Maurice Sendak says scaredy-cat parents can “go to hell”
In the war against whiny-pants parents who think the new, highly anticipated film adaptation of Where The Wild Things Are might be too scary for some children, author Maurice Sendak isn’t pulling any punches.
There have been rumblings over whether the film may be too scary for kids with delicate sensibilities and Sendak, Spike Jonze (who directed) and Dave Eggers (who adapted the film and is partially responsible for the awesome Superhero Supply Store in Brooklyn) sat down with Newsweek to discuss the movie. Childhood used to be a messy, loud and unpredictable affair, and as culture becomes increasingly watered down for “the children,” those who remember a less sanitized world for children lament the worldwide childproofing that seems to be occurring. Sendak seems to agree.
The iconic children’s author spoke his mind to Newsweek about the detrimental effects of too much Disney and parents who might feel trepidation about whether Where The Wild Things Are is appropriate for their snowflakes:
What do you say to parents who think the Wild Things film may be too scary?
Sendak: I would tell them to go to hell. That’s a question I will not tolerate.
Because kids can handle it?
Sendak: If they can’t handle it, go home. Or wet your pants. Do whatever you like. But it’s not a question that can be answered.
Jonze: Dave, you want to field that one?
Eggers: The part about kids wetting their pants? Should kids wear diapers when they go to the movies? I think adults should wear diapers going to it, too. I think everyone should be prepared for any eventuality.
Sendak: I think you’re right. This concentration on kids being scared, as though we as adults can’t be scared. Of course we’re scared. I’m scared of watching a TV show about vampires. I can’t fall asleep. It never stops. We’re grown-ups; we know better, but we’re afraid.
Why is that important in art?
Sendak: Because it’s truth. You don’t want to do something that’s all terrifying. I saw the most horrendous movies that were unfit for child’s eyes. So what? I managed to survive.
Why is that important in art?
Sendak: Because it’s truth. You don’t want to do something that’s all terrifying. I saw the most horrendous movies that were unfit for child’s eyes. So what? I managed to survive.
