The best movies of the 80’s
February 5, 2023
The 1980s was a decade that saw a surge in the popularity of Hollywood cinema, with several iconic films being released during this period. These movies were known for their unique blend of humor, adventure, and drama, making them some of the most memorable films of all time. They were also defined by a distinct visual style, memorable soundtracks, and larger-than-life characters that still remain etched in the memories of audiences today.
The ’80s was an era that saw a surge in popularity for the science fiction and action genres, with movies like “The Empire Strikes Back,” “Raiders of the Lost Ark,” and “The Terminator” becoming household names. These films combined thrilling action sequences with thought-provoking themes, making them not only entertaining, but also thought-provoking. The ’80s also saw a resurgence in the popularity of the fantasy genre, with movies like “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” and “The NeverEnding Story” captivating audiences with their imaginative worlds and heartwarming storylines.
Another hallmark of ’80s movies was their memorable soundtracks, which often became just as popular as the films themselves. Whether it was the synthesizer-fueled scores of John Carpenter, or the power ballads of Survivor and Europe, the music of the ’80s played a key role in establishing the tone and mood of many of these classic films.
In addition to the science fiction, action, and fantasy genres, the ’80s was also a time when the romantic comedy genre came into its own, with movies like “When Harry Met Sally” and “Pretty in Pink” captivating audiences with their charming storylines and relatable characters. These films were a stark contrast to the action-packed blockbusters that dominated the decade, and they helped to solidify the ’80s as a time when Hollywood was at the top of its game.
Overall, the ’80s was a decade that produced some of the most iconic films in the history of cinema. Whether it was the epic adventures of Indiana Jones, the heartwarming story of E.T., or the timeless tale of Marty McFly, these movies continue to captivate audiences to this day and serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of Hollywood filmmaking. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best ’80s movies and explore what made them so memorable.
These are our Top 5 movies of the 80s:
Back to Future 1
“Back to the Future” is a science fiction-comedy film directed by Robert Zemeckis and released in 1985. The movie stars Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly, a teenager who is sent back in time to 1955 by a time-traveling DeLorean car invented by his eccentric friend, Dr. Emmett Brown (played by Christopher Lloyd). The film quickly became a cultural phenomenon and is widely regarded as one of the best movies of the 80s.
One of the key elements that makes “Back to the Future” so memorable is its perfect blend of humor, heart, and sci-fi. The film is filled with memorable characters and hilarious situations, yet it also explores the deeper themes of family, friendship, and the consequences of our actions. The time-travel plot device is used to full effect, as Marty must navigate the unfamiliar world of 1955 while trying to make sure he doesn’t alter the course of his own future. This creates a sense of tension and adventure that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Another reason “Back to the Future” is so beloved is its incredible cast. Michael J. Fox is perfect as Marty McFly, bringing a combination of charm, humor, and heart to the role. Christopher Lloyd’s performance as Dr. Brown is also a standout, as he brings a sense of wild-eyed madness to the character that is both comedic and endearing. The supporting cast, including Lea Thompson, Crispin Glover, and Thomas F. Wilson, are all excellent, and each contributes to the film’s overall success.
The film’s soundtrack, which features classic rock and roll songs from the 50s, is also a standout element of the film. The music perfectly captures the spirit of the 1950s and adds to the film’s sense of fun and adventure. The film’s memorable score, composed by Alan Silvestri, is also a highlight and adds to the film’s overall sense of excitement and wonder.
One of the most impressive aspects of “Back to the Future” is its timeless quality. Despite being made in the 80s, the film still feels relevant and entertaining today. The special effects, which were groundbreaking for the time, hold up surprisingly well, and the film’s underlying themes of family, friendship, and the consequences of our actions are just as relevant now as they were in 1985.
In conclusion, “Back to the Future” is a classic film that deserves its place among the best movies of the 80s. The film’s blend of humor, heart, and sci-fi, its excellent cast, memorable soundtrack, and timeless themes all combine to make it a film that continues to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, comedy, or just great filmmaking, “Back to the Future” is a movie that should not be missed.
The Empire Strikes Back
“The Empire Strikes Back,” also known as “Star Wars: Episode V,” is a science fiction film released in 1980 and directed by Irvin Kershner. It is the second installment in the original “Star Wars” trilogy and is widely considered to be one of the best films of the 80s, as well as one of the greatest sequels of all time.
