Classic 80s Fantasy Comedy ‘Harry and the Hendersons’ Leaving Netflix Soon

As May approaches, major streaming platforms are gearing up to refresh their extensive libraries. While this typically brings in new content, it also means that several beloved titles will be leaving.

One notable film on the verge of departure is the 1987 family favorite Harry and the Hendersons. Subscribers who have this classic on their watch list have until the end of April to watch it.

The movie is officially set to disappear from the Netflix catalog on May 1st, leaving viewers with a limited opportunity to enjoy the heartwarming story of a Seattle family and their extraordinary houseguest.

The narrative follows the Henderson family, led by George and Nancy, as they return from a camping trip in the Pacific Northwest. Their lives take a dramatic turn when they accidentally hit a large, furry creature with their station wagon.

Thinking the creature is dead, they decide to take it home, only to find out that the legendary Bigfoot is very much alive. Rather than being a fearsome monster, the creature, whom they name Harry, proves to be gentle and inquisitive.

The film then unfolds into a comedic adventure as the family tries to conceal their seven-foot-tall cryptid from nosy neighbors and a relentless hunter. It cleverly mixes slapstick humor with a heartfelt message about kindness and environmental awareness.

Harry and the Hendersons was produced by Amblin Entertainment, the company founded by Steven Spielberg. Like other Amblin films from that time, such as E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, it emphasizes the bond between an everyday family and a fantastical being.

One of the standout features of the production is the practical effects that brought Harry to life. Renowned makeup artist Rick Baker crafted the suit and facial animatronics, allowing the character to convey a wide range of human-like emotions.

This groundbreaking work earned the Academy Award for Best Makeup. Even by today’s standards, Harry’s physical presence feels more tangible and relatable than many modern digital creations.

Kevin Peter Hall, the actor inside the suit, was a towering figure who also portrayed the title character in the original Predator film. Hall’s background in dance and athletics contributed to Harry’s unique, slightly awkward yet graceful physicality.

John Lithgow stars as George Henderson, delivering a performance that shifts from initial panic to paternal warmth. Lithgow has had a remarkably long and varied career since the film’s theatrical release.

In recent years, Lithgow has remained a prominent figure in the industry, appearing in critically acclaimed series like The Old Man and The Crown. He also had a significant role in the epic drama Killers of the Flower Moon, directed by Martin Scorsese.

Melinda Dillon plays Nancy Henderson, serving as the emotional core of the family’s chaotic new life. Dillon was already well-known for her roles in Close Encounters of the Third Kind and the holiday classic A Christmas Story.

The supporting cast includes seasoned actors like Don Ameche, who portrays a Bigfoot expert, and David Suchet, who would later gain fame as Hercule Poirot, appearing as the determined hunter pursuing Harry.

Although the film received mixed reviews from critics upon its initial release, it found renewed popularity through home video and television broadcasts, becoming a cultural touchstone for children of the eighties and early nineties.

The film’s success led to a television sitcom of the same name, which ran for three seasons and continued the adventures of the family living with Bigfoot.

While the TV series is not currently available on Netflix, it can often be found on free streaming services like Tubi. However, for many long-time fans, the original movie remains the definitive version of the story.

Once the film leaves Netflix on May 1st, it is not scheduled to move to any other major subscription service immediately. It will likely still be available for digital rental or purchase on various platforms for those who miss the deadline.

The departure of such a title underscores the transient nature of digital libraries and the importance of watching cult classics while they are accessible. For those seeking a dose of nostalgia or a family-friendly adventure, this week is the last chance.

Whether it’s the Oscar-winning makeup or the charming performances, the movie continues to hold a special place in the history of fantasy cinema, reminding us of a time when practical effects and heartfelt stories dominated the box office.

Share your favorite memories of watching this Bigfoot classic in the comments.