The other day, on a popular social networking site, a friend posited a question about the appropriate time to introduce children to Star Wars. His post also linked to this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCjMGOvMghY
His question was completely serious, and I gave a completely serious answer. Here is my answer for you to read and ponder:
"I think, perhaps, there may not be a minimum age at which to introduce
your children to Star Wars (which of course means Star Wars (1977)
because one should only refer
to Star Wars (1977) as "Star Wars"--it's original theatrical title).
However, this should be the only Star Wars film that they should know in
their formative years. This also means that you should only show them
the original theatrical cut. When they are old enough to understand the
importance of Akira Kurosawa's influence on Lucas and Star Wars, then it
may be appropriate to introduce them to The Empire Strikes Back and
Return of the Jedi (again, the original theatrical versions). They may
get mad at you for holding out on them, but it is for their benefit.
After all, milk before meat, line upon line, precept upon precept, and
so on, right? It is also your responsibility to teach them of the
dangers and consequences of watching the special editions and prequels.
Despite your teaching, they may experiment with the special editions and
prequels when they are adolescents, and if so, they need to know that,
even though you disapprove of their behavior, you will always love them
and that they can always repent. They live in a time when there are many
who will tempt them and seek to beguile them with special editions and
prequels, but it is important to teach your children how to guard and
protect themselves against such deceivers, including Lucas himself. They
need to be taught how to be in the world but not of the world."
You're welcome.
Sincerely,
This Guy
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