The 1980s gave us some of the most amazing films across genres. Naturally, writing this article was a challenge. Originally, I thought I’d include one film from each year of the ’80s. But that felt like an impossible task. (Also, I didn’t think it would be fair to put the entire responsibility of representing the colorful ‘80s on one film.) The ‘80s deserve more than that, for sure!
So here I am, with two rewatchable movies from every year in the 1980s that showcase the decade’s cinematic diversity.
Most Rewatchable Movies from the 1980s
1980
The Shining
Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining might not be Stephen King-approved, but it took fans by storm (still does, on every rewatch). The narrative follows the Torrance family, who move to the secluded Overlook Hotel after Jack, the father, accepts the job of winter caretaker there. Soon, the hotel’s evil spirit corrupts Jack, forcing him to hunt down his own family.
Raging Bull
Martin Scorsese’s Raging Bull encapsulates the life of an extremely talented American boxer, Jake LaMotta, whose lack of civility and objectionable attitude led to his tragic downfall. By the age of 40, he has nothing left.
Despite being a boxer’s story, Raging Bull is nothing like Rocky; therefore, do not expect an underdog’s story or elaborate boxing sequences. Scorsese takes you on a vivid journey of self-destruction, constantly reminding you in every sequence that success and talent cannot replace connection.
1981
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark
Raiders of the Lost Ark is indeed one of the greatest collaborations between director Steven Spielberg and producer/writer George Lucas. Set in 1936, the narrative follows our beloved Indiana Jones as he tries to locate a legendary ancient power before the Nazis get their hands on it.
Featuring fantastic set pieces, elaborate stunts and action sequences, gripping tension and emotional sequences, the first film in the Indiana Jones franchise is a popcorn adventure from start to finish.
Mommie Dearest
A daughter penned her perspective of her abusive life being raised by a movie star mother, so Frank Perry’s adaptation of the memoir in Mommie Dearest feels like witnessing someone else’s nightmare. And what a nightmare it is!
Starting in the 1930s, the narrative traces the complicated relationship between Christina Crawford and her adoptive movie-star mother, Joan Crawford. What began as tough love soon turned into outright emotional and physical abuse, as Joan’s career went downhill with her age and outrageous attitude.
1982
The Thing
John Carpenter’s The Thing is a milestone in the horror genre, with its intense exploration of the themes of paranoia and isolation, turning mistrust into the real monster. The Thing is also notable for its practical effects.
The narrative follows a group of scientists isolated in Antarctica as they struggle to survive against a shape-shifting creature hunting them in cold blood.
E.T.
Steven Spielberg’s E.T. melted hearts with its poignant exploration of emotional and psychological connection through the unseen friendship between a young boy and an extraterrestrial creature.
Spielberg’s extraterrestrial won hearts with its cute face and googly eyes—a vision brought to life with a masterful blend of practical effects.
1983
Scarface
Who doesn’t know Tony Montana? He is among the greatest anti-heroes in movie history.
Even if you haven’t watched the movie, you’ve probably used iconic one-liners by this Al Pacino character in your daily conversations. Brian De Palma’s Scarface follows a Cuban refugee who makes his way to the top of the crime chain, becoming the biggest drug lord in Miami.
Star Wars: Episode VI—Return of the Jedi
Richard Marquand’s Star Wars: Episode VI—Return of the Jedi is a worthy conclusion to the first Star Wars trilogy, after A New Hope and The Empire Strikes Back, featuring epic battles, inspirational character arcs, and heart-wrenching emotional pay-offs!
The third Star Wars film revolves around three different arcs—the rescue of Han Solo from Jabba the Hutt, the Rebel Alliance’s attempt to destroy the second Death Star, and Luke’s attempt to bring Darth Vader to the light side.
1984
The Terminator
James Cameron’s The Terminator shot Arnold Schwarzenegger to fame and paved the way for an entire franchise.
The narrative follows a cyborg assassin who travels back in time to kill a woman whose son is prophesied to lead humans in a war against the machines.
From top-notch prosthetics to practical explosions to catchphrases that embody cool, The Terminator is a beautifully seasoned piece of cinema, with sequels that lived up to the spirit of its iconic one-liner, “I’ll be back.”
