Media watchdog groups are up in arms again about summer movies being flung at the innocent, ready-to-pester brains of kids.
While we’re firmly in the camp that says parents should take responsibility, here are some cases of complaints we think might be hiding a real reason…
The Film: Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End (2007)
The pitch to kids: Adverts that ran on the US Nickelodeon channel in between shows like SpongeBob SquarePants, along with the usual Happy Meal onslaught and, er, skull-shaped cereal bowls.
The complaints: The Children's Advertising Review Unit complained to Buena Vista about a PG-13 movie being pushed to the children at a time when they were most impressionable (i.e. glued to the goggle box).
What we really think they’re worried about: It encourages kids to lust after a life on the high seas, glamorises the pursuit of booty and, given that real-life piracy is on the rise, it’s now an actual alternative career path.
Comments
apbgreen
Jun 3rd 2009, 10:54
I know this is more of a joke article but surely The Dark Knight should've made this list? Terrific film but surely the most unsuitable film aimed at children ever made? Can't see how you can square a film including death by pencil in the eye and Aaron Eckharts horrific Two Face make-up with the comic and novelty bags being pedaled for six year-olds in newsagents. That's almost like making a film about torture, poverty, deprivation and child mutilation and calling it 'The Feelgood Film Of The Year'. Hang on...
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EthanRunt
Jun 3rd 2009, 14:56
I know what you mean apbgreen, Revolutionary Road did some weird advertisements. But yes, TDK is definitely one on that list.
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littlebloke
Jun 10th 2009, 2:21
film companies obviously know that their films (regardless of rating) are going to be seen by the underage. WHY else would they they aim their sequels at a younger age group (terminator etc..)
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WileyWasabi
Jun 27th 2009, 23:03
A movie that was really supposed to be for kids but creeps me out- The Santa Clause 2, with Tim Allen. Fascist dictator Santa impersonator and his goose-stepping toy soldier minions take over the North Pole and turns it into a forced-labor camp...what's wrong with that?
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