10 of the Best 80’s Movies

Most films today are often described as uncreative or even rip-offs of original movies. 80s movies however at the time are seen as more original, having more attitude and style. Here are 10 of the best 80s movies that hit the movie theater. 

1. The Lost Boys

Forget those soft dramatic teenage Twilight vampire movies. When it comes to being a real blood-thirsty vampire, “The Lost Boys” were all about that life. This 1987 horror film shows the life of 2 who now have to deal with the constant threats of killer vampires terrorizing their hometown. With razor-sharp claws and a mouth full of fangs, this movie shows what it means to be a real vampire with an 80s grunge look to add.

2. Aliens

If you thought that those sci-fi movies involving aliens to be this friendly being with their cheesy saying “we come in peace”, that is usually not always the case4. The 1986 sci-fi/horror movie “Aliens” are the complete opposite. Instead of being friendly interdimensional beings, these Alien figures are only seeking to kill as many life forms as they can and spread nothing but carnage and disease throughout the entire galaxy and soon the whole world.

3. Rocky 3

If there were ever a movie hall of fame, “Rocky 3” would be inducted into it without any question. This movie franchise has been one of the biggest Hollywood sellers since the 1970s. Rocky 3 in my opinion would have had to of been the best because it also guests stars one of the biggest Hollywood actors Mr.T. When you put Mr.T up against Rocky Balboa in a boxing match, we are looking at probably one of the greatest fights of all time.  This movie is all about the passion for fighting, vengeance, and earning respect through blood, sweat, and tears.

4. Terminator

Probably having the same level of recognition as Rocky, “The Terminator” is a movie that embodies all the attributes of what it means to live in 80s action. this 1984 film earned so much popularity having the main character played by Hollywood movie legend Arnold Schwarzenegger and basing the storyline off of interesting plots such as time-traveling, unstoppable assassin robots, memorable catchphrases like “I’ll be back and Hast la vista baby”. But most importantly, the terminator movies are known for their non-stop action scenes which keep the audience excited.

5. Star Wars Return of the Jedi

Other than the fact how this movie is considered a piece of historic art for its accomplishments of earning 1 Acadamy Award, a Satellite Award, and a British Acadamy Award, the Star Wars franchise is more of a world movement. Out of all the Star Wars movies, “Return of the Jedi” would have had to of been the best because it follows up on the suspense story of the legendary Jedi Anakin Skywalker who is now the Sith Lord makes his final appearance in the film series coming in contact with his long last son Luke Skywalker.

6. Robocop

Even movies back in the 80s had certain themes that are seen as very thrilling. “Robocop” is probably seen as the one futuristic crime-fighter who could go toe to toe with the Terminator. What’s interesting about this movie is that even though it is filmed in 1987, the film directors decide to give off their interpretation of what futuristic technology looked like at the time. This guy may seem like a regular everyday cop, but when you step out of line, you are in for a serious hard arrest!

7. Friday the 13th Part 3

The unique thing about movies in the 1980s is that was the beginning ere of slasher movies. I’m talking full-on bloody gory serial killers who are hellbent on causing agony. The most famous 1980s slasher who is widely recognized is Jason from Friday the 13th. This story centers on an undead slasher known for his signature goalie mask and will kill anyone for stepping on his property. Now even though this film has multiple other movies, “Friday the 13th part 3” which was first shot in 1982 is more interesting because this is the first of the Friday the 13th movies to finally show what Jason’s face finally looks like.

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8. A Nightmare on Elm Street

Jason wasn’t the only scary slasher causing fear and terrorizing the streets. Freddy Krueger is also known as The Springwood Slasher made his name known in 1984 for his scary movie ” A Nightmare on Elm Street”. What is interesting about this movie is instead of going out and killing people in public, Freddy Kruger would kill his victims in their sleep. So, during the 80’s everyone was always talking about “you better not fall asleep or Freddys going to get you”. This is probably one of the scariest movies that not only haunted people but messed with their psyche.

9. Predator

Before movies like Alien vs. Predator, there was always a beginning for each one. Other than Arnold Schwarzenegger playing the role of a killer robot, one of his other famous lead roles was playing Dutch in the 1987 film “Predator”. This film follows the story of a mercenary whose main target is to survive and take down an Alien who has similar survival instincts as a mercenary. For Arnold Schwarzenegger, out in the jungle, it is either kill or be killed!

10. Rambo

From boxing hero to stone cold-blooded killer, Sylvester Stallone has portrayed other characters that have made him a movie legend. His 1982 movie “Rambo first Blood” shows Sylvester Stallone acting like this on-the-run former Green Beret who is determined not to give himself up to a government that shows little respect for veterans. As deadly as Rambo looks, he does not prefer to kill. But if you push past the point of choosing to draw blood first, you will see a side of John Rambo like you have never seen before. 

I don’t know how to say it, but there is just something about 1980s movies that have that special form of real acting. What is your favorite 1980s film? Let me know in the comments below.