As a child of the ’80s, I often reflect on the films that my parents permitted me to watch, only to realize years later that many were far from suitable for young audiences. While I’m not overly conservative, I can’t help but question the wisdom behind letting kids see films featuring violent or sexual themes, especially when there are countless family-friendly options available today.
The introduction of the PG-13 rating in July 1984 came as a response to concerns about movies like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom and Gremlins being too intense for a PG rating. This shift explains why many of us were exposed to films like Airplane! and Poltergeist while still mastering our multiplication tables. Below, I’ve compiled a list of eight films that our parents let us watch during our upbringing in the ’80s, a time before parenting became a competitive sport focused on producing the most well-adjusted children.
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Big
I envisioned a delightful family movie night when I introduced my kids to Big, a cherished classic about a young boy who wishes to be an adult. I remembered the whimsical scenes, particularly the iconic floor piano scene with Tom Hanks. However, midway through, I was taken aback by the unexpected use of profanity and the uncomfortable sexual innuendos that pepper the film. It turns out that the movie contains themes of drinking and smoking as well—definitely not what I intended for my children’s viewing experience. -
Jaws
If you want to instill a lifelong fear of the ocean in your child, Jaws is a perfect choice. While I wisely chose to skip this PG-rated classic for my kids, many of us remember the chilling line, “You’re gonna need a bigger boat.” The film’s infamous scenes, including a character’s harrowing monologue about a sinking ship, seem downright shocking by today’s standards. -
Poltergeist
Poltergeist is a film that expertly combines all the fears children harbor and presents them in a PG-rated package. From possessed trees to a terrifying clown doll, this movie can haunt a child’s imagination. Adults are depicted using marijuana, and there are scenes that would likely leave most parents horrified. I think it’s safe to say I won’t be showing this to my kids anytime soon. -
Goonies
During my elementary school days, my friends and I found Goonies hilarious, particularly the moment when one character exclaims, “HOLY SHIT.” Yet, the film contains far more inappropriate content than we realized, including a scene with a ceramic statue that features a rather explicit detail. The movie is rife with sexual innuendos and disturbing characters, making it a questionable choice for today’s sensitive viewers. -
Friday the 13th
Friday the 13th was a staple at every slumber party, despite its notorious reputation as a slasher film. With graphic violence and themes of substance abuse, it’s hard to fathom why parents allowed us to watch such a nearly X-rated film. This movie is certainly not suitable for younger audiences. -
Tom and Jerry
As a child, I found Tom and Jerry amusing, despite its frequent displays of violence. Recently, when I reintroduced it to my own kids, I realized how disturbing some of the antics were. They seemed more suited to the whimsical antics of DJ Lance Rock from Yo Gabba Gabba! than the violent escapades of our favorite cat and mouse duo. -
Annie
For years, I overlooked the fact that Ms. Hannigan, the orphanage matron, was a heavy drinker. The film contains several tense moments, including Annie’s perilous encounters with criminals. I can only imagine how different the narrative might be in a modern adaptation. -
Ghostbusters
“Who you gonna call?” That catchphrase is iconic, but it’s hard to forget the more adult themes in Ghostbusters, such as a ghost pursuing a Ghostbuster in a rather intimate manner. The PG rating barely holds up against the film’s suggestive humor, raising questions about its appropriateness for younger viewers.
It’s clear that while children will eventually learn about life’s complexities, some of these movies may not be the best introduction. Although certain films offer valuable lessons, others, like Friday the 13th and Poltergeist, might be better left in the past for the sake of everyone’s peace of mind.
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Summary:
Reflecting on the films we watched in the ’80s reveals a surprising number of inappropriate themes that our parents allowed us to enjoy. From Big to Ghostbusters, these films often combined humor with elements that many modern parents would find unacceptable for children. While it’s important for kids to learn about life’s realities, some of these movies might be best left unviewed.