The Ultimate List Of 20+ Must-Watch 80s Movies

The Breakfast Club is a classic 1985 film directed by John Hughes and starring Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estevez, Anthony Michael Hall, Judd Nelson, and Ally Sheedy. It follows five high school students from different cliques who are forced to spend a Saturday in detention together. Through their conversations, they come to understand and appreciate one another, and the film has become a cult classic.

It also shows how the pressures of growing up can cause us to feel isolated and misunderstood. Finally, it serves as a reminder that we all have more in common than we think.

One of list of best 80s movies we introduce is E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.It is a classic 1982 science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg. The plot follows a young boy named Elliott and his alien friend E.T. as they attempt to find a way for E.T. to return home. 

The cast includes Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, and Peter Coyote, and the film was produced by Kathleen Kennedy and Steven Spielberg. 

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial has had a lasting impact on pop culture, with memorable quotes such as "E.T. phone home" and "Be good".

The film has become a beloved classic and continues to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages!

Back to the Future is a great 80s movie released in 1985 that follows the story of Marty McFly, a teenager who is accidentally sent back in time in a DeLorean car created by his eccentric scientist friend, Doc Brown. The film stars Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd as the main characters, with Robert Zemeckis directing and Bob Gale writing the screenplay. 

Ghostbusters is a classic 1984 supernatural comedy film starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson. Directed by Ivan Reitman, the plot follows a trio of eccentric parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City. 

It's clear that Ghostbusters will remain an iconic movie for years to come!

Raiders of the Lost Ark is an iconic action-adventure movie released in 1981. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones, the movie follows the daring archaeologist as he embarks on a quest to find the lost Ark of the Covenant. 

The cast and crew also included Karen Allen, Paul Freeman, and John Rhys-Davies.

The success of Raiders of the Lost Ark has also led to the creation of multiple sequels and spin-offs, such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull, and the television series The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles. This has further cemented its legacy as one of the most beloved films of all time.

The Princess Bride is a classic fantasy adventure film released in 1987. It follows the story of a young farmhand named Westley who embarks on a quest to rescue his true love, Princess Buttercup, from the evil Prince Humperdinck. 

The movie stars Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, and Christopher Guest, and was directed by Rob Reiner. 

The movie has also been praised for its quotable lines, with many of them becoming part of popular culture. In addition, the movie has been praised for its timelessness, with its themes of love and adventure remaining relevant for generations.

The Goonies, released in 1985, is a beloved classic film that follows a group of misfit kids on an adventure to find a hidden pirate treasure. Directed by Richard Donner and produced by Steven Spielberg, the movie stars Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Corey Feldman, and Martha Plimpton. 

The movie has become a timeless classic, with its story of friendship and adventure continuing to captivate audiences of all ages.

As a fan of classic 80s movies, you don't miss The NeverEnding Story, a classic fantasy film released in 1984. It follows a young boy named Bastian who discovers a magical book that transports him to a world of adventure. The cast and crew included actors Noah Hathaway, Barret Oliver, and Tami Stronach, and was directed by Wolfgang Petersen. 

The NeverEnding Story is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences around the world that you must watch!

Ferris Bueller's Day Off is the best 80s classic movies that follows the story of a high school student, Ferris Bueller, who decides to take a day off from school and go on a wild adventure with his friends. The film stars Matthew Broderick as Ferris, Alan Ruck as Cameron, Mia Sara as Sloane, and Jeffrey Jones as Principal Ed Rooney. 

The film's message of living life to the fullest and embracing the joys of youth continues to be relevant and inspiring for audiences of all ages!

The Karate Kid is the best classic 80s movies about a young boy named Daniel who moves to California and learns karate from his neighbor, Mr. Miyagi. The movie stars Ralph Macchio as Daniel and Pat Morita as Mr. Miyagi, and was directed by John G. Avildsen. 

The movie follows Daniel's journey from being a troubled teen to becoming a karate champion. Mr. Miyagi teaches Daniel the power of discipline and respect, and the importance of hard work. The movie also features the iconic karate tournament scene and a memorable soundtrack. It has become a beloved classic, inspiring countless remakes and sequels.

The Karate Kid is a beloved classic that continues to be enjoyed by audiences around the world!

Die Hard is one of the best action 80s movies that follows the story of John McClane (played by Bruce Willis) as he attempts to rescue his wife from a group of terrorists. The film was directed by John McTiernan and written by Jeb Stuart and Steven E. de Souza, and featured an all-star cast including Alan Rickman, Bonnie Bedelia, and Reginald VelJohnson. 

