The 1980s was an iconic decade for film, delivering many unforgettable movies that have stood the test of time. The 80s film scene left an indelible mark on popular culture, from heartwarming comedies to thrilling adventures and rebellious teenage tales. Recently people shared some memorable movies that epitomize the spirit of the 80s.
1. Beverly Hills Cop (1987)
The 1987 action comedy Beverly Hills Cop, directed by Martin Brest, is a classic. Eddie Murphy plays the traditional role of Axel Foley in the film. This Detroit police officer goes to Beverly Hills to investigate the death of his closest buddy. Beverly Hills Cop became a tremendous smash, cementing Murphy’s image as a comedy celebrity in the 1980s. It was full of Murphy’s clever one-liners, action-packed sequences, and a catchy soundtrack.
2. Lethal Weapon (1989)
Richard Donner’s spectacular buddy police movie, Lethal Weapon, was released in 1989. The film recounts the collaboration of two disparate detectives, Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Danny Glover’s Roger Murtaugh, as they look into a drug smuggling enterprise. Lethal Weapon was a beloved franchise that inspired multiple profitable sequels and influenced the action genre throughout the 1980s and beyond, thanks to its blend of violent action, well-developed characters, and a dash of humor.
3. Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
In the coming-of-age comedy-drama Fast Times at Ridgemont High, helmed by Amy Heckerling and published in 1982, a group of California teens navigate the high school experience. A talented ensemble cast, including Sean Penn, Jennifer Jason Leigh, and Judge Reinhold, is present in the movie.
4. The Lost Boys (1987)
Joel Schumacher helmed the 1987 horror-comedy film The Lost Boys, which has become a cult favorite. The film’s plot, which is fictionally set in a beach town in California, centers on two brothers who learn that their new town is overrun with vampires. “The Lost Boys” became an instant smash, leaving a lasting impression on audiences and gaining a devoted fan base over the years with its blend of humor, teenage angst, and stunning graphics.
5. The Breakfast Club (1985)
John Hughes’ acclaimed teen comedy-drama, The Breakfast Club, is a classic depiction of high school life in the 1980s. Five kids from various social cliques are grouped together for Saturday detention in the movie. Unexpected connections are made when they communicate, share their experiences, and reject preconceptions throughout the day.
6. Sixteen Candles (1984)
The romantic comedy Sixteen Candles, which was produced in 1984 and was also directed by John Hughes, depicts the antics of Samantha (Molly Ringwald) as she experiences her sixteenth birthday. Sixteen Candles perfectly encapsulated the experience of growing up in the 1980s, with all the relevant teenage experiences, awkward situations, and a dash of romance.
7. The Last Starfighter (1984)
Nick Castle directed the science fiction adventure movie The Last Starfighter, which was released in 1984. The novel’s protagonist is Alex Rogan, a young arcade game lover. He learns that his prowess in one particular video game qualifies him to become a real-life starfighter defending the galaxy.
8. Top Gun (1986)
Tony Scott’s 1986 action film Top Gun, which transports audiences to the realm of Naval aviation, is a classic. The movie chronicles Pete “Maverick” Mitchell’s (Tom Cruise) adventure as he enrolls in the prestigious Top Gun Naval Flying School. Top Gun became a huge smash and cemented Cruise’s reputation as a leading man with its exhilarating aerial sequences, iconic music, and a hint of romance.
9. Girls Just Wanna Have Fun (1985)
The film Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, which Alan Metter helmed, is a fun teen comedy. Two friends with a shared love of dance, Janey (Sarah Jessica Parker) and Lynne (Helen Hunt), are the focus of the movie. They both work hard to go on a famous television dance show but encounter obstacles along the way. Moviegoers.
10. Weird Science (1985)
The 1985 film Weird Science, which John Hughes directed, is a crazy teen comedy with a hint of science fiction. The movie centers on Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt, two socially awkward teenagers who use their computers to create Lisa (Kelly LeBrock), an ideal woman. As they deal with the effects of their creation, laughter is had.
11. Trading Places (1983)
The 1983 film Trading Places, which John Landis directed, is a classic comedy that combines humor with social satire. The narrative of Louis Winthorpe III (Dan Aykroyd) and Billy Ray Valentine (Eddie Murphy), two people from various social strata whose lives become entwined due to a sociological experiment run by wealthy brothers, is told in the movie.
12. Flash Gordon (1980)
The cult science fiction movie Flash Gordon, directed by Mike Hodges and released in 1980, is based on the well-known comic strip. The plot centers on the exploits of Flash Gordon (Sam J. Jones), who faces off against the wicked Ming the Merciless (Max von Sydow) to defend Earth and its people.
13. Summer School (1987)
A comedy movie titled Summer School, produced in 1987 and directed by Carl Reiner is set during a summer school semester. The plot centers on Freddy Shoop, a high school gym teacher (Mark Harmon), who is compelled to instruct many oddball kids over the summer break. Summer School perfectly encapsulates the 80s teen comedy genre with its hilarious scenarios, enduring characters, and uplifting moments.
14. The Burbs (1989)
Joe Dante’s dark comedy The Burbs, which was released in 1989, depicts the oddball inhabitants of a suburban area. When odd things start happening in their idyllic neighborhood, Ray Peterson (Tom Hanks), one of the locals, is driven to find out what’s happening. The series The Burbs has developed a cult following over the years thanks to its blend of humor, mystery, and social satire.
