Shortly after Rogue One: A Star Wars Story premiered, discussions sparked about its suitability for younger audiences. While many Star Wars films are considered family-friendly adventures, Rogue One takes a darker, more mature turn. As a parent, you might be wondering, “Is Rogue One appropriate for my kids?” This Rogue One parents guide is designed to help you navigate that question and prepare your children for what they might see.
The original article author, like many parents, grappled with this dilemma. His 4-year-old loves Star Wars but Rogue One seemed too intense. His 7-year-old was eager to see it, presenting a trickier situation. Ultimately, the decision depends on your child’s maturity level and sensitivity, but understanding the film’s content is key. Rogue One, rated PG-13, definitely pushes boundaries compared to earlier Star Wars installments. It features more sci-fi violence and a stronger emphasis on the sacrifices made by the Rebel Alliance.
While Rogue One avoids graphic blood and gore (it’s blasters, not bullets, after all), it doesn’t shy away from depicting death and loss. Characters risk their lives for the greater good, and sometimes, they don’t make it back. This reality can be challenging for younger viewers to process. Rogue One surpasses even The Force Awakens in its darker themes, offering a more “grown-up” Star Wars experience. This shift, while exciting for long-time fans, necessitates careful consideration for younger children.
This guide will explore key aspects of Rogue One that parents should be aware of, focusing on elements that might be intense or emotionally challenging for kids. It aims to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision and offers suggestions on how to discuss these themes with your children after watching the movie. Let’s delve into some specific areas of concern.
Darth Vader: The Ominous Villain
Image alt text: Ominous Darth Vader with red lightsaber in a dark scene from Rogue One, highlighting his menacing presence.
Darth Vader has always been a figure of fear and intimidation, but Rogue One takes his darkness to a new level. While previously, Vader was often seen as “ominously cool,” in Rogue One, he is undeniably a killer. There are scenes specifically designed to be disturbing, offering a glimpse into the Sith Lord’s anguish and ruthlessness.
One scene, in particular, is described as “body-horror,” reminiscent of David Cronenberg’s films. It’s a brief but impactful moment showcasing the painful reality of Vader’s existence within his life-support suit. Another scene features Vader in a battle sequence likened to something out of a slasher film, comparing him to Michael Myers with a lightsaber. This moment is described as “deeply unsettling.”
For children who know Darth Vader from more child-friendly media, such as storybooks, Rogue One‘s portrayal can be a significant departure. It might be genuinely frightening and could alter their perception of the character.
How to talk to your kids about it: For younger or more sensitive children, it’s perfectly acceptable to use the “hand-over-the-eyes” technique during these intense Vader scenes. Prepare them beforehand that Vader might be scarier in this movie. Afterward, discuss the concept of bad people in the world, and that Vader represents that kind of evil. However, also emphasize that even bad people can change, referencing his eventual redemption in the original trilogy. Highlight the role of good people in influencing positive change.
Jyn Erso’s Tragic Backstory
Image alt text: Jyn Erso, portrayed by Felicity Jones, a determined and strong female lead character in Rogue One poster.
Jyn Erso is presented as a strong and inspiring character, especially for girls, adding another powerful female figure to the Star Wars universe alongside Leia and Rey. She embodies resilience and compassion, making her a positive role model for children. However, her backstory is marked by significant tragedy.
Unlike Rey, whose family history is initially unknown, Jyn is acutely aware of her past trauma. The film depicts her abandonment as a young child, around 7 or 8 years old. It’s revealed that her father, Galen Erso, is forcibly recruited by the Empire to work on the Death Star. Crucially, the film also shows the death of her mother, Lyra Erso, in a scene that happens directly in front of young Jyn.
The loss of parents is a common theme in children’s stories, from Bambi to Finding Nemo. However, depicting this loss in live-action can be more impactful and potentially distressing for very young children. While not as visually graphic as the scene of Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru’s skeletons in A New Hope, the scene of Lyra Erso’s death is still emotionally heavy and could be upsetting.
