80s Most Popular Movies, Ranked

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The 2020s are no one’s favorite decade, with COVID and whatnot. So let’s a trip back in time with a comforting ’80s movie marathon. Certainly, the cinema from that era might feel old, but the good ones have a special ability to pull you out of the present. Here’s a list of the top ’80s movies you can watch:

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1. The Breakfast Club (1985)

The breakfast club movie
The 80s Classic Movie: The Breakfast Club.

For a variety of reasons, The Breakfast Club is the finest film of the 1980s decade. First and foremost, John Hughes was completely at par with his screenplay.  In the theme of youthful angst, he manages to hit the appropriate tone of dry humor. Second, each and every character is flawless. Each of the five performers who portray high school students, the principal, and the janitor relish their roles and execute their lines with utmost ease. Finally, the comedy is not laugh-out-loud hilarious. It’s bleak and sardonic. A simple facial move might perk you up. The Breakfast Club is humorous without even attempting to be it.

2. The Shining (1980)

The Ultimate Horror movie - The Shining.
The Ultimate Horror movie – The Shining.

One movie unavoidably cited when discussing horror masterpieces is The Shining. It’s a spooky, unsettling, and engrossing film version of Stephen King‘s bestselling novel. Every scene from The Shining speaks for itself.  There isn’t a single second that is wasted.  Every element of the stage design, clothing, actor’s facial movements, and camera motions were meticulously arranged to fulfill his vision. There’s a lot to process in the film, which makes it perpetually rewatchable.

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3. Die Hard (1988)

Die Hard movie
Bruce Willis – Die Hard.

Die Hard is regarded as one of the greatest films of all time and is a crowd favorite. Its enduring popularity might be attributed to the script’s ideal simplicity. There aren’t many surprises along the way; there’s simply a building, a down-and-out cop, and some European terrorists. Another aspect that may have contributed to the film’s popularity is the story’s singular and deliberate focus. There are no flashbacks, no creative timeline, and no complex story interaction. Everything revolves around the Nakatomi Plaza. The film’s overall success comes from its easy-to-follow storyline and a great cast, stuffed to the brim with their own swag.

4. The Karate Kid (1984)

One of the greatest sports movies: The Karate Kid
One of the Greatest Sports Movies: The Karate Kid.

The Karate Kid is recognized as one of the most popular and influential sports films of all time. The friendship between Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi is the film’s true essence. The tale is nothing short of legendary.  Daniel moves to Los Angeles and becomes a competitor of Cobra Kai‘s Johnny Lawrence. After being bullied several times,  Miyagi teaches Daniel-san to compete in a karate contest, which he wins by defeating Johnny. The Karate Kid is an infinitely thrilling narrative packed with characters who have gone on to become icons.

5. Back To The Future (1985)

One of the best sci-fi movies: Back To The Future.
One of the best sci-fi movies: Back To The Future.

Back to the Future is one of the biggest sci-fi movies of all time and a classic of 1980s blockbuster cinema. It’s a famous comedy about a high school kid who uses a time-traveling DeLorean to go thirty years back in time. The film is memorable and quotable in spades. The dialogues have been mentioned by celebrities as well as presidents. In addition, the screenplay is superbly crafted. Although it appears to be a fun flick, it deals with serious issues such as rape, terrorism, incest, and abuse. It manages to include vital themes into the plot, resulting in a wonderful combination of comedy, action, and drama.

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Written by Alfeeya Pathan

Articles Published: 342

Alfeeya Pathan is an entertainment news writer at FandomWire. With over 4 years of experience in writing and a Bachelor's in Journalism and Mass Communication, Alfeeya has honed her skills in writing compelling news for reader's.