Widely and deservedly regarded as one of the best kids’ movies ever, this is a junior Raiders of the Lost Ark from executive producer Steven Spielberg and director Richard Donner (Superman, Lethal Weapon). And it’s a riot, as a gang of kids who call themselves the Goonies (the area where they live is called the Goondocks) come across a treasure map and decide to find the loot, hoping it is the money they need to stop their homes being demolished as part of a corporate development.
The map leads them on a great adventure, through underground tunnels, into the lair of some fugitive criminals (Robert Davi and Joe Pantoliano), past booby traps and even down a water-chute toboggan ride.
All the kids are memorable, from Sean Astin’s leader Mikey to Corey Feldman’s smart-mouthed ‘Mouth’, and the action is rambunctious, to say the least. A must for all kids, thanks to heaps of action, adventure, fun dialogue and funnier characters (though parents should note there is some swearing and a few edge-of-the-seat bits), this has also gained something of a cult following among thirtysomethings who still treasure the movie they first loved when they were kids themselves.
Is The Goonies suitable for kids? Here are our parents’ notes...
There is mild peril throughout, but nothing that should faze over-10s (those under that age may find the dead bodies and skeletons a bit disturbing).
If you like this, why not try: Raiders Of The Lost Ark, Spy Kids, Thunderbirds, Holes, Sky High,