Growing up in the vibrant 1980s, I was a movie enthusiast—and that passion still holds true today. My 9-year-old daughter finds it enjoyable, too, but our movie nights are more about the snacks. We dive into popcorn, rummage through my secret candy stashes, and sip on soda while we cozy up on the couch. (Clearly, I’m in the running for Father of the Year!) Once the lights are dimmed and the film rolls, we may not chat much, but it’s a cherished bonding time. At some point, I inevitably find myself giving her tiny toes a rub, which I count as quality time. I love sneaking a glance at her expression as the story unfolds; it’s a joy to see her emotions light up the screen.
For the first nine years of her life, my movie suggestions were often overlooked. However, everything changed when I let her watch Pitch Perfect on cable. Since then, she’s begun to take my recommendations seriously. Sure, I might have pushed the age boundaries a little, but she adored it! We’re definitely planning to catch Pitch Perfect 2 together in theaters this May—our little secret, of course.
As a member of Generation X, I know the impact certain films have on shaping our identities. I can still recite lines from my favorites! Now, I’m excited to introduce these classics to my daughter, even if I risk disappointment. You know that feeling when you love a movie so much and can’t wait to share it, only to have someone respond with a lukewarm “It was okay”? Yeah, it stings.
Movies to Watch Today
- Free Willy (1993): Friends come from the most unexpected places. I remember agreeing to see this movie only if my friend Mia promised to keep it a secret. But I loved it! A rebellious boy and a misunderstood orca form an incredible bond. My daughter adores animals, so I anticipate a few tears at the end.
- The Goonies (1985): Dream big! It’s hard to believe this classic adventure film is turning 30 soon. A group of kids goes on a quest to save their neighborhood, and I suddenly crave a Baby Ruth.
- E.T. (1982): Everyone gets homesick. I was a blubbering mess the first time I saw it. Watching a lonely boy and his siblings help an alien find its way home is pure magic. As Dorothy wisely said, there’s no place like home.
- Big (1988): Growing up too fast isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Every kid dreams of instant adulthood, but this film teaches us that being an adult isn’t quite the fantasy we imagine.
Movies to Watch in a Few Years
- Stand By Me (1986): The journey matters more than the destination. This coming-of-age tale, based on Stephen King’s novella The Body, beautifully captures the essence of growing up, complete with its struggles.
- The Outsiders (1983): It’s about more than just class differences. This film humanizes the guys often painted as the “bad guys.” Just remember Pony Boy’s advice: “Stay gold.”
- The Breakfast Club (1985): You see us as you want to see us. This classic resonates with everyone, and I suspect my daughter will relate to each character in her own way.
Movies to Watch a Few Years After That
- Heathers (1988): Popularity can be cruel. This quirky film introduced me to the world of indie cinema. It’s a hilarious reminder that we’re all just a bit insecure—though we’d never admit it!
- Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982): If you rush into things, you might face consequences. I almost removed this from my list due to some edgy content, but I plan to make a quick exit during the more intense scenes when the time comes.
- The Silence of the Lambs (1991): It’s a classic for a reason! Some might question my parenting for wanting to share this one, but I’ll wait until she’s older. It’s a brilliantly crafted film that makes you think twice about helping strangers.
Honorable Mentions
The Karate Kid, Coming to America, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Top Gun, Gremlins, Poltergeist, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Sixteen Candles, Raising Arizona, Aliens, Ghostbusters, Back to the Future, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Shining, and Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure.
Oh, and for the record, I’ve never seen Dirty Dancing.
In summary, sharing cherished films from my youth with my daughter is a thrilling prospect. These classic stories not only entertain but also provide meaningful lessons about friendship, growth, and the complexities of life. As we snuggle up for our movie nights, I look forward to the memories we’ll create together.