The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids’ Movies

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

As someone who has raised three children and watched countless kid’s movies over the years, I must say that some of these scenes are truly baffling. The romantic subplot in “Bee Movie” is just one example among many where filmmakers seem to have lost sight of their audience.


Reflecting on the movies we watched during our childhood years, it’s striking to realize how subtly suggestive or even blatantly provocative some scenes might have been. The landscape of film ratings has evolved significantly since the early 1980s, following concerns over violence in PG-rated films such as “Gremlins” and “Poltergeist”. As a result, the PG-13 rating was introduced to protect younger viewers from potentially distressing content. However, it’s worth noting that the boundaries between suitable and unsuitable content for children have often been hazy in major film releases for quite some time.

More specifically, there’s been a notable shift towards more conservative themes in children and family-oriented films over the past few years. In contrast to the 2000s, PG-rated movies often contained sexually suggestive content or awkward romantic scenes that could potentially cause disagreements among family members who watch them together.

Revisiting these timeless movies enjoyed by people of all ages, particularly kids, it’s surprising that sequences involving flirtation, kissing, suggestive behavior, sexual content, and even nudity didn’t elevate their film ratings from PG to R or NC-17. One fact remains undeniable: These scenes created some rather uncomfortable situations for parents and the children who happened to view them.

Clash of the Titans

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

In the 1980s, “Clash of the Titans” was a well-known fantasy movie, yet in today’s media environment, it might have earned an R-rating instead of the PG rating it originally received. This grand depiction of Greek mythology could appear suitable for young history enthusiasts, but its prevalent violence and nudity make it potentially unsuitable for children due to parental concerns.

If the initial portrayal of baby Perseus being breastfed doesn’t cause discomfort for audiences watching this movie, then the mature and intimate scenes between adult characters Perseus (played by Harry Hamlin) and Princess Andromeda (Judi Bowker), including sleeping together and expressing their affection after marriage, may prove to be quite intense or inappropriate for some viewers, especially younger ones. These scenes are significantly more explicit than modern PG-rated films typically venture.

However, film critic Roger Ebert seemed adamant about the movie’s appropriateness for children, writing in his 1981 review, “‘Clash of the Titans’ is a family film (there’s nothing in it that would disturb any but the most impressionable children), and yet it’s not by any means innocuous.” It just goes to show how much times have changed since the early ’80s that a film with as much violence and explicit sexuality as “Clash of the Titans” was deemed a non-issue for young audiences. 

The Last Unicorn

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

Isn’t it reasonable to assume that an animated movie adapted from a children’s book is harmless? However, let me remind you, “The Last Unicorn” wasn’t a commercial success when released in 1982, but it was critically acclaimed with The New York Times stating, “Children, except for the very young, should find it intriguing; adults will not be bored.” Over time, it has developed a cult following due to childhood nostalgia. But viewers might be taken aback by certain scenes in the film if they approach it with rose-tinted spectacles.

In “The Last Unicorn” storyline, the main character, the unicorn (portrayed by Mia Farrow), realizes she’s the last of her kind and embarks on a journey with the bungling wizard Schmendrick (Alan Arkin) to find others like her. During their adventure, Schmendrick employs his magic in one instance, intending to free himself from being bound to a tree, but accidentally brings the tree to life and makes it fall in love with him instead. In the movie version of this scene, there’s an unexpectedly sensual element, which might surprise viewers.

In this reimagined version, the animate tree, voiced by Nellie Bellflower, is depicted with conspicuous curves, leaning towards Schmendrick in a manner reminiscent of a warm embrace, yet suggesting eternal affection. This scene, though unexpected in a children’s movie, creates a peculiar atmosphere, and even Schmendrick appears uneasy under the tree’s flirtatious overtures.

Sheena

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

Unlike the typical superhero movies that rule the box office today, the film titled “Sheena” is distinct. Originating from the comic book “Queen of the Jungle,” this movie featured Tanya Roberts as the lead character, a woman brought up by an isolated native tribe. Roberts wasn’t new to fantasy action films; she had previously been in 1982’s “The Beastmaster” and starred in “Charlie’s Angels.” However, her recognition extended beyond these roles, thanks to her appearance in Playboy magazine.

