Can I Watch a PG-13 Movie at 12 Before My 13th Birthday?

Theres a movie coming out 2 months before I turn 13. It is PG-13. I already know what happens and the language it uses a few bad words, nothing extreme. Can I watch go to a movie theatre and watch it with my 12-year-old friends?

Age Restrictions and Theater Policies

In general, PG-13 movies are meant for viewers aged 13 and older but children under 13 can watch them if accompanied by a parent or guardian. Since you’re turning 13 just two months after the movie’s release, you may be able to see it with your friends, but it ultimately depends on the theater’s policy.

Here are some steps you can take:

Check the Theater’s Policy

Some theaters require an adult to accompany anyone under 13 for PG-13 films. It's important to check with the specific theater to confirm their rules before purchasing tickets or going to the movie.

Talk to Your Parents

Your parents can decide if they're comfortable letting you go with your friends or accompany you themselves. They might also be a good sounding board to discuss any concerns you have.

Plan for Supervision

If your parents agree, they might want to accompany you or arrange for another adult to be present. This can provide added comfort and ensure everyone has a good time.

Getting Permission from Parents

If I had a kid who was turning 13 in 2 months and they wanted to see a PG-13 movie like you described, I’d definitely say yes unless the kid was below average in maturity. Being 12 and 13 is pretty much the same thing, so the age rating doesn't even matter as you already know what happens.

However, if your 12-year-old friends are watching the movie, PG-13 doesn't mean you HAVE to be 13. It’s simply a guideline saying the movie may be inappropriate for those under 13 depending on their parents' guidelines. While most theaters require an adult for PG-13 movies, some might allow under-13 viewers as long as they are supervised by an adult or the parent purchases the ticket.

In Australia, if a film is rated PG, you can see it by yourself if you are 13 years old or under. Most children’s films these days are PG anyway.

Parental Guidance and Theater Policies

PG-13 movies advise a parent, but not everyone follows these guidelines. Theaters choose to follow them or not based on their discretion and local laws. Some theaters enforce the rule, while others might be lenient if the viewer seems mature enough.

Theaters are not legally obligated to check IDs or follow ratings. Some theaters might pull teens out and card them if they act suspicious, but equally, many young viewers, as young as 8 or 10, can act like they belong, and that's perfectly acceptable.

If the theater has rules about PG-13 movies, a parent or guardian might need to accompany you to purchase the ticket, but the movie itself is likely to be fine without further restrictions, especially if you are a responsible and mature 12-year-old.

Enjoying Movies Without Restrictions

Ultimately, ratings are not laws. If you can act like you've been there before, theaters usually won't make a fuss. Enjoy whatever movies you want to watch, as long as you and the people accompanying you are comfortable with the content and follow the theater's policies. If you plan ahead and talk to your parents, you should be able to enjoy the movie with your friends!

Remember, responsibility and maturity are key factors in determining whether you can watch PG-13 content without an accompanying adult.