Watchmen graphic novel - age rating?

[Walterloo]

I'm thinking of buying Watchmen, the graphic novel, for my 12 year old son. He's a very capable reader and loves graphic novels, some of which are certainly dark and intense, but having not read it myself I am not sure of its suitability. My two main questions: Are there swear words, and is the subject matter suitable for that age, i.e is the story itself and the characters' language, motivations and actions catered towards adult readers?
Thanks in advance.

[jake-the-peg]

That depends on what you think is suitable for a 12 year old. I wouldn't be that worried about bad language so much at that age but it is quite an adult story.

Not quite sure what you mean by characters motivations - if you're looking for good guys in white cloaks and pantomime baddies this isn''t it.

Amoungst other things the story does include a rape that is important to the plot and some quite strong violence

Harry Potter it's not.

I took my 16 year old son to see the film and that was OK - I wouldn't take a 12 year old

On the other hand it was the only graphic novel to appear in TIME's list of 100 most important fiction

[LeMarchand]

It's been a long time since I read it, so I can't remember if there was swearing (I suspect there was). The novel is definitely aimed at adults, though. It's been even longer since I was 12 and don't have any kids of my own, so I can't say for certain that it's unsuitable - I would certainly lean that way, though.

I would suggest that you check your local library, which should have a copy, or rent the (pretty faithful) film to get a better idea.

You should also give yourself a few stars for being one of the minority of parents who seem to take an active interest in what media their children are consuming.

[Seadragon]

I watched the film last night. I'am still thinking about what I should think about it. But it is a 18 cert so I don't know how Jake the Peg managed to get a 16 year old in? Not read the book, however I agree it is adult material - sexual and violent and I still can't figure it out? Kind of get it and don't - love conquers all stuff, I think?