In the movie “Sheena,” Roberts’ readiness to be portrayed nude was utilized in a scene where Sheena is shown bathing naked in a river. This situation provokes reporter Vic Casey (played by Ted Wass), who is tempted but ultimately decides not to join her. The scene carries a strong sexual tension between the characters, leading up to their intimate encounter near the end of the film. As described by 13th Dimension, there’s an awkward moment towards the end when Sheena and Vic are about to make love, and he lifts her up as if she were a bride crossing the threshold for the first time.

In essence, some explicit scenes in the movie “Sheena,” which was aimed at a younger audience, caused quite a stir among critics, who believed it bordered on being pornographic. However, this controversy didn’t harm Roberts’ reputation; instead, she went on to enhance her image by portraying one of Roger Moore’s Bond girls in “A View to a Kill.

Ghostbusters

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

Although “Ghostbusters” boasted a cast renowned for their work in shows like “Saturday Night Live,” “Caddyshack,” and “Alien,” the movie was also popular among younger viewers. The original 1984 film eventually expanded into a multimedia franchise, encompassing a seven-season animated TV series, various video games, and even toys. Notably, “Ghostbusters” incorporated numerous jokes intended for adults, with one joke in particular being rather suggestive, likely going unnoticed by younger fans.

As the midpoint of the movie unfolded, the Ghostbusters’ enterprise began booming, triggering a fast-paced sequence where Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis), and Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson) were seen chasing ghosts all across New York City. In one particular scene, I, Ray Stantz, found myself in an unusual dream where a stunning spectral woman was performing an intimate act on me during the dead of night. This dream sequence even included a shot of my belt being undone and me expressing pleasure.

As a gamer, I found myself quite divided about the infamous moment in that beloved family-friendly film everyone raves about. Even though it was praised then and still is now, this specific scene has stirred up controversy for seemingly not fitting well within the film’s overall family-friendly vibe. When I asked Dan Aykroyd about it during an interview with Polygon, he defended the scene by saying that sexual encounters with spirits are quite frequent, and admitted he wished they could have extended the scene a bit longer. Needless to say, there are plenty of fans out there who feel just as passionately in the opposite direction as I do.

Back to the Future

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

It wasn’t John Mulaney who initially noted the uncomfortably close plot point in “Back to the Future,” where Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) comes perilously close to dating his own mother. This 1985 movie, like “Ghostbusters,” is a timeless classic, boasting an animated series, video games, and theme park attractions. However, its third act, which some found distasteful due to its incestuous undertones, drew criticism even during its initial release. The film almost didn’t get made because of this controversial aspect.

The pivotal scene unfolds just prior to the Enchantment Under the Sea dance, where Marty concocts a scheme involving his father, George (Crispin Glover), to reclaim his mother Lorraine (Lea Thompson) from him, thereby preserving his own timeline. In a car parked outside the school, Lorraine attempts to make a move on an awkward Marty, but their moment is cut short by Biff Tannen (Thomas F. Wilson), who attempts to violate Marty’s mother. George then intervenes and saves her. It’s hard to fathom the shock of watching “Back to the Future” for the first time in 1985, unaware of this dramatic turn of events.

Michael J. Fox himself has acknowledged later that the incestuous plot in “Back to the Future” seemed strange even at the time, yet it led to some of the film’s most memorable scenes. It’s hard not to sympathize with all the young boys who watched the movie with their mothers, and then had an uncomfortable ride home afterwards.

Howard the Duck

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

In the ’80s, Lea Thompson wasn’t just known for her love scenes in “Back to the Future.” Another film, “Howard the Duck,” also had an unusual and rather bizarre sequence. This movie, based on a Marvel Comics character, follows Beverly, played by Lea Thompson, who takes in the anthropomorphic duck, Howard, with the goal of sending him back to his home planet. Surprisingly, this kids’ Marvel film is infamous for featuring one of the most awkward nude scenes ever recorded.

