1. Revenge of the Nerds 1984，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 58899, ID: 0088000 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Revenge of the Nerds is a quintessential ’80s film that depicts the battle between nerds and popular jocks in college, but it’s marred by a troubling scene involving deception and consent violation, which is problematic by today’s standards.
2. Who Framed Roger Rabbit 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 218933, ID: 0096438 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Who Framed Roger Rabbit is a groundbreaking film that seamlessly blends animation and live-action. It’s a joyous celebration of the magic of cinema. However, its adult content, including violence and sexual activity, makes it problematic when viewed as a family film. Its marketing as a family film is misleading, considering the mature themes it explores.
3. Twilight Zone: The Movie 1983，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 41641, ID: 0086491 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Twilight Zone: The Movie is an anthology film that pays tribute to the original TV series with four stories directed by different directors, building up to a thrilling climax, but the first segment is overshadowed by a real-life tragedy during filming.
4. The Woman in Red 1984，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 17592, ID: 0088414 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Woman in Red is a comedy that explores the trials and tribulations of a married man infatuated with a beautiful woman. While the film has its moments of humor, it’s marred by a lack of depth in its characters and a plot that doesn’t quite hit the mark. Despite this, it’s still remembered for its iconic ‘woman in red’ and the comedic antics that ensue.
5. Cruising 1980，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 28586, ID: 0080569 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Cruising is a film that delves into the dark underworld of New York’s S&M gay clubs. The film’s protagonist, an undercover policeman, is left grappling with his own feelings towards this world. Despite its controversial subject matter, the film fails to provide a clear stance on its protagonist’s involvement, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.
6. Sixteen Candles 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 127974, ID: 0088128 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Sixteen Candles is a beloved coming-of-age film that captures the angst of turning 16, yet it faces criticism for its problematic elements like racial stereotypes and questionable plot points, though it remains a classic for its portrayal of teenage life in the ’80s.
7. Rain Man 1988，IMDB Rating: 8.0, IMDB Votes: 550792, ID: 0095953 Photo by porg.es, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Rain Man is a touching film about two brothers on a cross-country journey of self-discovery, with Dustin Hoffman’s portrayal of autism being both enlightening and moving, but the film’s strength lies in exploring the limitations of Tom Cruise’s character’s empathy.
8. The Toy 1982，IMDB Rating: 5.8, IMDB Votes: 14661, ID: 0084809 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Toy (1982) is a comedy that has been criticized for its problematic plot and insensitive humor. Despite the comedic efforts of Richard Pryor and Jackie Gleason, the film’s premise of a rich white kid ‘buying’ a black man is seen as offensive and inappropriate. However, some viewers find it to be a critique of societal norms and a commentary on race relations.
9. Mr. Mom 1983，IMDB Rating: 6.6, IMDB Votes: 28277, ID: 0085970 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Mr. Mom (1983) is a comedy that delves into gender roles and societal norms, praised for its sweet script and charming performances by Michael Keaton and Teri Garr, though some critics argue it reinforces traditional gender roles.
10. Planes, Trains & Automobiles 1987，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 162009, ID: 0093748 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987) is a classic comedy that brilliantly captures the chaos of holiday travel. The film is praised for its perfect casting of Steve Martin and John Candy, who embody their characters with authenticity. Despite its comedic premise, the film also explores themes of empathy and understanding.
11. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial 1982，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 441226, ID: 0083866 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982) is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its heartwarming story of friendship between a boy and an alien. The film is praised for its perfect casting and sound construction. However, some critics argue that it doesn’t fully capture the childlike wonder it aims to portray.
12. The Last Temptation of Christ 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 63739, ID: 0095497 Photo by picryl.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Last Temptation of Christ (1988) is a religious drama that offers a unique interpretation of Jesus Christ’s life. Despite its controversial depiction of Christ, the film is praised for its serious and thoughtful exploration of faith. However, some critics argue that the film’s dialogue lacks wit and perception.
13. The Accused 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 40496, ID: 0094608 Photo by lookandlearn.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Accused is a gripping drama that tackles the horrifying reality of gang rape. Jodie Foster’s performance is powerful and compelling, portraying the trauma and fight for justice of the victim, Sarah Tobias. The film’s depiction of the crime and its aftermath is raw and unsettling, making it a significant piece in the discourse about sexual violence.
14. Fatal Attraction 1987，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 99941, ID: 0093010 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Fatal Attraction is a spellbinding psychological thriller that explores the dangerous consequences of a marital affair. Glenn Close’s portrayal of the obsessive Alex Forrest is chilling and unforgettable. The film’s erotic scenes and suspenseful plot make it a provocative exploration of desire and fear.
15. Basic Instinct 1992，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 221544, ID: 0103772 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Basic Instinct is a neo-noir erotic thriller that is both controversial and captivating. Sharon Stone’s performance as the enigmatic Catherine Tramell is mesmerizing, making the film a must-watch for fans of the genre. The film’s explicit content and plot twists keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
16. The Blue Lagoon 1980，IMDB Rating: 5.8, IMDB Votes: 77471, ID: 0080453 Photo by staticflickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Blue Lagoon is a romantic survival film that explores the innocence and discovery of two young castaways, beautifully depicting their growing relationship and the challenges they face in isolation.
17. The Cannonball Run 1981，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 40519, ID: 0082136 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Cannonball Run is a madcap comedy that captures the zany spirit of the ’80s. Despite its star-studded cast, the film has been criticized for its lack of character development and narrative depth. However, its over-the-top humor and high-speed antics make it a fun, albeit problematic, watch.
18. Flashdance 1983，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 60145, ID: 0085549 Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Flashdance is an iconic dance film of the ’80s known for its water-drenched dance scene, criticized for its thin plot and lack of character development, yet its energetic dance sequences and inspiring story of a woman pursuing her dream make it memorable.
The Wildest, Most Controversial ’80s Movies: A Nostalgic Look at 18 Unforgettable Classics
