Full Breakdown
Julia Roberts' Daughter Ditches Smartphone After Watching *Stand by Me*
10/17/2025, 2:41:22 PM
Impact of *Stand by Me* on Hazel Moder
Julia Roberts recently shared a significant moment from her parenting journey, revealing that her daughter, Hazel Moder, decided to give up her smartphone after watching the classic film *Stand by Me*. During an interview with *The New York Times* while promoting her new film *After the Hunt*, Roberts recounted how the 1986 coming-of-age movie inspired Hazel to reflect on the importance of face-to-face communication. Roberts recalled Hazel stating, “I’m going to give you my phone,” after watching the film, explaining that she felt the boys in the movie would not have connected as deeply if they had smartphones. This moment highlights a growing trend among some young people who are reconsidering their smartphone usage in favor of more meaningful interactions.
Official Statements & Responses
Julia Roberts emphasized the importance of conversation in family life, stating, “I think people don’t realize how much they miss talking.” She noted that Hazel recognized how smartphones could inhibit genuine communication, saying, “She could see how it was getting in the way of things.” Roberts and her husband, Danny Moder, have implemented rules regarding technology use in their household, including no phones at the dinner table and a designated charging station for devices. Roberts expressed concern about the overwhelming influx of information from smartphones, particularly for young, developing minds, stating, “Our brains are incapable of that influx.”
Criticism & Opposition
While Roberts' perspective on smartphone usage resonates with some, critics argue that the trend of abandoning smartphones may not be practical in today's digital age. Some experts suggest that while reducing screen time can be beneficial, completely eliminating smartphones may hinder young people's ability to navigate a technology-driven world. The debate continues as parents and educators seek a balanced approach to technology use among children.
Broader Implications
The conversation surrounding Hazel's decision reflects a larger cultural movement among Gen Z and younger millennials, who are increasingly questioning their relationship with technology. Reports indicate a decline in social media use among young people, suggesting a desire for more authentic experiences. This shift raises questions about how technology affects interpersonal relationships and mental health, with studies linking excessive smartphone use to social isolation and diminished cognitive capacity.
Verbatim Quotes
- “For some reason, I was thinking this morning about when my kids were young and we showed them Stand by Me, and our daughter said to me, ‘I’m going to give you my phone,'” — Julia Roberts, Actress
- “Seeing that movie, I just thought if those boys had phones, they wouldn’t be talking to each other like that.” — Hazel Moder, Julia Roberts’ Daughter
- “She could see how it was getting in the way of things. All that’s to say, we love talking to each other, and sometimes we forget how important it is.” — Julia Roberts, Actress
As the dialogue around technology and communication evolves, Julia Roberts' experience with her daughter serves as a poignant reminder of the value of direct human connection in an increasingly digital world.
