By: Lauren Paige Kennedy
Updated: April 26, 2021
Originally Published: July 21, 2014
This month marks the 35th anniversary of The Blue Lagoon, a film that captivated the imaginations of Gen X tweens and teens navigating the awkwardness of early adolescence. I vividly recall the summer of 1980 when, at just 12 years old and fresh out of seventh grade, I became entranced by the stunning Brooke Shields and the charismatic Christopher Atkins.
Sneaking into this R-rated flick with a group of friends, I experienced what can only be described as an awakening—a term that later found its way into the title of the 2012 sequel. In retrospect, it’s remarkable to consider how this film, which many would classify as bordering on inappropriate, could ever find its way to screens in today’s world.
Imagine the film’s official trailer being released in 2015, touting it as a love story exploring “the mystery of desire… She sees that he’s strong. Something inside her stirs…” It feels unsettling to think of adults being drawn to such visuals of young, scantily clad teens. Aren’t there laws against this kind of thing now?
At the time of filming, Shields was only 14 and famously went topless, though her long hair was reportedly secured to cover her breasts. This was just months before her infamous “Nothing comes between me and my Calvins” campaign. To us, she was the epitome of allure, eclipsing other teen idols like Kristy McNichol and Tatum O’Neal, who starred in Little Darlings that same summer. The combination of a nearly naked Shields stranded on a remote island with a hunky, half-dressed Atkins was simply irresistible. We lined up in droves, often deceiving our parents about our movie plans to catch the film in secret.
Here are some highlights from The Blue Lagoon that now make me cringe:
- Emmeline’s First Glance: Emmeline (Shields) becomes entranced by Richard’s (Atkins) physique while they swim and play in the surf. They frolic in tattered clothing, and during one moment, she openly admires his “muscles.”
- The ‘Funny Thoughts’: Richard surprises Em with a mock Christmas celebration, leading her to confess that she’s been having strange feelings for him. Cue the awkward teen moment.
- The Period Scene: Em witnesses the lagoon turning red as she gets her first period, creating a memorable—and somewhat alarming—moment for many young viewers.
- The Waterfall Antics: Their playful encounters beneath a waterfall and in various locations around the island are unforgettable, though perhaps not appropriate for young audiences.
- The Makeshift Wedding: The children discover a trunk containing a wedding dress, leading them to an impromptu ceremony that seems far too fanciful for their situation.
- Unexpected Pregnancy: As Em begins to gain weight, Richard notices but doesn’t grasp the magnitude of her condition, leading to a series of misunderstandings.
- Breastfeeding Instincts: Em quickly learns to breastfeed, an experience depicted with an unrealistic ease that many new mothers would find laughable.
Despite any nostalgic fondness for this film, parents should definitely screen it before letting their tweens or teens watch it. You may find that you’d prefer they be stranded on an island—just not with a half-dressed companion!
For those interested in the journey to motherhood, check out this home insemination kit for more insights. Plus, you can find expert information on lactation from Intracervical Insemination, and for anyone exploring fertility options, the Johns Hopkins Fertility Center is an excellent resource.
In summary, while The Blue Lagoon holds a place in pop culture history, its themes and content might not be suitable for today’s youth. Consider reviewing it first if you plan to share it with your children.