10 movies that played the most in the afternoon

If you're Brazilian and grew up watching television, it's very likely that you have a special relationship with "Sessão da Tarde". The program, which began airing on Rede Globo in 1974, became a daily ritual for many families, especially for children who came home from school looking forward to an afternoon full of adventures, laughter and fun in front of the TV.

Over the decades, Sessão da Tarde has become known for showing an eclectic selection of films, including movie classics, family comedies and thrilling adventures. However, some films seem to have been an integral part of the schedule, being shown countless times over the years, earning a captive place in viewers' hearts.

10 movies that played the most in the afternoon

Since its debut on Brazilian television, Sessão da Tarde has become a landmark in daytime programming, offering a variety of films that have marked generations and become an integral part of many viewers' memories. Among laughs, adventures and touching moments, some films stand out as true icons, earning a special place in Brazilians' afternoons.

1. forgot me (1990)

Forgotten Me, directed by Chris Columbus and released in 1990, is one of those films that transcends generations and becomes an essential part of Christmas celebrations for many families around the world. This classic comedy tells the story of Kevin McCallister, played by Macaulay Culkin, a young boy who is accidentally forgotten by his family while they go on vacation to Paris during the Christmas season.

Alone at home, Kevin finds himself in a unique and challenging situation: protecting his house from two bumbling thieves, Harry and Marv, played by Joe Pesci and Daniel Stern respectively. The film unfolds with an irresistible mix of humor, adventure and heart, as Kevin devises creative plans to defend his home and stay one step ahead of the thieves.

One of the reasons why "Forget Me Not" has become so beloved among audiences is its ability to perfectly capture the Christmas spirit. As Kevin ventures into his mischief, the movie conveys messages of love, family and the true meaning of the Christmas spirit. It's a story about the importance of family unity and the courage to face challenges, all wrapped up in a festive atmosphere that warms viewers' hearts.

2. Jurassic Park: Dinosaur Park (1993)

Jurassic Park: Dinosaur Park, directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1993, is a cinematic milestone that revolutionized the way audiences perceive and experience adventure and science fiction films. Based on the novel by Michael Crichton, the film transports viewers to a remote island where a dinosaur theme park is created through innovative scientific advances.

The story follows a diverse group of characters, including paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant, played by Sam Neill, paleobotanist Dr. Ellie Sattler, played by Laura Dern, mathematician Ian Malcolm, played by Jeff Goldblum, and eccentric billionaire John Hammond, played by Richard Attenborough. Invited to assess the safety of the park, they soon discover that unbridled ambition and genetic manipulation have deadly consequences when dinosaurs escape their confines and threaten the lives of everyone in the park.

3. The Blue Lagoon (1980)

The Blue Lagoon, directed by Randal Kleiser and released in 1980, is a film adaptation of the novel of the same name by Henry De Vere Stacpoole, which has captivated readers since its publication in 1908. This romantic adventure story follows the fates of two young survivors of a shipwreck on a desert island, as they learn to live in harmony with nature and each other.

The protagonists, played by Brooke Shields and Christopher Atkins, are Emmeline and Richard, two children who grow up isolated from the rest of the world on an island paradise after a shipwreck. As they mature, they learn to survive in the island's harsh conditions and explore the natural wonders around them. Along the way, they also discover love and sexuality, challenging the social conventions and expectations that have been imposed on them since birth.

The movie in question is much more than just a romance story. It is a reflection on lost innocence, the discovery of sexuality and the challenges of growing up in an isolated and challenging environment. The movie touches on themes such as self-reliance, the importance of communication and the power of love and friendship to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

4. Enjoying Life (1986)

Enjoying Life Alone, directed by John Hughes and released in 1986, is a true icon of 80s pop culture. This classic comedy movie follows the adventures of Ferris Bueller, played by Matthew Broderick, a young high school student determined to make the most of a day off from school.

The plot unfolds with Ferris devising an elaborate plan to trick his parents into pretending to be sick, allowing him to leave school and embark on an epic journey through the city of Chicago alongside his girlfriend Sloane, played by Mia Sara, and his best friend Cameron, played by Alan Ruck. As they explore the city's sights, dine in luxurious restaurants and take part in a parade, Ferris and his friends are pursued by the school's principal, the determined Mr. Rooney, played by Jeffrey Jones, who is determined to expose Ferris' deception.

What makes this film so captivating is its unique blend of intelligent humor, youthful charm and an uplifting message about the importance of living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment. Ferris Bueller embodies the free and carefree spirit of youth, defying authority and living every moment with infectious passion and enthusiasm.

5. Back to the Future (1985)

Back to the Future, directed by Robert Zemeckis and released in 1985, is more than just a science fiction movie; it's a masterpiece that transcends generations and continues to captivate audiences of all ages. This thrilling adventure follows the adventures of Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, an ordinary teenager who accidentally travels back in time to the 1950s, where he meets his teenage parents and threatens to change the course of history.

