Watch Parents

"Parents" is a dark comedy horror movie directed by Bob Balaban, released in 1989. The film takes place in 1950s suburbia, where the Laemle family-- consisting of Michael (Randy Quaid), his wife Lily (Mary Beth Hurt), and their 10-year-old son Nick (Bryan Madorsky)-- move to a new neighborhood in hopes of starting a better life. At first glance, everything seems picture-perfect— the manicured lawns, white picket fences, and friendly neighbors all give off an idyllic small-town vibe. However, as the story progresses, the viewer quickly learns that there is something terribly wrong with the family.

The movie is narrated from Nick's perspective, and he begins to pick up on disturbing clues that suggest his parents are involved in something sinister. For instance, he discovers that his father's job as a scientist at a meat packing plant involves testing on human flesh, and Nick starts to have nightmare visions of his family members as grotesque cannibals. Meanwhile, his parents' suspicious behavior-- their habit of sneaking into the basement at night to engage in strange rituals and whispered conversations-- only adds to Nick's paranoia.

As Nick tries to uncover the truth about his parents, he meets a new friend, a girl named Sheila (Danielle Edwards), who is similarly ostracized by her own family. Together, they set out to uncover the dark secrets of their neighborhood, and ultimately unearth a shocking conspiracy that implicates everyone around them.

One of the most striking elements of the movie is its use of color-- particularly the recurring motif of red, which appears in everything from the Laemles' clothing to the meat they are constantly consuming. This use of color is meant to convey a sense of unease and danger, as well as underscore the movie's commentary on the hidden horrors that lie beneath seemingly perfect suburban life.

In addition to its visual flair, "Parents" is notable for its stellar performances. Randy Quaid delivers a particularly standout turn as Michael Laemle, exuding a mix of affability and menace that keeps the audience on edge. Mary Beth Hurt is equally impressive as Lily, striking a balance between icy detachment and manic energy that makes her an equally formidable villain.

Overall, "Parents" is a unique and memorable addition to the horror-comedy genre. It blends elements of satire, social commentary, and gore to create something that is both unsettling and entertaining. While it may not be for everyone-- particularly those who are squeamish about graphic violence-- it is a must-see for anyone who appreciates dark humor and subversive storytelling.

Parents is a 1968 documentary with a runtime of 19 minutes.