There is a gray area that separates what is appropriate for kids to watch and when to leave them at home. Star Wars Rogue One sits inside that gray area.
Before I saw the movie, I heard the movie had some intense scenes younger viewers would struggle with. I would agree with that thought. People are killed close-up and there is connection to the characters that die. The last battle between the Empire and the Rebels is as intense as any PG-13 war movie. If it wasn’t for the space ships and Stormtroopers, you would forget you are watching a Star Wars movie.
I took my 10-year-old and 12-year-old and they were fine with the violence. I am not going to bring my 5-year-old, because I don’t think he needs to see that many deaths in a film.
In a nutshell:
Swearing: Only a few words and none of the big ones.
Sex: None.
Violence: There is a torture scene that might scare young viewers and a lot of people die. A lot. And Vader… be ready.
Final Thoughts:
Like most of the world, I grew up on Star Wars movies and the toys. I was excited to see Rogue One and hoped it wouldn’t disappoint. I still haven’t gotten over Episode One. Rogue One has a different feel throughout the movie, but it did not disappoint. There were a few things that I didn’t care for, but I won’t get into them because I would rather not spoil anything.
And one final comment, you will find the Darth Vader you are looking for.
Sorry, one more. My 12-year-old just said, “Rogue One might be my favorite of the Star Wars movies.” So there’s that.