The Best ’80s Movies Remastered In 4K (That Are Actually Worth Watching)

As a long-time enthusiast of 80s cinema, I have to say that witnessing these timeless classics remastered in 4K has been nothing short of breathtaking. The transformation of movies like “They Live” and “Die Hard” into pristine works of art is nothing less than miraculous.

Experience the thrill of watching timeless films in stunning 4K quality without any caveats, for this high-definition upgrade is an excellent means to conserve and savor the charm of old cinematography. Regrettably, not all films receive the same level of refinement as some top-tier movies ideal for viewing on a freshly purchased 4K TV.

In the past, enhancing Disney films such as “Cinderella” and “Sleeping Beauty” to 1080p often received negative feedback due to changes that negatively impacted the original visuals. Conversely, 4K versions of James Cameron’s films like “Titanic” and “True Lies” were heavily criticized for being too thoroughly refined, resulting in images that appear unfamiliar and unusually sharp, giving off an uncomfortable feel reminiscent of overly processed AI-generated imagery. These controversial upgrades seem to take away from the enjoyment of stunning cinematography rather than enhancing it.

It’s fortunate that not every 4K transfer is the same. While movies like “True Lies” arrived in this high-definition format with less than stellar quality, many cherished films from the 1980s have received excellent 4K releases. These ’80s classics span a wide range of elements that make them essential viewing, while their 4K versions also exhibit diverse qualities that make them exceptional. However, upgrading these beloved older movies of the 1980s to 4K does not mean removing all their original visual quirks. The 4K transfers of films like “The Thing” and “Die Hard,” for instance, demonstrate a beautiful balance between the resolution of VHS tapes and the clarity of AI technology.

The Thing

In 1982, John Carpenter’s “The Thing” was met with criticism by many film critics. They considered it to be just a high-budget horror movie filled with violence but lacking depth. However, over time, the film’s groundbreaking suspense and practical special effects earned it the recognition it deserved. Today, “The Thing” is still hailed as one of the best sci-fi horror movies ever made. The compelling performances by actors like Wilford Brimley and Keith David add to the movie’s chilling atmosphere, making it all the more captivating.

In the early 2020s, a high-definition 4K version of the classic film “The Thing” was released, allowing viewers to experience the intricate visual details of the story more vividly than ever. The abundance of subpar computer-generated effects in modern movies has actually made it easier to appreciate the impressive practical and makeup effects in “The Thing”, which are particularly evident in its most intense scenes. Critics widely praised the 4K version, noting its ability to maintain a sharp and clear image without obscuring the intentionally murky and mysterious moments. Some viewers even called this 4K release of “The Thing” a standout example of upgrading older films for 4K viewing.

This remarkable advancement has added even more admiration to the movie “The Thing,” once frequently criticized, now transforms into a cherished production that continues to garner additional accolades with every new release on home video for different generations.

True Stories

Is it possible for someone not to appreciate Talking Heads’ music? Their collection is filled with tracks that are hard to resist, such as “Wild Wild Life” and “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)”. Similarly, the 1986 film “True Stories”, directed by Talking Heads frontman David Byrne, stands out from the crowd. Given the unusual nature of artist David Byrne, “True Stories” is not your typical movie. It’s a laid-back production that follows various characters in a fictional Texas town called Virgil. One of these characters is Louis Fyne, played by John Goodman in one of his early film roles. With a career as impressive as Goodman’s, any ranking of every John Goodman movie from worst to best would likely place “True Stories” near the top of his filmography.

Recently, Byrne and cinematographer Ed Lachman oversaw the high-definition upgrade of the movie to 4K. This exciting improvement meant that “True Stories” would maintain its original integrity during the visual enhancement. The premiere of this 4K version was met with rave reviews, particularly highlighting the vibrant color palette of “True Stories”, which is now more stunning than ever before. Additionally, the quality of the transfer on the big screen during its rare 2022 theatrical re-release screenings was also commended. It was a unique chance to see it, but “True Stories” truly received the top-notch 4K upgrade it deserved.

