A family movie night . . . it really can go either way, can’t it?
I remember when I was young there were no such debates about what to watch, because you basically watched what your parents did.
I am of a certain vintage that remembers there being only three channels.
It didn’t stop me developing a life-long love of films though. This was mostly to do with my wonderful dad. He loved his films too and over the years taught me about actors, directors, screenwriters and all sorts of cinematic wonder.
A favourite memory is of Saturday nights and the Hammer Horror double bill!
A large bowl of Rice Krispies was brought through and we would settle down for Peter Cushing, Christopher Lee and all sorts of spooky goings-on. My mum at this point would be sitting happily reading a book.
I’ve still got a huge affection for these old films.
I actually got to interview Peter Cushing many years ago and he was simply wonderful!
Movie magic
Fast forward many years and I now have my own family.
My husband and I have had years of Disney, Pixar etc and then we graduated on to instantly forgettable CGI-ridden fluff.
Around three years ago I decided my children were old enough to be properly educated in the world of film.
Saturday night was designated “movie night” and my husband and I decided to draw up a list of films that we thought the kids would enjoy. Three teenagers . . . would they find our favourites too cheesy? A bit lame?
Bribes of halloumi fries and pakora made sure of their attendance at least.
Family favourites
I’m thrilled to say that, with only a couple of exceptions, family movie night has been a success!
The most popular have been “The Untouchables”, “Apollo 13”, the rather unnerving “Se7en”, “Airplane”, “The Thing” “The Hunt For Red October”, “The Usual Suspects” and “The Great Escape”.
Thankfully they love my favourite film of all time, “Jaws” too.
“Die Hard” is a winner, too. Although it had my son asking me, “Did women really have hair like that in the eighties?”
I’m rather thrilled to pass on my love of films to the next generation. And I still have a hankering for Rice Krispies and Dracula!
For more from “The People’s Friend” team, read our blog here.
Tracey Steel Having worked on a number of magazines over the years, I have found my perfect place on the “Friend” as I’m obsessed with reading and never go anywhere without a book! I read all of our stories with a mug of tea close by and usually a bit of strong cheese too!
