Welcome to the West Side Story Parents Guide, a comprehensive resource for parents who are planning to watch the 2021 adaptation of the classic musical with their children.
We understand that as a parent, you want to make informed decisions about the media your children consume. That's why we've put together this guide to help you understand the film's content and its potential impact on your child.
We'll cover everything from the film's themes and messages to its violence and language, so you can make an informed decision about whether or not it's appropriate for your family.
West Side Story Parents Guide
Here are 9 important points to consider:
- Violence and Gang Warfare: Intense gang violence, including fights, shootings, and death.
- Racial Tension and Prejudice: Strong themes of racial prejudice and discrimination.
- Alcohol and Drug Use: Characters drink alcohol and smoke cigarettes.
- Sexual Content: Brief kissing and implied sex.
- Strong Language: Occasional use of strong language, including slurs.
- Mature Themes: Themes of love, loss, and identity.
- Run Time: 2 hours and 36 minutes.
- MPAA Rating: PG-13 for thematic content, violence, some strong language, and brief drug use.
- Age Recommendation: Suitable for ages 13 and up, with parental guidance.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch West Side Story with your child is a personal one. We encourage you to consider the information provided in this guide and make the choice that you feel is best for your family.
Violence and Gang Warfare: Intense gang violence, including fights, shootings, and death.
West Side Story is set in a New York City neighborhood that is plagued by gang violence. The two main gangs in the film are the Jets, a white gang, and the Sharks, a Puerto Rican gang. The gangs are constantly fighting for control of the neighborhood, and their rivalry often leads to violence.
The film contains several scenes of intense gang violence. These scenes include fistfights, knife fights, and shootings. In one particularly disturbing scene, a character is stabbed to death. The violence in West Side Story is not gratuitous, however. It is used to illustrate the tragic consequences of gang warfare and the hatred and prejudice that can lead to violence.
Parents should be aware that the violence in West Side Story may be too intense for some children. The film is rated PG-13 for thematic content, violence, some strong language, and brief drug use. Parents should consider the maturity level of their child before allowing them to watch the film.
If you do decide to watch West Side Story with your child, it is important to talk to them about the violence in the film. Explain to them that the violence is not real and that it is used to illustrate a point. You can also use the film as an opportunity to talk to your child about the dangers of gang violence and the importance of tolerance and understanding.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to watch West Side Story with your child is a personal one. We encourage you to consider the information provided in this guide and make the choice that you feel is best for your family.