Is War Horse Suitable for a 9-Year-Old?

The question of whether War Horse is appropriate for a 9-year-old is a complex one that involves considering the child's emotional maturity and their interest in the themes depicted.

Historical Context and Violence

Way to Big explains that while War Horse is a powerful movie with both beautiful and somber moments, it does include a significant amount of violence and war scenes. Since the story spans World War I, it naturally includes depictions of war, including battles and the challenging treatment of horses in the midst of combat. However, the movie maintains a balance, avoiding overly graphic violence or gratuitous gore.

Child's Perspective and Emotional Maturity

Ultimately, whether a 9-year-old can handle the contents of the film will depend on the individual child's emotional maturity and their interest in war stories.

Personal Reflections

The movie, despite its stylized nature, presents a compelling narrative about the life of a war horse during World War I. In the words of Way to Big, the horse is portrayed as being taken from complete untrained to being able to plow a field in a surprisingly short time. This unrealistic portrayal is a deliberate artistic choice to serve the narrative, but it can raise questions in a child's mind about the authenticity of the story.

Educational Value and Historical Context

The film serves as a valuable educational tool, highlighting the sacrifices made by both humans and animals in times of war. Horses, like other animals, were often used for hard labor and combat.."
"It shows a realistic view of their role in war, where food was scarce, and their duties were immense. Additionally, War Horse emphasizes compassion for animals, a crucial lesson to impart to younger viewers. The story also underscores the resilience and loyalty of horses and their role in the war effort. One such example is the real-life story of Reckless, a war horse who served in the Korean War, embodying the bravery and sacrifice of animals in military conflicts.

Preparation and Guidance

If I were to take my child to see the movie, I would prepare them ahead of time. I would explain that while there will be sad scenes, none of the animals or people in the movie were actually hurt; it is just a story meant to convey a message about the past. Emphasizing that the movie is not just about the war but about the journey and the impacts on the characters, including the horses, makes it a more grounded experience for the child.

Conclusion

The decision on whether War Horse is suitable for a 9-year-old ultimately lies with the parent. Evaluating the child's emotional maturity, their interest in historical stories, and the ability to separate the film from reality will help determine if the movie is appropriate. While the film's depiction of war and the hardships faced by horses may be challenging, the educational value and the message of compassion and sacrifice make it a poignant and worthwhile viewing experience for older children who can handle the subject matter with understanding.