The movie starts with an unsettling image of a female duck displaying bare chest, already quite disturbing. Things become even more uncomfortable when the characters Beverly and Howard have a love scene, albeit briefly shown as silhouettes before being interrupted by scientists who found a method for Howard to go back to his planet. This interruption makes the situation awkward enough in itself, and filming it was reportedly quite awkward too, according to Thompson.

Among all viewers, it might have been Zoey Deutch, Thompson’s daughter, who had the most awkward moment watching the scene. In an interview on “Conan”, she shared her feelings about seeing that scene as a child, worrying that her mom could possibly leave her dad for Howard the Duck. She later explained that they eventually told her the movie was intended for adults and she shouldn’t have watched it.

Mermaids

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

As a gamer looking back, the 1990 comedy “Mermaids” doesn’t appear too out of place at first glance. Granted, it delves into some adult themes, which I suppose is par for the course in a PG-rated film that tackles the awkwardness of adolescence. Yet, viewing this movie from today’s perspective, “Mermaids” certainly raises a few eyebrows due to its more provocative elements compared to modern standards.

In the movie “Mermaids”, Winona Ryder’s character, Charlotte, grapples with her burgeoning sexuality and deep-rooted Catholic faith at the age of 15. Throughout the film, Michael Schoeffling plays Joe, a 26-year-old man who becomes her main love interest.

Although this film might resonate with individuals who went through an awkward teenage phase, its appeal towards younger viewers remains uncertain. In a review for The Guardian, Nadine J. Cohen argued that the film is suitable for children despite the questionable relationship between Charlotte and Joe, stating, “Looking back, my viewing of it as a child raises concerns about my parents’ parental guidance, but it carries a PG rating, and they can’t respond now, so let’s consider it a different era and move forward.

Dick Tracy

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

When you imagine Dick Tracy, it’s unlikely that you connect him with any form of promiscuity. Quite the contrary, the 1990 movie featuring Warren Beatty as the main character might surprise you. The comic strip version was light-hearted and less mature, but this film takes a darker, more adult turn than what one may anticipate. Contrary to the grisly depiction in the ‘Batman’ movie adaptation, which could have been unsettling for younger audiences due to its excessive violence, ‘Dick Tracy’ is rated PG and contains no obscenity, no blood, and no graphic violence as Roger Ebert noted in his positive review.

Beyond the violent elements, “Dick Tracy” offers a few rather daring scenes, notably featuring Madonna as Breathless Mahoney, a nightclub singer. Although Breathless was initially a comic strip character, Madonna’s portrayal significantly elevated her to pop culture fame. In one memorable scene, Breathless tries to charm Dick Tracy in her dressing room, where she is seen wearing almost nothing but lingerie, revealing her bare body beneath it. Later on, she persuades Tracy to share a kiss in his office.

The movie undeniably raises the standard of what can be shown in a PG film, largely due to Madonna’s captivating acting. While it might have been more suitable for families if Madonna wasn’t in the cast, given that she performs an Academy Award-winning song in the movie, it seems unlikely that this role would rank among her most significant Hollywood regrets.

Blank Check

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

Rupert Wainwright’s first directorial effort, “Blank Check,” faced online criticism when viewers on Disney+ discovered it. This 1994 comedy features Brian Bonsall as an 11-year-old who receives a blank check from an escaped convict to keep quiet. Although the idea of a young boy suddenly turning into a millionaire and squandering his wealth might seem like standard fare for a Walt Disney production, it was the film’s ending that left viewers uncomfortable.

In the movie “Blank Check”, the character Preston Waters, portrayed by Bonsall and disguised as wealthy Mr. MacIntosh, captures Shay Stanley’s interest, played by Karen Duffy in her adult role. When the film concludes, Shay agrees to go on a date with Preston once he becomes of age, and they exchange a kiss. This unexpected romance between the two characters stirred controversy as “Blank Check” was surprisingly discussed on Twitter due to its concerning depiction of an adult-child relationship, despite being available on family-friendly Disney+.

