Krull Cinemas is rolling out a new policy that allows minors under 17 to attend R-rated movies without a parent present.
The new system replaces the previous requirement that parents must give permission in person for each movie. Instead, parents can now submit a one-time waiver granting ongoing permission for their child to attend R-rated films.
Owner Aaron Krull says the change comes after repeated requests from parents looking for a more practical option.
Why the Change Was Made
Krull says the current movie rating system hasn’t changed much over time, but the content landscape has.
He notes that the line between PG-13 and R-rated content can sometimes feel blurred compared to past decades, especially for teens who are already exposed to similar material through TV, streaming, and video games.
Because of that shift, and the number of parents already granting permission informally, the theater decided to formalize the process.
How the System Works
Parents or guardians must complete an R-rated permission form, either online or in person.
Once submitted:
•The theater collects parent contact information
•A manager calls to verify the submission
•The child’s name is added to an approved list at the box office
When the minor arrives:
•Staff will check their name against the list
•ID may still be required to confirm identity
Krull emphasizes that approval is not instant and should be completed ahead of time.
Safeguards Against Misuse
The theater has built in several layers of protection to prevent abuse of the system.
These include:
•Direct phone verification with parents
•Additional steps if staff suspect someone is impersonating a parent
•Possible requirement for in-person verification in uncertain cases
•Continued ID checks at the theater
Krull says while no system is foolproof, staff will take extra steps when needed.
Who the Policy Is Designed For
The system is primarily aimed at older teens—especially those close to turning 17.
Krull says it’s intended for situations where:
•A 15 or 16-year-old has permission
•Friends in the group may already be 17
•Parents are comfortable but can’t be present
At the same time, he stresses that the theater is not making decisions on behalf of families.
Behavior Rules and Consequences
The permission system comes with strict expectations for behavior.
If a minor:
•Is disruptive
•Causes problems in the theater
Then:
•They will be removed immediately
•Their permission will be revoked
•Parents will be contacted
•They may face a temporary ban from the theater
The theater says it will enforce these rules closely to ensure the program doesn’t lead to issues.
Still Experimental
Krull Cinemas is treating the policy as a trial run.
So far, there hasn’t been widespread feedback yet, and no one had signed up at the time of the interview. The theater plans to monitor how the system works in practice.
What This Means for Families
For parents, the new system offers:
•More flexibility
•Less need to physically accompany teens
•Greater ability to make individual decisions about content
But it also requires:
•Planning for verification
•Ongoing communication with the theater
•Trust that their child will follow theater rules
Krull says the goal is to strike a balance, giving families more control while maintaining accountability inside the theater. For more information on the policy, contact the theater or visit KrullCinemas.com.
Krull Cinemas has locations in Orange City and Sheldon.
