daburto9876

The best example of this I can think of is Schindler's List. As nearly every student of history is aware, the Nazi regime, from 1933 to 1945, committed some of the most unspeakable acts, intensely violent acts, against not only ethnic Jews, but ethnic Slavs, Poles, Serbs, Romani (Gypsies), the physically or mentally disabled, and anyone else whose views ran contrary to Nazi doctrine. This is very clearly, in my opinion, a topic for mature minds only. Any film representation that tries to honestly communicate the amount of depravity extant in these atrocities deserves an R rating in my book. Nevertheless, the story of Oskar Schindler and his deeds, in the very face of the evil that surrounded him, is very much a tale that is virtuous, lovely, of good report, and praiseworthy. In my opinion, someone who thinks negatively of the film solely because of the violence, the nudity, and profanity, dishonors the memories of those who suffered at the hands of these criminals. They certainly didn't have the freedom to "turn it off." Contrast these sentiments with the following comment by horror author Stephen King, describing the ultra-violent film The Devil's Rejects, included in his list of top 10 movies of 2005: "No redeeming social merit, perfect '70s C-picture cheesy glow; this must be what Quentin Tarantino meant when he did those silly Kill Bill pictures." Again, I suggest that we let gospel principles guide our media selection, and not the MPAA. Before viewing a film, read reviews and try to determine whether viewing it will edify your spirit. Don't feel like you have to finish a movie if you are not feeling edified. As for movies and kids, some topics really are only appropriate for adults or mature-minded teens.

I know this may ruffle a few feathers, which isn't necessarily my intention, but I do not use the MPAA rating as my primary basis for letting my children watch a movie. The notion of avoiding R-rated movies as a rule is I suppose as good a place start as any, which is probably why it has meen mentioned in talks and articles. However, films are an educational tool, whether intentional or not, and young children, teenagers, and even adults are sponges soaking up what is being "taught" in a movie. Does each panel member of the MPAA have a copy of "For the Strength of Youth", whereby they determine what is appropriate or not? There are movies rated PG-13, PG, or even G, that have no redeeming qualities in my opinion, conveying teachings that are blatantly in opposition to what is true and right. On the other hand, every once in a while along comes a film that somehow captures the essence of a gospel truth, but the MPAA will slap it with an R-rating. To summarize, it's important to understand the underlying principle behind the counsel we are given concerning media and entertainment: If there is anyting virtuous, lovely, or of good report, or praiseworthy, we seek after these things.