The 1980s is often remembered as a golden era for film, a time when big blockbusters like Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back, Back to the Future, and Indiana Jones dominated the box office. While these iconic movies continue to enjoy popularity, many fantastic films from this decade remain underappreciated, overshadowed by the big-budget productions or more experimental films of the era. These hidden gems have either gained cult status or still await rediscovery by modern audiences. This article explores some of the underappreciated must-see movies from the 1980s that deserve more attention today.
1. After Hours (1985)
Directed by Martin Scorsese, After Hours is one of his most underrated films. While Scorsese is often associated with grand narratives like Goodfellas or Raging Bull, After Hours is a black comedy that showcases his ability to create tension, humor, and surrealism all at once.
Plot Overview: The movie follows Paul Hackett (Griffin Dunne), a word processor, who embarks on what should be a simple night out in Manhattan. But the evening spirals out of control into a series of bizarre and surreal encounters that push Paul to his limits. Every interaction he has seems to plunge him further into a nightmare as he navigates a cityscape that feels increasingly hostile and absurd.
Why It’s Underappreciated: Despite its brilliance, After Hours didn’t receive the same widespread acclaim as Scorsese’s other films. Perhaps its quirky narrative and offbeat humor didn’t appeal to mainstream audiences at the time, but in retrospect, it stands as a fascinating exploration of urban anxiety, loneliness, and the chaos of New York nightlife in the 1980s.
2. The Last Starfighter (1984)
In an era defined by sci-fi classics like Blade Runner and The Terminator, The Last Starfighter often flies under the radar. Directed by Nick Castle, this movie was one of the earliest to incorporate CGI for its space battle sequences, which, though dated by today’s standards, were revolutionary at the time.
Plot Overview: The story centers around Alex Rogan (Lance Guest), a teenager living in a trailer park who excels at an arcade game called Starfighter. Unbeknownst to him, the game is a recruiting tool used by an alien defense force. Soon, Alex is whisked away to fight in an intergalactic battle to save the universe.
Why It’s Underappreciated: While The Last Starfighter doesn’t have the same visual polish as Star Wars, its heartwarming story, inventive premise, and pioneering use of CGI make it a must-see. Over the years, it has gained a cult following, but it still remains lesser-known in comparison to other sci-fi epics of the 1980s.
3. Streets of Fire (1984)
Directed by Walter Hill, Streets of Fire is a rock-and-roll fable that blends elements of action, romance, and musical theater into a stylish and unique cinematic experience. Though it flopped at the box office, it has since become a cult classic.
Plot Overview: The film follows Tom Cody (Michael Paré), a mercenary hired to rescue his ex-girlfriend, Ellen Aim (Diane Lane), a rock singer kidnapped by a biker gang led by the menacing Raven (Willem Dafoe). Set against the backdrop of a retro-futuristic city, Streets of Fire delivers intense action sequences, memorable music numbers, and a visually striking atmosphere.
Why It’s Underappreciated: Streets of Fire was ahead of its time, mixing genres in ways that felt jarring to 1980s audiences. Its bold aesthetic choices and eclectic soundtrack, which includes songs by Jim Steinman and Ry Cooder, have aged well, and the film now stands as a forgotten gem that has influenced future genre-blending films.
4. Miracle Mile (1988)
Miracle Mile, directed by Steve De Jarnatt, is a high-tension thriller set against the backdrop of nuclear annihilation. It's an unsettling and unconventional film that blends romance, suspense, and apocalyptic dread.
Plot Overview: The film begins as a love story between Harry (Anthony Edwards) and Julie (Mare Winningham), who meet by chance and fall for each other. However, their budding romance is abruptly interrupted when Harry accidentally intercepts a phone call meant for military personnel, informing him that nuclear missiles are about to be launched, giving the city just over an hour before destruction. The rest of the movie is a frantic race against time as Harry tries to save Julie and escape the impending disaster.
Why It’s Underappreciated: Miracle Mile was too bleak for many mainstream audiences at the time, as it portrays a world on the brink of annihilation with unrelenting intensity. However, its unique blend of romance and existential horror, combined with its eerie atmosphere, makes it a haunting and unforgettable experience.
5. My Dinner with Andre (1981)
A film centered entirely around a conversation, My Dinner with Andre is a deeply philosophical and introspective movie that defies traditional narrative structure. Directed by Louis Malle, this film showcases two actors, Wallace Shawn and Andre Gregory, as they engage in a sprawling dialogue over dinner.
Plot Overview: The movie revolves around a dinner conversation between two friends, playwright Wallace (played by Wallace Shawn) and theater director Andre (played by Andre Gregory). As they dine, Andre shares stories about his spiritual and existential adventures, while Wallace listens, reacts, and challenges Andre’s ideas about life, society, and the self.
Why It’s Underappreciated: For audiences accustomed to fast-paced, action-oriented films, My Dinner with Andre might seem uneventful. But its thought-provoking dialogue and exploration of human consciousness offer a deeply rewarding experience for those willing to engage. It’s a cerebral film that demands attention and reflection, but for those who appreciate its slower pace, it remains a standout of intellectual cinema.
6. The King of Comedy (1982)
Another Scorsese film, The King of Comedy was ahead of its time in its depiction of fame obsession and the dangers of celebrity culture. Starring Robert De Niro as the delusional and aspiring comedian Rupert Pupkin, the film explores darkly comedic and uncomfortable themes of rejection, failure, and the lengths people go to for fame.