As a gamer, I can’t hide my excitement about the movie I just filmed – it was a blast working with such a fantastic team! Despite the ongoing controversy, everyone involved was a pleasure to collaborate with. It’s heartening to see that people are still enjoying this film, and I can’t wait for others to experience it too.

The Road to El Dorado

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

In a typical scenario, you wouldn’t imagine animated characters from movies having romantic lives – unless you’re the creative team behind DreamWorks’ 1999 film “The Road to El Dorado.” The musical revolves around Miguel (Kenneth Branagh) and Tulio (Kevin Kline), whose quest for El Dorado leads them to be mistaken as gods by the city’s inhabitants. Given that these main characters are far from perfect morally, they make use of the attention in ways that parents might pick up on, but children likely won’t catch.

One scene finds Tulio becoming romantically involved with Chel (Rosie Perez), a native who wants to escape El Dorado. A startled Chel enters the frame as Tulio slowly rises, making it appear as if she’s performing a sexual act on him. IGN blamed its place in the film as the result of tonal inconsistency, writing, “DreamWorks originally planned to make ‘El Dorado’ a more serious picture and shoot for a PG-13 rating … However, this more mature approach was reconsidered and the decision was made to ‘water down’ the movie, to prevent the exclusion of the younger audience.”

Currently, the scene in “The Road to El Dorado” serves as an unexpected adult humor element within a children’s movie. However, some critics argue that it reflects poorly on the film’s portrayal of Aztec culture, specifically suggesting that Chel is objectified and used for the con artist’s personal desires, which they find disrespectful.

Bee Movie

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

Rewatching “Bee Movie” provokes many questions in viewers: Why did Jerry Seinfeld want to make this? Who decided it should be a courtroom drama? And most of all, why is there a romantic subplot between a human woman and a bee? The 2007 animated film stars Seinfeld as Barry, a bee enamored with the outside world who forms a bond with a florist, Vanessa (Renée Zellweger), and eventually sues the human race for bee abuse. 

In this movie, Barry’s feelings for Vanessa are not hidden at all. One instance stands out where he imagines a romantic picnic with her, drinking wine together and openly flirting. Then, remarkably, Vanessa takes off in an airplane to draw a heart shape in the sky – though strangely, she ends up crashing and sadly passing away. This peculiar side story garnered attention when the film became a cult meme back in 2016.

In essence, Seinfeld has admitted in an interview with Jimmy Fallon on “The Tonight Show,” that the relationship between Barry and Vanessa in the show “Seinfeld” felt strange in retrospect. Additionally, during this same conversation, he expressed his regret about the seemingly uncomfortable and suggestive undertones in the movie “Bee Movie.” He clarified that these elements were unintentional and became aware later on that they may not have been appropriate for younger audiences.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1

The Most Awkward On-Screen Love Scenes In Kids' Movies

The “Harry Potter” series of films, as you may notice, have a mixed tone throughout their run. While the initial movies were clearly intended for younger audiences, as the story progressed, it became increasingly darker and even featured some scenes that were surprisingly intimate. The film “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 1” is the first part of the movie adaptation of the final book, where we find Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) in his teenage years, embarking on adventures with Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson), to locate and destroy Voldemort’s Horcruxes, fragments of the soul of the infamous villain known as He Who Must Not Be Named.

Yet, the ownership of one such Horcrux, specifically a locket, starts to negatively influence an envious Ron, causing him to abandon Harry and Hermione. Later on, when Ron reappears to rescue Harry from the locket’s grasp, the Horcrux tries to corrupt him further by displaying a troubling vision. This vision initially portrays Harry and Hermione criticizing him, followed swiftly by an image of his two companions in a compromising position, embracing passionately.

Many readers of the “Harry Potter” books feel that this particular scene is superfluous since it wasn’t included in the actual “Deathly Hallows” novel. Given that a significant number of viewers might have grown up alongside Radcliffe and Watson as the movies were released, this scene can be quite awkward to watch, although it doesn’t compare to the more disturbing events within the “Harry Potter” universe.

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2024-11-01 14:31