How to discuss Jyn’s plight with children: After the movie, reassure younger children about the safety and security of their own family. While acknowledging that parents would do anything to protect their children, you can gently steer the conversation towards the fictional nature of Jyn’s extreme situation. However, also be prepared to address the realities of loss and unfairness in the real world.
Acknowledge Jyn’s suffering and the injustice of her parents’ fate. Emphasize that the Imperials are the villains because they tear families apart and use fear and intimidation. Counterbalance this by highlighting Jyn’s positive response to tragedy. She doesn’t become cruel or vengeful like Darth Vader; instead, she dedicates herself to fighting for others. This can be a powerful lesson in resilience and turning personal hardship into a motivation for good.
Moral Ambiguity: Heroes Gone Wrong
Rogue One introduces moral complexity into the Star Wars universe. Unlike the clear-cut morality of previous films, Rogue One explores “good” characters who make morally questionable choices for what they believe is a just cause. This gray area adds depth but can also be challenging for children who are used to a more black-and-white portrayal of good versus evil.
The film goes beyond Han Solo’s morally ambiguous “shooting first” moment. In Rogue One, Rebel characters engage in actions that target other “good guys” as the Rebellion struggles to define itself and its methods. The film prompts questions about the difference between rebels and insurgents, forcing viewers to consider the complexities of fighting for a cause.
How to discuss complex morality with kids: Use Rogue One as an opportunity to discuss the idea that doing the right thing isn’t always easy and that even those with good intentions can make mistakes. Explain that it’s important to listen to your conscience and re-evaluate your actions if something feels wrong, even when you believe you are supporting a good cause.
On a more positive note, Rogue One also features characters who find redemption. The Imperial security droid K-2SO and the pilot Bodhi Rook are former villains who choose to change their paths. They demonstrate regret for their past actions and actively seek redemption by joining the Rebel Alliance. This can be reassuring for children, showing that everyone makes mistakes, and it’s always possible to learn from them and make amends.
Intense Battles and Sacrifice
Image alt text: Intense battle scene in Rogue One showcasing explosions and ground combat, emphasizing the film’s war-focused narrative.
Rogue One is undeniably a war movie, featuring extensive and relentless battle sequences. While these battles are exciting, their intensity and sustained nature might be overwhelming for younger viewers. Furthermore, Rogue One carries a significant emotional weight because characters that viewers come to know and care about face violent ends.
The film emphasizes the high cost of the Rebel victory in obtaining the Death Star plans. This victory, known since the original Star Wars, is achieved through significant sacrifice, and it’s not just anonymous background characters who pay the price. Even older children and teenagers may find themselves emotionally affected by these losses.
Talking about sacrifice and loss with children: Rogue One provides a valuable opportunity to discuss the concept of sacrifice with children. Fantasy stories often simplify narratives, suggesting that good guys always win and live happily ever after. Rogue One challenges this notion and presents a more realistic portrayal of conflict and sacrifice.
Use the film to explain that sacrifice means giving up something valuable for a greater cause. While children are unlikely to face galactic battles, connect this concept to their everyday lives. Examples include standing up to bullies, sharing resources, or making compromises for the benefit of others. On a larger scale, discuss how real-world heroes throughout history have made sacrifices, sometimes even their lives, to create positive change, often without recognition.
Rogue One ultimately delivers a message of hope. It highlights that being a hero isn’t about fame, happiness, or even winning. It’s about doing what is right and contributing to the greater good, even if it comes at a personal cost. It’s about inspiring others to continue the fight and carry hope forward.
By understanding these key elements of Rogue One, you can make an informed decision about whether it’s appropriate for your children and be prepared to discuss its themes with them afterward. Watching Rogue One together can be a valuable opportunity to explore complex themes of morality, sacrifice, and hope within the exciting context of the Star Wars universe.