One of the reasons that “The Empire Strikes Back” is so highly regarded is its masterful storytelling. The film picks up where the first “Star Wars” film left off, and expands upon the already rich and complex world of the original. The film introduces new characters, such as the iconic villain Darth Vader and the lovable rogue Lando Calrissian, and takes the audience on an epic journey through the galaxy far, far away. The plot is filled with twists and turns, and the film’s climax is one of the most memorable and satisfying in movie history.
Another key element that makes “The Empire Strikes Back” so beloved is its incredible special effects. The film’s groundbreaking visual effects, including its iconic use of stop-motion animation and matte paintings, helped to set the standard for special effects in science fiction films. The film’s memorable score, composed by John Williams, is also a standout element and adds to the film’s overall sense of excitement and wonder.
The film’s cast is also a key factor in its success. Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher all return as Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia, respectively, and each delivers a standout performance. The film also introduces two new characters in the form of Lando Calrissian, played by Billy Dee Williams, and Darth Vader, played by James Earl Jones. These characters quickly became fan favorites and helped to further expand the world of “Star Wars.”
Another reason that “The Empire Strikes Back” is so highly regarded is its dark and complex tone. The film is a departure from the more lighthearted and optimistic feel of the original “Star Wars,” and instead explores deeper and more complex themes of love, loss, and the nature of evil.
Luke Skywalker’s father is still considered one of the biggest plot twists in movie history, and it marked a turning point in the “Star Wars” franchise.
“The Empire Strikes Back” is a classic film that deserves its place among the best movies of the 80s. Its masterful storytelling, groundbreaking special effects, incredible cast, and dark and complex tone all combine to make it a film that continues to captivate and entertain audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a fan of science fiction, action, or just great filmmaking, “The Empire Strikes Back” is a movie that should not be missed. To this day, it remains one of the most beloved and respected sequels in movie history, and it continues to inspire new generations of filmmakers and fans.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a science fiction film released in 1982 and directed by Steven Spielberg. It tells the story of a young boy named Elliott who discovers a lost alien and helps it return home while avoiding the attention of government agents. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $800 million worldwide, and it has since been regarded as one of the greatest films of the 1980s.
The film’s story is a timeless one that explores themes of friendship, childhood, and the sense of wonder that comes with discovering the unknown. The bond between Elliott and E.T. is a heartwarming one that is both sincere and touching, and it is this relationship that drives the film’s emotional core. E.T. is also a character that is easy to empathize with, as his longing to return home and his vulnerability evoke feelings of compassion in the viewer.
One of the reasons why E.T. is considered one of the best films of the 1980s is its groundbreaking special effects. At the time of its release, the film’s practical effects and animatronics were state-of-the-art, and they remain impressive even by today’s standards. E.T. was created as a full-scale puppet, which was operated by several people and combined with seamless visual effects to create a realistic and endearing character. The film’s seamless blending of practical effects and computer-generated imagery set a new benchmark for the industry and paved the way for future advancements in visual effects.
Another aspect that makes E.T. a standout film is its stunning cinematography. The film is shot in a warm and golden hue, which creates a sense of nostalgia and longing, and the camera work is both imaginative and inventive. The film’s memorable shots, such as the iconic flying bicycle scene, are now classic moments in cinema history.
The film’s score, composed by John Williams, is also an integral part of its success. Williams’s sweeping and emotional score complements the film’s visuals and adds to its overall impact, and the film’s main theme has become one of the most recognizable pieces of music in movie history.
In addition to its technical merits, E.T. is also a powerful statement on the importance of friendship and love. The film’s message that “E.T. phone home” is a reminder that even the most seemingly distant and alien creatures can find a place of belonging and that love transcends all boundaries. This message, combined with its timeless story, special effects, and memorable score, make E.T. a classic film that has stood the test of time and continues to be loved by audiences of all ages.
Blade Runner
Blade Runner is a science fiction film released in 1982 and directed by Ridley Scott. It is set in a dystopian future where genetically engineered robots known as replicants have been created to serve as slave labor. The film follows a retired Blade Runner, Rick Deckard, who is brought back to hunt down a group of rogue replicants who have returned to Earth. Blade Runner was not a box-office success upon its initial release, but it has since become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the best films of the 1980s.
