During this holiday weekend, parents are constantly on the hunt for enjoyable, family-oriented activities. One popular choice is taking the kids to the movies. Wicked, the much-anticipated prequel to The Wizard of Oz, has now graced the theaters, presenting a captivating musical adventure that seems like an ideal option. However, a crucial question arises - is it truly appropriate for our little ones?

Unraveling the Wicked Mystery for Family Movie Nights

Understanding the PG Rating

Wicked holds a PG rating, which indicates "some scary action, thematic material, and brief suggestive content." This implies that parental guidance is advisable, and it may not be the best fit for the very youngest viewers. If your children adored the original Wizard of Oz, you might want to think twice before introducing them to this CGI-enhanced version.Common Sense Media suggests that Wicked is most suitable for kids aged 10 and above. They cite potential jump scares from those infamous flying monkeys, the intimidating avatar head of the Wizard, and the emotional bullying that Elphaba endures. It's important to note that the film runs for a lengthy 2 hours and 40 minutes, so make sure to plan for bathroom breaks and bring plenty of snacks.

Flying Monkeys and the Scary Factor

When it comes to the flying monkeys, director Jon M. Chu assures that they are "not as creepy" as their 1939 counterparts. Nevertheless, critics argue that the CGI versions might actually be even more terrifying. A review from The Washington Post warns parents with younger children that the monkeys' intense moments could serve as a nightmare fuel.For kids who are familiar with The Wizard of Oz, this darker and more intense portrayal might take some getting used to. While younger children might be captivated by the colorful costumes and the magical world, they could find some of the action sequences to be overwhelming.

Romance and the Subtle Suggestiveness

Yes, there is a love story in the movie, but it is rated PG. The film features an on-screen kiss and a scene with an implied sexual encounter, although it is quite subtle and is likely to go over the heads of younger kids. For comparison, the Broadway musical version is recommended for children aged 8 and above.

Expert Insights on Developmental Milestones and Movie Ratings

Before heading to the theater, it is beneficial to consider your child's developmental readiness. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), kids typically develop the ability to follow complex storylines and handle mild suspense around the age of 8. For younger children, the long runtimes and thematic material might make them fidgety or uneasy.When it comes to movie ratings, experts like Common Sense Media recommend evaluating not only the age suggestion but also your child's sensitivity to scary or intense moments. If your little one is prone to getting scared easily or has difficulty sitting still, it might be wise to hold off on watching Wicked until they are a bit older.

Is Wicked Worth Watching for Families?

Director Jon M. Chu describes Wicked as "accessible" and highlights its heartwarming themes of friendship, acceptance, and self-discovery. He shared with TODAY that he believes kids will fall in love with this friendship and this world.The film's magical settings, beloved characters, and music are sure to delight older children and tweens who can handle some darker elements and emotional depth. However, for younger kids, it might be better to stick with The Wizard of Oz and save Wicked for a later time.So, the decision of whether Wicked is too wicked for your little ones ultimately rests with you. Regardless, the land of Oz will always be there, waiting for them when the time is right.