15. Big Trouble in Little China (1986)
The action-fantasy movie Big Trouble in Little China, directed by John Carpenter, was released in 1986 and featured humor, martial arts, and supernatural aspects. The plot centers on Jack Burton (Kurt Russell), a truck driver who becomes embroiled in a long-running conflict between magical forces in Chinatown in San Francisco.
16. Real Genius (1985)
The comedy movie Real Genius, which Martha Coolidge directed and was released in 1985, is set on a college campus. The film centers on a team of intelligent but uncomfortable teenagers who are engaged in a top-secret laser project. Real Genius has become a beloved 80s movie, encapsulating the spirit of youthful creativity and friendship with its witty humor, endearing characters, and remarkable performance by Val Kilmer.
17. Revenge of the Nerds (1984)
A gang of “nerds,” or socially outcast college students, are the focus of the comedy film Revenge of the Nerds, which Jeff Kanew directed and was released in 1984. The movie follows their journey as they battle discrimination and create their own fraternity to demonstrate their worth.
18. Purple Rain (1984)
The 1984 musical drama film Purple Rain, which Albert Magnoli helms, features the late Prince in the title role. The tale’s protagonist is “The Kid” (Prince), a gifted musician who faces emotional and professional difficulties. The movie covers the ideas of love, redemption, and artistic expression while showcasing Prince’s musical talents.
19. 9 to 5 (1980)
Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton appear in the 1980 comedy 9 to 5, which Colin Higgins helms. Three working women get together to exact revenge on their sexist, arrogant boss in the story. This movie resonated with audiences, garnered positive reviews, and enjoyed commercial and critical success because of its funny perspective on workplace interactions and its empowering message.
20. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
The famous teen comedy Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, which John Hughes directed and debuted in 1986, has come to symbolize 80s youth culture. The movie follows high schooler Ferris Bueller (Matthew Broderick) as he devises a complex scheme to miss class and spend the day having adventures in Chicago.
21. Risky Business (1983)
The coming-of-age comedy-drama Risky Business, which Paul Brickman directed and was released in 1983, is about growing up. In the movie, Tom Cruise plays Joel Goodsen, a high school student who converts his home into an impromptu brothel while his parents are abroad. This dangerous endeavor taught Joel valuable lessons about adulthood, responsibility, and consequences. Tom Cruise’s career was launched by Risky Business, which also came to define the 1980s.
22. The Wizard (1989)
Todd Holland’s family adventure movie The Wizard, which was released in 1989, revolves around a young kid named Jimmy Woods who excels at playing video games. Jimmy travels to California to participate in a video game competition with his brother Corey, new acquaintance Haley, and other family members. The Wizard has developed a cult following over the years thanks to its emphasis on the video game culture of the 1980s.
23. Spaceballs (1987)
The science fiction parody movie Spaceballs, directed by Mel Brooks and released in 1987, is a funny parody of well-known space opera films, particularly the Star Wars series. The plot of the film centers on the exploits of Lone Starr (Bill Pullman) and his sidekick Barf (John Candy) as they attempt to free Princess Vespa (Daphne Zuniga) from the evil Dark Helmet’s (Rick Moranis) grasp. The movie Spaceballs is renowned for its witty satire, catchy one-liners, and ability to parody the genre affectionately.
24. Splash (1984)
A mermaid named Madison (Daryl Hannah) and a man named Allen Bauer (Tom Hanks) fall in love in the 1984 romantic fantasy comedy Splash, which Ron Howard directed. Allen faces difficulties as their connection develops due to Madison’s covert status. The magical, comedic, and romantic qualities in Splash captivate viewers’ minds and hearts.
25. Mannequin (1987)
The 1987 film Mannequin, which Michael Gottlieb helmed, is a romantic comedy with a hint of fantasy. In the movie, a poor artist, Jonathan (Andrew McCarthy), falls in love with Emmy (Kim Cattrall), a mannequin who unexplainably comes to life. The romantic comedy Mannequin has a cult following among viewers thanks to its whimsical plot, breezy humor, and catchy 80s soundtrack.
26 Once Hilarious Comedy Films That Would Never Be Laughed at Today
Although comedy movies have always been a source of amusement and laughter, society’s expectations and sensibilities have changed over time. What was previously seen as hilarious and acceptable may be viewed as improper or offensive today. Let’s look at some once brilliant comedy movies that are unlikely to be produced or laughed at in the current cultural climate (unless you grew up watching them).
25 Fan Voted Greatest Television Episodes of All Time, Do You Agree?
With thousands upon thousands of television episodes over the decades, it is difficult to narrow down the best. However, one entertainment forum tried to do just that. Do you agree with their picks?
15 of the Worst Series Finales of Your Favorite Shows on Television
Have you ever been disappointed with a TV series finale? You’re not alone. After someone asked a popular online entertainment forum what the worst series finales are, here is what they had to say. Do you agree?
15 Beloved Fictional Characters Who Are Terrible and Have No Business Being Glorified
Are there any fictional characters people love and revere that you can’t stand? I think you can rip apart just about any cast on a sitcom. I’m looking at you How I Met Your Mother, Seinfeld, and The Big Bang Theory. After someone asked an online forum for examples of terrible fictional characters that people love, here are their most interesting responses.
10 Magnificent Performances That Tricked Us Into Loving Terrible Movies
Ready for some controversy? First, let me preface that I do NOT agree with several of the films listed on this list. Recently, an online film forum member asked about amazing performances in terrible films. Again, don’t hate the reporter. These are not my picks.
Source: Reddit.