Movies I Loved as a Kid, Now Looking Older: A Review

Many of us have fond memories of movies from our childhood that capture the imagination and charm us in ways that only films made for kids can. However, revisiting these films as adults can reveal a mix of nostalgia and disappointment. Let's take a look at a few movies that I loved as a kid but now, as an adult, hold up a mirror to issues of the time.

Ageing of Batman and Robin (1997)

Memories of the time are often unfairly rosy, and as a young enthusiast, I was obsessed with the 1997 animated film Batman and Robin. The critically panned statement that George Clooney hated doing the movie rings true in retrospect. Watching it in my early 20s, I found it nearly unwatchable, with cringe-inducing dialogue and a story that just wouldn't hold water. This particular film is a prime example of why watching something once through a child's eyes and then again as an adult can be such a stark contrast.

The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1974)

Another movie that falls into the category of satisfying my childhood imagination was the 1974 film The Golden Voyage of Sinbad. At the time, it was an imaginative and adventurous movie that I couldn't get enough of. However, as an adult, viewing it now is rather a challenge. The entire production seems very dated, with cheap-looking sets and lackluster acting. Notwithstanding, Ray Harryhausen's work remains impressive. My fondness for the film is also tainted by Robert Shaw's cameo, as no matter how much nostalgia I hold, I can't unsee his somewhat cheesy appearance in the film.

Peter Pan (2003)

Disney's Peter Pan holds a special place in my heart from childhood. I watched it at least eight times, and even as a child, some sequences were a bit repetitive. Now, as an adult, I can appreciate the art and music, but the excess in Captain Hook chasing the crocodile is a bit overkill. It was clearly designed for children, but as an adult, I found it dragging and repetitive. However, one should not forget the rich cultural content: the **Stereotypical representation of American Indians** as mermaids in the film is another issue that I can now see. It transcends the joy of the film and reflects the cultural biases of its era.

Annie (1982)

Another film that fits this category is the iconic Annie (1982). At a young age, I was captivated by the story, but as a grown-up, I can't help but be troubled by certain aspects. The lyrics in the songs are distressing, discussing themes of abuse and longing for parents. Additionally, the character Punjab, portrayed by fellow Trinidadian-American Geoffrey Holder, is an underdog and yet perpetuates harmful stereotypes. This characterization isn't just a minor slip; it's a significant issue that certainly would have needed explanation by parents in 1982, who took their kids to the theater.

As with all things, every piece of art has a moment in time and societal context. These reviews are not to discredit the creativity and effort that went into making these films but to acknowledge the changing perspectives of society and the issues these films might raise.