it is...

D Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:40 PM EST

Several years ago I went to see "Silence of the Lambs". There was a child of about 5 years of age directly in front of me. He was quiet and well behaved throughout and watched the movie intently. I, however, could not concentrate because all I wanted to do was scream at the mother and remove the child from the theater. I worried about him every time something horrendous happened.

Howard Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:39 PM EST

I have a friend who has a ten year old son now, but when he was five and under, she would see movies first before taking him, even the G-rated flicks, so she'd know what she'd have to explain to him. I always gave her credit for that. That gets a little expensive, but I'd imagine that it avoids a lot of problems.

gatey Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:39 PM EST

We saw Smokin' Aces on Saturday...and about 3/4 of the way through we heard a toddler crying. That movie was so violent and graphic that my wife was mortified at times...what kind of parents would do that to their kid (or to the rest of the theater for that matter)...

cranky Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:38 PM EST

I think that bringing young children to R-rated movies is a form of child abuse and should be treated as such. When you decide to have children, you give up certain personal liberties such as seeing movies in the theater whenever you feel like it.

Howard Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:37 PM EST

Marykate, I saw "Phone Booth" too (wow, three of the people who saw it on one blog). I still want those two hours back.
The latest instance of this I had was with "The Descent" last summer. Great move - take your toddlers to a horror movie. The parents will get theirs though - when they have to shell out for therapy before their kids will go near a forest.
As so many people's entries have indicated, there are a lot of stupid people out there, and unfortunately, they've been breeding. The question of responsibility is an interesting one though; the 'R' rating is "Under 17 not admitted without parent or guardian" (And all the R movies mentioned deserved the rating). Still, the theater should have some responsibility to maintain a quality experience for its patrons. The final responsibility though, must be with the parents to do more research before bringing kids to the theater.

Jael Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:36 PM EST

screenit.com also outlines all the details of a movie, including intense music.

There's no reason for a toddler to ever see an R-rated movie. The first R-rated movie I saw was Braveheart; I was 12. However, my parents talked to adults who'd seen the movie and we viewed it at home. This way we could pause things if it was too intense, and we could talk about the movie as it progressed.

Teens are another problem entirely. I refuse to go to any movie, no matter what it's rated, if I think teenagers may want to see it. Get off your phone, shut up, and put your feet down!!

JB Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:36 PM EST

My first "real" job was working at a movie theater, I'll never forget having to explain to this guy that he couldn't take his 7 year old with him to see Show Girls (it was NC-17). This guy was FUMMIN' cursing and screaming at us...I couldn't believe it...Show Girls for goodness sake?!?!

Dave Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:35 PM EST

I was just complaining about this last week! It drives me nuts when I walk into an R-rated movie and see young children in the audience. Whether it's sex, violence, or language, there is absolutely NO REASON for kids younger than 10 to be seeing these movies. Not to mention, when I go to an "adult" movie, I don't want to be disturbed by the sounds of young children and their parents trying to deal with them. I won't complain about this during a screening of Shrek (no matter how "adult" some of its jokes may be), but I will complain during a showing of, say, a Tarantino movie or the latest Saw. I've noticed young children (I'm talking no older than 5 or 6) in two of the most recent movies I've seen, Children of Men and The Departed. Are you kidding me? What is wrong with these parents?? If that's not an example of bad parenting, I don't know what is. I don't care how badly you want to see a movie, if you can't get a babysitter, stay at home with the kids. You're a parent, act like one.

sue Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:33 PM EST

11:00 showing of DaVinci Code - only PG-13 but still...a family sits behind us and every time the Paul Bettany flagellation scenes come on they laugh..

Dave Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:33 PM EST

I was just complaining about this last week! It drives me nuts when I walk into an R-rated movie and see young children in the audience. Whether it's sex, violence, or language, there is absolutely NO REASON for kids younger than 10 to be seeing these movies. Not to mention, when I go to an "adult" movie, I don't want to be disturbed by the sounds of young children and their parents trying to deal with them. I won't complain about this during a screening of Shrek (no matter how "adult" some of its jokes may be), but I will complain during a showing of, say, a Tarantino movie or the latest Saw. I've noticed young children (I'm talking no older than 5 or 6) in two of the most recent movies I've seen, Children of Men and The Departed. Are you kidding me? What is wrong with these parents?? If that's not an example of bad parenting, I don't know what is. I don't care how badly you want to see a movie, if you can't get a babysitter, stay at home with the kids. You're a parent, act like one.

