1. Some Kind of Wonderful 1987，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 35226, ID: 0094006 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A hidden gem from the 80s, ‘Some Kind of Wonderful’ is a heartfelt drama that delves into the complexities of teenage love and friendship. The performances by Eric Stoltz, Mary Stuart Masterson, and Lea Thompson are commendable, bringing depth to their characters and making the movie’s exploration of social dynamics and personal growth a meaningful watch.
2. Brewster’s Millions 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 43696, ID: 0088850 Photo by architosh.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Brewster’s Millions’ is a delightful comedy that showcases Richard Pryor’s comedic genius. The plot, which revolves around a man who must spend millions in 30 days to inherit a fortune, is both hilarious and thought-provoking. Despite its comedic overtones, the film subtly critiques materialism and the value society places on wealth.
3. Hiding Out 1987，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 4176, ID: 0093186 Photo by traumadissociation.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Hiding Out’ presents a unique blend of comedy and suspense, with Jon Cryer delivering a memorable performance as a stockbroker turned high school student. The film’s premise, while far-fetched, provides a fresh take on the classic ‘fish out of water’ trope. Its exploration of identity and belonging, set against a backdrop of mob chases and high school drama, makes it an engaging watch.
4. The Legend of Billie Jean 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 11821, ID: 0089470 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Legend of Billie Jean’ is a captivating tale of rebellion and justice, with Helen Slater shining as Billie Jean, a teenager who becomes an outlaw to fight for what’s right. The film’s strong feminist undertones and its critique of societal norms make it a significant, though often overlooked, 80s classic that deserves more recognition.
5. Lady in White 1988，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 8140, ID: 0095484 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Lady in White’ is a haunting yet touching film that masterfully blends horror and drama. Lukas Haas gives a compelling performance as a young boy who encounters a ghost, leading to a chilling mystery. The film’s atmospheric storytelling and its exploration of loss and redemption make it a standout among 80s horror films.
6. My Science Project 1985，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 6574, ID: 0089652 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A quirky blend of science fiction and teen comedy, ‘My Science Project’ is a forgotten gem from the 80s. The film’s premise, involving a high school student’s science project that opens a portal to different dimensions, is both innovative and entertaining. Despite its lack of mainstream success, the film’s unique blend of humor and sci-fi elements make it a memorable watch.
7. The Last Starfighter 1984，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 46585, ID: 0087597 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Last Starfighter’ is an underappreciated classic that combines elements of adventure and science fiction. The film’s plot, which revolves around a video game whiz kid recruited by an alien defense force to fight in an interstellar war, is both engaging and imaginative. Its special effects, though dated by today’s standards, were groundbreaking for its time.
8. Real Genius 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 38126, ID: 0089886 Photo by spie.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Real Genius’ is a smart and funny 80s comedy that has been somewhat overlooked. The film, which centers on a group of genius students developing a high-powered laser under the manipulation of their ambitious professor, offers a clever critique of academic pressure and military influence in scientific research. Its blend of humor, heart, and social commentary makes it a standout.
9. Explorers 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 23965, ID: 0089114 Photo by worldhistory.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Explorers (1985) is a delightful sci-fi adventure that captures the spirit of childhood dreams and the limitless possibilities of the imagination. The film, featuring a young Ethan Hawke and River Phoenix, tells the story of three friends who build their own spacecraft and embark on a journey across the universe. Despite its box office failure, it has since gained a cult following for its charming characters, imaginative plot, and nostalgic 80s vibe.
10. The Boy Who Could Fly 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 6607, ID: 0090768 Photo by eurovisionary.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Boy Who Could Fly (1986) is a heartwarming tale of friendship and faith, centering around Milly, a teenager who befriends her autistic neighbor Eric, who believes he can fly. Despite its fantastical premise, the film is grounded in its exploration of grief, adolescence, and the power of belief, making it a forgotten gem that showcases the magic of 80s cinema.
11. The Wraith 1986，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 19590, ID: 0092240 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Wraith (1986) is a unique blend of action, science fiction, and supernatural elements. Starring Charlie Sheen, it tells the story of a mysterious driver who seeks revenge on a local gang. While it may not have achieved mainstream success, it’s an underrated 80s film that offers a thrilling ride for those who appreciate its campy charm and high-octane car chases.
