Posted by Alysha on February 16, 2000 at 16:52:57:
In Reply to: When Can Our Children See LOTM? posted by Gally on February 09, 2000 at 18:25:34:
: I am a public school teacher in the Mohawk Valley and am showing LOTM for my US History students. It fits in so well with what they've learned already and the locale is identical to ours in so many ways. The history of this area comes alive and the students love it!
: Now, however, I'm being warned by colleagues that the film is "inappropriate" and I might expect trouble!!! I concede it is violent but it's very true to the violence of that period and we show 'Glory' as well. I now know it's rated 'R' (for violence; the "Love Scene" is suggested, not graphic, and can easily be dealt with.) I honestly hadn't looked at the rating when I pre-screened it for myself BEFORE I showed it to them.
: So I have a Big Question to you LOTM fans: What age is 'appropriate' for this film to be seen by young people?
: I must also tell you that I had "concerned parents" (read: Evangelical Christians) express dismay that I showed 'The Crucible' in class (with the bare "butt" shot carefully covered up) and was told by the administration, in no uncertain terms, not to show it again because "witchcraft" is offensive to some of our district's families. I know, I know: the irony of that situation was delicious and distressing at the same time. It must be Daniel Day Lewis movies! I'm so depressed about the whole thing, I'm seriously considering ditching a ten year career in teaching. Maybe work in a bar with "adults" after working in schools with "intellectuals"? Anyway, if I do quit (or get fired), maybe I'll show 'My Beautiful Launderette' on my last day (just kidding, in case THEY see this!)
: Anyway, please advise me: When did you show your kids this movie or at what age do you, especially you teachers out there, think students can "handle" this?
Just popped in to see what my friends in Mohicanland were up to and this caught my eye. I know the topic's a few days old and a little stale, but I couldn't help responding. Being a Person of Faith and a Concerned Parent, I had to chuckle over the assumption that the only parents concerned over this issue would be "evangelical Christians". Are you saying that parents (generally speaking) really don't care WHAT teachers show their kids. How sad!! How frustrating for "Concerned Parents" that their opinions and values regarding what they deem appropriate for their children would not be taken seriously by the very teachers they lend their children to. I can't speak much on the subject of "The Crucible", as I haven't seen it yet. I remember reading the play when I was in high school, and it gave a strong impression of Christian bashing (just my own personal opinion, maybe not the author's intention at all!) How about showing a video in which people of faith are shown in a positive light (Geronimo-with Wes Studi;) and the Hiding Place are the only ones to come to mind off-hand!).
After that little tanget, my opinion on showing Last of the Mohicans would be positive. All the reasons giving by the others seem to pretty much hold true for me also. It really brings that historical period to life. BUT....I vote for involving the parents of the students (whatever the age!)in the decision. If it were my child I would vote yes AFTER I had previewed it. You will get a much more positive response when you get parental participation. And please offer a graceful alternative for those students whose parents nixed the idea. Just my opinion. Hope no offense is taken, as none was intended.
Alysha