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Thanks to the success of nostalgic television series like “Stranger Things,” interest in ’80s pop culture is constantly expanding and evolving. The infatuation with the decade’s classic films is one instance of this. That being said, there are a lot of other 1980s movies that deserve recognition in addition to the big names like “Back to the Future,” “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” “The Terminator,” and “The Breakfast Club.” That’s what this list is all about.

We’ll examine some of the 1980s films below that are deserving of our affection and respect. These films ought to be featured in TV series allusions, cosplay, or at the very least, your next 80s movie marathon. So get your favorite scrunchie, some popcorn, and a can of Tab (or whichever safe-to-drink soda) ready, and let’s explore some amazing, unappreciated ’80s movies together!

The 1987 film Some Kind of Wonderful

Paramount Pictures

Many people associate “Pretty in Pink” with John Hughes films, but “Some Kind of Wonderful,” which has similar themes, frequently receives less attention than it deserves. The main character of the movie is Keith Nelson (Eric Stoltz), a gifted high school student who harbors intense feelings for Amanda Jones (Lea Thompson), the popular girl. Keith’s world spirals out of control when he eventually asks Amanda out on a date; this is especially true of his friendship with Watts, his lifelong best friend (Mary Stuart Masterson).

“Some Kind of Wonderful” is a film that surpasses Hughes’ “Pretty in Pink” formula by featuring more credible characters and adult subject matter. It is propelled by an amazing music and brilliant direction by Howard Deutch. In addition, there are some outstanding performances, especially from Masterson and Stoltz, who possess a chemistry that most 1980s teen comedies would kill to match. Additionally, any film that casts Elias Koteas as a bully turned decent person with hilarious one-liners is automatically fantastic.

The Bride (1985)

Columbia Pictures

When you combine Sting, Jennifer Beals, and a traditional horror story, what do you get? A peculiar but visually captivating retelling of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” Franc Roddam’s “The Bride” gives the tale a decidedly 1980s feel. Instead of depicting the creation of Baron Charles Frankenstein’s (Sting) first monster (Clancy Brown), Roddam focuses on the creation of his most recent experiment, Eva (Beals). This Eva is far more articulate and determined to take charge of her life than Elsa Lanchester’s 1935 portrayal of the character, “Bride.”

Even though “The Bride” was a huge commercial and critical flop when it first came out, it’s one of those strange jewels that merits a second look, particularly in the post-Guillermo del Toro era. Of course, there are moments when the storyline and Sting’s forced acting are a little too ridiculous for comfort. However, such elements shouldn’t overshadow an otherwise creative rendition that adds an interesting (if tangled) feminist viewpoint while paying homage to the campy spooks of its Universal horror beginnings.

The 1986 film Highlander

Fox 20th Century

Some people might find it strange that a movie like “Highlander” would be included on this list. How could it ever be underappreciated with its iconic Queen-infused soundtrack, mouthwatering catchphrases, and a slew of spin-offs and sequels? Despite this, a significant number of moviegoers haven’t fully explored the bizarre universe of Connor MacLeod and his many adventures because of the movie’s distinct cult reputation.

What precisely makes this absurd vision a classic of 1980s film? Let’s start with this: how many films feature beheading as a major power boost? Obviously insufficient. Second, the picture features an intriguing cast of performers, including Christopher Lambert, who plays the main protagonist and is trying his hardest to pull off a Scottish accent, Clancy Brown, who plays the deliciously repulsive adversary, and Sean Connery, who plays Connor’s guide into the immortal world. In addition, Michael Kamen’s magnificent musical score is deserving of recognition right up there with the greatest works of the past ten years. s

Although it might not appeal to everyone, “Highlander” is the perfect film if you’re looking for a truly 1980s fantasy.

(1988) Earth Girls Are Easy

Vestron Images

For those seeking a film that perfectly captures the essence of the mid-to-late ’80s aesthetic, “Earth Girls are Easy” is the hidden gem. In this hybrid music video/video game, Jim Carrey, Jeff Goldblum, and Geena Davis play manicurist Valerie, who finds out that three aliens have crashed-landed in her pool. Funny antics occur throughout the movie, ranging from the aliens obtaining makeovers and attending nightclubs to falling in love with human girls. In essence, it’s a hyper-day-glow color scheme matched to an MTV fever dream.

But “Earth Girls are Easy”‘s intriguing feminine lens elevates it above simple sex comedy fare. The sections that depict Valerie’s dreams and nightmares as well as the visual of the alien’s transformation make it evident that director Julien Temple and co-star Julie Brown intended to give a distinct female viewpoint to a subgenre that frequently focuses on masculine needs. “Earth Girls” is worth your time and attention just for that reason. Who can resist Jeff Goldblum’s hotness in pastels, too?

Legend (film, 1985)

Pictures Universal

Ridley Scott’s vastly underappreciated “Legend” is a film that should satisfy everyone seeking authentic fairy-tale cinema. The narrative presents a conflict between good and evil, evoking the eerie atmosphere that is characteristic of Scott while paying respect to the timeless stories of the Brothers Grimm. Essentially, it’s a ’80s-era “Dungeons & Dragons” book cover brought to life. There are also unicorns, monsters, Tim Curry playing a version of the devil, Tom Cruise in a sparkly suit of armor, and two entrancing film scores by Tangerine Dream and Jerry Goldsmith, depending on which version of the movie you’re watching.

