Is Rogue One Kid Friendly? | A Mom’s Guide

I always like to preview PG-13 and even PG movies before I take my kids to watch them. ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY is no different even though my kids are big Star Wars fans! I want to tell you and them all the things without telling any of the things. Instead, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions for kids about ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY. No spoilers!

ROGUE ONE FOR KIDS – Frequently Asked Questions

What is Rogue One rated?

ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY is rated PG-13.

Why is it rated PG-13?

I would say for sci-fi violence, battle scenes, explosions, intense fighting scenes. There’s not a lot of blood and gore, but there is a lot of death.

No profanity. I don’t think I counted one swear word. I could have missed one, because I was pretty focused on the movie, but I’m pretty sensitive to language myself and didn’t notice any.

No sex or nudity or even boobs for that matter. Well done, Star Wars!

When does Rogue One take place in the Star Wars timeline?

Rogue One is set before Star Wars: Episode IV-A New Hope (you know, the original) and after Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith (you know, the imposter, I kid, I kid). It also takes place a long time before Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

Do my kids need to see any other Star Wars movies before they watch Rogue One?

It might be helpful to get them excited for certain parts and to understand the storyline better. I would have them watch Episode IV-A New Hope so they know about the Death Star. If they’ve seen Return of the Jedi, then they may be a bit confused as to why Darth Vader is alive again, so just be prepared for questions.

What is Rogue One: A Star Wars Story about?

Lucasfilm presents “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story,” the first in a new series of Star Wars standalone films set in the universe fans know and love, but introduces and features new characters and storylines. Rogue One tells the story of a group of unlikely heroes who, in a time of conflict, band together on a mission to steal the plans to the Death Star, the Empire’s ultimate weapon of destruction. It has the power to destroy whole planets, people!

Jyn Erso (Felicity Jones), a defiant young woman leads the mission alongside Cassion Andor, (Diego Luna), a respected Alliance intelligence officer. At the beginning of A New Hope, Princess Leia is trying to smuggle the Death Star plans to her Rebel friends. These are those plans. Meanwhile, Jyn tries to find her father, a scientist named Galen Erso (Mads Mikkelsen), who is helping build the Death Star. She wants to know why. This key event in the Star Wars timeline brings together ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things, and, in doing so, become part of something greater than themselves.

Should Your Kids See Rogue One?

What ages do you recommend for Rogue One?

This one is always a tough question, because it all depends on your child. Rogue One is definitely more war-movie like than the other Star Wars. It’s got a bit of a darker feel, but I think if your kids have seen the other movies, then they should be fine. My 12-year-old and 9-year-old will definitely enjoy it. I don’t think they’ll be bothered at all. My 8-year-old who LOVES Star Wars will enjoy it, but I think a couple of the scenes may upset her. I’m ready to cover her eyes if necessary.  I would also take my 6-year-old, too. Because a lot of the violence is sci-fi, it doesn’t really bother my daughters, and some mature themes would go over their heads. If your children are going through an emotional time or death bothers them, then I would watch it before taking them. There are some bad dudes in this film.

Is Rogue One all that?

Yup, and a bag of chips. I don’t know what Star Wars film has satisfied every critic and fan out there. I’ve heard Rogue One described as a mix between classic and new. I would say that’s accurate.

Listen, I was engaged throughout the whole film. The characters! Man, these new characters. From the sassy and funny droid, K-2SO,  to the lovable and inspiring Chirrut Îmwe, you’re rooting for them every step of the way. And Jyn. I adore Jyn. Another Star Wars heroine for my girls to admire that is worthy of their admiration.

While it may be different from other Star Wars movies, it should be. Heroes. Ordinary people who choose to do extraordinary things. That’s a real hero. We often have the choice, but which one of us makes the hard choices? I’m going to see Rogue One: A Star Wars Story again opening weekend, because I want more of this rebellion.

Do you have your tickets yet? It’s time for hope, so let’s go!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bb7PllASVgg&feature=youtu.be

ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY opens in theaters everywhere December 16!