“Not Like in the Old Days”: 25 Movies Boomers Think Are Too Woke

In this compilation, we explore mainstream films that have sparked debate among Baby Boomers for their progressive themes. These movies, known for pushing boundaries, have sometimes been labeled as too ‘woke’ by this older generation, highlighting the evolving landscape of cinematic storytelling.

Black Panther

Photo Credit: Marvel Studios.

Marvel’s “Black Panther” broke ground with its predominantly Black cast and celebration of African culture. While many hailed its cultural significance, some Boomers felt its focus on representation and identity politics overshadowed traditional superhero elements.

Get Out

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” uses horror to tackle racial tensions, offering a stark commentary on contemporary society. Its unflinching approach to race relations has been met with discomfort and criticism from certain Boomer audiences.

Frozen 2

Photo Credit: Walt Disney Pictures.

In “Frozen 2,” Disney explores themes of colonialism and environmentalism. This shift from the traditional fairy tale narrative to more complex social issues has led some Boomers to question its appropriateness for a young audience.

Captain Marvel

Photo Credit: Marvel Studios.

“Captain Marvel,” with its strong female lead and emphasis on female empowerment, marked a significant moment in the superhero genre. However, its overt feminist messages have been a point of contention among some Boomer viewers.

The Last Jedi

Photo Credit: LucasFilm Ltd.

“Star Wars: The Last Jedi” introduced more diverse characters and challenged established franchise norms. These changes, especially the portrayal of Luke Skywalker, divided fans, with some Boomers feeling it strayed too far from the original trilogy’s spirit.

The Shape of Water

Photo Credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Guillermo del Toro’s “The Shape of Water,” a romantic fantasy, has been praised for its unique storytelling. However, its unconventional love story and political undertones have not resonated with all Boomer audiences.

Sorry to Bother You

Sorry To Bother You Significant Productions
Photo Credit: Significant Productions.

Boots Riley’s “Sorry to Bother You” offers a surreal take on capitalism and race. Its radical style and message have been viewed as overly aggressive and alienating by some Boomers.

Moonlight

Photo Credit: A24.

“Moonlight” is lauded for its sensitive portrayal of Black masculinity and sexuality. However, its focus on these themes has led to mixed reactions among Boomers, some of whom find its approach too modern.

Little Women

Photo Credit: Columbia Pictures.

Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of “Little Women” was praised for its contemporary spin on the classic novel. Yet, its feminist angle and non-linear narrative have not been universally embraced by older generations.

Jojo Rabbit

Photo Credit: Fox Searchlight Pictures.

Taika Waititi’s “Jojo Rabbit” uses satire to address the horrors of Nazism. Its comedic approach to a sensitive historical topic has been seen as disrespectful or too irreverent by some in the Boomer demographic.

Parasite

Parasite Neon Films
Photo Credit: Neon Films.

Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite” masterfully dissects class disparity. While critically acclaimed, its dark portrayal of capitalism and social inequality has been too stark or pessimistic for some Boomer viewers.

Wonder Woman

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

“Wonder Woman” stands as a landmark in female-led superhero films. Its strong feminist message, however, has sparked debates among Boomers, with some feeling it prioritizes agenda over story.

Joker

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

“Joker” delves into mental illness and societal neglect, diverging from typical comic book narratives. This darker, more psychological approach has left certain Boomer audiences uncomfortable or critical.

Us

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

Another Jordan Peele creation, “Us,” uses horror to explore themes of identity and class. Its deeper symbolic meanings and societal critiques have been a source of division among Boomers, with some finding it overly complex.

Promising Young Woman

Promising Young Woman Focus Features
Photo Credit: Focus Features.

“Promising Young Woman” tackles the subject of sexual assault and revenge. While its message is potent, the film’s approach to these sensitive issues has been deemed too confrontational or graphic by some Boomers.

The Farewell

Photo Credit: A24.

Lulu Wang’s “The Farewell” beautifully captures cultural and generational gaps. However, its subtle storytelling and focus on specific cultural experiences have not resonated with all Boomers, who might prefer more universal narratives.

Birds of Prey

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

“Birds of Prey” offers a fresh, female-driven narrative in the superhero genre. Its overtly feminist themes and unconventional storytelling have, however, been points of contention for some in the Boomer audience.

The Social Dilemma

Photo Credit: Netflix.

This documentary, “The Social Dilemma,” highlights the dangers of social media. While insightful, its alarming perspective on technology has been overwhelming or exaggerated for some Boomers.

BlacKkKlansman

Photo Credit: Focus Features.

Spike Lee’s “BlacKkKlansman” confronts racism head-on. While its historical relevance is acknowledged, the film’s direct approach to current racial tensions has been too intense for some Boomers.

Hidden Figures

Photo Credit: 20th Century Fox.

“Hidden Figures” celebrates the overlooked contributions of Black women in NASA’s history. While its educational value is recognized, the film’s emphasis on racial and gender discrimination has been criticized by some Boomers as anachronistic.

A Star is Born

Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

The latest “A Star is Born” remake brought a modern twist to the classic story. Its darker themes, including addiction and mental health, have sparked debates among Boomers about its necessity and impact.

Green Book

Photo Credit: Universal Pictures.

“Green Book” has been both celebrated and criticized for its portrayal of race relations. Some Boomers feel its approach to complex racial themes is oversimplified or stereotypical.

The Big Sick

Photo Credit: Lionsgate.

“The Big Sick” mixes romance with cultural conflict, highlighting the challenges of an intercultural relationship. Its focus on cultural differences and immigrant experiences has been met with mixed reactions from Boomer audiences.

Trolls World Tour

Photo Credit: DreamWorks Animation.

“Trolls World Tour” uses music and fantasy to celebrate diversity and inclusion. However, its messaging about tolerance and unity has been perceived by some Boomers as too didactic for a children’s movie.

Booksmart

Photo Credit: United Artists Releasing.

“Booksmart” reimagines the teen comedy with a progressive lens. Its portrayal of teenage sexuality and feminism, while refreshing to many, has been seen as too forward by some in the Boomer generation.

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Photo credit: Lucasfilm Ltd.

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Heat Warner Bros
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.

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Jurassic Park (1993) Universal Studios
Photo Credit: Universal Studios.

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Photo Credit: New Line Cinema.

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Photo Credit: Columbia/Tri-Star.

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