TV and Movie ratings aside...


Bini
 Share

Recommended Posts

Perhaps you and I have a different take on what constitutes taking the L-rd's name in vain. Without going into listing specific moments in many of the programs you listed - just last night my wife was watching "Love it or list it" while I was cleaning up the kitchen. The couple highlighted in the particular broadcast walked into their home with new upgrades and excitedly exclaimed, "OH MY ---!"

The Traveler

How do you survive going anywhere? Only travel to places that are occupied by Mormons?

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Replies 53
  • Created
  • Last Reply

Top Posters In This Topic

How do you survive going anywhere? Only travel to places that are occupied by Mormons?

Agree. But even then you hear it. You can't shelter yourself completely from it. You can be in the world but not of the world.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I think there's a difference between putting up with it because that's what my business requires of me, versus deliberately seeking out forms of entertainment/recreation that include it when there are other forms of recreation/entertainment that would not expose me to that kind of thing.

We can't control what goes on in the the world. But if we can commit to keeping it out of our temples, surely we could commit to keeping it out of our homes?

(Note that I'm speaking theoretically here, not setting myself up as an example--I think it's pretty clear here that my sensitivities are far less refined than, say, Traveler's.)

Edited by Just_A_Guy
Link to comment
Share on other sites

How do you survive going anywhere? Only travel to places that are occupied by Mormons?

Though I travel a great deal - that is not near the concern that I have about the things I willing invite and put on display (TV, video and music) in the sacred privacy of my home.

I would like to say my home is like the temple and a fine example but it is not and something that concerns me. Recently I offered the missionaries a ride in my car and they asked that I turn off my radio. I guess I could have been offended and thought them as acting somewhat "holier than thou" but I found their presents, even with my radio turned off, somewhat refreshing and a relief.

The Traveler

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I think there's a difference between putting up with it because that's what my business requires of me, versus deliberately seeking out forms of entertainment/recreation that include it when there are other forms of recreation/entertainment that would not expose me to that kind of thing.

We can't control what goes on in the the world. But if we can commit to keeping it out of our temples, surely we could commit to keeping it out of our homes?

So you're saying I shouldn't seek out Anderson Cooper because in this one episode where he was covering the typhoon he interviewed some Filipino who exclaimed OMG?

Or I shouldn't seek out Ty's show where he builds a house for some "deserving families" because some of them exlaims OMG when they come home to see their new home?

Or I shouldn't seek out hosting my kids' end of season soccer parties because 10 year old kids exclaim OMG OMG OMG when they get their trophies? Or maybe online invite Mormons to the bdays because the non-Mormons tend to say OMG when they see the bday cake...

Edited by anatess
Link to comment
Share on other sites

There is very little on TV that I feel can be recommended. A while back I decided to exclude anything that took the L-rd's name in vain. One by one I eliminated almost everything on TV (even news and sports) - with the exception of General Conference and BYUTV programing.

The Traveler

I'm going on a different vein than anatess brought up. While I agree it's a lost cause to avoid stuff because of misuse of the Lord's name, I salute you on the task of eliminating so much of tv.

Especially the news.

I doubt your reasoning is what impresses me, but I subscribe to the theory that overwatching of the news is the opposite of educational and rather reprograms the brain's understanding of reasonable fear and danger. I think intelligent reading of the newspaper will provide what you need to know, but the video news media is pretty much fear and terror-mongering beyond the scope of what's really happening. Not that horrible things aren't happening in the world, but by watching the news too much your brain loses the ability to correctly perceive threats to you.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

How do you survive going anywhere? Only travel to places that are occupied by Mormons?

There is a stark difference between having to live in the world and inviting the world into your home, seating it on the living room couch, and serving it hot chocolate.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I'm going on a different vein than anatess brought up. While I agree it's a lost cause to avoid stuff because of misuse of the Lord's name, I salute you on the task of eliminating so much of tv.

Especially the news.

I doubt your reasoning is what impresses me, but I subscribe to the theory that overwatching of the news is the opposite of educational and rather reprograms the brain's understanding of reasonable fear and danger. I think intelligent reading of the newspaper will provide what you need to know, but the video news media is pretty much fear and terror-mongering beyond the scope of what's really happening. Not that horrible things aren't happening in the world, but by watching the news too much your brain loses the ability to correctly perceive threats to you.

