As a child of the ’80s, I can’t help but feel nostalgic when I look back at these iconic films that shaped my generation. Each one holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of the good old days when life seemed simpler and more carefree.
There’s an undeniable coziness associated with the 1980s. A Friday evening journey to the video rental store, browsing through the stacks, and choosing those worn-out VHS tapes that held your favorite movies was a comforting ritual. No matter your age or how your day had gone, it always felt a little better at that moment. Movie theater visits only added to this delightful sensation; as multiplexes expanded, almost every summer saw Spielberg capitalize on his innovative ideas.
80’s films often possess an endearing, upbeat, and tangible quality in their visuals and stories. Despite moments of suspense or even fear, these genres provide a familiar and comforting space for many viewers. This sense of positivity is particularly evident in several ’80s movies that can instantly brighten your gloomy day.
10 The Goonies (1985)
The movie titled The Goonies centers around a band of youngsters who find themselves in a series of adventures for a noble objective. This lively bunch, self-proclaimed as the Goonies, stumble upon a treasure map hidden in Mikey Walsh’s loft, and embark on a quest to discover the pirate riches that could save their neighborhood from being seized by a country club’s owners. However, they are unaware that a band of ne’er-do-wells will pursue them relentlessly, seeking to seize the pirate treasure before the Goonies can claim it.
Does It Get Any More ’80s Than The Goonies?
Directed by Steven Spielberg, The Goonies exuded the charm and spirit typical of an Amblin production, offering exhilarating adventures sans supernatural or futuristic elements. Despite featuring a fair share of villains, the narrative maintains a comfortably predictable trajectory to its end. The film’s core themes revolving around friendship and camaraderie are powerfully portrayed in this action-packed adventure flick that undeniably served as an inspiration for the hit Netflix series Stranger Things.
9 Ghostbusters (1984)
In the movie “Ghostbusters,” a team consisting of diverse experts bands together in 1980s New York City. Their unique field? They track down and protect the city from ghostly creatures. When a gateway to another realm is inadvertently opened in the bustling center of Manhattan, Venkman, Ray, Egon, and Winston gear up to confront mankind’s most terrifying adversary.
The Perfect Supernatural Comedy
Ghostbusters is a delightful fusion of mild terror and humor, showcasing cutting-edge special effects and some of the funniest comedians from its era. It was incredibly popular at the box office (though it was outperformed by the comedy film Beverly Hills Cop by $5 million that year), and it embodies everything great about an ’80s movie: a memorable soundtrack, realistic effects, and witty dialogue.
8 Flight of the Navigator (1986)
The Adventure of the Time Traveler, David Freeman narrates an extraordinary tale: at twelve years old, David inexplicably vanishes for eight years, only to miraculously reappear without having aged a single day. During various tests, David discovers that he was abducted by extraterrestrials who now communicate with him mentally, and they persuade him to embark on an amazing spaceship.
An Outstanding Cult Film for Kids
The movie steers clear of confronting the obvious, ominous aspect hinted throughout: David gets kidnapped by aliens, subjected to their experiments. Yet, despite this heavy theme, the family-friendly Disney sci-fi flick manages to preserve its lightheartedness from start to finish, even when the writers cleverly resolve the abduction dilemma. Flight of the Navigator offers a delightful watch for kids and will resonate with adults who reminisce about the ’80s.
7 Back to the Future (1985)
In this scenario, Marty McFly teams up with Doc Brown on a new venture. As Marty films the event, Doc unveils a time machine, but tragedy strikes when terrorists show up and slay Doc. This leaves Marty no choice but to leap into the DeLorean, which propels him 30 years back in time. To rectify the situation, he must locate a younger Doc and persuade him that the time machine experiment was successful and he needs to bring Marty back to 1985. However, by altering the past, Marty risks disrupting his own future.
The Quintessential Sci-Fi Adventure Classic
Another production by Steven Spielberg, Back to the Future, was the highest-grossing film of 1985. The film is a nod to everything ’80s, with Marty playing the guitar, trying to emulate Eddie Van Halen, and riding his skateboard like everybody wished they could back in 1985. The script backs a marvelous teenager’s adventure in which, although he faces some hardships, director Robert Zemeckis never makes you feel as if he isn’t going to make it. We guarantee an honest smile on your face for the whole 116 minutes of its running time.
6 This is Spinal Tap (1984)
As a movie enthusiast, I’d rephrase it like this: “I’m delving into the world of heavy metal with This is Spinal Tap, a documentary chronicling the ups and downs of an English band, Spinal Tap, whose glory days seem to be behind them. In a journalistic fashion, I’m capturing the absurdities that come with life as a 1980s rock star.