Ran

If you seek a vibrant reminder of the magic in films, simply watch any movie directed by Akira Kurosawa. Regardless of whether it’s his least or greatest work, each Kurosawa film showcases exceptional artistry, acting, and themes. The masterpieces of this cinematic genius – which encompass “Ikiru,” “Seven Samurai,” “Drunken Angel,” and numerous others – stand out visually with their striking compositions and precise camera work.

Among all his notable works, Kurosawa’s 1985 adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Ran” is exceptionally captivating. This film, unlike many of Kurosawa’s classics with monochromatic color schemes, is vibrantly colored. It beautifully captures some of the most stunning red hues and images ever recorded on film in this masterful creation. Even viewers who first encountered “Ran” on VHS could appreciate its visually impressive aspects, mirroring the vastness of the storyline perfectly.

Experience the breathtaking visual spectacle of “Ran” like never before through a high-definition 4K version. Released in cinemas back in 2016, this presentation of “Ran” left audiences awestruck with its fresh and vibrant look. Critics praised it for its precise enhancements over previous versions, contrasting it with the excessive changes found in other high-definition transfers such as that of “True Lies.” A home video release subsequently allowed a wider audience to enjoy this stunning portrayal of “Ran.” With its sharp 4K resolution, this version offers an unparalleled way to appreciate Kurosawa’s extraordinary visual flair in his 1985 masterpiece.

Possession

All forms of cinema deserve proper preservation. It isn’t just best picture Oscar winners or the biggest blockbusters that are worthy of clean 4K transfers. The weirdest, most unhinged cinema out there is equally deserving of all the joys of high-definition presentations. Case in point: the 1983 Andrzej Żuławski feature “Possession.” This whirlwind fever dream concerns a couple, Anna (Isabelle Adjani) and Mark (Sam Neill), whose marriage crumbles after Anna has an affair. This revelation leads Mark into an investigation that only unveils increasingly bizarre developments rather than answers.

The entire spectacle is remarkably bizarre yet mesmerizing, with the main event being powerfully memorable due to Adjani’s exceptional lead performance in “Possession.” After witnessing her intensely dedicated acting, you won’t easily forget it… nor will you get a peaceful night’s sleep for a few days following.

In the early 2020s, this exceptional horror movie masterpiece underwent a 4K restoration, despite its director Andrzej Żuławski passing away in 2016. Although he couldn’t personally endorse or critique the restoration, the 4K “Possession” remastering garnered positive reviews from cinema-goers. Some critics pointed out that the practical effects, given the high resolution of 4K, seemed slightly less convincing than before. However, overall, the 4K edition of this ’80s classic was highly praised, with its eventual 4K Blu-ray release making it more accessible for collectors of physical media, following the film’s inconsistent home video distribution history. An iconic performance like Isabelle Adjani’s in “Possession” should always be easy to find.

To Live and Die in L.A.

1980s cinema faced one of its main hurdles in the political climate of America during that time. The provocative, society-questioning films that were prevalent in the early 70s struggled to survive under the Reagan administration. This era was characterized by movies centered around muscular heroes defeating villains from foreign lands rather than exploring complex moral issues.

It’s not surprising that Willem Dafoe’s “To Live and Die in L.A.”, released in 1985, didn’t gain immediate popularity like William Friedkin’s earlier work, “The Exorcist”. The moviegoing environment at the time was significantly different from the one when “The Exorcist” debuted over a decade prior. Nevertheless, the film has been recognized as a classic crime movie over the years. Its exceptional cinematography, notably its unique green and red-tinted lighting, has contributed to its legendary status.

