Being a parent goes beyond just guiding our little ones to adulthood; it encompasses sharing the wonders of the world and imparting essential life lessons. Kids must grasp the basics—like tying shoelaces, navigating traffic, and resisting the temptation to pick their noses (which, surprisingly, can be quite challenging). Yet, after these fundamental lessons, the most vital task unfolds: nurturing an appreciation for timeless cult classics. This step is crucial in crafting a well-rounded geek. Trust me, this knowledge will serve them better in social settings than reading them The Cat in the Hat.
Here’s my curated list of essential films to watch together:
Grease
It’s crucial that kids learn lyrics from iconic songs like “Grease Lightning” and “Look At Me, I’m Sandra Dee.” You’ll find these tunes echoing through karaoke bars, and they even make for entertaining wedding sing-alongs. I’d choose any number from the Grease soundtrack over the cringe-worthy “Polka Chicken Dance” any day.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Due to its mature themes, this film may be more suitable for teens. While it might be tough to resist sharing it earlier, waiting has its perks. By the time your kid outgrows trick-or-treating, they’ll be ready to embrace the Halloween spirit with Rocky Horror. If you haven’t yet introduced your teenager to this classic, do so before a recent two-hour special tarnishes its reputation. Remember, there’s only one Tim Curry—the original Sweet Transvestite from transsexual Transylvania.
Little Shop of Horrors
Did Rick Moranis ever look cuter than as Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors? You might want to skip the dentist scene, but this movie teaches a valuable lesson: never trust a plant that craves blood.
The NeverEnding Story
Want to spark a love for reading? Show them The NeverEnding Story. This film beautifully illustrates the magic of getting lost in a book. Despite being released in 1984, it remains a captivating experience—who doesn’t dream of riding Falkor?
The Lost Boys
Here’s a vampire flick that doesn’t feature sparkling undead or vegetarian vampires. Sure, the ’80s fashion is a bit of a riot, but The Lost Boys is arguably the best collaboration between the Two Coreys. Introducing your child to this film is essential for appreciating the cheesy goodness that comes with geek culture.
Big
Kids often focus on what they can’t do and push boundaries—after all, that’s their job. But watching Tom Hanks navigate adulthood’s challenges might just remind them to relish their carefree summers while they last.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
Who’s cooler than Ferris Bueller? While you might worry about his sneaky tactics, this film is a great way to teach kids the importance of seizing the day. Ferris reminds us that life moves quickly, and it’s essential to take a moment to appreciate it.
The Karate Kid
“Wax on, wax off.” The Karate Kid may just convince your kids that car waxing could lead to martial arts mastery. More importantly, it’s a story of perseverance that inspires self-belief.
Footloose
Does your child have a flair for performance? Ren’s passionate argument for dancing serves as a reminder that joy is part of life. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce them to Kevin Bacon’s cinematic world.
Gremlins
Did you have a favorite Gremlin toy? Beyond the nostalgia, Gremlins serves as a cautionary tale about pet ownership. If your kids have been clamoring for a furry friend, this movie will illustrate the importance of following the rules.
Star Wars: A New Hope
Diving into Star Wars is the ultimate initiation into geek culture. While you might be tempted to start with The Phantom Menace, resist that urge—Jar Jar Binks could ruin the magic for your kids. Instead, imagine handing them a lightsaber as you embody Obi-Wan Kenobi. “This is the weapon of a Jedi Knight,” you’ll declare, setting them on a path to explore galaxies far, far away and embrace geek culture for life.
This list aims to strengthen your bond with your child while instilling a love for classic films. You can also explore more on home insemination topics by checking out this link, which offers insightful posts on the subject. For those interested in fertility resources, I recommend visiting Make a Mom, an authority on this topic. Additionally, for valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination, you can refer to NHS.
In summary, sharing these films not only entertains but also educates your child about the essence of geek culture.