In April 2021, The Blue Lagoon, a film that captivated the imaginations of young audiences in the 1980s, marked its 35th anniversary. This cinematic piece first debuted in July 1980, striking a chord with Generation X preteens and teens teetering on the edge of adolescence.
Reflecting on that summer, I vividly recall being 12 years old, freshly graduated from the seventh grade, and utterly enchanted by the stunning duo of Christopher Bennett and the ethereal Jessica Fields. With a group of friends, I managed to sneak into this R-rated film, which can only be described as an awakening, much like the sequel that followed in 2012. It is essential to acknowledge that, by any standard, this film dances along the line of inappropriate content for its portrayal of young love and nudity.
One can’t help but wonder how audiences would react today if The Blue Lagoon were released in 2015. The trailer, which markets the film as a romantic exploration of “the mystery of desire,” features lines that evoke discomfort. As a parent, I find the concept unsettling: adults being drawn to a narrative depicting the sexual awakening of barely-dressed adolescents. It raises serious ethical questions that today’s society grapples with.
Jessica Fields, who appears topless throughout much of the film, was only 14 during filming, while Bennett was 19. Fields had already garnered attention for her role in Pretty Baby, where she portrayed a young prostitute, and was on the brink of her infamous Calvin Klein ad campaign. To many of us in Gen X, she was the epitome of beauty.
In a summer filled with youthful crushes, no star rivaled Fields. Even with other teen sensations like Kelly Adams and Tatum Collins making waves in films that season, The Blue Lagoon stood out as a provocative tale of survival and innocence lost. We often deceived our parents about our movie plans, only to find ourselves in dark theaters, captivated by the vibrant imagery and the tension of young love.
Noteworthy Moments from the Film
Here are some noteworthy moments from the film that elicit a mix of nostalgia and discomfort:
- Emmeline’s Discovery: When Emmeline first notices Richard’s physique, her innocent admiration is palpable. Their playful interactions in the sun and surf are tinged with early curiosity about each other’s bodies.
- Awakening Feelings: Emmeline shares her “funny thoughts” about Richard during a mock Christmas celebration, leading to an awkward but relatable moment for teens navigating new emotions.
- Menstrual Realization: A pivotal scene occurs when Emmeline experiences her first period, leading to a shocking moment that resonates with many young girls who have faced similar milestones.
- Exploration of Intimacy: The film does not shy away from depicting their romantic encounters, which take place in various idyllic settings.
- Childlike Wedding Ceremony: The couple finds a trunk containing a wedding dress, leading to an impromptu ceremony that is both whimsical and absurd.
- Pregnancy Surprise: Emmeline’s sudden weight gain and Richard’s obliviousness to her condition presents a humorous yet unrealistic portrayal of young relationships.
- Instant Motherhood: Emmeline’s transition to breastfeeding is depicted as instinctive, glossing over the complexities of new motherhood.
While the film may evoke warm memories of a youthful summer romance, it’s crucial for parents to screen it before allowing their children to do the same. The blatant sexual undertones and sometimes cringe-worthy scenarios in The Blue Lagoon may not be suitable for today’s impressionable youth. For further insights into parenting during such explorations of intimacy, consider visiting Make a Mom for a comprehensive guide on navigating these conversations. Additionally, Drugs.com provides excellent resources for understanding fertility and related parenting challenges.
In summary, The Blue Lagoon remains a controversial touchstone of adolescent exploration and societal norms, reflecting a complex interplay of innocence, awakening, and parental guidance.
Leave a Reply