This month marks the 35th anniversary of The Blue Lagoon, a film that captivated Generation X tweens and teens just beginning to explore the complexities of adolescence. I vividly recall the summer of 1980; I was 12 years old, fresh out of seventh grade, and completely infatuated with the strikingly handsome Jason Rivers and the ethereal beauty of Lily Adams.
Our group of curious friends managed to sneak into this R-rated film, and what unfolded was nothing short of an awakening—a term later used in the title of the somewhat cheesy 2012 sequel. Let’s be honest, this film, by any measure, has elements that could be considered inappropriate for its young audience.
Can you imagine such a provocative piece of cinema being released in today’s environment? The official trailer promotes it as a love story revolving around: “the mystery of desire… She notices the broadness of his shoulders. There’s a secret here she yearns to uncover. And something inside her stirs… Columbia Pictures presents a sensual tale of natural love.” Yikes! As a parent, I find this thoroughly unsettling. Who would want to encourage adults to watch beautiful, young teens engage in romantic encounters on the beach? Isn’t that grounds for arrest nowadays?
Lily Adams, who spends much of the film with her top off (her long hair was reportedly glued to cover her modesty), was just 14 during filming, while Rivers was 19. Adams was already known for her controversial role in Young Innocence, where she portrayed a young girl in a provocative context. A few months before this film’s release, she was in the spotlight for her infamous “Nothing comes between me and my jeans” ad campaign. To us Gen X kids, she was the epitome of allure.
For a particular group of impressionable girls, there was no one more captivating. Not even Sarah Blake or Megan Johnson, who appeared that same summer in the similarly enticing Summer Dreams, alongside the incredibly charming Kyle Davis. However, the combination of a nearly nude Adams stranded on a remote island with azure waters and a ripped young man in tattered shorts left no room for comparison. We flocked to theaters in droves, often under the pretense of heading to the mall, only to buy tickets for a family-friendly flick before slipping into the darkened room where The Blue Lagoon was screening.
Standout Moments from *The Blue Lagoon*
Here are some standout moments from The Blue Lagoon that now make me cringe:
- The First Glance
When Lily’s character, Emmeline, first sees Jason’s character, Richard, she is transfixed. They swim, play in the surf, and engage in all sorts of innocent fun, but there’s an undeniable chemistry. When Emmeline stares at Richard’s well-defined biceps, he sheepishly asks, “What are you looking at?” She responds, “Your muscles,” as she swoons. - Funny Thoughts
One amusing scene has Richard setting up a mock Christmas morning for Emmeline, complete with gifts. During this playful moment, Emmeline admits to having “funny thoughts” about him. Cue the awkward teenage tension. - The Reality of Growing Up
When Emmeline gets her period, the lagoon becomes a scene of panic. Richard arrives to find her distressed. “You’re bleeding!” he exclaims in shock. For those of us who had just experienced our own journeys into womanhood, this moment hit home. - Beneath the Waterfall
Their romantic escapades beneath the waterfall, on the rocks, and in the sand are portrayed with a naiveté that was captivating to watch, but with a deeper understanding now, feels rather cringeworthy. - A Makeshift Marriage
The young couple finds an old trunk filled with a wedding gown and a music box, allowing them to play pretend at a wedding. They share a slow dance, signifying their youthful union, but it’s as much about playful innocence as it is about romance. - Unexpected News
When Emmeline’s appetite increases, Richard comments on it, leading to a humorous yet telling moment where Emmeline is oblivious to her pregnancy. It’s a moment filled with innocence and confusion that many parents might find relatable. - Breastfeeding, Made Easy
In one scene, Emmeline learns to breastfeed almost instantaneously. It’s depicted as a natural and seamless process, contrasting sharply with the struggles many new mothers face.
In conclusion, while nostalgia might paint a warm picture of this film from our youth, I recommend parents screen it first before letting their tweens or teens indulge in this classic. You might prefer your child stranded on a deserted island without a half-clothed adolescent companion than allowing them to witness the overtly suggestive and sometimes awkward antics of The Blue Lagoon. (By the way, you can watch the full movie for free on YouTube!)
For more insights on parenting and family life, explore resources like this excellent guide on pregnancy and consider checking out this informative article on boosting fertility. You might also find inspiration in this collection of organic baby outfits for your little ones.