Ghostbusters
Ivan Reitman’s Ghostbusters became an instant hit upon its release, smashing the box office with a worldwide opening of more than $10 million.
A supernatural comedy, the movie follows a group of paranormal investigators as they confront and battle mischievous spirits around New York City. From escalating slapstick to layered dry wit, to plot twists, to NYC’s grit and urban chaos, Ghostbusters is an ultimate entertainer.
1985
The Breakfast Club
No one has explored teenage aspirations and rebellions better than John Hughes. The Breakfast Club is proof of his expertise in the area.
The narrative follows a group of students stuck together in detention on a Saturday under the supervision of an extremely strict teacher. Unlike Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, this one’s a single-location narrative that features nostalgic adventures, witty humor, and character arcs that prove that teen stories could resonate globally, across cultures.
Back to the Future
Robert Zemeckis’ Back to the Future is a time travel story done right, and in style. Need I remind you of the DeLorean time machine?
The narrative follows a teenager, Marty McFly, who accidentally travels 30 years into the past and jeopardizes his existence in the present by meddling with his parents’ relationship.
Eccentric characters, amazing set-pieces, and tongue-in-cheek humor—Zemeckis’ sci-fi films are loved by both nerds and normies!
1986
Top Gun
Tony Scott’s Top Gun follows hotshot naval aviator Maverick (Tom Cruise) as he trains at the Navy’s elite Fighter Weapons School at Naval Air Station Miramar, where he clashes with rival pilot Iceman.
It’s a story of unbridled ambition crashing into accountability against the backdrop of electrifying fighter plane sequences, with sprinkles of iconic quips that give you goosebumps! What’s not to love?
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off
If taking a break feels impossible, it’s time to rewatch Ferris Bueller’s Day Off.
John Hughes’ classic, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, follows the titular character, a high-school student who hatches an elaborate plan with his two friends to skip a school day.
As I said, there are very few who understand a teenager’s mind, their struggles, and their ambitions as Hughes does. This movie is one of his best.
1987
Dirty Dancing
Emilie Ardolino’s Dirty Dancing is a quintessential ‘80s love story between a young woman and her dance instructor during a summer trip with her family.
From elaborate choreography to songs that dominated the charts for months to the electrifying chemistry between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey, Dirty Dancing was a hit for all the right reasons!
RoboCop
Paul Verhoeven’s RoboCop explores corporate greed and dehumanization against the backdrop of a dystopian Detroit, suffocated by crime and privatization.
The narrative follows a police officer who is resurrected as RoboCop by a private company after being brutally killed by a criminal gang. As a RoboCop, he’s assigned back on duty as the law enforcer of the city—only this time, he doesn’t have human limitations other than the memories that are making their way back.
1988
Akira
This Japanese cyberpunk animated epic, directed by Katsuhiro Otomo, is an extremely profound exploration of friendship, gift-wrapped in sci-fi.
Set in a dystopian Neo-Tokyo, the narrative follows a young boy who develops telekinetic powers only to wreak havoc with them.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit
Another notable film by Zemeckis, Who Framed Roger Rabbit made headlines by overlapping 2D animation with live-action.
The narrative follows a cartoon rabbit trying to prove his innocence with the help of a private detective after he’s accused of murder.
1989
When Harry Met Sally
One of the greatest rom-coms in movie history, Rob Reiner’s When Harry Met Sally challenges society’s perception of women in romance and sexuality using the female lead, the infectious romance, and the distinguished wit.
The narrative follows two estranged college friends who are brought together by fate. What begins as a pure, unhinged friendship soon blossoms into love, as they realize that they’re perfect for each other.
Field of Dreams
Phil Alden Robinson’s Field of Dreams is a beautiful sports fantasy, centered on an estranged father-son duo and their love for baseball.
The narrative follows Ray Kinsella, an Iowa farmer, who one day begins hearing a strange voice that lures him first to build a baseball field in his cornfield. The conclusion is extremely heart-warming as the father-son duo plays catch.
Which of these have you watched?