High school is a stage in life that leaves an indelible mark, and the 1980s were a golden era for teen movies that perfectly captured the essence of those transformative years. These films, many of which were brought to life by legendary directors like John Hughes and Rob Reiner, starred iconic actors including Michael J. Fox and Tom Cruise. The magic of ’80s high school movies endures, as they continue to influence and resonate in today’s pop culture. They encapsulate the rebellion, the angst, and the romance of an unforgettable era. Let’s take a nostalgic journey and explore the finest ’80s teen movies. How many of these timeless classics have you had the pleasure of watching?
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1. Fame (1980)
Fame takes us into the vibrant world of the New York High School of Performing Arts, where the aspirations of a diverse group of students unfold over their four high school years. Their journey is filled with auditions, challenges, and a passionate pursuit of becoming actors, dancers, and singers.
For anyone who’s ever been part of a school play or has a deep love for theater, this film strikes a chord. It beautifully captures the exhilarating highs and heart-wrenching lows that these teenage artists experience as they navigate the competitive road to graduation. Under the direction of Alan Parker, Fame offers an unapologetic and, at times, intense portrayal of young performers and the sacrifices they make for their dreams, often at the cost of their most cherished relationships.
2. Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
Sean Penn’s portrayal of Spicoli in this high school comedy became an instant icon and a symbol of the quintessential high school slacker. “Fast Times at Ridgemont High,” penned by Cameron Crowe and directed by Amy Heckerling (who later directed “Clueless”), is not just a laugh-out-loud comedy; it delves into some surprisingly weighty subjects that might catch first-time viewers off guard.
The film fearlessly tackles a range of topics, from getting high to addressing abortion, and Cameron Crowe’s script navigates the complexities with a level of authenticity that makes you feel like you’re either revisiting your own high school days or encountering these relatable characters for the first time. It’s worth noting that the movie boasts an impressive cast, including future Hollywood luminaries like Jennifer Jason Leigh, Forrest Whitaker, and Nicolas Cage, all before they achieved their Oscar-winning status.
3. The Last American Virgin (1982)
The Last American Virgin boasts a solid 75 percent “Fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, solidifying its status as one of the standout ’80s teen sex comedies that emerged in the wake of Porky’s blockbuster success. The film’s premise channels the quintessential American Pie vibe, featuring a trio of high school buddies, each brimming with distinct and endearing personalities, embarking on a mission to shed their virginity as swiftly as possible.
Their unrelenting quest unfolds into a series of uproarious mishaps and tangled predicaments. Particularly, it takes a comically chaotic turn when Gary, brought to life by Lawrence Monoson, finds himself head over heels for a transfer student. What adds a twist of humor is that this newcomer doesn’t lust after Gary, but rather sets her sights on his close friend, Rick, portrayed by Steve Antin. Much like the classic Fast Times at Ridgemont High that preceded it, The Last American Virgin tackles the sensitive themes of abortion and teen pregnancy, infusing the comedy with an unexpectedly substantial and heartfelt dimension.
4. Risky Business (1983)
“Well, let’s take a moment to reflect – who among us hasn’t entertained the idea of venturing into some business venture during our high school years? It’s a phase of life brimming with dreams and aspirations. However, let’s be honest, not many of us would have dared to embark on the audacious path that young Joel chose: running a bordello right under his unsuspecting parents’ roof. Now, I’ll admit, the plot of this ’80s sensation may initially raise some eyebrows, demanding quite a substantial suspension of disbelief. But here’s the kicker – Risky Business possesses an irresistible allure that swiftly draws you into its world.
Now, when we talk about the film’s success, we owe a colossal debt to none other than Tom Cruise, who delivers a career-defining performance as Joel. He effortlessly embodies the archetypal high school senior, the golden boy, who finds himself captivated by a prostitute, portrayed brilliantly by Rebecca De Mornay. What unfolds next is nothing short of unconventional – Joel unwittingly becomes.
5. All the Right Moves (1983)
In the annals of Hollywood history, 1983 stands out as the year that catapulted a young Tom Cruise onto the trajectory of super stardom. Now, while many ’80s kids might fondly remember Cruise as the charismatic Maverick from Top Gun, a blockbuster that indisputably solidified his status as a Hollywood leading man, it’s worth rewinding the cinematic clock a bit. The actor initially captured our attention through films like Risky Business and All the Right Moves – with the latter being one of Cruise’s often overlooked early gems.
