Marvel's newest superhero movie, "Doctor Strange," which stars Benedict Cumberbatch is set to open in U.S. theaters on Friday, Nov. 4. Its theme is unlike other Marvel stories that have been adapted from comic books to film.
"Doctor Strange" touches on sorcery and dark mystery, which some might view as too heavy for kids to watch. Yet its teasers present visual fare that could ignite a child's interest. Would it be appropriate for parents to let their tweens watch "Doctor Strange?"
Parents whose kids have expressed wanting to watch "Doctor Strange" should know that the movie has been rated PG-13 for "kaleidoscopic galactic intensity and other dimensional psychotropic violence," Comic Book reports. Violence is expected in all superhero movies, as well as blood and gore, which takes place in many scenes in "Doctor Strange" because Benedict Cumberbatch's character is a surgeon.
The lead character in "Doctor Strange" is also depicted as man with an arrogant streak and cruelty about him. He doesn't hesitate to use foul language, which might be an issue for some parents.
Due to its theme, a Christian film critic warns parents that "Doctor Strange" could introduce kids to occult practices, Geek Tyrant reports. If parents are not comfortable with all these observations about the film, then it might would be better to skip the movie altogether.
In contrast, Cinema Blend cites that if parents have allowed their kids to watch other Marvel movies such as "Guardians of the Galaxy" or "Ant Man," then watching "Doctor Strange" should not be an issue. The parental guide on IMDb cites that kids above 10 years old can watch this movie with the rest of the family.
Ultimately, it is a matter of preference and the parents' understanding of their children's level of maturity. Parents should also know that it is not against the law to bring a 10-year-old kid to a PG-13 movie. The rating is only there to serve as guide for moms and dads about the depiction of sensitive materials, which might require a discussion with the kids. For a healthier movie experience, parents should actually talk to their children after watching "Doctor Strange."
