Ratings are important, but so is their date. A PG-rating in the 70’s or 80’s is different from a PG-rating today. Make sure you check the date of the movie, and have your parents evaluate the rating accordingly.

Parents might value other parents’ opinions more when it comes to screening movies, so try to find reviews of the movie at sites that are made specifically by parents, for parents, about the content of movies. [2] X Research source Many movies on websites like IMDB include parents guides that are often quite helpful.

For instance, you can read the book and then see the movie to compare differences between film and literature representations in a written essay or an oral presentation. You can also see the movie as an example of some kind of social problem (like how Fight Club deals with male aggression), and write a critical analysis on it. If you were planning on seeing the movie with your friends, you can turn this into a group project. Your parents might enjoy seeing you enhance your teamwork skills and socialize at the same time.

Simply approach them and say, “Hey Mom and Dad, do you have a minute?” or “Mommy/Daddy, I’d like to talk to you about something. ”

You can mention how it made you very happy when they let you do another fun activity in the past, or let you see a movie before, and remind them that you are very thankful for those. Showing them how it was a positive experience when they gave you permission for something might increase your chances with your new request. For instance, you can start by saying, “I had a great time going out with my friends last month and it really strengthened our friendship, so thank you for letting me do that,” and later add, “I think going to this movie with them might be equally fun and rewarding!”

Try to include the specific details, such as “I’d really like to see the movie Leap! on Friday at 6 pm at this theater with Sam and Norah from school, and it would make me very happy if you let me do that. ”

Use your research to make your reasons stronger. For example, say “I really want to see Leonardo DiCaprio in this movie because he won the Academy Award for the male lead,” or “Spider-Man: Homecoming received a 7. 9 rating on IMDB, so I think it might be a great film!” If you’ve decided on doing a school project on it, mention that immediately and tell them how seeing the movie will help you academically and intellectually.

Don’t hesitate to share why you care about seeing this movie. If it’s because you want to bond with your classmates at your new school, say “Some of my new classmates are going to see this after school, so I want to spend time with them and also enjoy this movie!” If there is an actor in it whom you really love, let your parents know how it gets you excited!

For instance, if there are bloody scenes of fighting, say, “I know this movie has some scenes of violence, but I know that violence is never the solution to anything. I’m also aware that all of it is merely acting, and not real. ”

If you find your tone getting demanding, take a few, deep breaths slowly, and start talking in a low, friendly voice.

Ask them why they don’t want you to see it, and listen to them carefully. Try to really understand what their points and concerns are. You might be surprised to see how some of them might make sense. [6] X Research source Ask them if they would let you see it when you are older, or not at all, and have them explain why or why not.

Help with household chores such as washing the car or doing laundry, clean your room, and make your bed regularly. Be nice and respectful to your siblings and parents, and don’t start fights. Be understanding and stay calm even if you don’t get your way with certain things. This will show that you are mature enough to handle failure or rejection, and that you are determined.

You can also suggest doing something in return, for instance, helping with the dishes daily or vacuuming the living room for a month, if they let you see this movie.

The best, most mature and responsible thing to say would be: “I understand—you’re telling me that I can’t go out. In the future, what do I need to do to make it to a point where you would let me go out? Are there things I need to do to rebuild your trust?”