Winona Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:31 PM EST

At a screening of Kindergarten Cop, my mother and I overheard from behind us a woman exclaim: "Well! This isn't a kid's movie!!!" about 15 minutes in. We couldn't stop laughing - could it have been the PG-13 rating that may have given her a clue?

As a new mother, I am very excited that we live in the age of DVDs - if a movie isn't suitable for the kid to see, wait until it comes out on DVD, and when the kid's asleep, watch it then! How difficult is this?

glimmertwins Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:30 PM EST

Walking into the movie theater to see "Apocalypto," I saw a mother and father with their two small children and a child in a stroller (!) in the back row.
It wasn't long before (predictably) the kids started acting up. Who could blame them? What were their parents thinking, you might ask. My answer is the parents wanted to see the film, and dragged their kids with them, without any understanding of whether the film was appropriate or not for their children. Maybe they couldn't afford a baby-sitter, but that's no excuse.

Dee Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:28 PM EST

I went to see The Cell and a woman was there with her three year old on her lap. I kept thinking, 'Lady, what are you thinking? They just pulled out Vince Vaughn's intestines!'

jon Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:27 PM EST

Reading this article made me a 27 year old male wince at the type of material in these movies. I don't see them. If these movies can do "permanent damage" with all that sex and violence upon our "poor children" what do you think it is doing to us adults? Some of the same I say, look at our society!

Beth Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:25 PM EST

I'll never forget going to a 10:30 PM showing of "8 Mile" and seeing not one, not two, but three sets of "parents" in attendance with their children, who ranged in age from 3 years old down to being strapped a Baby Bjorn. Really, people? Little Timmy needs to stay up to hear Eminem rap and to watch him screw Brittany Murphy in an auto factory? Yes, the main character's name was B-Rabbit. No, this does not make it appropriate late-night viewing material for your toddler. Get a sitter, or STAY AT HOME!!!

khia213 Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:23 PM EST

I was in the theater with a woman and her two under seven year old kids for "Dreamcatcher." Really bloody film. They cried, out of fear and hid their eyes. She took phone call after phone call, talking as though she were at home. When we walked out after the movie, was she not parked in a handicap space without sticker or tag to show for it? Beyond rude!

Cliff Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:23 PM EST

I still have a vivid memory of the couple who brought their pre-school son to "Boogie Nights" and spent large chunks of the movie frantically covering his eyes. I don't know if it's ignorance or economics (a ticket is cheaper than a babysitter), but it's a ridiculous trend. Some theater chains don't allow young children in R-Rated films after 8PM...I'm totally in favor of this rule and hope they actually enforce it.

Shaun G Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:22 PM EST

Late-night (10ish) showing of "Sin City" in Philly. Parents with kids who looked like they were between 4 and 8. And it was definitely a case of parents wanted to see the movie and didn't want to pay for a babysitter. I felt so bad for those kids.

Along the same lines, went to a Switchfoot concert in the fall, and there were parents with their INFANTS watching from the balcony. Who takes a baby to an ear-splitting rock concert? (By the way, Switchfoot rocked.)

Jay Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:21 PM EST

I remember seeing the remake of "Shaft" with Samuel L. Jackson. A guy brought his twin daughters, both age 6. What made it even worse was that the guy chose to repeat some of the choice swear words Shaft said during the film.

And we wonder why our kids don't seem to have any problems posting nude videos of themselves on MySpace?

Stacey Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:20 PM EST

My friend and I switch off on the "Designated Manager-Getter" each movie. Loud talkers, crying babies, constant cell-phone ringing - the DMG goes to find the person in the manager's blazer to take care of the problem. Always go for the manager - the ushers usually don't want to deal with it. If people don't want to observe common courtesy on their own, then I will make sure for the two hours that I'm sitting in my $10 seat that it is militantly enforced. :)

Kaybar Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:20 PM EST

I wonder if it would be acceptable for the ticket-taker to say to those parents "this movie contains violence, sex and nudity and is not appropriate for children. Are you aware of this?" If the parent still decides to buy the ticket, he marks himself as an uncaring parent to the entire waiting crowd. Of course, people who do this kind of thing to their kids probably wouldn't care what anyone else thinks, anyway.

Monica Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:19 PM EST

Last week I saw Pan's Labyrinth and there were two families with there kids. If I were a kid I would have been scarred for life by seeing that film. There is a freakin' monster in it that eats babies!!! I don't understand why parents do this either. Find a sitter or wait until the R rated movies come out on DVD and watch it after the kids are sleeping.