The film follows John McClane (Bruce Willis), an NYPD detective who arrives in Los Angeles to reconcile with his estranged wife. He soon finds himself in the middle of a terrorist plot led by the nefarious Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman). With the help of a local officer (Reginald VelJohnson), McClane must use his wits and courage to save his wife and the hostages.

McTiernan's direction and the performances of Willis, Rickman and Bedelia in particular have been praised by critics and fans alike, making Die Hard one of the most beloved action films of all time.

Lethal Weapon, one of the best 80s movies, is an iconic action movie that follows the story of two mismatched cops, Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover), as they battle a gang of drug smugglers. The film was directed by Richard Donner and written by Shane Black, and it also stars Gary Busey, Mitchell Ryan, and Tom Atkins.  

The film was released in 1987 and was an instant success, grossing over $120 million in the United States alone.

 It was also nominated for two Academy Awards and won the People's Choice Award for Favorite Motion Picture. The film spawned three sequels, with the most recent being released in 1998.

The movie has spawned three sequels, as well as a television series, and its influence on the action genre is undeniable.

The movie Predator is about a group of people on a mission in a Central American jungle who find themselves hunted by an extraterrestrial warrior. Directed by John McTiernan and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, and Jesse Ventura, the film has become a classic of the action genre.  

So go watch Predator right now,  a beloved classic among action fans!

RoboCop is a classic action film from 1987 that follows the story of a police officer who is brutally murdered and then brought back to life as a cyborg law enforcer RoboCop is a highly advanced cyborg with superhuman strength and advanced weaponry. He is tasked with cleaning up the crime-ridden streets of Detroit, and becomes a hero to the people. His mission is complicated by the fact that his programming is in conflict with his human emotions, which makes him question his own identity. 

Despite his struggles, RoboCop continues to fight for justice and protect the citizens of Detroit. He is a symbol of hope and a reminder of the power of perseverance. 

Directed by Paul Verhoeven and starring Peter Weller, Nancy Allen, and Kurtwood Smith, the movie was a huge success and has become a pop culture icon.

Ultimately, RoboCop's story is one of redemption and finding one's true purpose..

It has spawned several sequels, a remake, and a television series, and its memorable quotes and catchphrases have been quoted and parodied countless times.

Top Gun, one of the best 80s movies, is a classic action movie from 1986 starring Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis, and Val Kilmer. The plot follows Maverick, a hotshot fighter pilot, as he navigates the dangerous world of aerial combat.  Maverick's daring attitude and reckless nature puts him at odds with his superiors, leading him to be sent to the Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School. 

There, he meets a rival pilot named Iceman and falls in love with a civilian instructor named Charlie. Maverick must confront his own fears and prove himself to his peers if he wants to stay at the top of his class. 

The movie is filled with memorable quotes, such as "I feel the need... the need for speed!" and "Take me to bed or lose me forever." Top Gun is an iconic movie that has stood the test of time and will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.

One of the best 80s comedy movies is Airplane!, a 1980 comedy film directed and written by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker. It stars Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, and Leslie Nielsen. The film follows Ted Striker, a former fighter pilot, as he attempts to save a commercial airliner from crashing. As the plane descends, Striker must confront his own fears and anxieties in order to save the lives of the passengers on board. 

He must face his demons and overcome them in order to complete his mission. Despite his doubts and fears, Striker is able to successfully land the plane and save the day. 

The passengers and crew are relieved to have survived the ordeal and thank Striker for his brave actions. Striker realizes that he has found the courage to overcome his fears and is now a hero. 

Airplane! is a classic comedy that continues to be enjoyed by audiences today.

Caddyshack is a classic comedy film released in 1980. Directed by Harold Ramis and written by Brian Doyle-Murray, Douglas Kenney and Harold Ramis, the movie follows the misadventures of Danny Noonan, a teenage caddy at a prestigious country club. 

The cast includes Chevy Chase, Rodney Dangerfield, Bill Murray, and Ted Knight. Danny is desperate to gain favor with the club's members, particularly the wealthy and influential Judge Smails, so that he can get a college scholarship. 

When he discovers a secret plan to build a new golf course on the site of an endangered pond, Danny joins forces with the other caddies to sabotage the project. Meanwhile, the members of the club are unaware of the caddy's plan and continue to pursue their own schemes. 

National Lampoon's Vacation is a classic comedy film that follows the Griswold family as they embark on a cross-country road trip to the fictional Walley World theme park. The film follows the family as they encounter all sorts of misadventures along the way, from an unfortunate run-in with a hitchhiker to a visit to a decrepit motel. 

Despite the obstacles, the Griswolds remain determined to reach their destination and eventually arrive at Walley World. The film stars Chevy Chase, Beverly D'Angelo, and Randy Quaid, and was directed by Harold Ramis.