Even with all of these enchanted elements and its breathtaking photography by Alex Thompson, the movie received mixed reviews from critics and had a poor box office performance. Why then should it be on this list? Well, it’s just another misinterpreted picture in Scott’s filmography. Although the tale may be overly simplistic and/or excessively detailed, the level of craftsmanship that went into each frame is almost unavoidable. This film merits a chance due to its intense performances and great attention to detail throughout, especially from Curry as Darkness and a very young Mia Sara in her feature-length debut as Princess Lili.

In a place and time (1980)

Pictures Universal

In the lovely “Somewhere in Time,” on the eve of his play, a young playwright (Christopher Reeve) meets an enigmatic older woman. Years later, he learns more about the woman in question, Jean Seymour, and is motivated to pull off the impossible by going back in time to meet her. What follows is an amazing journey that combines romance, science fiction, and history into one magnificent package that is captivating from start to finish.

“Somewhere in Time” has a dedicated fan base that has grown over the years and even inspired a convention, despite its original poor reviews. What precisely makes this film so valuable? Well, with Seymour and Reeve giving exquisite performances and Jeannot Szwarc directing with an ultra-romantic style, it’s one of those rare movies that frequently feels like a painting brought to life. It creates an unconventional time-travel tale that is just the right amount of poignant by deftly striking a balance between its cheesy, lovey-dovey elements and dramatic tension.

Willow (1988)

MGM/UA Distribution Company

It’s still shocking to learn how many people haven’t seen Ron Howard’s “Willow,” which is based on the journey of Elora Danan (Kate and Ruth Greenfield and Rebecca Bearman), a baby who is destined to save the land from the terrible Queen Bavmorda (Jean Marsh), despite a sequel TV series on the horizon. Elora is still a baby, thus she needs unusual heroes to assist her in finishing her goal. Then, to do this impossible mission, it is up to Willow Ufgood (Warwick Davis), an ambitious sorcerer, Madmartigan (Val Kilmer), a funny swordsman, and a number of other supernatural people.

“Willow” is the epitome of joy, complete with director Ron Howard and creator George Lucas’ distinctive eccentricities. Yes, it features eerie creatures and other action-packed scenes. It still evokes a lot of the beloved elements of traditional adventure stories, especially its deft handling of humor and real emotional rewards. The movie also included visual effects including a morphing sequence that still stands the test of time and altered the entire industry. amid the end, “Willow” is a film that should be praised by critics and enjoyed by viewers of all ages due to its enduring tale of optimism amid the most difficult circumstances.

1984’s Streets of Fire

Pictures Universal

In terms of films with daring decisions, Walter Hill’s “Streets of Fire” is unquestionably the best. The movie is set in an alternate universe where the 1950s and 1980s have blended into an odd cross between the past and present. Ellen Aim (Diane Lane), a well-known rock vocalist, is introduced to us there. She is abducted by a malevolent biker gang headed by Raven Shaddock (Willem Dafoe). As word spreads about Ellen going missing, it will be up to her ex-boyfriend Tom Cody (Michael Paré) to save her and restore harmony to their neighborhood. Tom is obviously in for an adventure he won’t soon forget, complete with bad blood and other roadblocks.

“Streets of Fire” takes viewers on an unparalleled neo-noir adventure right from the start. There are very few films that “Streets” can be compared to, from its unique photography by Andrew Laszlo to its thumping music (which included songs by the legendary Jim Steinman). That’s what makes seeing this Walter Hill movie so captivating. It wants its audience to go along for the trip rather than bother to explain its reality. Is it appropriate for all users? Perhaps not. However, this might be more to your taste if you enjoy films with a strong musical element.

Newscast (1987)

Fox 20th Century

The greatest romantic comedies occasionally have a slight edge. “Broadcast News,” a seductive and entertaining story, deftly strikes a mix between humor and critique on television journalism. We follow news producer Jane Craig (Holly Hunter), who is a natural at sticking her tongue out in front of anchor Tom Grunick (William Hurt). As the movie goes on, we see how their personal and professional lives get more and more entwined and how their chemistry grows. Naturally, like in any romantic comedy, Jane’s best friend Aaron Altman (Albert Brooks) is smitten with her, which only serves to further destabilize the already insane television industry.

“Broadcast News” has a lot of the traditional rom-com elements, but the performances are what really set it apart. For instance, Holly Hunter gives the menacing yet endearing Jane an extra push of power; this was probably intended, but her powerful performance elevates it. In a similar vein, William Hurt and Albert Brooks both thrive as love and professional competitors who give their otherwise archetypal characters a distinctive twist. Overall, “Broadcast News” is still a hidden treasure of the decade that lovers of romantic comedies and moviegoers in general should enjoy thanks to this ensemble and an incredible screenplay by writer-director James L. Brooks.

1989’s The Phantom of the Opera

21st Century Pictures, Inc.

