1985 saw the arrival of the timeless classic “The Goonies,” penned by Steven Spielberg and directed by Richard Donner. This film, filled with adventure for kids, has won over audiences from all walks of life. Anyone claiming they don’t appreciate this flick is either being dishonest or quite unusual. The movie set the tone for a whole era and left an indelible mark on countless others that followed, but none could quite capture its thrill and charm like it did. Among its talented cast are Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman, Ke Huy Quan, Jeff Cohen, Kerri Green, and Martha Plimpton.
The story unfolds in Goon Docks, Astoria, Oregon, where a band of endearing outcasts stumble upon an ancient pirate map belonging to the late One-eyed Willy. Desperate to prevent foreclosure on their homes by a ruthless corporation, they embark on a quest for the hidden fortune, facing numerous challenges along the way, one of which is a sinister mafia clan, who aim to seize the treasure for their own greedy purposes.
With the recent announcement that The Goonies 2 is now in production, it’s a perfect opportunity to revisit The Goonies, or for some lucky individuals, to discover it for the first time. For those who have just developed an appetite for movies about growing up, there are ten recommendations on this list that share similar themes, settings, humor, and emotional moments.
10
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
The timeless ’80s movie centers around a 10-year-old boy named Elliot Taylor (Henry Thomas) from California, who’s navigating the aftermath of his parents’ divorce. One day, he stumbles upon an alien being, whom he names E.T., hiding in the family’s shed. They form an unexpected yet touching friendship. With the help of his younger sister Gertie (Drew Barrymore), older brother Michael (Robert MacNaughton), they shield E.T. from authorities intent on capturing him, and strive to return him to his spaceship, thus enabling his journey back home.
A Heartfelt Movie for When You’re Feeling Nostalgic
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but sing praises about “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” directed by the legendary Steven Spielberg. It stands as one of the most timeless kid adventure flicks ever made, much like “The Goonies.” At its heart, this movie is all about friendship, a bond that’s put to the test in the face of extraordinary challenges. If you’re yearning for the same enchantment that “The Goonies” offered, then you’ve come to the right place!
9
‘Stand by Me’ (1986)
Stand by Me is a movie that takes place during Labor Day weekend in 1959, just outside the town of Castle Rock, Oregon, as depicted in a Stephen King novella. The story centers around four young friends – portrayed by Corey Feldman, Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, and Jerry O’Connell – who embark on a dangerous journey through the countryside in search of a missing boy’s body. Along the way, they encounter perilous situations that leave lasting impacts on each of them, ultimately transforming them forever.
Hailed as One of the Greatest Coming-of-Age Tales
Stand by Me” explores deeper themes compared to “The Goonies” and other movies in this list, such as the poignant aspects of maturing, farewell to innocence, sorrow, and harshness. Yet, it mirrors the bond between characters found in the Goon Docks gang with its humorous camaraderie. Often hailed as one of the greatest coming-of-age stories ever told, this moving film highlights the enduring influence of childhood friendships.
8
‘The Sandlot’ (1993)
Under the guidance of director David Mickey Evans and narrated by him, the film titled The Sandlot unfolds in the sunny late spring of 1962, nestled within California’s San Fernando Valley. The narrative is experienced through the perspective of fifth-grader Scotty Smalls (portrayed by Tom Guiry), a newcomer to town who forms bonds with a local gang of boys who passionately play baseball every day on their community field, fondly known as the sandlot. A mishap occurs when Smalls uses his stepfather’s cherished baseball, autographed by Babe Ruth himself, for his first home run, sending it over a fence. This action sets off a chain of events leading to encounters with a fearsome dog and a series of exciting and emotional episodes.
Friendship, Baseball, and Adventure
This heartwarming, emotional story is often praised as one of the greatest sports films ever produced. Like the movie The Goonies, The Sandlot establishes a comfortable atmosphere, featuring characters that are easy to connect with and will be fondly remembered by viewers for years to come.
7
‘Now and Then’ (1995)
If you’re a fan of The Goonies and are searching for an all-female counterpart, then the movie Now and Then is right up your alley! This beloved classic alternates between 1995 and 1970, chronicling the reunion of a group of women, one of whom is about to give birth. As they reminisce about their unforgettable summer adventures together, they recall a time when, as young girls, they thought they had summoned the spirit of a deceased boy during a seance and endeavored to put things right. The movie boasts an impressive cast including Demi Moore, Christina Ricci, Thora Birch, and Melanie Griffith.
A Timeless Coming-of-Age Tale About the Pains of Adolescence
Individuals who came of age during the 90s and early 2000s might recognize this film, as it was likely screened at numerous sleepovers they attended. Its ability to maintain a following for three decades can be attributed to its relatable characters, mirroring aspects of their own adolescence. Similar to The Goonies, Now and Then follows a group of friends navigating challenges as a team, offering an abundance of adventure and camaraderie.
6
‘Gold Diggers: The Secret of Bear Mountain’ (1995)
Titled “Gold Diggers: The Secret of Bear Mountain,” this movie features Christina Ricci and Anna Chlumsky from “My Girls.” Set during the summer of 1980, it chronicles Beth Easton’s (Ricci) life as she relocates from bustling Los Angeles to a farmhouse in the Pacific Northwest with her recently deceased father’s wife. Initially disliking her new rural lifestyle, Beth develops a friendship with Judy Salerno (Chlumsky), who carries the town’s ‘bad girl’ label. Intrigued by tales of hidden gold on Bear Mountain, they embark on an adventure together during the summer solstice to uncover the supposed treasure.
