Why is Pirates of the Caribbean (movie) rated PG-13?

[SueSue]

Has anyone seen this movie yet? Why does it have a PG-13 rating? How closely is it related to the ride? My kids were looking forward to this movie, and now I'm really hesitating because of the rating. Let me know what you think. Thanks!

 

[gduvall]

PG-13 for action/adventure violence is what the advertisment says. We have tickets to see the movie tonight.

 

[KathyR]

It is for violence. There is ALOT of fighting as is expected in a pirate movie. I took my 2 kids yesterday (6 and almost 8), and they both loved the movie. My son the younger one did close his eyes in a few places when the pirates turned to skeletons but not everytime. My daughter thought the last big battle was a little creepy, but she really loved the movie and has been playing pirates w/her brother since we got home yesterday afternoon If your kids are sensitive to violence or are afraid of the Pirates of the Carribean ride or the Haunted Mansion ride, I would not go to this movie. My whole family (including my Disney hating husband) loved this movie. It is a definite buy on out list when it becomes available! In fact, if I wasn't as far along w/our costumes for MNSSHP, I would be changing the theme to pirates!

 

[casmanuel]

We saw POTC movie last night and it was great, but would be very intense for a young child. My son is 8 (going on 16) and enjoys "age-appropriate scary." He loved the movie, but traded seats with his older sister about half-way through to sit next to me. The movie was pretty low-key In terms of sexual content and language (a couple of bad words, but not overwhelming). The gore factor was moderate--some blood but not much graphic gore. Mostly sword-fighting, loud gunfire and canon balls (like the attraction). The loot and pillage scene was pretty intense with screaming and chasing, and there were some gore-free killings (sort of like Star Wars). The scariest part of the movie were the pirates themselves. They become skeletons and look pretty realistic thanks to the miracles of computer animation. A kid, or even adult, who is sensitive to that kind of scariness could be pretty negatively affected by the movie.

I've tried to provide the kind of information I look for when deciding on PG 13 movies for my son, so I hope this helps. I'd definitely recommend a parent preview if you are still unsure. You can also preview some of the clips at http://pirates.movies.go.com/.

 

[Kallison]

Check it out at www.screenit.com

 

[casmanuel]

Cool website; accurate review of the movie within context, etc. Thanks for the new info!

 

[SueSue]

Thanks, everyone, for the reviews and website suggestions. You all have been EXTREMELY helpful! Yo Ho Ho!

 

[beansmom]

We loved it as well but I did think it was a bit violent (the fight scenes went on far too long imo) and the skeletons were scary for those sensitive to that or younger children...I wouldn't take any children under 10. And I don't even REMEMBER any bad words.

Johnny Depp's make up was cheesy and the pirate's teeth made me cringe...but I loved it!

 

[LKS]

If you want the list of every possibly objectionable word, view or action, www.kidsinmind.com, gives a very detailed review of all movies. I haven't checked for Pirates yet.

 

[jenfur]

I saw it today and REALLY loved it, so did my DS-10, DS-4, and DD-7. I am sure the rating was for the fightong scenes and the skeleton factor. I would judge what is right for your kids, but if they would be interested in a pirate movie anyway, they can probably handle this movie and everything in it.

edited to add-

Although he is completely without morals and willing to do anything to get his way, Jack Sparrow is played as a romantic hero. How do moviemakers win audience support for him? Considering the reality of damage and death he caused, what would be a just punishment for him?

this was from a website wher parents grade the movies and it is HIGHLY inaccurate. I would say if you have REAL doubts, see the movie yourself first. I have noticed LOTS of critics of MANY movies see things their own way (this site was in shock because Depp was in a Disney movie ) In my opinion they all have their personal opinions, as you will too. And of course this same website promotes vidoe alternatives, Muppet Treasure Island (realism?)and the Lord of the Rings 1 and 2 (what about THAT violence?)

*************(Spoiler)*******************
I like this film because it never made pirates out to be the goods guys like a lot of them do. Jack Sparrow was bad, but he was true to his word. Will remained a blacksmith rather than choosing a pirate's life. Elizabeth saw pirates for what they where really like and probably lost her fascination with them and accepted Will even with his "pirates" blood.
As you can tell, I liked it and the messages it sent.

 

[2tinksmom]

Just returned from seeing Pirates with DH, DD(10) and DD(5). We loved it, but the PG13 rating is justified. The skeletons are pretty creepy, but it got a 'two thumbs up' from both girls although the 5yo spent most of the skeleton time with her head in my armpit!
She did say she would see it again and wants to get it on DVD and watch in her own house.....during the day, of course!!!

 

[HunnyPots]

A PG-13 rating will have more of an appeal to a teen audience than a PG rating. Not that there wasn't violence in this movie, but it hardly compares to many PG-13's I've seen lately.

I saw many younger children, 6-9 year olds, enjoying being "scared" by the pirates/skeletons. It just depends on the kid.

Excellent movie, though. Can't wait to see it again when DD gets home from camp!