EDITORIAL NOTE: This article contains graphic depictions which may not be suitable for all readers. View at your own risk.
A few months ago, a great movie came out at the theaters. An ADULT movie: WATCHMEN.
Now, when I say ADULT, I really do mean ADULT, since there are scenes depicting rape, sex, orgasms and a fair share of genitalia and nudity.
See? Just because a movie has superheroes in it, doesn't mean it's suitable for children.
Watchmen, written by Alan Moore, was originally an anti-comic book that turned the whole concept of costumed superheroes upside down. But it was for comic book fans that had grown up, not little kids.
In the wake of success from so many blockbuster superhero movies, Hollywood, of course, snagged Watchmen- based solely in its popularity. What they failed to take into account, was that popularity was limited to comic book readers who had grown up. So they made this movie that puts a very "realistic" spin on the fantasy costumed characters.
Take Dr. Manhattan, for example. He's this blue guy who can control all the matter and energy around him. If that weren't enough, he can see into the future, move objects with his mind, and be in two or more places at once. Basically, he's a "god" in the film–a being so powerful he is barely human. To emphasize this, he walks around nude, his blue genitalia swinging in the breeze, as he sees no need for clothing.
I don't know about you, but I don't think my kids need to see glowing blue penises.
Then there the sex scene where Dr. Manhattan is getting it on with his very human lover. She is surprised and horrified when she finds herself being serviced by two Dr. Manhattans. Meanwhile, a third works in the lab. Okay, maybe the scene isn't worthy of an X-Rating, but do you really want to explain to your kids what the O-face is all about?
In case I still haven't convinced you, there's the flying sex scene. The character Night Owl has this flying batmobile-like craft. He and Dr. Manhattan's gal (having left old blue because of his inhumanity) decide to get it on after a thrilling night of brutally, beating the crap out of some thugs. First, we get to see them get it off, as they strip off their costumes. They then proceed to wrap legs around each other and push the boundaries of R-rated sex scenes. Again, not the image a child should have of costumed superheroes.
Of course, my favorite (or is that least-favorite?) scene is a flashback showing a superhero raping his teammate at a reunion. They're in this back room when he forces her over a pool table. No naughty bits are shown, but the movie is brutally honest in showing what is going on. There is no doubt in the adult viewer's mind what's happening in this scene.
Kids, on the other hand, would probably have a few questions.
Is Watchmen a good movie? Why, yes, even with all its debauchery, it is…for those of use over 18.