This month marks the 35th anniversary of The Blue Lagoon, the film that set hearts racing for a generation of Gen X tweens and teens, just beginning to navigate the waters of adolescence. Ah, the summer of 1980! I was a wide-eyed 12-year-old, freshly out of seventh grade, utterly captivated by the golden-haired dreamboat, Chris, and the ethereal beauty of Brooke.
Sneaking into this R-rated flick with some adventurous pals felt like a rite of passage. What I experienced was nothing short of an awakening—an awakening that the sequel cheekily dubbed in 2012. Let’s be real, though: this film toeing the line of appropriateness back then, and even now, raises eyebrows.
Can you fathom this scandalous tale being released in 2015? Its trailer describes it as a love story exploring “the mystery of desire.” Seriously? “She sees the strength in his shoulders. She senses a secret.” Ugh! As a parent, I’m cringing! Who in their right mind would want to watch stunning, nude teens getting frisky on a beach? Aren’t these scenes grounds for arrest nowadays?
Brooke, who spends much of the film in a topless state (her long hair reportedly glued in place for modesty), was only 14 when she starred alongside Chris, who was 19. Already famous for her role in the controversial Pretty Baby, where she played a 12-year-old sex worker, Brooke was the ultimate crush for us Gen X kids. Not to mention, just months before her iconic Calvin Klein ad campaign, she was a beacon of allure.
For many impressionable girls like me, there was simply no one cooler. Even the likes of Kristy McNichol and Tatum O’Neal, who appeared in Little Darlings that same summer, couldn’t compete. With Brooke stranded on that picturesque island, surrounded by turquoise waters and a hunky guy in a tattered thong, we were hooked. We’d tell our parents we were heading to the mall, only to sneak into the theater where The Blue Lagoon was playing.
Memorable—and Cringeworthy—Moments from the Film
- Emmeline’s First Glance: Emmeline (Brooke) can’t help but admire Richard’s (Chris) physique. They splash about in the surf, play in the sand, and engage in a little fruit foraging—while dodging poisonous berries. When he catches her staring, she innocently admits, “Your muscles.”
- Funny Thoughts: After a make-believe Christmas, Richard expresses a desire to create “New Year’s revolutions.” Emmeline responds with her admission of having peculiar feelings. Cue the teenage awkwardness!
- That Time of the Month: Emmeline’s first period leads to a shocking scene with the lagoon turning crimson. “You’re bleeding!” Richard exclaims. As a girl who had just experienced this milestone, it struck a resonant chord.
- Under the Waterfall: The couple shares intimate moments beneath the waterfall, on the rocks, in the sand, and within their hut. No further details needed here—everyone’s eyes were glued to the screen.
- The Fake Wedding: They stumble upon an old trunk from their shipwreck, complete with a vintage wedding gown. They dance together, signaling their unofficial union. Talk about a romantic island getaway!
- Pregnancy Surprise: Emmeline’s appetite grows, leading to Richard noticing her weight gain. When she reveals her discomfort, it’s a comedic moment for any parent: “Dude, she’s got a baby in there!”
- Breastfeeding 101: Emmeline learns to nurse her newborn in record time. No fuss, no waiting for the milk to come in—she’s a natural!
In conclusion, while nostalgia may warm your heart, parents should definitely preview this film before letting their tweens or teens watch it. You can catch the movie for free on YouTube, but trust me, you’d probably prefer your child to be stranded alone on a deserted island than to witness the cringe-worthy antics of The Blue Lagoon.
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Summary: The Blue Lagoon turns 35, evoking nostalgia for many who remember its provocative content. While it captivated audiences in the ’80s, modern parents may find its themes inappropriate for today’s youth. Much has changed since the film’s release, and a careful screening is advised for younger viewers.