As the spooky season retreats into the backdrop, fans eagerly await ways to keep the Halloween spirit alive through Creepmas. Before diving into the chilling realm of horror flicks like Terrifier 3 or Silent Night, Deadly Night, why not gently transition into November’s autumn vibes with Addams Family Values?
This 1993 sequel directed by Barry Sonnenfeld sees the legendary Gomez (Raul Julia) and Morticia (Anjelica Huston) guiding their quirky clan alongside an enchanting Uncle Fester (Christopher Lloyd). Their happiness is soon complicated by the attention lavished on newborn Pubert, which stirs resentment in siblings Wednesday (Christina Ricci) and Pugsley (Jimmy Workman). In a bid for help in the parenting department, Gomez enlists the help of the charming yet dubious Debbie Jelinsky (Joan Cusack).
Wednesday quickly senses Debbie’s ulterior motive as the babysitter tries to win over Uncle Fester. The tension may sound chaotic, but this is precisely why Addams Family Values is an ideal movie for the Thanksgiving season. It humorously dissects how family dynamics shift during significant life events, such as a new baby or a fresh addition to the family. The dark comedy expertly highlights how these occurrences often command the spotlight during family gatherings.
Debbie Jelinsky epitomizes the chaos a new family member can bring. Cusack’s remarkable portrayal strikes a balance between charm and insanity, making you secretly hope she finds a place among the Addams. Each attempt to harm Fester and the family draws empathy because they seem to understand her chaotic nature and twisted aspirations. Morticia and Gomez embrace her peculiarities, seeing them as part of a larger, sinister charm.
However, it’s heartbreaking to observe Debbie’s desires for love and acceptance slip away after each failed murder plot against Fester and the family. You can’t help but wonder how she could have seamlessly integrated into the Addams fold if not for her over-the-top antics. Her character’s arc begs for revisiting in future adaptations, particularly on the series Wednesday.
While the film does take place during the summer, it remains versatile enough to serve as both a Summerween and Thanksgiving movie. The absurdity of a summer camp hosting a Thanksgiving play resonates humorously, especially with Wednesday’s memorable performance that challenges the sanitized narrative of Thanksgiving.
“We cannot break bread with you,” Wednesday proclaims. “You have taken the land which is rightfully ours. Years from now, my people will be forced to live in mobile homes on reservations. Your people will wear cardigans and drink highballs.” After delivering this iconic speech that circulates widely each November, she cleverly inverts the situation, unleashing her fellow misfit campers on the privileged children portraying pilgrims.
Though Thanksgiving’s roots are steeped in a complex history, it’s still a time to pause from the chaos of life and reconnect with family. At its core, Addams Family Values is a celebration of familial bonds. Raul Julia’s final performance as Gomez serves as a strong antidote to toxic masculinity. His profound love for Morticia, his children, and Fester flies in the face of 90s stereotypes.
Moreover, Gomez and Morticia’s relationship exemplifies unconditional love. Gomez never expects Morticia to shoulder the caregiving responsibilities alone. As she famously states, “I’m just like any modern woman trying to have it all. Loving husband, a family. It’s just that I wish I had more time to seek out the dark forces and join their hellish crusade.” Gomez encourages her to embrace her individuality even while being a devoted mother, challenging outdated views of gender roles.
As we navigate a world that often feels regressive and overwhelming, Addams Family Values serves as a poignant reminder of the strength found in unity and understanding—even towards those who appear at odds with us. Debbie’s downfall illustrates that when one refuses to recognize common ground, the risks grow more significant.
Lastly, you might wonder: Why is Addams Family Values considered a Thanksgiving movie? The film cleverly intertwines themes of belonging, love, and family dynamics during celebrations, making it an excellent pick for the season. It’s available to rent or buy on Prime Video.
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