There have been numerous times people channel surf and come across an unsettling scene. Then do a double-take to realize that the movie playing right now was originally intended for kids! From the 1980s to the 2000s here’s a list of five movies we can’t believe were for kids.
WATERSHIP DOWN (1981)
This movie is the epitome of don’t judge a book by its cover because Watership Down is not about cute bunnies on a whimsical adventure. There’s a lot of death, eerie imagery, and a sense of dread for our fluffy adventurers. Watership Down is about the journey in search of a new home that is centered around danger. Like many movies for its time, the modern rating system was quite relaxed until 1984 the PG rating was invented.
Darkness Scale: 9 out of 10 bloody cottontails
Pinocchio (1940)
Pinocchio is a fantastic golden age Disney movie, and a favorite among Disney fans throughout every generation. While highly praised for its great animation, stern message about boyhood, and being thankful for what you already have dialogue. Pinocchio is a pretty dark story from beginning to end. The movie features human trafficking, petty street crimes, minors smoking and drinking beers.
Darkness Scale: 7 out of 10 squashed Jiminy Crickets (yes, that did happen in the book).
The Dark Crystal (1982)
As fantastic as Jim Henson’s creation is… It’s terrifying. Again, this man is a genius in what he contributed to the movie industry and puppeteering. The movie itself isn’t meant to be horror, but the puppet designs, visual effects, and acting make the entire experience uncomfortable for a younger audience. Should children watch this movie? Sure! Don’t be surprised if little Jimmy and Mary have nightmares of this.
Darkness Scale: 10 out of 10 creepy muppets
The Secret of Nimh (1982)
Based on the children’s novel Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O’Brien. Brought to life on the big screen by the legendary Don Bluth. This is hands down Bluth’s greatest movie and his scariest. A story that tackles the love of a mother, how far the love for one’s child will take them. The Secret of Nimh features groundbreaking animation, haunting imagery, and doesn’t shy away from the evils of man. Such as animal experimentation and deforestation. One of the darker gothic-adventures for kids to watch.
Darkness Scale: 8 out of 10 glowing owl eyes.
The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
Hunchback is one of Disney’s most daring, mature movies that challenge sexual urges, xenophobia, judgment, authority. the church and classicism. Despite the goofy gargoyles, it’s a movie that’s not want to hold the viewer’s hand and let them know everything is going to be alright. It also features the greatest and scariest Disney song ever with Hellfire!
Darkness Scale: 7 out of 10 Claude Frollos
