The 80s are often remembered as a time when fashion, slang, and trends, made themselves known in the cultural lexicon. It was also a time of some of the greatest films ever made, and the 80s movie scene still resonates today with new generations who enjoy its classic films. Here is our list of the best 80s movies that still hold up today.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
This classic John Hughes film follows five teenagers who must attend detention together on a Saturday. Although they’re all from different social cliques, they start to form a bond of friendship and understanding. This movie still captures the angst of high school life and the undeniable pull of teenage rebellion. The Breakfast Club is a must-watch 80s movie that still holds up today.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
It’s no surprise that Matthew Broderick’s Ferris Bueller is his iconic 80s movie that still holds up today. An undisputed classic of the decade, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off follows the misadventures of high school student Ferris, who skips school and takes a joyride in his friend’s dad’s car. This movie is full of the upbeat energy of 80s teen films and is a beloved classic.
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
The classic 80s movie E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial tells the story of a group of young kids who must protect an alien who has been left behind on Earth. With an emotional story and a winning performance from breakout star Drew Barrymore, E.T. instantly endeared itself to 80s kids and is still fondly remembered by everyone who saw it. Even over forty years later, the timeless appeal of E.T. continues to captivate young and old alike.
Ghostbusters (1984)
The classic 80s film Ghostbusters is still beloved by many. In this sci-fi comedy, a team of parapsychologists battle the supernatural forces of evil in New York City. With its catchy theme song, memorable characters, and goofy action, it’s no surprise that this comedy classic still holds up decades later.
The Princess Bride (1987)
The Princess Bride is one of the most beloved fantasy films of the 80s that still holds up today. This classic story follows a young farmhand, Wesley, and his quest to rescue his true love, Buttercup, from the clutches of an evil prince. Along the way he must battle an evil wizard, a giant, and a deadly snake. This timeless tale of true love and adventure is still enjoyable for all ages.
Top Gun (1986)
Tom Cruise stars in this classic 80s film that’s sure to satisfy action fans. Top Gun follows Maverick, a cocky Naval aviator, who must prove himself at a top pilot’s school. This fast-paced movie has Cruise at his best and plenty of dynamic jet sequences.
Back to the Future (1985)
This sci-fi classic stars a young Michael J Fox as Marty McFly, an unlikely time-traveler who embarks on an adventure back to the 1950s to save his future. This movie is full of excellent special effects and an unforgettable soundtrack that have made Back to the Future beloved by fans of all ages, making this time-travel classic an 80s movie that still holds up today.
Jumpin’ Jack Flash (1986)
Jumpin’ Jack Flash stars Whoopi Goldberg as a put-upon bank clerk who receives a mysterious message from a mysterious stranger, who may or may not be a secret agent. This classic 80s film is full of action, humor, and a charismatic performance from Goldberg that make Jumpin’ Jack Flash one of the 80s greatest cult classics, and a fun one to watch today.
Dirty Dancing (1987)
Dirty Dancing is still one of the most beloved romantic dramas of the 80s. This classic follows a teenage girl on summer vacation with her family at a resort, who secretly takes up ballroom dancing and falls in love with a dance instructor. With a memorable soundtrack, passionate performances, and plenty of classic dance moves, Dirty Dancing is an 80s movie that still holds up today.
The Goonies (1985)
Another 80s classic from master storyteller Steven Spielberg, The Goonies follows a group of young misfits as they embark on a quest to save their homes from destruction. With plenty of adventure and great special effects, this movie’s classic is still remembered fondly by fans of all ages.
The Karate Kid (1984)
This classic 80s martial arts film stars Ralph Macchio as a bullied teenager who learns the skills of karate to defend himself, with the help of an enigmatic karate master. This classic story of martial arts and redemption is still enjoyable today and is a great watch for any 80s fan.
The 80s gave us some of the best and most memorable films of all time, and while some of those movies may have not aged as well as others, there are many 80s movies that still stand the test of time. From the iconic teen movies of John Hughes to the romantic dramas of Dirty Dancing, to the beloved classic comedies of Ghostbusters and The Goonies, this list of the best 80s movies that still hold up today is sure to rekindle the spirit of that decade. So, if you’re looking for a great 80s movie to watch, check out one of these amazing classics and be sure you won’t be disappointed.
