8 Inappropriately Entertaining Films Our Parents Allowed Us to Watch in the ’80s

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Navigating childhood films from the ’80s often comes with a sense of nostalgia, but many of the movies we cherished carry themes that are, quite frankly, inappropriate by today’s standards. While I’m not a prude, I often question the wisdom of letting children view content that includes graphic violence or explicit themes, particularly when there are far more suitable options available.

The introduction of the PG-13 rating in July 1984 was a response to parental concerns over films like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Gremlins, which were perceived as too frightening for a PG designation. This context helps explain how so many of us were exposed to films like Airplane! and Poltergeist while we were still mastering our multiplication tables.

Here’s a look at eight films that parents of the ’80s deemed acceptable for their kids, despite their questionable content:

1. Big
   I envisioned a delightful family movie night with Big, hoping my kids, aged 7 and 10, would find the story of a young boy wishing to be an adult charming. While I fondly recalled Tom Hanks playing “Chopsticks” on a piano, I was caught off guard when the F-bomb dropped, echoing through the living room. The film is laden with sexual innuendo and adult themes, leaving me wishing for a drink and a smoke by the end of it.
2. Jaws
   If you want to instill a lasting fear of the ocean in your child, Jaws is the movie to watch. I wisely decided to skip this notorious film with my kids, aiming to enjoy beach outings in the future. The infamous line, “You’re going to need a bigger boat,” and the unsettling monologue about the USS Indianapolis are far more intense than I remembered from childhood.
3. Poltergeist
   Imagine cramming all the fears of childhood into a single VHS tape, and you have Poltergeist. Its PG rating seems absurd when you consider the terrifying scenes involving possessed trees and a clown doll. The film also includes moments of substance use by the parents, which I certainly wouldn’t want my children to witness.
4. Goonies
   This film was a staple of my childhood, with its blend of adventure and humor. However, elements like a character’s ceramic penis mishap and various sexual innuendos would likely leave today’s kids shocked. The movie’s darker moments, including a villain attempting to harm a child, raise significant concerns about its appropriateness for younger audiences.
5. Friday the 13th
   A classic slumber party feature, Friday the 13th is notorious for its slasher elements. With a near X-rating for sexual content and violence, it’s alarming that parents of my friends allowed us to watch it at such a young age. The film’s themes of teen sexuality coupled with graphic violence make it a questionable choice for children.
6. Tom and Jerry
   As a child, I found Tom and Jerry hilarious despite its violent antics. However, when I revisited the show with my kids, their discomfort with the gruesome portrayals of violence was apparent. They seemed more inclined toward gentler programming like Yo Gabba Gabba!.
7. Annie
   For years, I didn’t grasp that Ms. Hannigan was an alcoholic, struggling with her responsibilities at the orphanage. The film features intense moments, including Annie facing life-threatening situations, which could be traumatic for younger viewers.
8. Ghostbusters
   A cultural icon, Ghostbusters features memorable lines, but it also includes suggestive scenes that could raise eyebrows. The infamous oral sex scene with a ghost is just one of many moments that would prompt questions from today’s kids.

While children will inevitably encounter these themes, it’s essential to consider their maturity levels and the impact of exposure to such content. Balancing realism with age-appropriate themes is crucial when selecting films. For parents looking for more wholesome options, there are plenty of alternatives available.

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Summary:

The films of the ’80s often mixed humor and horror, with many deemed suitable for children, raising questions about their appropriateness. This exploration highlights eight films that embody this complexity, showcasing the stark contrast between childhood nostalgia and contemporary parenting standards.