The Greatest Teen Movies Of The 1980s
Few decades have made their mark on film quite like the 1980s did. The era of John Hughes and oh so many classic teen movies, the '80s was the decade of classic high school movies like Heathers, Sixteen Candles, Can’t Buy Me Love, and Some Kind of Wonderful. This list has been voted on by men and women to rank the all time best teen movies from the 1980s.
Movies have the ability to make us feel. They make us want to believe, be inspired, and live vicariously through the stories we see on screen. Teen movies often resonate with us the most as our teenage years are the most angst-ridden and formative years of our lives. Movies that tell the story of nerds and outcasts connect with many people. It is with a peek into the lives of these individuals that we can either find solace, live vicariously, or connect with a story similar to our own. These movies vary in their genre but they are all equally fascinating.
The '80s was also a decade that created many iconic stars like Molly Ringwald, River Phoenix, John Cusack, and Matthew Broderick. Many of these '80s teen movie stars went on to have successful film careers as they grew older as well, and some are still working today.
Vote up the best '80s films about teenagers that you love and vote down any that you think other fans should skip.
- 1Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, Judd Nelson
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: John Hughes
This iconic film features an ensemble cast, including Emilio Estevez, Molly Ringwald, and Judd Nelson, as five very different high school students forced to spend a Saturday in detention. Throughout the day, each character reveals personal struggles and forms unlikely bonds with the others. With its blend of humor and heartfelt drama, the movie perfectly captures the exploration of self and finding common ground that so defines adolescence.
- 2Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Crispin Glover
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Robert Zemeckis
A thrilling adventure combines sci-fi elements with teen-centric themes in this classic film starring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly. When Marty accidentally travels back in time 30 years, he must ensure his parents meet and fall in love to secure his own existence. Featuring a memorable soundtrack and plenty of humor along the way, this movie is beloved by both teens of the '80s and those discovering it for the first time today.
- 3Matthew Broderick, Alan Ruck, Mia Sara
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: John Hughes
In this quintessential '80s comedy directed by John Hughes, Matthew Broderick stars as the effortlessly cool teenager who decides to play hooky from school one day with his best friend and girlfriend in tow. A series of hilarious hijinks ensue as they explore Chicago while narrowly avoiding detection by their principal and parents. The film has since become synonymous with seizing the day and enjoying youth while it lasts.
- 4Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: Rob Reiner
Based on Stephen King's novella The Body, this poignant coming-of-age drama follows four 12-year-old friends, played by Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O'Connell, as they embark on a journey to find the presumed body of a missing boy. Along the way, the boys face individual trials and triumphs while cementing their bond with one another. Through its exploration of friendship and tragedy, the film delivers an emotional punch that lingers long after viewing.
- 5Molly Ringwald, Anthony Michael Hall, Michael Schoeffling
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: John Hughes
Molly Ringwald shines as Samantha Baker in this John Hughes-directed coming-of-age story about a girl whose 16th birthday is overshadowed by her sister's wedding preparations. Feeling neglected by her family and pining for her crush (Michael Schoeffling), Samantha navigates adolescence with humor, heartbreak, and ultimately hope. The film's honest portrayal of teenage emotions continues to resonate with audiences today
- 6Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, Jeff Cohen
- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Richard Donner
A group of misfit kids known as "The Goonies" embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt in hopes of saving their homes from demolition in this timeless adventure film directed by Richard Donner. Encountering booby traps and exciting discoveries along the way, each character must overcome personal fears in order to succeed. With heart and humor at its core, it remains a beloved classic for those who grew up in the '80s.
