5 Movies From the ’80s That Would Be Too Risky to Make Today

Ah, the ’80s — a decade that brought us big hair, neon colors, and some truly iconic films. But if you look back at some of those beloved classics, you might find yourself scratching your head and wondering how they ever managed to make it to the big screen in the first place. In today’s climate, where sensitivity and cultural awareness reign supreme, there are definitely some ’80s films that would raise eyebrows, if not outright protests, if they were pitched today. So grab your favorite coffee, and let’s take a stroll down memory lane to explore five of these cinematic gems that would probably be too risky to make now.

1. The Breakfast Club (1985)

Breakfast club

John Hughes’ classic about five high school students from different cliques spending a Saturday in detention is practically a rite of passage for anyone who grew up in the ’80s. But if you think about it, the whole premise is a bit shaky. The characters engage in some pretty heavy stuff—like bullying, mental health issues, and toxic relationships—all wrapped up in a neat little bow by the end. Today, the way we approach mental health and personal identity is a lot more nuanced, and it’s hard to imagine a film tackling those themes with the same lightheartedness. Plus, let’s not forget the infamous “pillow fight” scene—could you imagine the social media storm that would follow?

2. Revenge of the Nerds (1984)

This film is practically a love letter to nerd culture, with its underdog story of misfits taking on the jocks. However, it also features some seriously questionable moments that would most likely send today’s audiences into a frenzy. From the very problematic depiction of consent to the way that nerds are often portrayed as socially inept to the point of being creepy, it’s hard to see how this film could even get greenlit today. Sure, it has its funny moments, but the humor often relies on stereotypes and behaviors that simply wouldn’t fly in our current, more aware society. It’s a reminder that while we can celebrate nerd culture, we need to be mindful of the lines we draw.

3. Sixteen Candles (1984)

Another John Hughes classic, “Sixteen Candles” is a coming-of-age story that has enchanted many over the years. But let’s be real: the film is packed with cringe-worthy moments that would likely make today’s audiences uncomfortable. There’s the whole subplot involving a character who’s essentially a walking stereotype, and let’s not forget the infamous scene where a girl gets drunk and is treated as an object rather than a person. The film’s portrayal of sexual encounters and teenage relationships is pretty outdated, and you can bet that if it were made today, it would need a serious rework to avoid the backlash.

4. The Goonies (1985)

Now, don’t get me wrong; “The Goonies” is a treasure of a film that has captured the hearts of many. But when you look closely, there are some elements that would likely be deemed problematic now. The portrayal of the “truffle shuffle” and certain characters could be seen as body-shaming, and there’s a fair amount of outdated humor that just wouldn’t resonate with modern audiences. Sure, it’s all in good fun, but in an age where we’re more aware of inclusivity and representation, the film might face some serious scrutiny. That said, it’s still a nostalgic adventure that many of us hold dear, even if it would need a hefty makeover today.

5. Porky’s (1981)

Ah, “Porky’s”—the quintessential raunchy teen comedy that paved the way for countless others. It’s filled with crude jokes and over-the-top situations that many found hilarious back in the day. But fast-forward to today, and you’ll see a completely different landscape. The film’s treatment of women and the rampant objectification would likely send it straight to the cutting room floor. It’s shocking to think that this was considered “entertainment” at one point, and while it has its fans, it’s safe to say that reimagining this film in today’s context would be a Herculean task.

Wrapping Up

Looking back, it’s fascinating to see how much our cultural lens has shifted since the ’80s. Many of those beloved films were products of their time, often reflecting societal norms that we now question.

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