1. Risky Business 1983，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 101047, ID: 0086200 Photo by randomlyedible.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Tom Cruise’s breakout role in ‘Risky Business’ remains iconic, with his unforgettable dance scene in his underwear. Cruise has since become one of Hollywood’s biggest stars, known for his roles in the ‘Mission: Impossible’ series and ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Rebecca De Mornay, who played Lana, continues to act in films and TV shows, including ‘Jessica Jones’. The film’s blend of comedy and drama, along with its memorable performances, makes it a must-watch.
2. Top Gun 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 509317, ID: 0092099 Photo by geekblast.com.br, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Top Gun’s high-flying action and romance made it a classic, with Tom Cruise as the daring pilot Maverick. Cruise’s career soared, leading to a sequel, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Kelly McGillis, who played Charlie, has stepped back from acting, while Val Kilmer, who played Iceman, continues to act despite health challenges. The film’s thrilling aerial scenes and iconic soundtrack keep it timeless.
3. Sixteen Candles 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 128008, ID: 0088128 Photo by aniwiki.es, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Molly Ringwald’s charming performance in ‘Sixteen Candles’ as the overlooked birthday girl, Samantha, is unforgettable. Ringwald remains active in the industry, recently appearing in ‘Riverdale’. Anthony Michael Hall, who played the Geek, has transitioned to more mature roles. The film’s humor and heart make it a beloved ’80s classic.
4. The Breakfast Club 1985，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 442045, ID: 0088847 Photo by olivian.ro, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 John Hughes’ ‘The Breakfast Club’ is a defining teen movie, exploring the lives of five high school students in detention. Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, and the rest of the cast have continued their careers in various capacities. The film’s exploration of teenage angst and its memorable characters make it a timeless classic.
5. Pretty in Pink 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 89805, ID: 0091790 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Molly Ringwald shines in ‘Pretty in Pink’ as Andie, a girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Ringwald’s career has remained steady, with recent roles in ‘Riverdale’. Jon Cryer, who played Duckie, found success in ‘Two and a Half Men’. The film’s exploration of class differences and its iconic fashion make it a standout.
6. Lucas 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 17689, ID: 0091445 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Lucas is a heartfelt coming-of-age film that captures the essence of unrequited love and teenage struggles. Corey Haim’s performance as the socially awkward Lucas is both endearing and poignant. The film’s exploration of first love and friendship is timeless, making it a relatable watch even today. The cast, including Charlie Sheen and Winona Ryder, have gone on to have varied careers, with Ryder becoming a household name through her role in Stranger Things. Lucas remains a touching reminder of the complexities of adolescence.
7. Beetlejuice 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 346508, ID: 0094721 Photo by cinematicrandomness.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Beetlejuice is a quirky and imaginative film that showcases Tim Burton’s unique directorial style. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of the mischievous ghost is iconic, and the film’s blend of comedy and horror is masterfully executed. The cast, including Winona Ryder and Alec Baldwin, have continued to have successful careers, with Ryder’s resurgence in Stranger Things being particularly notable. Beetlejuice remains a beloved classic that continues to entertain audiences with its eccentric charm.
8. Heathers 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 117817, ID: 0097493 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Heathers is a darkly comedic film that delves into the brutal realities of high school cliques and social hierarchies. Winona Ryder and Christian Slater deliver standout performances, making the film both engaging and thought-provoking. The film’s satirical take on teenage angst and its bold narrative have cemented its status as a cult classic. Ryder’s continued success in Hollywood, particularly with her role in Stranger Things, highlights the lasting impact of Heathers on her career.
9. Dirty Dancing 1987，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 259921, ID: 0092890 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Dirty Dancing is a romantic drama that has captivated audiences for decades with its memorable dance sequences and heartfelt story. Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey’s chemistry is undeniable, making their performances unforgettable. The film’s exploration of love, class differences, and personal growth resonates deeply. Jennifer Grey’s recent appearances on Dancing with the Stars have rekindled interest in her career, while Swayze’s legacy continues to be celebrated. Dirty Dancing remains a timeless classic that embodies the spirit of romance.
10. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off 1986，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 391162, ID: 0091042 Photo by satyanash.net, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is a delightful comedy that captures the carefree spirit of youth. Matthew Broderick’s portrayal of the charming Ferris is both charismatic and memorable. The film’s lighthearted narrative and iconic scenes have made it a staple of ’80s cinema. The cast, including Alan Ruck and Mia Sara, have had varied careers, with Broderick continuing to shine on both stage and screen. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off remains a feel-good movie that celebrates the joy of living in the moment.
11. Batman 1989，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 407717, ID: 0096895 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Tim Burton’s ‘Batman’ (1989) remains a classic with Michael Keaton’s iconic portrayal of the Dark Knight. Keaton’s career has flourished, recently reprising his role in ‘The Flash’. Jack Nicholson, who played the Joker, continues to be a Hollywood legend. Kim Basinger, the film’s Vicki Vale, has also enjoyed a successful career. This film’s legacy is a testament to its stellar cast and timeless appeal.
12. The Outsiders 1983，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 99442, ID: 0086066 Photo by mysnacks.tistory.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Francis Ford Coppola’s ‘The Outsiders’ (1983) is a poignant tale of teenage angst and brotherhood. The film’s cast, including C. Thomas Howell, Matt Dillon, and Ralph Macchio, have all had varied careers. Patrick Swayze, who played Darrel Curtis, left a lasting legacy before his untimely death. This film remains a beloved classic, thanks to its heartfelt performances and timeless themes.
13. St. Elmo’s Fire 1985，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 48166, ID: 0090060 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘St. Elmo’s Fire’ (1985) captures the post-college struggles of a group of friends. The Brat Pack cast, including Rob Lowe, Demi Moore, and Emilio Estevez, have all had successful careers. Lowe continues to shine in ‘9-1-1: Lone Star’, while Moore remains a Hollywood icon. This film’s exploration of friendship and adulthood resonates even today.
14. The Lost Boys 1987，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 163549, ID: 0093437 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘The Lost Boys’ (1987) is a cult classic that blends horror and comedy. Jason Patric, Corey Haim, and Kiefer Sutherland delivered memorable performances. Sutherland continues to have a thriving career, while Haim’s tragic life ended too soon. This film’s unique take on the vampire genre and its stellar cast make it a must-watch.
15. Stand by Me 1986，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 446726, ID: 0092005 Photo by flickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 ‘Stand by Me’ (1986) is a touching coming-of-age story based on Stephen King’s novella. The film’s cast, including Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, and Corey Feldman, delivered unforgettable performances. Phoenix’s untimely death was a great loss to Hollywood. This film’s exploration of friendship and growing up remains poignant and relatable.
Then and Now: See What the Stars of Iconic 80s Movies Are Doing Today
