Sam Pappas, the attorney for the 15-year-old, said it was understandable that the mother was upset, since the five-part series of gory and brutal "Saw" movies do not bother some viewers, but make other people physically ill.

"Everyone's sensibilities are different," Pappas said. "I don't think some kid who's bored and talks about something that's pure fantasy indicates it is serious."

Thomas Burton, attorney for the 14-year-old, agreed, saying that the conversation was "nothing but talk." The younger boy's father has worked as a writer, actor and director, and in that household, it is common to have discussions about ideas, creating characters and movies in general.

The older boy's mother sobbed as she left the building, saying she was glad her son would now get the help he needs.

Outside the courthouse, the father of the younger teen said he would permit his son to explore only "constructive" ideas and would keep tabs on future movie viewing.

E-MAIL: lindat@desnews.com