What's the problem? That was how we went to Drive in movies all the time.
At least you had an amusing flick to look forward to; these kids would only have been rewarded with more time with their 'parents' at the end of the trip, which doesn't sound like much of a benefit.
Unbelievable how wimpy our soceity has become today.
Mom n Dad would let my brother Bill and I ride in the trunk when we were going to the beach in the mid 50's. It was fun, we kept the lid open, and waved to all the people behind us, including the police.
I have many fond memories of the summers going to and from the beach in this manner.
LOL! That was for six miles max, this, as far as the trunkees are concerned is the tour the USA, spare tire class trek.