Re: When Can Our Children See LOTM?

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: :    I am a public school teacher in the Mohawk Valley and am showing LOTM for my US History students. It fits in so well with what they've learned already and the locale is identical to ours in so many ways. The history of this area comes alive and the students love it! 
: :    Now, however, I'm being warned by colleagues that the film is "inappropriate" and I might expect trouble!!! I concede it is violent but it's very true to the violence of that period and we show 'Glory' as well. I now know it's rated 'R' (for violence; the "Love Scene" is suggested, not graphic, and can easily be dealt with.) I honestly hadn't looked at the rating when I pre-screened it for myself BEFORE I showed it to them.
: :    So I have a Big  Question to you LOTM fans: What age is 'appropriate' for this film to be seen by young people? 
: :    I must also tell you that I had "concerned parents" (read: Evangelical Christians) express dismay that I showed 'The Crucible' in class (with the bare "butt" shot carefully covered up) and was told by the administration, in no uncertain terms, not to show it again because "witchcraft" is offensive to some of our district's families. I know, I know: the irony of that situation was delicious and distressing at the same time. It must be Daniel Day Lewis movies! I'm so depressed about the whole thing, I'm seriously considering ditching a ten year career in teaching. Maybe work in a bar with "adults" after working in schools with "intellectuals"? Anyway, if I do quit (or get fired), maybe I'll show 'My Beautiful Launderette' on my last day (just kidding, in case THEY see this!)
: :     Anyway, please advise me: When did you show your kids this movie or at what age do you, especially you teachers out there, think students can "handle" this? 


: Hello, Gally.

: I am the mother of two boys and for many years was very careful about what movies they saw.  But by the time my oldest was in middle school, I felt he was mature enough to see a movie like LOTM.  In fact, he first saw it in school and it was his suggestion that we rent it (probably in 1993 or 1994).  The most graphic scene is when Magua cuts the heart out of Colonel Monro.  If you teach US History, I would guess you might teach at the high school level.  With the proper preparation before viewing, I can't imagine a high school student not being able to handle LOTM.  Or "The Crucible", for that matter.  But then, I may be much more liberal than some parents out there.  I did have a problem with my son's sixth grade teacher wanting to show "Schindler's List" in class.  I felt that movie was too intense and needed to be seen at home where there was opportunity for lots of discussion.  

: So, in my opinion, LOTM would be appropriate for 7th and 8th graders on up.  

: Good luck making your decision.  I hope you get more input from other parents or teachers.

: Jayne


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