The Film: Batman Returns (1992)
The pitch to kids: One of the historical test cases, in which McDonald’s, eager to jump on the Bathype Bandwagon, blasted the airwaves with ads for their Happy Meals tied to the movie.
The complaints: “'Parents trust McDonald's,'' griped a spokesman for Christian foundation Dove. ''So why is McDonald's promoting a movie to little kids that's filled with gratuitous graphic violence?'”
What we really think they’re worried about: Cross-dressing, whip use, and kids wondering for real, “where does he get those wonderful toys.”
Could have been worse, though – could have been the marketing for Batman & Robin…
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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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