Is It Too Scary?
artificial insemination kit for humans
In case you haven’t noticed, we’re currently experiencing a revival of ’90s and early 2000s nostalgia. For those of us who identify as elder millennials, this trend allows us to revisit some of our favorite childhood memories, from iconic actors like Brendan Fraser to classic fashion statements like chokers. A prominent example of this nostalgia wave is the resurgence of the Scream movie franchise, which originally debuted in 1996 and has since produced multiple sequels. This year, we welcome Scream 5, and as a parent, you might be wondering if your tween or teen is eager to join in on the fun.
So, is this film suitable for your child? Let’s dive into the Scream parents’ guide to help you decide.
What Is the Premise of Scream?
Directed by Wes Craven and penned by Kevin Williamson, the first film introduces viewers to Woodsboro, California, where a group of teens becomes the prey of a mysterious killer in a Halloween mask. This killer, known as Ghostface, begins targeting one particular teen, Sidney Prescott (played by Neve Campbell), systematically eliminating her friends. As the series progresses, it becomes evident that nearly everyone Sidney cares about is in grave danger, with only a few survivors like tabloid reporter Gail Weathers (Courteney Cox) and Sheriff Dwight “Dewey” Riley (David Arquette) remaining.
The latest installment continues the story from Scream 4, bringing back Campbell, Cox, and Arquette, while introducing a new generation of characters played by popular young actors like Melissa Barrera (In the Heights) and Jenna Ortega (You).
What Are the Ratings for Scream Films?
If you’re familiar with the Scream series, you know that every film carries an R rating. The Motion Picture Association defines this rating as “Contains some adult material. Parents are urged to learn more about the film before taking their young children with them.” For admission, one must be 17 or older, meaning that anyone under that age requires a parent or guardian present.
Is Scream Suitable for Tweens?
When it comes to deciding what’s appropriate for your child, remember that every family has different comfort levels. Some parents may set strict viewing limits, while others may be more lenient. Research indicates that scary movies can have varying emotional impacts on children, from temporary anxiety to more serious concerns. If your child is particularly sensitive or anxious, it may be wise to wait.
General consensus suggests that tweens should likely be older than preteen to enjoy the Scream franchise. For comparison, Stranger Things, another popular teen series, is rated TV-14, which is the equivalent of PG-13. If your child finds that show too intense, then Scream would probably be off-limits. The franchise is known for its graphic violence, mature language, and explicit themes, making it clear that parental discretion is advised.
What About Teens?
If you watched the original Scream as a teen, you might wonder how it affected you. While many viewers carry fond memories of the film, Common Sense Media recommends that only kids aged 16 and older should view the series. However, opinions vary, with some parents deeming it appropriate for 14+, and teens suggesting that 13+ could be acceptable. Ultimately, the decision lies with you.
For additional perspective, Slate’s Scaredy Scale rates Scream 5 as a 7/10 for suspense and an 8/10 for gore, comparable to classics like Jaws and Alien. The film features heavy bloodshed, strong language, underage drinking, and sexual dialogue.
Examples of Mild Sexual Content in Scream
- A character wears a “Boob Inspector” hat.
- A teenage girl is seen in a bra.
- A kiss between Billy and Sidney leads to some intimate touching, though no nudity is shown.
- Discussions about virginity and sexual relationships occur frequently, sometimes in a crude manner.
- A scene features a young woman’s intestines displayed in a gruesome manner.
For more information about parenting and home insemination, check out this post on our blog. If you’re interested in family planning resources, visit Make a Mom for expert advice.
Search Queries
- Home insemination options
- Self-insemination kits
- Best practices for artificial insemination
- Pregnancy tips for new parents
- Understanding home insemination
In summary, while the Scream franchise offers a nostalgic thrill for older audiences, it’s essential to consider your child’s maturity level before allowing them to watch. The films are laden with violence, strong language, and mature themes, making it more suitable for teens over the age of 14, depending on their individual sensitivities.