It might be because of my parents' upbringing (we watched movies and TV a lot as a family - we were the very first house in my town to get a movie player - Betamax at that time before VHS even penetrated the market - and my dad is big on current events so news is a constant stream, either on TV, radio, or newspaper) or it might be because I'm a logical thinker... but I don't see a difference between news on newspaper and radio or TV. I don't lose perspective just because Fox or CNN is having a heyday with whatever story is happening.

But yes, you rarely see kids playing outside in my neighborhood - I'm guessing for fear of their kids getting kidnapped. There has been a few of that happening in the city and they were all over the news for days. My kids freely roam the 2 mile subdivision in their bikes. The other kids that do it are the Bosnians who go to the clearing to play flag football. And that's pretty much it.

I listen to news on the radio in the morning and there are days where it's just a rundown of who got killed when... that's when the mp3 player comes in handy.

Edited by anatess
Link to comment
Share on other sites

There is a stark difference between having to live in the world and inviting the world into your home, seating it on the living room couch, and serving it hot chocolate.

There's also a stark difference between watching Bad Ink where it's expected to hear OMG all day long (okay, I don't really know, I haven't seen it but it is probably one of those - I just saw an ad for it in my computer) and watching Jeopardy and the contestant exclaims OMG when he correctly answers the double.

If watching Jeopardy is ruining the house as a temple, your TV can only be on for BYU Channel. Because, that's about the only channel that you can be completely sure won't have some guest or contestant or interviewee who just might exclaim OMG.

And we're not even starting to talk about people's wall on things like Facebook that is in your home.

Also, the temple requires a temple recommend to enter. I don't make such requirements in my house. So, an investigator comes in, gets a lesson, and exclaims "OMG! I never thought of that!" I'm not worrying about it nor do I feel an invasion on my temple.

Basically - I don't invite people (or TV shows) in the house so they can exclaim OMG. But if it happens, it happens.

Edited by anatess
Link to comment
Share on other sites

I have a good friend, who is LDS baptized and sealed to her husband and all that jazz, who, due to her upbringing, has some salty language, including 'OMG'. Now, my husband has been known to say everything else but will not take the Lord's name in vain, so when I hear my cute little friend get excited and slip into OMG, it's shocking.

She knows it's something she needs to work on and is doing so, but it doesn't keep her out of the temple.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

We've had many discussions about whether a Mature or Rated-R TV/movie is automatically inappropriate for LDS to watch. Though there's been opposite opinions, many agree that a TV or movie rating alone, doesn't necessarily equate to "bad". While you might not want your 13-year old to see it, you are comfortable and see nothing wrong with you or your spouse watching it, for example. That said, I think everyone agrees that content categorised as "pornography" by the creator/s IS inappropriate for viewing.

The question: Are there any TV series or movies, regardless of rating, that you feel is outright inappropriate for us as LDS to watch? That means, you wouldn't feel comfortable having your children OR you see it. Is there one that we would all agree on?

I was talking to my niece, and she and her husband just bought the Game of Thrones series, and are excited to watch it. For those of you unfamiliar, it contains graphic but simulated (though uses real and full nudity) sexual activity. (My husband and I had watched it but never finished it to the end.) I told her what to expect so she wouldn't be shell shocked. They are Temple newlyweds. She seemed to understand but didn't seem to take my heed very seriously as it has received nothing but great reviews. After sitting on this conversation with her, I began to think about my own TV and movie choices. If I am okay with watching graphic but simulated explicits, where do I draw the line when it comes to non-simulated explicits? Especially, when often times there is little difference between the visual of simulated and non-simulated. I recently, through another forum, was told about Nymphomaniac that stars Shia Labeouf from Transformers. It is supposed to be an "artistically" directed movie about a 50-year old woman's sexual journey, and incorporates non-simulated sex with the actors, including the aforementioned actor. Some of my forum ladies want to see it solely because of Shia Labeouf's role in it. It's funny how my view has changed a bit on this stuff because I'm pretty liberal about nudity and sexuality. And anyone that knows me, knows that I'm all for "artistic presentations". As an ending note, I am not condemning anyone that chooses to watch either of these. I'm just sharing some of the personal changes I've made.

eww game of thrones... theres a wolf in sheeps clothing... and not much clothing at that.

most recent fictional show I've really been able to get into is probably Munk.

for me when there's a decent amount of swearing will turn me off from a series fast, I can stand the occasional implied nudity. its so annoying when just about every random viewing or random commercial regarding a show involves or revolves around who's sleeping with who, who's getting pregnant and who's losing their virginity, or what people are doing with/what to their genitals.