An Extremely Funny Execution of the Mockumentary Concept
In Hollywood, Rob Reiner first appears with a witty mockumentary film that he co-wrote with the movie’s stars. This film is a unique example of improvisation, a method rarely seen in big Hollywood productions, but Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer pull it off convincingly. You’ll find yourself feeling uplifted because laughter truly is therapeutic, and there’s no denying that This is Spinal Tap is a side-splitting example of ’80s unconventional comedy.
5 Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
On the day prior to Thanksgiving dinner, Neal Page is hurrying from New York City towards Chicago. Inevitably, he falls behind schedule, and as he attempts to hail a taxi for the airport, someone else snatches it first. This sets off his initial encounter with Del Griffith, an annoying salesman who seems determined to disrupt Neal’s travel plans.
The Beginning of a Beautiful Friendship
Among the rare movies by John Hughes not focusing on teenagers, “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” stands out as one of the greatest comedy films ever created. Featuring Steve Martin and John Candy, this road trip movie is a humorous compilation of mishaps that turn Neal’s journey into an absurdly hilarious ordeal. As always, you’ll find yourself roaring with laughter throughout.
4 E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
Elliot is a lonely boy. His parents’ divorce is inevitable, and he’s going through a difficult age when no one seems to pay attention to him. However, Elliot finds something in the shed in his backyard: a bizarre, wrinkled creature that has magic powers. “E.T.,” Elliot calls him, and even though they bond beautifully, Elliot decides to help the alien return home to his distant planet.
OK, You Might Cry, But It’s All Worth It
E.T., The Extraterrestrial boasts one of the most powerful third acts from the 20th century, featuring minimal dialogue and an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you biting your nails and shedding tears as E.T. successfully returns home. Spielberg solidified his status as a master filmmaker of the decade with this movie, which grossed nearly $800 million at the box office. An iconic film in its own right, even though we all secretly wished E.T. would stay with Elliot, the emotional journey it offers is an essential part of what makes E.T., The Extraterrestrial one of the most touching films ever created.
3 Airplane! (1980)
Airplane! tells a humorous story about Ted Striker, who boards a plane from Los Angeles to Chicago in an attempt to win back his flight attendant girlfriend, Elaine. However, the pilots fall ill with food poisoning, leaving Ted with no choice but to take control. This situation allows him to confront his past as a fighter pilot.
The Absolute Best of Its Kind
The movie is a satirical take on the disaster-themed films popular in the 1970s. Airplane! was a breakthrough hit for Paramount Pictures, as they reworked their own film Zero Hour!, giving it a fresh update for contemporary audiences. The comedy, wit, and physical humor make it suitable for viewers of all ages, even though the kids might not grasp every joke.
2 Sixteen Candles (1984)
John Hughes’ “Sixteen Candles” narrates the tale of Sam Baker, a girl on the brink of turning sixteen, whose family inadvertently overlooks her birthday. As if that weren’t enough, her high school crush is given misleading information about her, causing her to unwittingly catch the eye of an undesirable admirer. Needless to say, Sam’s sixteenth year isn’t shaping up to be a joyful one.
John Hughes: a Coming-of-Age Master
John Hughes’ movies, such as The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, are undeniably emblematic of the ’80s. However, these films, contrary to their seemingly idyllic and joyful appearances, possess a dramatic turning point that introduces an element of disruption. On the other hand, Sixteen Candles, also by Hughes, lacks significant challenges, with only minor setbacks like a hangover, memory lapses, and typical teenage predicaments. Looking back, it’s a charming ’80s film that will bring a smile to your face, and its heartwarming conclusion will undoubtedly brighten even the gloomiest of days.
1 Spaceballs (1987)
Spaceballs is a comedic take on the Star Wars saga, masterfully directed by Mel Brooks. The movie chronicles the adventures of mercenaries Lone Starr and Barf, who are recruited by King Roland. In this mission, they aim to rescue the king’s daughter, who has been abducted by the wicked Dark Helmet. This villain is working under the command of a president seeking nothing more than some fresh air for his deteriorating planet, Spaceball.
The Unforgettable Spoof of Your Favorite Films
Spaceballs humorously imitates the classic elements of George Lucas’ Star Wars franchise, yet it ventures beyond that world and serves as a satire of the broader science fiction genre. Although it caters primarily to Star Wars fans, let’s be honest, who doesn’t appreciate the original trilogy? Brooks’ comedy in this film is sometimes crude, but he strikes a good balance here, providing plenty of laughs and brightening up your day.
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2024-10-27 03:04