A Charming Tale of Friendship, Treasure, and Exploration
During their journey, Beth and Judy reveal deep aspects of themselves to one another for the first time, forming an unbreakable bond that endures. Although this film leans towards drama rather than comedy like The Goonies, it shares similar themes of friendship and adventure, making it a fantastic pairing for a double feature.
5
‘Super 8’ (2011)
The movie titled “Super 8” is a science fiction drama about adolescence that was written and directed by J.J. Abrams, with Steven Spielberg as a co-producer. Set in Lillian, Ohio during the year 1979, it revolves around a team of budding filmmakers – Joe (played by Joel Courtney), Alice (Elle Fanning), Charles (Riley Griffiths), Preston (Zach Mills), Cary (Ryan Lee), and Martin (Gabriel Basso) – who accidentally record the escape of an enigmatic creature from a transport train. As baffling occurrences and unusual vanishings afflict Lillian, the military swiftly arrive in town shortly after.
Perfect for Fans of E.T.
In a quaint American town, children are exploring on their bicycles, pursuing thrills and unraveling a secret – it feels incredibly reminiscent of the classic film, The Goonies. Just like other movies on this list, Super 8 is fueled by the strength of childhood camaraderie, stirring up a sense of nostalgia that might inspire you to recapture those exhilarating moments, even as you grow older. If you enjoyed watching E.T., then this movie is definitely worth your time. The alien in this film may be harmful, but he’s also merely trying to contact his home planet.
4
‘Moonrise Kingdom’ (2012)
Moonrise Kingdom stands out from the other titles on this list because it tells a story about the blossoming romance of two young characters. This film by Wes Anderson exhibits his distinct style, with its unique color scheme, symmetrically arranged shots, and dreamy atmosphere. The story unfolds during the summer of 1965 on a quaint island, where we find two socially awkward 12-year-olds who become smitten with each other and decide to elope, embarking on an adventure in the wilderness together. As a storm approaches, the adults in their lives embark on a search for them.
An Unconventional Kid Movie
Similar to the charm of “The Goonies,” “Moonrise Kingdom” evokes feelings of happiness, nostalgia, and childlike amazement in its audience. This film also incorporates peculiar humor, youthful escapades, and friendship, as its two main characters work together to conquer a significant challenge. Although it may differ from the typical children’s movies viewers are familiar with, it is equally rich in character and appeal.
3
‘Summer of 84’ (2018)
The film titled “Summer of ’84” is often overlooked in both the horror and coming-of-age movie categories. This movie, set in the fictional town of Cape May, Oregon, provides a chilling depiction of American suburbia by focusing on a serial killer investigation. Fifteen-year-old Davey (played by Graham Verchere) starts suspecting his neighbor Wayne (Rich Sommer), an unusual police officer, as the Cape May Slayer, who has been abducting 13 young boys in the area. Convinced of his suspicion, he and his friends decide to investigate Wayne themselves. What was initially a carefree summer quickly transforms into a terrifying one, leaving an indelible mark on them forever.
Dark Cinematic Nostalgia
This movie is ideal for people seeking a more somber experience than “The Goonies” offers. While both films share some common elements like a quiet coastal town, a carefree summer ambiance, and a group of boys riding bicycles, the similarities end there. Steeped in 80s nostalgia, this film will whisk you away to another era, but unlike “The Goonies,” it won’t evoke a bittersweet sentiment. Instead, its chilling conclusion, one of the bleakest in recent memory, will linger in your mind for quite some time.
2
‘Troop Zero’ (2019)
Under the guidance of British directors Bert & Bertie, the Amazon Prime Video production titled “Troop Zero” takes place in rural Georgia town named Wiggly during 1977. McKenna Grace plays Christmas Flint, a peculiar outsider with an intense fascination for space and the conviction that life exists beyond our universe. When she learns about a NASA representative discussing an opportunity with the local Birdie Scouts (resembling Girl Scouts) to have their voices recorded on the Voyager Golden Record, she strives to join them but gets rejected. Undeterred by this setback, she gathers a group of fellow elementary school outcasts and creates their own troop in an attempt to seize the chance to broadcast their voices into space.
An Extremely Unique Take on Girlhood
This unconventional perspective on girlhood is bound to catch you off guard, much like the 80s favorite movie The Goonies. Just as it did, Troop Zero will lift your spirits and leave a wide grin on your face. Its ensemble of peculiar characters will carve an unforgettable niche in your heart. If you’re seeking a heartwarming story about maturation, give this one a watch.
1
‘Slash/Back’ (2022)
Slash/Back offers a distinctive twist in the horror and sci-fi realms by presenting an Indigenous perspective, focusing on a band of Inuit adolescent girls battling against extraterrestrial intrusion in their peaceful island hamlet of Pangnirtung. On the longest day of the year, with most villagers attending a dance at the Community Center, Maika (Tasiana Shirley), Jesse (Alexis Wolfe), Uki (Nalajoss Ellsworth), and Leena (Chelsea Prusky) stumble upon a bizarrely altered bear. As they delve deeper, they realize their role in safeguarding their fishing community from vampiric aliens that can seize control of both humans and animals.
A Ragtag Group of Friends, Danger, and Excitement
Slash/Back offers an exhilarating experience, much like The Goonies. This film, too, unfolds against a seemingly ordinary backdrop concealing unforeseen perils. The story centers around a band of friends, following the theme of underdogs, and is filled with thrilling adventures that will captivate those who enjoyed the escapades in the Goon Docks.
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2025-04-20 21:03