I must admit: I saw “My Bloody Valentine 3D.” I actually drove my boyfriend and myself to the theater to see a Valentine massacre occur on the screen, in 3D no less. I’m not a wimp when it comes to these types of movies, but I was freaked out when pick axes were thrown into the audience and body parts seemed to be flying towards my face. Perhaps it’s because this is my first 3D movie to watch. Maybe it’s because of the excessive gore-factor. Either way, the movie was disturbing.

So why should you care if I saw the latest horror flick? Well, it’s not just about my experience.  This is an issue concerning our culture, values and where we draw the line dividing fun and obscene. Do I think horror movies should be banned? Of course I don’t. However, I do think each media consumer should draw his/her own line and decide what’s appropriate and what’s not worthwhile.

 Throughout the entire film I kept looking at my boyfriend saying things like, “Isn’t it so messed up that we paid to see this?” It is a thought to ponder. Should you ever feel guilty for supporting films that are entirely based on people getting their guts ripped out? I don’t advocate feeling guilty for watching a film, but in this case I did.

 After an internal debate, I decided that I shouldn’t feel guilty for seeing a film. Why? I knew exactly what that movie was going to be like before I even stepped foot in the theater. If I’m going to feel guilty, then I shouldn’t go. This is something I’ve learned many times over in my life. That is “DO IT or DON’T.” If you’re going to do something that you will probably regret later, skip it!

 It doesn’t make you a bad person to like gore and horror; it doesn’t make you a better person for not liking it. It’s entertainment. Problems arise, however, when people start censoring movies and telling others what they can and can’t see. Instead of judging someone else on liking “Friday the 13th,” don’t see the movie yourself. The movie is less ridiculous than someone trying to ban it. This was obvious when there were “Harry Potter” book burnings and when the entire state of Utah banned “Brokeback Mountain” from movie theaters.

 So don’t judge your friends for going to see the latest horror flick. Just say no when you’re invited to go. No one likes to be judged for his/her entertainment preferences.

If you’re still wondering, “How far is too far?” that’s a question for each movie-goer to decide.

Brent Paxton is a junior international relations and political science double major. He can be reached for comment at [email protected].