The 1980s was an incredible time for cinema, with his rebellious decade producing iconic anti-war movies, gender-defying films, and transgressive horror. But while the 80s produced many memorable films that have become classics in the eyes of many, not all movies from this decade have aged well or were even that great to begin with. Here, we’ll explore some 80s movies that, despite their popularity, are actually terrible when viewed through a contemporary lens.
The Goonies
While The Goonies is beloved by many for its adventurous spirit and child-friendly appeal, it doesn’t hold up well under scrutiny. The plot is far-fetched, and the acting is over-the-top, making it difficult for new audiences to appreciate its charm. What’s more, its running time of 114 minutes makes an already confusing plot drag out even more.
Flashdance
Flashdance might be remembered for its iconic dance scenes and soundtrack, but the storyline is thin, and the characters lack depth. Relying heavily on its musical numbers to carry it, this film becomes woefully disjointed and shallow.
Red Dawn
Featuring Charlie Sheen and Patrick Swayze, Red Dawn is an iconic film of the 1980s. Its favorable reception meant it was one of the first movies to receive a PG-13 rating and is often cited for its patriotic themes. Yet, its depiction of a Soviet invasion of America is unrealistic and overly dramatic, which detracts from its intended impact.
Over the Top
Sylvester Stallone’s Over the Top combines arm wrestling with a family drama in a way that feels forced and contrived. The movie’s premise is laughable, and Stallone’s performance doesn’t do much to save it.
Howard the Duck
Despite its popularity with children at the time, Howard the Duck is a bizarre and misguided attempt to bring a comic book character to life. Among its key offenses are a strange plot and unconvincing special effects, making it a cringeworthy watch today.
Masters of the Universe
Based on the popular He-Man toys, Masters of the Universe fails to capture the essence of its source material. Instead of achieving greatness, the film’s low budget is painfully evident in its special effects and set design, meaning it looks cheap and unimpressive.
The Cannonball Run
It might be based on a real event and boast a star-studded cast, but this hasn’t saved this particular film. The Cannonball Run features an ensemble cast and plenty of car chases, but it lacks a coherent plot and is more of a series of gags strung together than a well-crafted story.
Xanadu
Xanadu attempts to blend fantasy, romance, and disco but becomes a confusing mess. Its only saving grace is the subpar musical numbers, but they can’t even make up for the weak storyline.
Porky’s
Porky’s is a raunchy teen comedy that hasn’t aged well due to its crude humor and offensive content. What might have been funny in the 80s now appears inappropriate and tasteless.
Teen Wolf
Teen Wolf is another example of an 80s movie with a silly premise that has not stood the test of time. Michael J. Fox’s charm isn’t enough to overcome the film’s lackluster plot and cheesy special effects.
Crocodile Dundee
Crocodile Dundee was a massive hit in its time, but its portrayal of Australian culture and the title character’s outback wisdom now feel stereotypical and outdated.
Short Circuit
Short Circuit is about a robot that gains human-like intelligence, but a predictable plot and unconvincing performances overshadow its charm.
Mannequin
Mannequin tells the story of a department store mannequin that comes to life, but the film’s whimsical concept is let down by its clichéd script and lack of depth.
The Garbage Pail Kids Movie
Based on a series of trading cards, The Garbage Pail Kids Movie is as tasteless as its source material. Most unlucky viewers can agree that the film’s grotesque characters and gross-out humor make it a painful watch.
Police Academy
While Police Academy spawned numerous sequels, the original film is filled with dated humor and slapstick comedy that doesn’t resonate with modern audiences. Unsurprisingly, it has since been accused of jumping on racial stereotypes.
Twins
Twins stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny DeVito, unlikely siblings. However, the film’s premise is absurd, and its humor often falls flat.
Highlander
Audiences worldwide had high hopes for this film, and indeed, Highlander has a cult following. However, its convoluted plot and questionable acting make it a tough movie to enjoy. Viewers are unable to enjoy it today without nostalgia goggles.
Rocky IV
Rocky IV is remembered for its epic training montages and Cold War themes, but its simplistic plot and one-dimensional characters make it one of the weaker entries in the franchise.
Commando
Commando is a quintessential 80s action movie with Arnold Schwarzenegger, but its over-the-top violence and thin storyline make it more of a guilty pleasure than a good film.
The Beastmaster
The Beastmaster is a fantasy film with a meandering plot and uninspired special effects, making it difficult to take seriously.
Cobra
Cobra features Sylvester Stallone as a tough cop, but its formulaic plot and excessive violence make it more of a slog than an engaging thriller.
Road House
Road House stars Patrick Swayze as a bouncer, but the movie’s campy dialogue and exaggerated fight scenes undermine its action-packed premise.
Revenge of the Nerds
Revenge of the Nerds is a comedy that hasn’t aged well due to its offensive humor and problematic themes, which overshadow its moments of genuine fun.
Rambo: First Blood Part II
Rambo: First Blood Part II turns a complex character study into a mindless action film, sacrificing the depth of the original for explosions and gunfire.
The Secret of My Success
The Secret of My Success stars Michael J. Fox as a young man climbing the corporate ladder, but the film’s dated humor and clichéd plot points make it less enjoyable today.
Over the Top
Over the Top, a film about arm wrestling, lacked the excitement and depth needed to engage audiences, making it one of Stallone’s less memorable movies.
Sheena