One of the key reasons why Blade Runner is considered one of the best films of the 80s is its visionary depiction of a future world. The film’s visual style, which is heavily influenced by film noir and cyberpunk, creates a fully realized and deeply atmospheric vision of the future that is both captivating and bleak. The film’s use of practical effects, such as miniatures and matte paintings, combined with its use of cutting-edge special effects, creates a rich and detailed world that is a feast for the eyes.
Another aspect that makes Blade Runner stand out is its exploration of what it means to be human. The film raises questions about the nature of consciousness, the morality of creating life, and the line between human and artificial intelligence. These themes are explored through the interactions between Deckard and the replicants, who are portrayed as complex and multifaceted characters that challenge the viewer’s preconceived notions of what it means to be alive.
Blade Runner is also notable for its use of music. The film’s score, composed by Vangelis, is a haunting and atmospheric blend of electronic and orchestral elements that perfectly complements the film’s visuals. The film’s memorable main theme is a standout piece of music that has become synonymous with the film.
The film’s performances are also standout. Harrison Ford delivers a nuanced performance as Deckard, bringing both empathy and detachment to the role. Meanwhile, Rutger Hauer, who plays the replicant leader Roy Batty, gives a mesmerizing performance that is both charismatic and chilling.
One of the reasons why Blade Runner has become such a cult classic is its open-ended nature. The film’s ambiguous ending, which leaves the viewer to decide whether Deckard is a human or a replicant, has been the subject of much debate and discussion, adding to the film’s mystique.
Blade Runner is a classic film that is a testament to the power of filmmaking and the impact that a great story, combined with imaginative visual effects and a haunting score, can have on audiences. Its depiction of a dystopian future, its exploration of what it means to be human, and its memorable performances make it a standout film that will continue to be revered and remembered as one of the best films of the 1980s. Its influence on the science fiction genre is immeasurable, and its legacy will endure for generations to come.
The Terminator
The Terminator is a science fiction film released in 1984 and directed by James Cameron. It is set in a dystopian future where machines have taken over the world, and a cyborg assassin, the Terminator, is sent back in time to kill Sarah Connor, the mother of the future leader of the human resistance. The film follows Sarah’s attempts to evade the Terminator while being aided by a soldier sent back from the future to protect her. The Terminator was a commercial success upon its release and has since become a classic of the science fiction genre, widely considered one of the best films of the 1980s.
One of the reasons why The Terminator is considered one of the best films of the 80s is its tight, suspenseful storytelling. The film’s plot is driven by a series of action sequences that build in intensity, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The film’s dialogue is crisp and to-the-point, and its pacing is relentless, making it a thrilling ride from start to finish.
Another aspect that makes The Terminator stand out is its memorable central character, the Terminator. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s performance as the cyborg assassin is iconic, and his deadpan delivery of the film’s famous lines, such as “I’ll be back,” has become legendary. The Terminator is a formidable and terrifying antagonist, and his relentless pursuit of Sarah adds an extra layer of tension to the film.
The film’s special effects, while dated by today’s standards, are still impressive and hold up well. The use of miniatures and stop-motion animation to create the film’s post-apocalyptic future world is particularly noteworthy, and the visual effects used to create the Terminator are still effective.
The film’s score, composed by Brad Fiedel, is a memorable and haunting piece of music that perfectly complements the film’s suspenseful action. The film’s main theme, a driving electronic piece, is instantly recognizable and adds to the film’s overall impact.
The performances in The Terminator are also standout. Linda Hamilton’s portrayal of Sarah Connor is both strong and vulnerable, and her character’s transformation from a waitress to a warrior is one of the film’s most compelling aspects. Michael Biehn, as the soldier sent back to protect Sarah, also delivers a strong performance, and his character’s chemistry with Sarah adds another layer of depth to the film.
The Terminator’s success spawned a franchise, with multiple sequels and spin-offs, and the film’s impact on popular culture is immeasurable. Its depiction of a dystopian future and its exploration of the dangers of artificial intelligence continue to resonate with audiences, making it a timeless classic that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
The Terminator is a film that has stood the test of time and remains one of the best films of the 1980s. Its tight storytelling, memorable characters, and suspenseful action make it a classic that will continue to be enjoyed by audiences for years to come. Its influence on the science fiction genre is immeasurable, and its legacy as a classic film is secure.
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