Todd Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:14 PM EST

When "Kill Bill" came out, I took myself to a mid-week matinee. Figuring that this time would be a quiet time and I would be able to enjoy all the Tarantino and Uma I could handle. I was one of about 4 people in the theater when a family on NINE walked in. 2 parents and 7 children, not one of them above 7 at the most including 2 infants. I left in disgust that a parent would do such a thing. I asked for a refund and told the manager about the situation and he seemed to not be worried at all. Maybe too much violence really does wear off on us until we don't even realize what is violent for real anymore.

Shirley Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:14 PM EST

The problem lies in that the theater has no trouble selling a ticket to a parent with small children to the r-rated film. While some theaters state they won't allow children under a certain age to shows after a certain time they rarely enforce their own policies.

Slammy Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:14 PM EST

When I went to see Team America, there was a woman there with a little boy and girl, maybe 10 and 7 respectively (in that area anyway). Obviously, she thought it was a kid's movie because it had puppets. It should've become obvious to the woman quite quickly that it wasn't for kids, but even as the cursing and sex and vulgarity mounted, she remained in her seat, unlaughing. The boy of course thought it was all hilarious (especially when anyone talked about sucking c**k). The woman finally took the girl and exited, leaving the boy alone for a good fifteen minutes. Then she returned, sans daughter (don't know where she left her). She stayed in the theater with the boy until the film was about two-thirds done, then got him and left. The family was still hanging out in the hallway outside the theater as I left myself. I think the woman was really upset, but she'd laid down the money and wasn't going to leave. Obviously, the rating system can't work if people don't pay attention.

Heather Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:13 PM EST

The most moronic thing I remember seeing? The parents who brought a 3 year old to Scream 2. It was a midnight showing, cops were making sure no one underage got in without a parent (there were a lot of those), and here I am with college buddies in a group of crazy college kids...and in walks a couple with a little kid. The child didn't let out a peep, but several people came close to flat out telling them that movies that are labeled "horror" (no matter whether it's true horror or not - the blood opportunity is there) aren't kiddie movies. Plus the time was absurd. At midnight, what are the chances the kid will cry and ruin the experience for everyone else? The people who tend to bring small children to a movie are often the ones that refuse to leave when the kid gets upset, because they spent the money on the tickets, dang it!

Aron Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:12 PM EST

I have been in the theatre and seen small children and babies with their parents in movies like Jackass 2, AVP, Attack of the Clones, and Lord of the Rings.

Marci Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:10 PM EST

It's funny that this was mentioned. I just went to see Blood Diamond yesterday and someone had their little kid (3 or 4 years old) with them. As I was watching the movie, I thought "who brings their little kid to see Blood Diamond?"

Stacey Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:08 PM EST

marykate - I WISH I hadn't seen Phone Booth, but alas I did. And there was a family with three kids under the age of ten there. And yes, despite their physical presence in the movie theater, they were not watching the movie. They were crying, and talking, and climbing on the seats. And instead of taking the kids out of the theater, the mother was more intent on yelling at other patrons who were trying to get her to hush up her restless brood. I mean, do the math on this. Phone Booth was a 90 minute movie - to pay for three kids tickets, plus popcorn and soda it had to have come out to more than what it would have cost to have a babysitter for two hours.

aramis Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:06 PM EST

Working at a theater for my first job, I can tell you as a ticket-taker, I saw things you would not believe. But for the most part, the most common occurence was witnessing parents who would buy tickets for their kids to see movies like "South Park" and then leave their kids alone and go watch something else. Kids were should NOT have been old enough to know what the 'F' word is, let alone repeat it. As for actual movie-going, I recently had to sit through a viewing of "The Black Dahlia" with the ENTIRE ROW in front of me filled with kids from the lower branches of high school. Chit-chatter, incessant giggles and whispering, cell phone rings, etc. plagued the entire movie. And it happens all the time. I agree. Parents need to be more responsible when it comes to their children's theater-viewing habits.

Green Gummi Bear Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:05 PM EST

These people don't care, there are probably plenty of parents who would never dream of doing this, but there are always those that a $7 child ticket is alot cheaper than two hours of babysitting. They don't care what you think, they put up with the kid all day, they're used to whining and someone unhappy, and they're not even related to you...so forget you. Plus, they don't want to sit through the crappy child movies out there, they want to see the naked hot starlet themselves. I'm not a parent, but I hope I'd NEVER do this. One more thing, with all those people who talk through a movie and leave their cell phones on, you're suprised of parents with kids? More anoying, probably, more suprising...nope.

melissa Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:05 PM EST

When I saw "Braveheart" in the theater, parents were there with their couple little kids, in the front row I think. I remember them seeming bored rather than scared by the violence, which is better even if it was distracting for other people in the theater.