In 2016, the high-definition Blu-ray release of “To Live and Die in L.A.” was a long-awaited addition to home video collections, considering the scarcity of this title on physical media in the recent centuries. However, more than three decades after its initial premiere, in 2023, “To Live and Die in L.A.” finally arrived in 4K for home viewing. Friedkin personally supervised the 4K transfer, providing comfort that the movie’s distinctive visual style would remain intact. The stunning 4K resolution of “To Live and Die in L.A.” allows contemporary viewers to appreciate every minute detail of a film that was visionary even for its time.

Desert Hearts

Exceptional romantic dramas are hard to surpass, but none quite compare to “Desert Hearts.” This film tells the tale of two women finding love in the 1950s, masterfully directed by Donna Deitch and beautifully captured on camera by Robert Elswit, a renowned figure in the film industry. The central performances by Helen Shaver and Patricia Charbonneau are captivating, particularly during their poignant final scene at a train station that rivals the conclusion of “Before Sunset” for its bittersweet beauty. Notably, this movie boasts one of the most outstanding lesbian love scenes ever filmed on celluloid. This scene is both sensual and deeply emotional, with subtle nuances from the actors making it a truly enchanting, intimate production.

In 2017, a high-definition 4K version of “Desert Hearts” was specially made by Janus Films and The Criterion Collection. Regrettably, this version hasn’t been released on standard 4K Blu-ray yet. However, the 4K version of “Desert Hearts” on regular Blu-ray was one of the most acclaimed home video releases that year, with many praises given to the transfer process overseen by Elswit, which managed to bring this classic film into the contemporary era of home viewing without compromising its original visual essence. Essentially, “Desert Hearts” has always been a masterpiece, but its modern 4K restoration has made its finest details stand out more vividly than ever before.

Do the Right Thing

Generally speaking, people tend to avoid anything associated with the sweltering days of summer, who would want to be uncomfortable and drenched in sweat? The exception is Spike Lee’s 1989 masterpiece “Do the Right Thing.” Set on one of the hottest days of the year in Brooklyn’s Bedford–Stuyvesant neighborhood, this film showcases a diverse group of working-class characters whose brows are forever damp with sweat and hearts filled with simmering conflict. It’s an exceptional movie, without a doubt, boasting a powerhouse ensemble of unforgettable performances. Who could ever forget Bill Nunn’s captivating portrayal of Radio Raheem or Ruby Dee’s deeply lived-in performance as Mother Sister?

“One of the standout creative achievements in ‘Do the Right Thing’ is the powerful visual style created by director Spike Lee and cinematographer Ernest Dickinson. The movie portrays a believable world, but Lee and Dickinson use bold splashes of color in set design (such as a vibrant red wall) and innovative camera work to make the community feel alive. When ‘Do the Right Thing’ received a 4K transfer at the beginning of the 2020s, film enthusiasts everywhere were delighted, as the movie looked as sharp as ever. Preserving the original 35mm print’s grain was particularly commended for subtly yet significantly upholding the unique visual character that contributed to the film’s enduring popularity in modern pop culture.

Stop Making Sense

In the 1980s, “True Stories” wasn’t David Byrne’s only remarkable movie; there was also “Stop Making Sense,” directed by Jonathan Demme. This film documented a concert performance by Byrne and the Talking Heads band. Many factors contribute to why “Stop Making Sense” is now regarded as an exceptional concert film, but the captivating “Take Me to the River” scene alone is enough to cement its status.

As a gamer, I can’t help but be blown away by the breathtaking spectacle that is this cover performance. Every frame, every image, seems to etch itself into your mind like an unforgettable memory. The up-close shots of Byrne crooning the title hook are mesmerizing, while the raw energy and passion from each performer on stage during that sequence left me spellbound. This single performance encapsulates the captivating entertainment and showmanship that’s found in every corner of “Stop Making Sense.” It’s a true masterclass in live music.

The exceptional fusion of music and cinema found in this masterpiece necessitated a matching high-quality display, which was achieved through a 4K restoration undertaken by A24 in 2023. This transfer managed to maintain a pleasing equilibrium between appearing pristine on an IMAX screen and retaining the original cinematography’s grain. Eliminating the imperfections of “Stop Making Sense” would have stripped away its unique ’80s allure, but fortunately, A24’s transfer made the film look more stunning than ever before, allowing viewers to appreciate the “Take Me to the River” performance in a way they never could before.

