Problem Child (1990)
Synopsis:
Problem Child follows the story of Junior, a mischievous young boy who has been bounced from one foster home to another due to his troublesome behavior. He is eventually adopted by Ben Healy, a kind-hearted man who is eager to have a son. However, Ben's wife, Flo, is less enthusiastic about the adoption. As Junior settles into his new home, his antics quickly turn the Healy household upside down. From causing chaos at a birthday party to wreaking havoc at a baseball game, Junior's pranks and mischief seem endless. Despite the chaos, Ben remains determined to make the adoption work, even as Junior's behavior tests the limits of his patience. Meanwhile, a notorious criminal named Martin Beck, who has a connection to Junior, escapes from prison, adding another layer of excitement to the story.
Where To Watch: Problem Child
Parental Feedback
Problem Child, released in 1990, is a comedy film aimed at kids, featuring a mischievous young boy who causes chaos for his adoptive parents. The movie is known for its slapstick humor and over-the-top antics, which some parents find entertaining while others are concerned about the behavior it portrays. Overall, the tone is light-hearted, but parental sentiment is mixed, with some appreciating the humor and others worried about the negative influence of the main character's actions.
Why Kids Should Watch Problem Child
The movie offers a humorous take on family dynamics and the challenges of raising a difficult child.
- Highlights the importance of family and unconditional love.
- The character of Junior provides comedic relief with his outrageous pranks.
- Kids enjoy the exaggerated and colorful antics that keep the film lively.
Why Kids Shouldn’t Watch Problem Child
Parents often express concern about the negative behaviors and lack of consequences depicted in the film.
- Junior's misbehavior might be seen as glorified or without repercussions.
- Some scenes involve destructive behavior that could be imitated by impressionable viewers.
- The film's humor can sometimes be mean-spirited or inappropriate for younger audiences.
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Verdict: Mixed Messages
Parents are divided—some love it, others raise concerns about the portrayal of misbehavior without consequences.
What Parents Should Know About Problem Child
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does this movie model positive behavior that my child can understand and repeat? | The film ultimately shows the importance of family and acceptance, despite Junior's antics. |
| Does this movie include emotional moments my child might find confusing or intense? | Junior's feelings of rejection and his search for belonging may require parental guidance. |
| Does this movie show consequences for unkind or unsafe behavior? | While some consequences are shown, many of Junior's actions go unchecked, which could be misleading. |
| Does this movie reinforce helpful social skills like sharing, apologizing, or teamwork? | There are limited examples of positive social skills, as the focus is more on humor and chaos. |
| Will my child come away with any clear moral or message? | The core message is about the value of family and acceptance, delivered through the resolution of Junior's story. |
The Overall Sentiment From Parental Feedback
Problem Child's biggest strength lies in its comedic approach to family life and the challenges of raising a difficult child. However, the lack of consequences for negative behavior is a significant drawback for many parents. Engaging in discussions about the film's themes and behaviors can help mitigate concerns and provide a more balanced viewing experience. For families seeking similar humor with a more positive message, movies like "Home Alone" might be a better alternative.
Official Problem Child Trailer
The Core Values Learned From Problem Child
Problem Child's most common core values include Acceptance, Family love, and Forgiveness. Throughout the movie, kids see how important it is to accept others for who they are, even when they seem different or difficult. Junior, the main character, struggles to fit in, but his adoptive father, Ben, shows acceptance by trying to understand and support him despite his troublesome behavior. Family Love is another key value, as Ben's Determination to make the adoption work highlights the unconditional love a parent can have for a child, no matter the challenges.
Forgiveness is also a significant theme, as characters learn to forgive each other's mistakes and move forward, teaching kids the importance of letting go of grudges and giving second chances. These values are woven into the story, providing children with relatable examples of how to navigate relationships and emotions.
Other Core Values Explored: Adaptability | Apologizing | Appreciating family | Being a good friend | Being yourself | Boundaries | Building trust | Caring for others | Compassion | Conflict resolution | Courage | Dealing with fear | Determination | Doing the right thing | Emotional growth | Empathy | Friendship | Giving second chances | Growth mindset | Honesty | Kindness | Learning from failure | Letting go | Love | Making friends | Making good choices | Patience | Perseverance | Problem-solving | Resilience | Respect | Responsibility. | Self-discovery | Self-expression | Self-worth | Standing up for what's right | Taking responsibility. | Trust | Valuing diversity | Working through conflict
The 5 Biggest Lessons Learned From Problem Child
Choosing Forgiveness: In the movie, Ben Healy consistently chooses to forgive Junior despite his troublesome behavior. This teaches kids the importance of giving second chances and understanding that everyone makes mistakes.
Embracing Differences: Ben's acceptance of Junior, despite his mischievous nature, highlights the lesson of embracing differences. Children learn that everyone is unique and deserves love and acceptance.
Finding Happiness in Relationships: The evolving bond between Ben and Junior shows kids that happiness can be found in building strong, loving relationships. It emphasizes the joy that comes from family connections and friendships.
Learning from Mistakes: Junior's antics often lead to chaos, but through these experiences, he learns about the consequences of his actions. This teaches children the value of reflecting on their mistakes and growing from them.
Offering Redemption: The movie illustrates the concept of redemption as Junior is given a chance to change and be part of a family. Kids see that it's never too late to make amends and improve oneself.
Other Lessons Learned: Supporting Personal Growth | Valuing Deep Connection
Why Kids Love Problem Child
Problem Child is a whirlwind of fun and chaos that keeps kids laughing and guessing at every turn. Junior's mischievous antics, from pulling off outrageous pranks to causing cartoon-style chaos, make for a wild ride that kids can't resist. The slapstick comedy and silly jokes are sure to have them in stitches, as Junior finds himself in one awkward situation after another. Kids will love watching him outsmart the adults and break the rules, all while standing out as a unique character who isn't afraid to be himself.
The movie is filled with unexpected mishaps and hilarious moments that keep the energy high and the laughter rolling. As Junior navigates his new life, the film also showcases the importance of family bonds and being the hero in your own story. With its mix of humor, adventure, and heart, Problem Child is a delightful experience that captures the imagination and keeps kids entertained from start to finish.