12. Night of the Comet 1984，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 24532, ID: 0087799 Photo by picryl.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Night of the Comet (1984) is a cult classic that perfectly encapsulates the 80s fascination with end-of-the-world scenarios. After a comet wipes out most of life on Earth, two valley girl sisters find themselves among the few survivors. The film cleverly combines elements of horror, comedy, and sci-fi, making it a quintessential 80s movie that deserves more recognition.
13. Streets of Fire 1984，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 24779, ID: 0088194 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Streets of Fire is a rock & roll fable set in a shabby, nighttime city inhabited mostly by cops, street gangs, rock fans, and soda jerks. The plot revolves around the kidnapping of a rock singer and the subsequent rescue mission, and despite its basic plot, the movie is praised for its interesting atmosphere and background musical score, making it an 80s gem that deserves more recognition.
14. Electric Dreams 1984，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 10174, ID: 0087197 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Electric Dreams is a lighthearted romantic comedy that has its moments, both humorous and thought-provoking. The movie tells the story of a young man who buys a computer to help him keep track of things, but the computer ends up developing a personality and falls in love with the girl next door. Despite its corny and cheesy clichés, the movie has a very sweet and altruistic message of love and sacrifice, making it a charming watch.
15. The Last Dragon 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 17709, ID: 0089461 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Last Dragon is a high-energy combination of karate, romance, rock music, and sensational special effects. The movie tells the story of a young martial artist who must defeat a gang leader and a gangster to win the heart of a girl. Despite its goofy plot, the movie is praised for its engaging characters and the performances of its lead actors. It’s a classic that deserves more love.
16. The Heavenly Kid 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 5719, ID: 0089265 Photo by medium.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Heavenly Kid is a feel-good movie about a young man’s coming of age. The movie follows the story of a fearless and suave greaser who dies in a drag-racing accident and finds himself in a limbo realm. He is assigned to serve as a guardian angel for a bright but nerdy kid. Despite its corny and cheesy clichés, the movie is praised for its great story and a lot of humor.
17. The Gate 1987，IMDB Rating: 6.0, IMDB Votes: 19960, ID: 0093075 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Gate is a fun and largely inoffensive horror flick. The movie revolves around a young boy who becomes embroiled in the mystery of a murdered girl after meeting her ghost. Despite its creepy and violent imagery, the movie is praised for its clever storytelling and sincere performances. It’s a classic horror movie from the ’80s that people loved back in the day but many have forgotten about.
18. The Peanut Butter Solution 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.0, IMDB Votes: 2738, ID: 0089789 Photo by skeptic.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Peanut Butter Solution is a peculiar yet adventurous film from the mid-80s that has been largely forgotten. It’s a unique blend of fantasy and reality, dealing with themes of bullying and body horror. The film’s plot revolves around a boy who loses his hair due to fright and then experiences uncontrollable hair growth after using a magical solution. Despite its low-budget production and unexceptional direction, the film’s unique premise and engaging storyline make it a memorable watch.
19. Rad 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 7131, ID: 0091817 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Rad is a cult classic that encapsulates the spirit of the 80s, focusing on the world of BMX biking. The film follows the journey of Cru Jones, a young man with a burning desire to win a BMX race called Helltrack. Despite its low-budget production and limited recognition, Rad has a respectable cast and a killer soundtrack that resonates with anyone who spent their summers riding bikes or skateboards. It’s a film that deserves more love and recognition.
20. Three O’Clock High 1987，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 13346, ID: 0094138 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Three O’Clock High is an offbeat high school comedy that has faded into obscurity over the years. The film tells the story of Jerry Mitchell, a high school student who finds himself in a showdown with the new kid, Buddy Revell. Despite its predictable plot, the film is praised for its clever use of time and its depiction of the high school environment, offering a different perspective on the typical high school narrative and deserving a second look.
21. The Wizard 1989，IMDB Rating: 6.1, IMDB Votes: 16718, ID: 0098663 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Wizard, released in 1989, is a film that has been largely forgotten despite its unique premise. The film follows the journey of a young boy and his brother as they travel to California to compete in a video game championship. Despite its commercial nature and thinly veiled promotion of Nintendo video games, The Wizard offers a nostalgic trip back to the 80s, holding a special place in the hearts of those who grew up in the era.
21 Forgotten 80s Movies That Will Take You on a Nostalgic Journey
