The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly: A Hilarious Christian Review of The Goonies for Family Movie Night

Ah, family movie night! It’s that cherished time when popcorn flies, laughter fills the air, and kids question Dad’s jokes. This week, we are diving into the classic adventure film, The Goonies. Before you gather the family and settle in for a night of treasure hunting and nostalgia, let’s explore the good, the bad, and the ugly of this 1985 gem from a Christian family perspective.

The Goonies movie poster featuring the adventurous kids

The Good

First, let’s focus on the positive aspects. The Goonies is an exciting adventure filled with themes that resonate with family values.

1. Friendship and Loyalty: The Goonies are a united group of friends who face danger together. Their friendship is a beautiful reminder of loyalty, much like the bond shared by the disciples. For instance, think of how the Goonies come together to decipher a treasure map, showing their unwavering support for each other in tough situations.

   
   

2. Adventure and Imagination: This film sparks kids' imaginations. It encourages them to explore their surroundings. Adventure can happen in every backyard. Did you know that creative play helps develop problem-solving skills? According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, imaginative play contributes to cognitive development in children.

   
   

3. Humor: The timeless humor in The Goonies appeals to both kids and adults. From the eccentric character of Sloth to the witty dialogue, there’s plenty to enjoy. Kids may roll their eyes at your jokes when you quote the movie, but they’ll likely have fun reminiscing about their favorite funny moments.

   
   

4. Family Dynamics: The film presents a variety of family structures, from the Walsh family to the Fratelli family. It shows that love can exist in all kinds of households. For example, though the Walshes face difficulties, their support for each other highlights familial love’s importance.

   
   

The Bad

Now, let’s discuss some aspects that might cause concern for Christian families. While The Goonies has charm, certain elements may raise eyebrows.

1. Language: The film includes around 20 instances of strong language, such as the “S” word and “A” word. If you prefer to keep the viewing experience family-friendly, consider preparing a “word of the day” lesson to discuss respectful language.

   
   

2. Mild Scares: Some scenes, especially those featuring the Fratelli family, may be frightening for young viewers. If you have kids who scare easily, have a cozy blanket ready or keep a snack distraction handy.

   
   

3. Innuendos: A few suggestive jokes may go over children's heads, but could prompt awkward conversations later. Be prepared for questions like “What did that mean?” after certain scenes.

   
   

The Ugly

Finally, let's address the sections that might make parents cringe while watching.

1. Treasure Hunting Ethics: The Goonies seek treasure that doesn't belong to them, raising questions about the ethics of taking what isn’t rightfully theirs. This can lead to a meaningful discussion about honesty and integrity, emphasizing that just because an adventure seems exciting, it doesn't always mean it’s right.

   
   

2. The Fratelli Family: The Fratellis are criminals, bringing a darker element into the story. Their relationship dynamic is a stark contrast to the Goonies' friendship. If you seek examples of wholesome family values, this family depiction isn't the best model.

   
   

3. The Ending: The ending raises questions regarding consequences. It leaves viewers pondering about the implications of the Goonies’ actions. While it can spark interesting discussion, it might feel unresolved after an adventurous storyline.

   
   

Treasure map from The Goonies showing marked locations for adventure

Final Thoughts

Should you watch The Goonies with your family? It's a classic adventure film filled with laughter and valuable lessons on friendship. Just be ready for some language, moments of fear, and possibly awkward questions.

If you'd like to filter out the not-so-family-friendly content, consider using services like VidAngel. They can help maintain family values while enjoying movies.

If you want to find more family-friendly films and reviews, check out resources available online.

Happy movie watching! May your popcorn be plentiful, and your laughter be loud!

Family enjoying a movie night with popcorn and laughter