Have you ever desired to witness the Phantom rip people apart in a slasher fashion? Fortunately for you, there is a rendition of “The Phantom of the Opera” starring Robert Englund, the real Freddy Krueger. In this contemporary retelling of the beloved tale by Gaston Leroux, Christine Daaé (Jill Schoelen) discovers memories of her former life as a London opera singer. She meets Erik Destler (Englund) there, a disfigured composer who lives beneath the opera house and is infatuated with the young vocalist. As Erik turns her many life upside down, Christine gradually comes to the realization that he is not the angel she previously thought him to be.

The camp component is what makes this “Phantom” so charming, even though it has all the classic gothic romanticism found in other versions of the story. This movie is complete mayhem in the best of ways, from Robert Englund’s outrageous delivery of the movie’s well-loved one-liners to Jill Schoelen’s dedication to becoming a scream queen. Is this the most accurate adaptation of Leroux’s story? No. However, for aficionados of the narrative or horror genre, this is definitely a version you won’t soon forget.

Say Anything (1989)

Fox 20th Century

In Cameron Crowe’s “Say Anything,” viewers are introduced to two teens who never imagined they would end up together: Diane Court (Ione Skye) and Lloyd Dobbler (John Cusack). Their disparate social circles eventually converge when Lloyd finally asks Diane to accompany him to their senior graduation celebration, leading to a sincere, lovely romance. However, with tensions rising between Diane and her father, Jim Court (John Mahoney), this mature romance between these young lovebirds may be doomed before it even begins.

“Say Anything” doesn’t receive the same appreciation as John Hughes’ teen films, despite having its share of fans. Along with a few other well-known moments, everyone is familiar with the boombox routine. Even yet, this film is one of the adolescent romantic comedies that need to be cherished equally with Hughes’ greatest works. Why should you watch it, though? In addition to having one of John Cusack’s best performances, Lloyd and Diane’s romance is also one of the most sincere in adolescent literature. From start to finish, it’s practically hard not to cheer for them (and this movie).

Risky Partnerships (1988)

Warner Brothers.

“Dangerous Liaisons” directed by Stephen Frears ought to be at the top of your list of films to watch if you enjoy costume dramas! A narrative of two ex-lovers, Marquise Isabelle de Merteuil (Glenn Close) and Vicomte Sébastien de Valmont (John Malkovich), who scheme to get revenge in the most heinous manner possible, is told in this adaptation of Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ novel. Their varied relationships become even more tumultuous than they had anticipated when their plans come to fruition. The outcome? An exquisitely lovely, yet eerie exploration of human sexuality and romance.

“Dangerous Liaisons” features some of the most gorgeous clothes of any movie from that decade in addition to one of the best casts in movie history, which includes Michelle Pfeiffer, Keanu Reeves, and a young Uma Thurman. James Acheson, the designer, took home an Oscar for them. However, the main reason “Dangerous Liaisons” has to be on our list is because of Frears’ masterful blending of the opulent tastes of ’80s filmmaking with the period of the plot. His distinct viewpoint and the other artistic triumphs of the film make it a feast for the senses.

The 1983 film Valley Girl

Atlantic Distribution

Popular student Julie (Deborah Foreman) and punk rocker Randy (Nicolas Cage) meet at a party in the original 1983 film adaptation of “Valley Girl.” They clearly come from quite different social circles, but despite this, flames flare between them, leading to a campy yet sincere romance. However, as is the case with every adolescent tale influenced by “Romeo and Juliet,” Julie and Randy’s friends don’t think the two are a good fit, which can lead to some unpleasant situations. The movie follows the young lovers as they overcome the doubters in their lives and demonstrate that love is stronger than all obstacles.

This original telling of the “Valley Girl” narrative could only have been produced in the 1980s, despite being recently reinvented as a movie musical. It’s entertaining to see how frequently Martha Coolidge’s film feels like a cross between a documentary and a romantic comedy, from the scenes featuring teenagers at neighborhood malls to the distinctive scenes shot at nightclubs in Los Angeles. The movie stands out from its teen film competitors thanks to this stylistic decision, which also makes it a classic that any ’80s enthusiast should watch.

Grease 2 (1982)

Paramount Pictures

Despite sharing a narrative with the popular musical picture from 1978, “Grease 2” frequently feels like a critique of the absurdity of the first movie. Although the roles are reversed, the plot has a similar framework, with Michelle Pfeiffer’s heroine playing the rebel who turns Maxwell Caulfield’s good-natured exchange student into the “cool rider” of her dreams. However, it’s not surprising that most critics failed to grasp the allure of “Grease 2” in 1982, given the divisive responses to the first movie. Fortunately, throughout the years, that has changed, and the movie now has a devoted fan base.

Why is a film chronicling the adventures of the T-Birds and Pink Ladies in the early 1960s a must-see for fans of ’80s cinema? Of course, it’s the legendary performances. In addition to giving it her best in the most campy way imaginable, Michelle Pfeiffer is matched in exaggerated energy by the rest of the ensemble. Furthermore, how could you not fall in love with a film that features amazing songs rife with corny sexual innuendo? Ultimately, “Grease 2” is built just for you if you enjoy making fun of the original.