The 80s gave us a great time with a lot of things and cinema was no exception. Here are 20 iconic films that have defined this era.
Rocky IV
Even though it has divided opinions, “Rocky IV” remains an all-time classic of 80s cinema. The rivalry between the titular character and Soviet juggernaut Ivan Drago is still captivating, with arguably the greatest training montage of all fiction thrown in for good measure.
Scarface
Al Pacino at his best. Tony Montana’s fall from grace as a crime lord is a captivating and over-the-top experience that has aged like fine wine.
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
One of the greatest sequels ever made in cinema. This second “Star Wars” installment raised the ante, gained a darker tone, and provided one of the most iconic twists in fiction.
Blade Runner
Director Ridley Scott’s sci-fi masterpiece, this 1982 film elevated cyberpunk cinema while also providing insightful commentary regarding identity and a person’s desire to live.
The Shining
In 1980, director Stanley Kubrick offered a different take on Stephen King’s book, “The Shining”. A more abstract and psychological take, this movie has become a timeless classic among horror fans.
First Blood
The “Rambo” franchise has become known for its intense action sequences, but the first movie, 1982’s “First Blood”, focuses more on atmosphere and the protagonist’s slow descent into madness. It is an iconic film and a strong commentary on the treatment of war veterans.
The Thing
Arguably director John Carpenter’s greatest film. This 1982 production has an intelligent approach to horror, building suspense with the question of who the impostor is in the main cast. It has an oppressive atmosphere, and the story has aged quite well.
Back to the Future
One of the decade’s most iconic blockbusters. Marty McFly and “Doc” Brown’s shenanigans across time are equally interesting and hilarious, turning this into an all-time classic.
Raiders of the Lost Ark
Indiana Jones’ adventures are always fun to see, but “Raiders of the Lost Ark” reached the franchise’s peak in 1981. It has the right combination of swagger, adventure, and story that the franchise never reached again.
Videodrome
No one did horror like director David Cronenberg. His 1983 masterpiece, “Videodrome”, hits all the right spots to create a horror masterpiece that is going to leave you disturbed for days.
Predator
The first film of the “Predator” franchise came out in 1987 and hit the ground running. It is an expertly crafted action film where the Predator’s moves are fitting for a horror villain, and Dutch’s actions to survive become more and more desperate as the movie progresses.
Raging Bull
Not only one of the most iconic films of the 80s, but also one of director Martin Scorsese’s finest moments. The story of boxer Jake LaMotta is treated with care and finesse, perfectly adapted by Robert De Niro’s notorious portrayal of the protagonist.
Brazil
A satirical sci-fi film with commentary on government oppression, 1985’s “Brazil” is one of the most unique films ever filmed. Moreover, its perspective on standing up against government corruption is fascinating in this day and age.
An American Werewolf in London
Widely revered for having the best werewolf transformation ever filmed, this 1981 movie was a watershed moment for comedic horror films. Furthermore, its direction and unique feel make it stand out even today.
RoboCop
The man who passed away and still had to keep working after that. The 1987 “Robocop” film is a certified classic, elevated by director Paul Verhoeven’s sharp instincts and sociopolitical commentary.
The Terminator
The original 1984 “Terminator” film was classified at times as a horror movie and, honestly, it was a good fit. The Terminator never looked more threatening than here, with his pursuit of Sarah Connor being the stuff of nightmares. A timeless classic of the medium.
E.T.: The Extra-Terrestrial
A story about a young boy and an alien that is, in reality, the story of two people trying to find a place to belong. “E.T.” remains a memorable movie that can appeal to kids and adults alike without losing a bit of its emotional impact.
Conan the Barbarian
The 1982 film may fail to grasp some of author Robert Howard’s most intricate elements, but it makes up for it with epicness and a strong script. It captures Conan’s rise to the top while popularizing the fantasy genre in the 80s.
Mad Max 2 (or “The Road Warrior”)
This 1981 movie does what any good sequel should do: raise the ante and tell a better story. In many ways, this film showcases the post-apocalyptic feel of Max’s world a lot better while having a tighter, more complete script.
Escape from New York
A cult classic and one of Kurt Russell’s finest performances, this 1981 movie has everything you could ask for in an action story: a good plot, solid atmosphere, a lot of action, and great character writing. A movie that any action lover should watch at least once.