The plot unfolds with Marty being sent back in time after a crazy experiment by eccentric scientist Dr. Emmett Brown, played by Christopher Lloyd, goes wrong. Trapped in the 1950s, Marty is forced to make sure his parents fall in love and return home before the consequences of his actions permanently change the future.

What makes "Back to the Future" so special is its perfect combination of intelligent humor, thrilling action and a heartwarming story about love, friendship and the importance of making the right choices. The movie not only offers a fascinating insight into time travel, but also explores universal themes such as identity, destiny and the relationship between past, present and future.

6. Karate Kid - The Hour of Truth (1984)

Karate Kid - The Hour of Truth, directed by John G. Avildsen and released in 1984, is a movie that transcends the martial arts genre, offering an inspiring story about courage, determination and coming of age. This cinematic masterpiece chronicles the journey of Daniel LaRusso, played by Ralph Macchio, a teenager who moves to a new town and finds himself the target of bullying from his schoolmates.

The plot unfolds with Daniel being trained in karate by Mr. Miyagi, played by Pat Morita, a Japanese master who teaches him not only the physical movements of karate, but also the fundamental values of discipline, respect and self-control. With Miyagi's guidance, Daniel prepares to face his bullies in the local karate tournament and prove to himself that he is capable of overcoming any challenge life throws at him.

What makes this movie so special is its inspiring message about the importance of perseverance, friendship and believing in yourself. The movie is not just about martial arts, but a journey of self-improvement and personal growth, in which Daniel learns to face his fears, overcome his limitations and discover the true meaning of inner strength.

7. Dirty Dancing (1987)

Dirty Dancing, directed by Emile Ardolino and released in 1987, is a movie that transcends generations, capturing the hearts of viewers all over the world with its thrilling story of love, music and self-discovery. This iconic film chronicles the unforgettable summer of Frances "Baby" Houseman, played by Jennifer Grey, an idealistic young woman who falls in love with dance instructor Johnny Castle, played by Patrick Swayze, during their vacation at a summer resort.

The plot unfolds with Baby discovering the sensual and exciting world of dance as she learns the daring and sensual moves of the dance style known as "dirty dancing". As she and Johnny grow closer through dance, they also face social and personal challenges that test their relationship and their determination to follow their hearts.

8. Gremlins (1984)

Gremlins, directed by Joe Dante and released in 1984, is a film that defies simple categorization, combining elements of comedy, horror and fantasy to create a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. This cult masterpiece follows the misadventures of a young man called Billy Peltzer, played by Zach Galligan, and his strange pet called Gizmo, who inadvertently gives birth to a horde of mischievous creatures called Gremlins.

The plot unfolds with Billy receiving Gizmo as a Christmas present from his father and, despite being given strict instructions on how to look after the adorable stuffed animal, he accidentally exposes Gizmo to water, triggering a series of catastrophic events. Soon, the small town of Kingston Falls is invaded by mischievous Gremlins who cause chaos and destruction wherever they go.

9. An Almost Perfect Babysitter (1993)

An Almost Perfect Babysitter, directed by Chris Columbus and released in 1993, is a hilarious comedy that shines with the magnetic presence and incomparable talent of Robin Williams. In this movie, Williams plays Daniel Hillard, an unemployed actor and loving father who, after a difficult break-up, decides to disguise himself as an eccentric elderly nanny in order to spend more time with his children.

The plot unfolds with Daniel creating the alter ego of Mrs. Doubtfire, a British governess who is hired by Daniel's ex-wife to look after their children. As he struggles to maintain his cover and balance his double life, Daniel faces a series of hilarious challenges and embarrassing situations, all while trying to win back the love of his children and prove that he can be a present and responsible father.

10. I Want to Be Great (1988)

I Want to Be Great, directed by Penny Marshall and released in 1988, is a charming comedy that takes us on an emotional journey through the barriers between childhood and adulthood. The movie tells the story of Josh Baskin, played by Tom Hanks, a 12-year-old boy who, after making a wish on a magic arcade machine, wakes up in the body of an adult.

The plot unfolds with Josh facing the difficulties and challenges of living as an adult in New York, while trying to find a way to reverse the spell and return to his original form. At the same time, he is forced to deal with the responsibilities and complexities of adult life, including a job at a large toy company and a complicated romantic relationship.

The nostalgia of afternoon movies

These are just some of the films that have become an integral part of the Brazilian television experience thanks to Sessão da Tarde. As time moves on and new movies enter the rotation, it's comforting to know that these classics continue to delight new generations of viewers, providing moments of joy, nostalgia and fun for the whole family. 

So the next time you turn on the TV one afternoon, don't be surprised if one of these classic movies lights up the screen and brings a smile to your face. After all, in the Afternoon Session, old favorites never go out of style.

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March 29, 2024