The best romance movie 80s is Trading Places, a classic 1983 comedy film that follows the story of two wealthy brothers who decide to switch the lives of two men from very different backgrounds. Starring Dan Aykroyd and Eddie Murphy, the film was directed by John Landis and produced by George Folsey Jr.  The story follows the two men as they struggle to adjust to their new lives, which leads to a series of humorous situations.

A Platoon is a 1986 war film directed by Oliver Stone and starring Tom Berenger, Willem Dafoe, and Charlie Sheen. The plot follows a young soldier's experience in the Vietnam War, and the impact of the conflict on his life and on his fellow soldiers.

The film follows the story of a platoon of U.S. Army soldiers during the Vietnam War, and their experiences on the battlefield. It follows the soldiers as they battle against the enemy, as well as their own internal struggles and emotions. 

The film shows the physical and psychological effects of war on the soldiers, and how it changes them. It also touches on the issue of post-traumatic stress disorder and its effect on soldiers after the war. 

Rain Man is a 1988 American comedy-drama film starring Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. The plot follows the story of self-centered car dealer Charlie Babbitt, who discovers that his estranged father has died and left his entire estate to his other son, Raymond, an autistic savant. 

Charlie then takes Raymond on a cross-country journey to discover the truth about his father's past.  Charlie soon discovers that his father was a successful businessman, and he had left Raymond with his inheritance to protect him from the outside world. Along the way, Charlie learns to accept Raymond for who he is and to appreciate the bond between them. 

Despite their differences, they eventually develop a strong brotherly relationship. After a series of misadventures, Charlie is able to reunite Raymond with their father's old business partner. The two are able to come to an agreement that allows Raymond to keep his inheritance. In the end, Charlie learns to look past his own selfishness and to open his heart to Raymond.

The Color Purple is a 1985 American period drama film directed by Steven Spielberg and based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Alice Walker. The film follows the story of Celie, a young African American woman in the early 1900s, as she struggles with racism, poverty, and sexism. 

Celie is first married off to a man who is abusive and treats her terribly. She eventually finds a way to escape her situation and moves in with her sister, Nettie, who is also facing similar struggles. 

Along the way, Celie finds solace in her close relationship with her friend Shug Avery, a blues singer. With Shug's help, Celie finds the strength to stand up for herself and fight for a better life. In the end, Celie reclaims her identity and her freedom, and finds true love. 

Wall Street is a 1987 American drama film directed by Oliver Stone and starring Michael Douglas, Charlie Sheen, and Daryl Hannah. The film tells the story of a young stockbroker, Bud Fox, who is seduced by Gordon Gekko, a corporate raider, and becomes involved in insider trading. 

The film was a huge success, grossing over $50 million at the box office, and its impact on pop culture can still be seen today. 

The memorable quotes from the film, such as "Greed is good" and "Lunch is for wimps," have become part of the American lexicon.

A Nightmare on Elm Street is a classic horror movie released in 1984. It follows the story of a group of teenagers who are terrorized by a disfigured serial killer, Freddy Krueger, in their dreams. The cast and crew of the movie included Robert Englund as Freddy Krueger, Heather Langenkamp as Nancy Thompson, and John Saxon as Nancy's father. 

The movie was a huge success and inspiring many sequels and spin-offs. It is also remembered for its memorable quotes, such as Freddy's famous line, "Welcome to prime time, bitch!" 

A Nightmare on Elm Street is a classic horror movie that has left a lasting impression on audiences for decades.

Friday the 13th is a horror movie franchise that follows the story of a vengeful, undead killer named Jason Voorhees. The original film was released in 1980 and was directed by Sean S. Cunningham and starred Betsy Palmer, Adrienne King, and Kevin Bacon. 

Friday the 13th has become a horror classic and is sure to remain a beloved part of pop culture for years to come.

Poltergeist is a classic horror movie from 1982 that tells the story of a family who is terrorized by a supernatural force in their home. The cast and crew included notable names such as Craig T. Nelson, JoBeth Williams, and Steven Spielberg as the director. 

The Shining, a classic horror film directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Jack Nicholson, tells the story of a family who moves into an isolated hotel for the winter. The family soon discovers that the hotel is haunted by supernatural forces, leading to a terrifying and suspenseful climax. 

In conclusion, watching 80s movies is an important way to gain insight into the culture and lifestyle of the era. It is a great way to learn about the values and beliefs of the people who lived during that time. Therefore, I strongly encourage you to watch the movies on the list. They are sure to provide you with an entertaining and educational experience. Ultimately, these movies are a great way to explore the past and gain a better understanding of the present.