Even discovery is off my cool list now that they decided to pander to the sex crowd.

Anyways good luck finding any soap that's decent. I generally satisfy any tv cravings I have off of Hulu's TV documentary genre listings.

Just a thought on swearing in the 10 commandments Honoring God is above the commandments of fidelity and honoring ones parents and wife.

Edited by Blackmarch
Link to comment
Share on other sites

eww game of thrones... theres a wolf in sheeps clothing... and not much clothing at that.

I don't know all of them, of course, but it seems like if it's on a pay channel (HBO, Starz, Cinemax, etc) it's that kind of show.

There's this new show called Black Sails that is getting advertized in the theater and yeck - it looks like it's going to be one of those too.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I keep hearing about one Game of Thrones actress or another who is putting her foot down about nudity and sex.

I say good for them.

Seems a bit of a misplaced stance to take. Perhaps refusing to take the role in the first place might have had more 'umph' as a protest, or quitting the job entirely.

I mean, if you take a job at a 7-11 you're going to have to sell beer and cigarettes. If you have a problem doing that, don't take the job.

Mind you, I don't disagree with you. Just wish there was a stronger sense of morality out there in the world.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I definitely agree with you. Even after posting I thought "Even better for them if they weren't on the show." I don't know if I think I'm misplaced with my stance, just that, all things considered, I think it's good to take a stance when the situation is going past what they originally expected.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I definitely agree with you. Even after posting I thought "Even better for them if they weren't on the show." I don't know if I think I'm misplaced with my stance, just that, all things considered, I think it's good to take a stance when the situation is going past what they originally expected.

To be clear, I meant it was the actress's stance that was misplaced, not yours. :)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

To be clear, I meant it was the actress's stance that was misplaced, not yours. :)

From what I understand, the actress was fine with the nudity at first and in between seasons started reflecting on her career and realized it's not something she wants to do anymore. She's a main character so the producers had 2 choices - replace her or change her scenes.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

So you're saying I shouldn't seek out Anderson Cooper because in this one episode where he was covering the typhoon he interviewed some Filipino who exclaimed OMG?

Or I shouldn't seek out Ty's show where he builds a house for some "deserving families" because some of them exlaims OMG when they come home to see their new home?

Or I shouldn't seek out hosting my kids' end of season soccer parties because 10 year old kids exclaim OMG OMG OMG when they get their trophies? Or maybe online invite Mormons to the bdays because the non-Mormons tend to say OMG when they see the bday cake...

Oh no, I'm not saying what anyone should do. I'm just responding to your direct question about "go[ing] anywhere" and pointing out what Traveler is justified in doing to maintain the sanctity of his home, if he feels the necessity of doing so. (Apologies for the inarticulate language--by saying "we could commit" I wasn't saying "we ought to commit" just that "it's possible that we commit").

Edited by Just_A_Guy
Link to comment
Share on other sites

Oh no, I'm not saying what anyone should do. I'm just responding to your direct question about "go[ing] anywhere" and pointing out what Traveler is justified in doing to maintain the sanctity of his home, if he feels the necessity of doing so. (Apologies for the inarticulate language--by saying "we could commit" I wasn't saying "we ought to commit" just that "it's possible that we commit").

Of course, all of us is justified in doing what we feel is best for our own homes. I'm merely fleshing out how Traveler maintains his standards as it is so much different than mine. I have a different take on the "my home is a temple" and "my body is a temple". My body can be my temple while enjoying a lively conversation with OMG-exclaiming friends just like my home can be my temple while inviting friends and family who come into my home wearing short shorts. I can't imagine keeping the world away from my house so Traveler's post is hard for me to grasp.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Some thought and experiences - However, I am concerned and a little confused that some find my concerns about certain things being treated and remaining sacred. I am not sure I intend to go where I am now going on this forum. Many here think I am a very sour stick in the mud. I am sorry that is the impression because I am far more lighthearted in "real life". But I tend to be more formal in writing. Recently while visiting with friends (out of state) - they told me of playing games on New Year's eve with other families when a question in the game asked one person to list the world's top 10 comedians while their team tried to match as much on the list as possible. They said they were surprised that my name was on the list because they did not know (especially teenagers) would know me at all. BTW my name was one that was matched.