The Princess Bride

In a unique blend of styles, numerous exceptional films are intriguing contradictions. They skillfully combine elements from vastly dissimilar worlds that seem incongruous, yet they create enchantment when harmoniously woven into a single movie. This phenomenon is perfectly encapsulated in the film “The Princess Bride.” Released by director Rob Reiner in 1987, this fantasy masterpiece showcases clever post-modern touches, such as a narrative framework where an old man (Peter Falk) regales his skeptical and critical grandson (Fred Savage) with the captivating “Princess Bride” tale.

In “The Princess Bride,” the most humorous scenes resonate with viewers due to their connection to old-school fantasy stories. However, it stands brilliantly on its own as a heartwarming, emotionally engaging fairy tale. For example, when Inigo Montoya (played by Mandy Patinkin) confronts his father’s killer, the moment isn’t meant to be a joke but rather an uplifting scene that resonates with audiences because they’ve been drawn into the film. The clever self-references and classic fantasy elements blend seamlessly together.

In the realm of gaming, finding that coveted upgrade or remastered version of a classic game is always a thrill. And boy, was I pumped when “The Princess Bride” got a 4K makeover in the late 2010s! This long-awaited update finally made its way to physical media in early 2020, all thanks to The Criterion Collection.

They Live

Initially, “The Thing” didn’t fare well at the box office but is now hailed as a classic horror movie. This initial failure had a negative impact on director John Carpenter’s career in the subsequent years. However, he went on to direct other notable 1980s films like “Christine,” “Big Trouble in Little China,” and the satirical thriller “They Live” from 1988. In this movie, Roddy Piper played Nada, a character who discovered glasses that revealed hidden dangers such as subliminal messages in billboards or alien invaders disguised as humans in their true forms. The film was essentially a critique of late-era capitalism and Ronald Reagan’s America, and it followed Nada’s race against time to prevent these invaders from taking over.

Since its VHS debut in the late 1980s, “They Live” has been a staple of home video collections. Over the years, it’s been updated to various home video formats, and eventually, it got a 4K transfer. This happened with a Scream Factory release, which allowed “They Live” to shine brighter than ever in 4K with richer colors. Despite numerous other home video versions of “They Live”, this 4K transfer is often regarded as the best version yet. The ’80s saw John Carpenter’s films veering into unexpected territories, but they produced gems like “They Live” that continue to impress us thanks to the wonders of 4K technology.

Die Hard

1980s action movies, like milk left in the hot Texas sun during July, have not aged particularly well, encompassing both their themes and fight scenes. The Bruce Willis film “Die Hard” doesn’t shy away from the politically charged undertones that were prevalent in other ’80s action films of its kind. Nevertheless, it stands out with its sharp script, numerous memorable performances, and is widely regarded as the finest American action movie of the decade.

You can keep watching “Die Hard” over and over again, and even today, aspects like Alan Rickman’s remarkable portrayal of Hans Gruber or the skillful script that generates intense suspense from just one building continue to amaze. Despite being released decades ago, “Die Hard” maintains an impactful punch that many action movies from its era no longer possess.

2018’s release of a transformative 4K transfer of “Die Hard” allowed devoted fans to effectively watch the movie for the first time, revealing intricacies they hadn’t noticed before. Critics praised this impressive 4K upgrade as a significant improvement in picture quality, considering the turbulent history of physical media releases for “Die Hard”. Previous subpar versions were outshone by this transfer’s stunningly clear visuals. The restored images were appreciated for maintaining the original film’s unique aesthetic identity while making it appear fresh and new. Watching “Die Hard” in 4K for the first time offers movie enthusiasts a compelling reason to revisit this classic action cinema masterpiece.

2024-10-14 21:31