It’s well known that people often look back to the classics when it comes to action movies. While today’s films hit harder thanks to the evolution of camerawork, special effects, and CGI, it’s these 1980s pieces that paved the way for the movies we know and love today.
Alongside the first 007 movies, Terminator, Top Gun, and many others, there are hidden gems that only a few remember today. Most people who were born in the 80s (or even 90s) may recognize these classic titles, but it’s time to bring them to the front and center once again so the younger generations can enjoy these cinematic masterpieces as well.
9 Silverado (1985)
Available on Amazon Prime, Hulu Plus, and Netflix
Silverado is a classic action movie that has sadly fallen off most people’s radar in the past decade. Featuring an amazing cast (Kevin Costner, Kevin Kline, Jeff Goldbloom, John Cleese, and many others), Silverado is a true western beloved by many.
It’s an enjoyable movie, and even though it never became a true classic, people love revisiting this light and enjoyable western. It’s a nice homage to the classics, and the cast makes it that much better.
8 Big Trouble In Little China (1986)
Available on Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime
The underrated classic Big Trouble in Little China features Kurt Russel as a truck driver who gets into all sorts of trouble in San Fransisco’s Chinatown. A woman is captured by a drug lord who must be rescued before Lo Pan uses her to break an ancient curse.
It plays tribute to some of the greatest horror tropes, which makes the comedy scenes stand out even more. Even the camerawork, which focuses on the action while highlighting comedic reactions, was way ahead of its time. Every character is lovable, and the entire plot is over the top, but not obnoxious.
Available on Netflix
Full Metal Jacket is an incredibly powerful movie by Stanley Kubrick about the Vietnam War. Private Davis (AKA “Joker”) and Private Lawrence (AKA “Gomer Pyle”) endure the rigors of training in the Marine Corp. After graduating, Joker is sent to the Vietnam War as a journalist, but he eventually ends up fighting as well.
Anyone who enjoys Kubricks films should watch Full Metal Jacket. The raw performances shock people to the core, as it features some intense themes including the harsh realities of war, suicide, and emotional trauma. It offers an overwhelming sense of reality so unique, it stays with the audience for years. It’s one of the most influential films of its time, and one of the best movies from Stanley Kubrick.
6 Heartbreak Ridge (1986)
Available on Amazon Prime and Google Play
While some of the scenes in Heartbreak Ridge strike some a little “too Hollywood,” it still stands tall as a staple in war movies and prides itself on being one of the most realistic marine films. Marine Sgt. Thomas Highway (portrayed by Clint Eastwood) is a decorated veteran of two wars surrounded by inexperienced officers, whom he must prepare for a war they don’t believe will come.
The cultures of the time are portrayed incredibly well, and even the locations of filming are unique and bring the feeling of war closer to the viewers. While some people think it’s cheesy or possibly romanticized, many others stand by its realism. And after all is said and done, everyone can agree that it’s a film worth watching.
5 The Karate Kid (1984)
Available on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Google Play
Known for its dozen remakes and references in other media, the name “Karate Kid” is known by all. But only a few people today remember the original movie from 1984 that revolutionized the genre. The movie resonates with children and adults alike, and is beloved by those who grew up watching it.
Arguably the best adaptation made is the 2010 film of the same name. While it did plenty to make it relatable for children of its own time, it stands close to the original’s plot and purpose. The 1984 classic presents cultural differences, raw emotions, and trauma in all ages beautifully. It brings people closer to reality in an enjoyable way, and just like with any other movie, the original is hard (or perhaps impossible) to beat.
4 Predator (1987)
Available on Netflix and Google Play
The first Predator movie is possible the best team-versus-monster movie ever made. In addition to the exciting plot, the making of the movie is flawless. The plot flows smoothly, which each scene keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. But what makes it truly unique is that it doesn’t even show the monster until the second half of the movie.
To some, this may sound disappointing, especially for today’s audiences who are used to seeing gore from the first minute. However, the movie does an amazing job in keeping the adrenaline high even when viewers can’t see the threat. It was a pivotal movie of its time, and still stands tall even next to today’s action movies.
3 The Naked Gun (1988)
Available on Amazon Prime and Google Play
This action-comedy is one of the most beloved by today’s adults. It’s effortlessly hilarious, and a breath of fresh air compared to today’s action comedies. The movie follows an incompetent detective who tries to foil an assassination attempt and, of course, fails in the most hilarious ways.
Comedy films truly peaked in the 80s, as jokes were not as forced as seen in some movies today. Filmmakers had every equipment needed to make people laugh: stunt doubles, early special effects, and of course, witty humor. Those who miss the classic comedies must go back and watch this masterpiece.
2 Commando (1985)
Available on Hulu, DIRECTV, Spectrum on Demand and EPIX
Commando is so silly that somehow, it works. From cheesy one-liners to everything expected from a basic action movie, it’s all there in Commando. Protagonist John Matrix takes out entire armies with unlimited ammunition and seemingly bulletproof skin. What more can action fans ask for?
When it comes to 80s action movies, this is the foundation of what audiences know and love today. Shooting from the hip, nonexistent recoil, and poorly hidden equipment are what make this movie a true classic, and will forever remain known as the definition of 80s action.
1 Midnight Run (1988)
Available on Amazon Prime, AMC on Demand and DIRECTV
Midnight Run is an enjoyable action-comedy containing everything dear to action lovers’ hearts. With music made by Danny Elfman, great writing, and excellent pacing, Midnight Run doesn’t disappoint. The movie is cast very well, and the actors have amazing chemistry on screen. Even the side characters are lovable, and of course, Robert De Niro doesn’t disappoint either.
The movie follows Eddie Moscone, who hires bounty hunter Jack Walsh to locate “The Duke.” The job was supposed to be a simple operation (a “midnight run”), but eventually, things go south and lead to a cross-country chase.
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