My in-laws do not think I take anything seriously. But this side of me does not show much on the forum. My wife would say that you are all much better for not experiencing my humor; so I do not know if I should express sorrow for you all or not.

Something I have recently found interesting is an association with actors. Because I have been asked to consult (science) with some writers and actors I have gotten to know a little bit of Hollywood from the inside. Plus, especially this time of year (Sun-dance film festival), it is not uncommon for a Hollywood type to stop by our home for a meal or even spend the night. I have made it clear that certain elements and activities are not allowed in my home - off color language certainly among them.

What is interesting is that those that come here always express how refreshing it is - even though they admit it is difficult to remain on guard to bad habits. One thing I get a lot is that there is a different feeling in our home that they express as "good" and "refreshing". I find this interesting because I often feel I do not do enough to invite a clean and holy spirit in my home.

On a few occasions when I have been on set - I have been asked to "stand in" as an "extra". I find this very awkward. One thing that amazes me is how an actor can take upon them a persona that is not their character. I cannot even act like me when a camera is on.

But I guess what I am trying to say is that I find people for the most part kind and respectful; even those that play evil characters for a camera. I do make a big deal about language - especially in my home. I thought it quite a compliment a while back while on set - when I was asked, if I would pleas leave because my presents made a particular very good actor uncomfortable with their lines. I smiled and thank the director and the actor - saying if you are uncomfortable with saying these lines with me here - you should be me trying not to really be listening.

The Traveler

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Of course, all of us is justified in doing what we feel is best for our own homes. I'm merely fleshing out how Traveler maintains his standards as it is so much different than mine. I have a different take on the "my home is a temple" and "my body is a temple". My body can be my temple while enjoying a lively conversation with OMG-exclaiming friends just like my home can be my temple while inviting friends and family who come into my home wearing short shorts. I can't imagine keeping the world away from my house so Traveler's post is hard for me to grasp.

While I agree, in essence, with what you are trying to say, I have to contend the first sentence here as false. "...all of us is justified in doing what we feel is best for [any given thing]..." is an expression of relative morality that we have been expressly warned against.

We may make choices according to our own sense of things, yes. But we will be justified by truth, right, and the will of God, and nothing else. Right is right. Wrong is wrong. There is no "according to what we feel or think".

I'm not saying what you are allowing into your home is wrong, or what Traveler is choosing is wrong. I'm just clarifying a philosophical point.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

While I agree, in essence, with what you are trying to say, I have to contend the first sentence here as false. "...all of us is justified in doing what we feel is best for [any given thing]..." is an expression of relative morality that we have been expressly warned against.

We may make choices according to our own sense of things, yes. But we will be justified by truth, right, and the will of God, and nothing else. Right is right. Wrong is wrong. There is no "according to what we feel or think".

I'm not saying what you are allowing into your home is wrong, or what Traveler is choosing is wrong. I'm just clarifying a philosophical point.

Thanks for the clarification. It's a very important point.

I was thinking about the Priesthood authority of my husband making decisions on how our home is going to be run not having any power over somebody else's house.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Thanks for the clarification. It's a very important point.

I was thinking about the Priesthood authority of my husband making decisions on how our home is going to be run not having any power over somebody else's house.

I'd never have any power over my own home :lol: regardless of Priesthood or not

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I don't know all of them, of course, but it seems like if it's on a pay channel (HBO, Starz, Cinemax, etc) it's that kind of show.

There's this new show called Black Sails that is getting advertized in the theater and yeck - it looks like it's going to be one of those too.

I have Stars for free for a year and so decided to give Black Sails a chance. I know how horrible Stars Spartacus programs are. They are nothing but horrible scripts/acting with soft hard porn thrown in to keep people watching. It really hows how untalented the producers are or how they don't want to spend good money on producing a good product.

So I set my DVR to record Black Sails. After two episodes I'm ready to give up. Not a good story and not very good character development and they are pushing the s*x. I don't mind the s*x if it's part of the story but I do mind it when they use it to fill gaps in a story. I was disappointed.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
 Share