This month marks the 35th anniversary of The Blue Lagoon, a film that captivated a generation of young viewers navigating the awkwardness of adolescence.
I vividly recall the summer of 1980 when I was just 12 years old, fresh out of seventh grade. My infatuation with the blonde heartthrob, Alex Hunter, and the ethereal beauty of Mia Collins knew no bounds. Sneaking into this R-rated film with a group of my adventurous friends felt like an awakening of sorts—an experience that would later inspire the not-so-subtle sequel in 2012. Let’s be honest—by today’s standards, the content of this film would raise eyebrows and perhaps even lead to legal consequences.
Imagine if The Blue Lagoon were released in 2015 with its official trailer marketed as a love story that explores: “the mystery of desire… She notices his broad shoulders. A secret stirs within her…” Yikes! As a parent, I find this unsettling. Are we really encouraging adults to watch stunning, unclothed teens engage in romantic escapades? Aren’t such things frowned upon today?
Mia Collins, who spends much of the film without a top (her long hair strategically placed), was only 14 during filming, while Alex Hunter was 19. Having already gained notoriety for her role in Pretty Baby—where she portrayed a young prostitute—Mia was the epitome of allure for many of us Gen X kids. While other teen stars like Kristy McNichol and Tatum O’Neal had their moments, nothing could outshine the image of a nearly nude Mia stranded on a picturesque island with a handsome, half-dressed companion.
We flocked to theaters, often telling our parents we were off to the mall, only to sneak into the darkened room showing The Blue Lagoon. Here are some standout moments from the film that make me cringe now:
- Emmeline (Mia) first gawking at Richard’s (Alex) chiseled physique. They swim and play in the surf, their clothing in tatters. One day, Emmeline can’t help but stare at Richard’s defined muscles.
- Emmeline’s “funny thoughts.” Richard surprises her with a mock Christmas morning. When she confesses strange feelings for him, the awkwardness is palpable.
- Emmeline’s first period. The lagoon turns a shocking red, and Richard rushes in, bewildered. As a girl who experienced this milestone not long before, it felt like a shared moment with my peers.
- Their playful exploration under the waterfall and on the beach. No need for further details—just a room full of wide-eyed teens glued to the screen.
- A pretend wedding! They find an old trunk with a wedding dress. Their makeshift ceremony is charming yet bizarre.
- Emmeline gains weight and is unaware she’s pregnant. Richard notices her appetite, and their banter is painfully relatable, especially as a mother now.
- Emmeline learns to breastfeed instantly. The baby is hungry, and she seems to have no trouble figuring it out, as if island life has its own set of rules.
Despite the nostalgic warmth this film brings, I encourage parents to screen it before letting their tweens or teens watch it. You can even check it out for free on YouTube. You might prefer the thought of your child stranded on a deserted island—rather than with a half-clothed adolescent of the opposite sex—than exposing them to the cringe-worthy moments in The Blue Lagoon.
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Summary
The Blue Lagoon turns 35 and reflects a time when young viewers were fascinated by its themes of adolescence and romance. With its mix of awkward moments and nostalgic charm, it’s a film parents might want to preview before letting their kids watch it.