The 1980s brought a lot of changes to the film industry, and one standout movie from that time is Little Darlings (1980). This film, centered around summer camp and the ups and downs of growing up, features Kristy McNichol and Tatum O’Neal. It goes deeper than just a regular teen movie and offers a thoughtful and emotional look at teenage life. Although the plot might seem a bit daring at first, the movie really grabs viewers with its depth, understanding, and emphasis on how girls view their experiences.
Let’s dive into why Little Darlings remains a standout in 1980s cinema.
A Bold Premise with Unexpected Depth
Little Darlings is about two teenage girls, Angel (played by Kristy McNichol) and Ferris (played by Tatum O’Neal), who come from very different lives but meet at a summer camp. They start competing against each other and make a bold bet: who can lose their virginity first?
But this movie isn’t just another regular teen comedy. Little Darlings explores deeper issues. It talks about the pressures, feelings, and misunderstandings that teens deal with regarding sexuality, making it relatable and thought-provoking.
The story goes beyond just a bet; it’s really about figuring out who you are, building friendships, and facing the tough journey of growing up.
Kristy McNichol and Tatum O’Neal: A Perfect Pairing
The main focus of the movie is definitely the bond between the two lead characters. Kristy McNichol shines as Angel, a tough girl who knows the streets and was raised by her mom. She has a lot of self-assurance, but McNichol also reveals a gentler side to Angel that is really amazing to see.
Tatum O’Neal, who won an Oscar for her role in Paper Moon (1973), gives a quiet yet impactful performance as Ferris, a wealthy girl dealing with her own insecurities. Her thoughtful and yearning moments really add depth to her character, proving she’s not just there to contrast with Angel.
The connection between McNichol and O’Neal is really strong. Their competition evolves into a surprising friendship, highlighting the complicated nature of teenage relationships.
A Revolutionary Focus on the Female Gaze
One of the coolest things about this movie is that it presents the world through a girl’s viewpoint. Unlike a lot of teen films from that era that usually portrayed girls as just attractive faces, Little Darlings changes that. The story is told from the perspective of the female characters, allowing them to express their wants and experiences.
In one scene of the movie, Angel spots Randy (Matt Dillon) for the first time. The camera zooms in on him, just like how Angel is staring at him, which is really neat because it captures a teenage girl’s crush in a sweet way without mocking it. Plus, the funny parts, like when the girls sneak a peek at the boys swimming without their clothes, feel playful and fun rather than mean or inappropriate.
By prioritizing the perspectives of Angel and Ferris, Little Darlings offers a refreshing and empowering take on adolescence.
Matt Dillon’s Early Stardom
Little Darlings marks a significant moment in Matt Dillon’s career, where he portrays Randy, who is in love with Angel. Dillon skillfully balances confidence with a gentler side, showcasing the talent he would later reveal in films like The Outsiders (1983) and Rumble Fish (1983).
Randy’s connection with Angel highlights the complexities of teenage romance. Initially, he seems like just another charming rebel, but his tender moments add depth to his character. His journey really underscores the film’s central theme: relationships can be much more complicated than they seem.
Exploring Teenage Sexuality with Sensitivity
Little Darlings stands out from many films of its era because it handles teenage sexuality in a thoughtful and respectful manner. It understands the curiosity and awkwardness that come with being a teenager without turning it into a big drama.
A key moment in the film is when Angel has her experience with Randy. She believes that losing her virginity will make her feel empowered and confident, but instead, she ends up feeling lonely and disappointed. When she expresses, “God, I feel so lonesome,” it really highlights the complex emotions she is dealing with. This level of honesty sets Little Darlings apart from other teen movies, which often treat these situations as jokes or simple plots.
Cynthia Nixon’s Quirky Debut
Cynthia Nixon started acting in movies way before she became well-known for her role in Sex and the City. In her first film, she played a character named Sunshine, who is a cheerful daughter with easygoing parents. Sunshine is super funny and does all kinds of goofy stuff, like giving out Niacin tablets and protesting against competitive sports. This part really shows the charm that Nixon would later bring to her other roles.
Sunshine’s hilarious moments help make the film more enjoyable, even though it deals with some serious topics. Her character is a great reminder of the many different types of people and experiences that make growing up so unique.
A Soundtrack That Evokes Nostalgia
The soundtrack of Little Darlings perfectly captures the spirit of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Featuring hits by Supertramp, Blondie, and John Lennon, the music enhances the emotional impact of key scenes. Whether it’s a playful montage or a reflective moment, the songs transport viewers back to a time of innocence and self-discovery.
The music isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right, adding depth and emotion to the story.
Subtle Humor and Relatable Moments
Little Darlings combines important themes with humorous and relatable situations. The girls’ silly pranks and their genuine conversations highlight the funny and awkward experiences of being a teenager.
One memorable scene shows Jenn Thompson’s character sneaking into a locked bathroom to get a condom dispenser. Her innocent curiosity really stands out compared to the older girls who are facing more serious relationship problems, illustrating that growing up comes with different challenges.
Timeless Themes of Friendship and Growth
Little Darlings is all about friendship and the changes that happen as we grow older. In the beginning, Angel and Ferris really don’t like each other, but as they experience different things together, they begin to form a friendship. Their journey reflects the teenage experience, where you figure out your identity, make new friends, and deal with how others perceive you.
The movie shows us that growing up can be challenging and sometimes hard to understand, but it also offers opportunities to connect with people and discover more about who we are.
A Film Ahead of Its Time
Released in 1980, Little Darlings still feels modern and important today. It showcases female empowerment, offers a deep look at teenage relationships, and reflects real-life experiences, making it stand out in the coming-of-age film genre.
While many teen comedies back then centered around boys, Little Darlings offers a fresh perspective. Its themes of friendship, self-discovery, and empowerment resonate with viewers just as strongly now as they did over 40 years ago.
Conclusion: A Hidden Gem Worth Rediscovering
Little Darlings isn’t just a throwback to the 1980s; it’s a classic look at what it means to grow up that still connects with audiences today. The performances are heartfelt, the story is meaningful, and it really highlights the experiences of girls in a way that was groundbreaking for its time. This is a must-see for anyone who loves coming-of-age films.
Whether you’re revisiting it or watching it for the first time, Little Darlings shows us how important real storytelling can be. It captures the funny, awkward, and life-changing moments of growing up with both humor and honesty. Make sure you don’t miss out on this gem—give it the recognition it deserves.