Plot Overview: Rupert Pupkin (De Niro) is a struggling comedian with delusions of grandeur. Obsessed with becoming famous, he idolizes talk-show host Jerry Langford (Jerry Lewis). When Rupert fails to gain recognition through conventional means, he kidnaps Jerry, demanding a spot on his show as ransom.
Why It’s Underappreciated: The King of Comedy flopped at the box office upon its release but has since been reevaluated as one of Scorsese’s most incisive commentaries on celebrity and the media. Its themes feel particularly relevant in today’s social media-driven world, making it a movie that has only grown more poignant with time.
7. To Live and Die in L.A. (1985)
Directed by William Friedkin, To Live and Die in L.A. is a gritty crime thriller that delves into the underworld of counterfeit money and corrupt law enforcement. Known for its heart-pounding car chases and complex characters, the film stands out as a masterclass in tension, but it's still overshadowed by other popular crime films of the 1980s.
Plot Overview: Richard Chance (William Petersen) is a fearless Secret Service agent whose partner is killed while investigating notorious counterfeiter Rick Masters (Willem Dafoe). Fueled by a desire for revenge, Chance becomes obsessed with catching Masters, even if it means bending or breaking the law. As Chance gets closer to his target, the line between good and evil becomes increasingly blurred.
Why It’s Underappreciated: Although To Live and Die in L.A. boasts excellent performances, particularly from Petersen and Dafoe, along with stunning direction from Friedkin, it didn't receive the same mainstream recognition as other crime dramas of the time. However, its unflinching depiction of corruption, betrayal, and obsession, coupled with one of the best car chase scenes ever filmed, makes it a must-watch for crime genre enthusiasts.
8. Tucker: The Man and His Dream (1988)
Francis Ford Coppola’s Tucker: The Man and His Dream tells the inspirational but ultimately tragic tale of Preston Tucker, an automotive visionary whose ambition to change the industry was met with fierce opposition from the established players.
Plot Overview: The story follows Tucker’s efforts to produce the Tucker 48, a revolutionary car with groundbreaking features for its time. Despite his vision and the support of his family, Tucker faces enormous resistance from the Big Three automakers and corrupt politicians, who use their power to sabotage his business and dreams.
Why It’s Underappreciated: Despite a stellar performance from Jeff Bridges and beautiful direction by Coppola, Tucker was overlooked by audiences, perhaps due to its unconventional subject matter. The film serves as both an inspiring biopic and a cautionary tale about the perils of innovation in the face of entrenched corporate interests. It's a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit, making it a timeless story that resonates today, particularly for those interested in innovation and history.
9. The Hidden (1987)
Directed by Jack Sholder, The Hidden is an exciting blend of sci-fi, action, and crime thriller that has been largely overlooked in favor of bigger sci-fi films of the decade. Combining elements of an alien invasion with a buddy cop dynamic, it offers a unique twist on familiar genres.
Plot Overview: An alien criminal with the ability to take over human bodies is on a violent rampage across Los Angeles, robbing banks and committing murder. FBI agent Lloyd Gallagher (Kyle MacLachlan) and LAPD detective Tom Beck (Michael Nouri) team up to track the extraterrestrial fugitive down, but as they get closer to their target, the truth about Gallagher's own mysterious origins is revealed.
Why It’s Underappreciated: While it may not have had the budget of The Terminator or Aliens, The Hidden delivers fast-paced action, a clever plot, and engaging performances, especially from MacLachlan, who brings a strange but endearing energy to his role. Its mixture of genres makes it a highly entertaining film that didn't receive the recognition it deserved upon release, though it has since garnered a cult following. For fans of body horror and crime procedurals, The Hidden is a must-see that feels as fresh now as it did in the 1980s.
10. Local Hero (1983)
Directed by Bill Forsyth, Local Hero is a charming and understated film that has flown under the radar compared to other comedies of the era. It’s a witty and beautifully shot movie that mixes lighthearted comedy with a quiet environmental message, offering an offbeat take on corporate culture and personal fulfillment.
Plot Overview: The story follows Mac MacIntyre (Peter Riegert), a corporate executive from a Texas oil company, who is sent to a small Scottish village to negotiate the purchase of the entire town for a new oil refinery. While Mac expects the deal to go smoothly, the quirky townspeople and the serene beauty of the Scottish countryside gradually change his perspective on life and success.
Why It’s Underappreciated: Local Hero didn’t achieve widespread popularity in the U.S. despite its critical acclaim. Its slow pace and subtle humor may have been overshadowed by the louder, more boisterous comedies of the 1980s, but it's this quiet, thoughtful approach that makes Local Hero so memorable. The film’s blend of dry wit, stunning scenery, and its gentle environmental commentary set it apart, making it a hidden gem for those who enjoy thoughtful, character-driven films. Mark Knopfler’s evocative score is another highlight, lending a dreamy quality to the movie that stays with you long after it ends.
Conclusion
The 1980s was a decade filled with big-budget blockbusters and iconic films, but beneath the surface, there were a wealth of underappreciated gems that deserve to be rediscovered. Whether it's the urban nightmare of After Hours, the intergalactic escapism of The Last Starfighter, or the biting satire of The King of Comedy, these films offer a glimpse into the creativity and diversity of the decade's cinema. These ten movies stand the test of time, and their relative obscurity only adds to the satisfaction of discovering them.
For those willing to dive deeper into 1980s film, these underappreciated must-see movies offer unique, daring, and often innovative storytelling that still resonates today. Whether you're a fan of sci-fi, drama, or quirky comedy, these films prove that the 1980s was about more than just blockbusters—it was a decade rich with hidden treasures. So, next time you're looking for a movie night with a retro twist, give one of these lesser-known gems a watch—you won’t be disappointed.
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