As someone who grew up in the ‘80s, I have an undying love for everything from that iconic decade. I remember sporting big hair, thanks to way too much Aqua Net, and rocking multiple pairs of socks with my classic white Keds. I still can’t bear to part with my trusty jean jacket and, truth be told, I have no shame in busting a move to “Hangin’ Tough” by the New Kids on the Block in the grocery store aisle.
Now, nothing brings me more joy than snuggling up with my kids to watch the ‘80s films that were a huge part of my childhood. Just hearing the intro of “Don’t You (Forget About Me)” by Simple Minds takes me back to Judd Nelson’s epic performance in The Breakfast Club. I’d been counting down the days until I could share these classics with my children, hoping they’d feel the same thrill I did when John Cusack held that boombox high or when Jake Ryan whispered “Yeah, you!” to Samantha in Sixteen Candles. I was particularly eager for them to embrace Steel Magnolias, a film that means so much to me.
When the time finally came, my husband and I excitedly picked Spaceballs as the first movie for our “Show the Kids All the ‘80s Flicks” mission. Our son was in a Star Wars phase, so we thought Rick Moranis as Dark Helmet would be a hit. We settled in with blankets and popcorn, only to quickly realize we might have made a mistake. OMG, I had completely forgotten just how much swearing and inappropriate jokes were packed into Spaceballs. My husband and I exchanged nervous glances as our kids asked questions about chastity belts. Apparently, they found the use of “asshole” quite entertaining. Thanks for that, Rick.
We soon recognized that ’80s films could really use a parental advisory label that goes beyond the standard MPAA rating. It should be a clear heads-up for parents about the unexpected sex education their kids might receive. If you’re considering which ‘80s classic to stream for family movie night, here are some warnings:
Doc Hollywood
This rom-com with Michael J. Fox is cute until your kid sees full nudity as the female lead emerges from a lake. Seriously, having my child ask why I don’t look like that actress? No thanks!
National Lampoon’s Vacation
We’ve all had a rough road trip, but do you really want your kids to see Chevy Chase getting a lap dance or Christie Brinkley going skinny-dipping? Probably best to skip this one, no matter how hilarious John Candy is as the security guard.
Stand By Me
A coming-of-age classic, but let’s be real—it’s about four boys looking for a dead body. What were our parents thinking letting us watch this?
Edward Scissorhands
If you want your kids waking up terrified from nightmares about a goth dude with scissors for hands, then go for it.
Ghostbusters
I totally forgot about the lap dance Dan Aykroyd gets from a ghost. Watching my son giggle at one character getting a “boner” from a ghost? Yeah, awkward moment.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Sure, skipping school sounds fun, but the fact that this movie glorifies lying to parents and cursing was a bit of a shocker.
The Breakfast Club
While I adore the characters, I could do without the explicit conversations they have in front of my tweens.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
You’d think a movie about an adorable alien would be safe, but when Elliott yells “penis breath” at the dinner table, it definitely catches you off guard.
Our generation birthed some of the best (and worst) movies ever, and it’s hard not to want to share that excitement with our kids. Watching them have the same reactions I did as a kid brings me right back to my ‘80s days, but truthfully? It’s a bit of a bummer knowing I have to wait until they are older to really enjoy these films with them.
If you’re curious about at-home insemination, check out Make a Mom—a great resource offering reusable options for those looking to start a family. You can also learn about the process by visiting their page on how it works. And if you’re still interested in fertility options, consider looking into their cryobaby kit or the babymaker kit.
In summary, revisiting ‘80s films with kids is a wild ride filled with surprises—some good, some a bit shocking. If you’re a fan of those classic films, just be prepared for a little parental panic when you realize how much has changed since the days of watching them as a kid.
Leave a Reply