Growing up in the vibrant 80s, I remember a world filled with colorful hair, rebellious fashion choices, and a love for music videos. I had my share of teenage escapades, and now, as an adult, my focus has shifted to baking everything from cookies to pies. While I might have traded my combat boots for an apron, becoming a mother has profoundly reshaped my outlook on life—particularly how I perceive the films that once brought me joy. Here are seven childhood favorites that now evoke entirely different feelings in me.
1. Adventures in Babysitting
As a child: The excitement of babysitting, college crushes, and wild escapades made this movie a beloved classic.
As a mom: This flick embodies every parent’s worst nightmare. It’s the reason I hesitate to leave the house without my little ones—yikes!
2. Stand By Me
As a child: The thrill of a kid-centered adventure, minus the adults, was pure bliss.
As a mom: My anxiety skyrockets watching these kids face life-threatening situations. Seriously, the train, the junkyard dog, and the intense Kiefer Sutherland character make me question my own childhood memories!
3. Beaches
As a child: I adored Bette Midler and dreamed of a Broadway career while humming the film’s tunes.
As a mom: The heartbreaking end where Barbara Hershey’s character dies is too much. I couldn’t even think about watching this while pregnant—just too painful.
4. The Breakfast Club
As a child: This film was the epitome of teenage angst and rebellion. I knew every line by heart, even with the awkward TV edits.
As a mom: I can’t help but wonder why today’s schools lack practical classes. Plus, the thought of my child experimenting with dangerous things like a flare gun freaks me out!
5. The Karate Kid
As a child: The mentorship between Daniel and Mr. Miyagi was inspiring.
As a mom: I would never let my boys hang out with an older, single man! And those expensive gifts? Major red flags!
6. Back to the Future
As a child: The idea of time travel and having a quirky best friend like Doc Brown was exhilarating.
As a mom: The creepy undertones of the old man-teenager dynamic make me cringe. And the thought of my child witnessing my awkward teenage self? No thanks!
7. The Goonies
As a child: The thrill of adventure and treasure hunting made this film a childhood staple.
As a mom: Where were their parents? It’s hard to believe no one issued an Amber Alert when the kids went missing. The sheer danger they faced is exhausting to think about!
Motherhood isn’t just something you do; it’s an integral part of who you are. You live it, breathe it, and it shapes your entire worldview. I wonder how films like these would resonate with critics like Gene after they became parents themselves.
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In summary, the movies that once seemed carefree and adventurous now carry a weight of anxiety and concern that only parenthood can bring. They serve as a reminder of the innocence of childhood and the protective instincts that develop with motherhood.