With aspects of 80s culture making a decided comeback, it’s time to reacquaint ourselves with this decade’s movie selection. When cultivating your 80s movie list, you’ll likely realize that many films that initially flopped at the box office have since gained devoted followings in the cinematic landscape. Despite their initial commercial failures, these movies are now cherished for their unique storytelling, innovative concepts, and nostalgic charm. Here are some of those beloved 1980s box office flops that you might want to give another chance.
The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension
This quirky sci-fi adventure, featuring Peter Weller as the titular neurosurgeon, physicist, rock star, and test pilot, is one of the most eccentric films of the decade. Buckaroo Banzai accesses the 8th dimension, offering audiences a wild ride filled with bizarre characters and offbeat humor.
Blade Runner
Blade Runner’s 1982 release was a critical and box-office disappointment. Yet Ridley Scott’s vision of a dystopian future has since become a benchmark for sci-fi cinema. Its intricate plot, stunning visuals, and profound themes about humanity and artificial intelligence resonate deeply with audiences today, making it a beloved classic.
The Thing
In one of the greatest rags to riches box office tales, John Carpenter’s The Thing initially flopped but is now hailed as one of the greatest horror films ever made. The story of a shape-shifting alien terrorizing a group of scientists in Antarctica combines masterful suspense with groundbreaking special effects, earning it a dedicated fanbase over the years.
Tron
Despite its box office failings, Tron was eventually recognized for breaking new ground with its innovative use of computer-generated imagery. Tron’s depiction of a digital world inside a computer has inspired a generation of filmmakers and remains a cult favorite for its ahead-of-its-time visuals and pioneering spirit.
Labyrinth
Jim Henson’s fantasy adventure featuring David Bowie and Jennifer Connelly did not perform well financially, but its quirks soon won over the masses. Labyrinth’s enchanting story, memorable musical numbers, and creative puppetry have since earned it a devoted following, making it a beloved part of many childhoods.
Big Trouble in Little China
This John Carpenter film starring Kurt Russell as a truck driver embroiled in a supernatural battle in Chinatown was a box office flop. However, its mix of action, comedy, and fantasy has garnered a passionate fanbase that appreciates its quirky charm and over-the-top storytelling.
Heathers
Heathers, a dark comedy about high school cliques and murder, struggled at the box office but has since become a cult classic. While not a commercial success, Heather’s sharp wit, biting social commentary, and iconic performances by Winona Ryder and Christian Slater continue to resonate with new generations.
The Running Man
Arnold Schwarzenegger stars in this adaptation of a Stephen King novel, set in a dystopian future where convicts compete in a deadly game show. Initially underwhelming regarding box office returns, The Running Man is now appreciated for its prescient take on reality TV and its action-packed narrative.
Highlander
Highlander’s story of immortal warriors battling through the ages didn’t immediately find its audience. Over time, its unique blend of fantasy, action, and the memorable soundtrack by Queen has made it a favorite among fans of epic storytelling.
Flash Gordon
While not financially successful, this colorful space opera has become a cult classic for its campy charm and unforgettable soundtrack by Queen. Flash Gordon’s blend of adventure, humor, and over-the-top style endears it to fans of retro sci-fi.
Dune
David Lynch’s adaptation of Frank Herbert’s Dune was initially a commercial and critical failure, with Its complex plot and dense narrative confusing many viewers. Fast forward a few decades, and you have a beloved movie praised for its film’s visual style and ambitious scope.
The Dark Crystal
Another Jim Henson creation, The Dark Crystal, used groundbreaking puppetry to tell a complex fantasy story. Though it struggled at the box office, its rich world-building and unique aesthetic have made it a beloved classic among fantasy aficionados.
Ladyhawke
This medieval fantasy romance, starring Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer, underperformed at the box office. However, Ladyhawke’s enchanting love story, beautiful cinematography, and memorable performances have since garnered it a loyal following.
Clue
Based on the popular board game, Clue’s multiple endings and humorous take on a murder mystery didn’t catch on with audiences initially. Over time, its witty script and ensemble cast have made it a cult favorite, especially among fans of comedy and mystery.
Repo Man
Alex Cox’s Repo Man, starring Emilio Estevez, was not a commercial hit but has since become a cult classic. Its blend of punk rock attitude, science fiction elements, and satirical humor continues to resonate with audiences.
Time Bandits
Terry Gilliam’s Time Bandits, a whimsical adventure through time, didn’t achieve blockbuster status but has been cherished for its imaginative storytelling and quirky humor. For fans of fantastical cinema, it’s sure to remain a retro favorite.
The Adventures of Baron Munchausen
Another Terry Gilliam film, The Adventures of Baron Munchausen, suffered at the box office due to production issues and marketing challenges. However, its visually stunning and imaginative narrative has won it a place in the hearts of many viewers.
Legend
Ridley Scott’s fantasy epic Legend, starring Tom Cruise, failed to capture audiences upon release. Over the years, its lush visuals, ethereal atmosphere, and Tim Curry’s iconic performance as the Lord of Darkness have made it a beloved fantasy film.
The Black Cauldron
Disney’s dark and ambitious animated feature The Black Cauldron didn’t fare well at the box office. However, fans of animation and fantasy have since appreciated its departure from typical Disney fare and darker themes.
Manhunter
Michael Mann’s adaptation of the Thomas Harris novel Red Dragon, Manhunter, was a sequence to Silence of the Lambs that flopped at the box office. But since this underwhelming reception, Manhunt has bounced back, with its stylish direction and intense performances earning it a reputation as an influential thriller.
Explorers
Expertly directed by Joe Dante, Explorers tells the story of kids who build spaceships and encounter extraterrestrial life. Though It didn’t perform well initially, its charm, imaginative story, and nostalgic appeal have made it a favorite among 80s sci-fi and retro cinema fans.
Possession
Exploring themes of what it means to be human, this 1981 psychological horror film directed by Andrzej Żuławski was a commercial failure but has since gained acclaim. Possession’s blend of horror and drama has earned it a significant place in cult film history, and its contribution to the horror genre is still praised.