I think it's ultimately a parent decision, and providing some information about the content of films is useful to those parents who take an active role in their kids' lives. If parents think some R-rated material could be suitable for their children, then maybe they should go to the movies together but be willing to leave if the movie goes farther than the parents prefer.

Rhea Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:04 PM EST

I have a terribly low tolerance for people bringing their children to see inappropriate films. I've gotten into many a heated discussion and have had several disruptive people w/ toddlers thrown out of the theater. I'm sorry you can't afford a babysitter, but you should just wait for the dvd. What can a 3 year old possibly get out of seeing a subtitled film such as "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon"?

marykate Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:03 PM EST

No one saw Phone Booth. I find it hard to believe that kids were watching that in the theater. No offense, Stacey!

When I went to see The Return of the King, there was a man behind me who fell asleep and was snoring the entire time. The ushers didn't do ANYTHING about it. Jerks. I had to leave. I don't know if they ever destroyed the Ring or not (i'm kidding).

nathan Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:03 PM EST

It was quite funny, I went to Pan's Labyrinth on the weekend, low and behold there was a family there with their 8ish year old son. Needless to say, they left during the White Ogre scene, but at least the kid was able to witness the "wine bottle" scene, I'm sure he'll remember that for some time.

Bethany Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:02 PM EST

I remember seeing "What's Love Got to Do With It?" at the theater. A couple rows ahead of me sat a mom, dad, and two kids under the age of 4. I was horrified. Great movie but clearly made for adults. Seeing Ike beat and rape Tina was horrible to watch as an adult. I can't imagine what was going through the minds of the children.

Vicki Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:01 PM EST

I've seen parents take children under the age of 6 to see "Hostel" and "Saw II". That just appalls me.

Lori Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:01 PM EST

It's so offensive when idiot parents take their kids to movies that are not age appropriate. It's selfish and it does a disservice both to the other adult movie-goers and their own children. I have a 4 year old that I don't take to movies that are appropriate for his age. The reason? He hates going! He fusses, fidgets, whines and just generally does not enjoy himself. So why subject him to the unpleasant experience of going to the movies? These ignorant parents should either spend the extra money for a sitter or wait for the movie to come out on DVD.

Jess Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 04:01 PM EST

Maybe if there were more movies that both parents and kids could enjoy, this wouldn't be a problem... or if movie theatres were well-maintained to the point that children could attend their own movies at the same time as parents attending theirs...

dj Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 03:56 PM EST

this summer i was at the movie theatre and COULD NOT BELIEVE it when a man walked in with his two sons under the age of 12. the movie was BORAT!!!!

paige Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 03:55 PM EST

I saw a whole clan of kids when i went to see Land of the Dead and countless other horror flicks. when i was a kid i was always sneaking into r-rated movies but i was also very quiet and deeply interested. kids just have to have the right mentality to see certain things.

Stacey Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 03:51 PM EST

I've seen kids at clearly R-rated movies like "Hannibal" and "Phone Booth." Seriously, what in those movies could possibly appeal to a child? I have absolutely no problem getting a manager to ask parents with disruptive children to leave. None. Everybody else paid the same $10. Just because you can't afford or be bothered to get a babysitter, doesn't mean I have to sacrifice my enjoyment of the movie. I consider it a badge of honor when I get dirty looks or get cursed out by said parents. It's not the MPAA's responsibility or even the theater's to act as a parent. It's the parents responbility to be the parent.

Keri Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 03:51 PM EST

I'm always shocked when this happens. This summer, I was at an R-rated film where a mother let her one year old crawl around on the floor of the theatre. The best thing to do is get an usher. They got her out of there ASAP. It's best not to be personally involved (e.g. asking the mother yourself to take better care of her children.) You never know who you're talking to. The theatre staff, in my opinion, is quick and eager to help make the audience majority comfortable. Still, it is unbelievable that this even needs to be done.

Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 03:50 PM EST

A good friend of mine remembers the time he went to see True Lies, and a dad brought his two grade school-age kids into the theater. Dad was fine with his boys seeing all sorts of violence and explosions, but the minute Jamie Leigh Curtis started that parody of a strip-tease, man, they were out the door.

Greg Mon, Jan 29, 2007 at 03:45 PM EST

I was a teenager when my father decided to take myself and my very small brother to Mars Attacks. Needless to say my brother did not find it funny and screamed in horror until we were forced to leave. It remains a scarring experience for me to this day...however, I don't think my brother even remembers it and now he is a budding screenwriter and director. Take what lesson you will...

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