MovieChat Forums > General Discussion > Just a perspective on kids entertainment

Just a perspective on kids entertainment

posted a month ago by BuckleBilly (1110)
6 replies | jump to latest

I think CGI has a lot to do with this:

Kids movies have gone into the realm of magic and fantasy more than problem solving. Marvel, DC, and YA adaptations all have this chosen one appeal which is fine.

Then, I think about some great movies for kids which didn't really do that:

1. The Sandlot
2. The Goonies
3. October Sky
4. Little Giants
5. Hocus Pocus
6. Sidekicks
7. The Rookie
8. House arrest
9. The Witches
10. It
11. Matinee
12. Holes
13. Radio Flyer
14. Monster Squad
15 Heavyweights
16. Stand By Me

There are some fantasy elements, but it tended focus on an ensemble trying to figure out a problem without having superpowers or this chose one aspect. It was more about banning together and working with their own strengths and weaknesses. Nothing against modern superhero flicks, but it almost seems like it would set kids up idols with superpowers rather than personality and problem solving.

I'm probably overthinking it.

[–] fourlemons (1670) a month ago

The kids movies of the '70s and '80s reflect the time. Kids actually went out and played and had adventures and so the movies reflected that.

Now movies have to add in fantasy and CGI elements because a movie about a kid staring at their phone between sessions of video games would not be enthralling.

To some extent I'm saying this jokingly, but I'm wondering if I'm really that far off.

[–] ColumboKate (5678) a month ago

😄 I think you're right.

[–] CaptBeefBlower (242) a month ago

Kids' movies have become more feminine. They tell kids that they're perfect as they are, and that they just need to discover their inner excellence in order to succeed in a world where the odds are stacked against them. It's the classic feminist message. Hence the magic and special powers, as opposed to working hard, being resilient and sacrificing, which is the message that boys used to hear.

[–] Chomsky89 (395) a month ago

Are movies you could not legally rent at age 10 for kids?

You could not legally rent Stand by Me and some of those other movies at at age 10. at least not in my country.

[–] capuchin (3182) a month ago

I wondered about that too. Stand By Me was a 15 certificate in the UK. I just checked. It still is, although probably only because no-one has submitted it for reclassification in the last 25 years. It'd most likely pass at 12 nowadays.

In any case, I would have thought it was a film about kids rather than a kids' film.

[–] BuckleBilly (1110) a month ago

My town had no issue with that. Our parents didn't care either. Plus, the movies ended up on Regular TV and Cable. So yeah, kids watched it.