In All the Right Moves, Cruise steps into the shoes of Stefan, the high school football team’s most popular and prized player. In many ways, Stefan mirrors characters like Smash or Jason Street from Friday Night Lights, fervently believing that his ticket out of his declining small town hinges primarily on his gridiron prowess. However, his grand exit strategy spectacularly implodes when a heated confrontation with his coach results in Stefan’s expulsion from the team, promptly erasing his presence from the radar of college recruiters. In this film, Cruise’s raw acting talent shines brilliantly, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the superstar thespian he was destined to become. His portrayal of Stefan, battling to recoup the opportunities he believes he has squandered, oozes a startling level of authenticity and believability.
6. WarGames (1983)
Step into a high school movie that’s far from the ordinary, unless, of course, you spent your teenage years hacking into government computers on a mission to save the world from the brink of “global thermonuclear war.” In this gripping tale, Matthew Broderick takes on the role of a charming and brilliantly gifted teenager who unwittingly triggers a doomsday scenario while innocently searching for a new computer game to play. (Kids these days, right? shakes head).
WarGames, unlike your typical high school flick, ventures beyond the confines of the classroom, immersing you in a world where outdated computer graphics and fashion choices might induce a few cringes when viewed today. However, what truly stands the test of time are the palpable tension and emotionally charged stakes that this movie delivers. And let’s not forget that climactic showdown with the supercomputer, a scene that still manages to send shivers down the spine.
7. The Outsiders (1983)
Yes, it’s easy to overlook the fact that Frances Ford Coppola directed this beloved adaptation of S.E. Hinton’s novel, a literary staple for countless students. The story of Pony Boy and his fellow Greasers locked in a rivalry with The Socials remains just as captivating today as it did over 35 years ago. The young and fresh faces of the film’s ensemble cast are a testament to Coppola’s exceptional casting skills.
The movie doesn’t shy away from the raw and sometimes violent elements of its narrative, and it remains unapologetic about it. Coppola masterfully injects each scene in his adaptation with precisely the right amount of whatever it requires. When Ponyboy and Johnny’s altercation results in the tragic death of a Soc, our hearts plummet and shatter as Ponyboy grapples, in his teenage years, with the profound consequences of an adult-level tragedy.
8. Sixteen Candles (1984)
John Hughes’ inaugural entry in his series of high school-centric films holds a special place in our hearts. This ’80s teen comedy, crafted by Hughes himself, left an indelible mark on the decade and transformed the genre into a Hollywood mainstay. Hughes’ frequent collaborator, Molly Ringwald, takes the lead as Samantha, a 15-year-old grappling with teenage angst and confusion, all while on the brink of celebrating her sweet sixteen.
Feeling somewhat like a backdrop in her own family narrative, overshadowed by her sister’s upcoming wedding, Samantha navigates these emotions while also becoming entangled in her pursuit of Jake, the older and more popular senior played by Michael Schoeffling. Anthony Michael Hall delivers a scene-stealing performance in a movie that evokes both nostalgia for our high school days and relief that they’re now firmly in the past.
9. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
While not your typical high school movie, this classic from Wes Craven offers a unique and bloodier perspective on the horrors of those four years in school. You’re likely familiar with the plot: Teenager Nancy, portrayed by Heather Langenkamp, battles to defeat Freddy Krueger in her dreams after he has attacked and killed her friends while they slept.
The film’s ingenious premise, featuring a slasher movie villain haunting his victims in their nightmares, gave rise to a franchise that continues to send shivers down our spines. The dynamic among Nancy and her high school friends feels authentic and engaging, which heightens the audience’s investment when these teens find themselves facing Freddy’s deadly finger knives.
10. The Breakfast Club (1985)
The Breakfast Club is a film that seamlessly blends humor with deep, thought-provoking moments, solidifying its position as one of the standout films of the 1980s. This John Hughes classic features a brain, an athlete, a basket case, a princess, and a criminal, all serving Saturday detention together in what turns out to be a transformative experience.
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These students, with their starkly different backgrounds and personalities, shouldn’t be friends, let alone confined to the same room. However, it’s precisely because of these differences that they form a profound connection within the walls of the library. In this setting, they break free from the societal pressures that exist both outside and inside their school, allowing them to truly connect and understand each other.
11. Just One of the Guys (1985)
The 1980s were no strangers to mistaken identity comedies, and this particular cable classic stands out as one of the genre’s more noteworthy offerings. Terry, who is reeling from a recent disappointment in a writing competition and isn’t thrilled with her current relationship with a rather unpleasant college guy, decides to embark on a bold transformation. She disguises herself as a young man and enrolls in a different school, convinced that she would have won the competition if she were a guy.
With a striking resemblance to Ralph Macchio, Terry finds herself in a whirlwind of events, including developing feelings for a school nerd and attracting the attention of a rather forward female student. While the humor in this film might not reach the sophistication of a Judd Apatow comedy, it certainly rises above the standard fare found in many high school-themed movies. And, perhaps surprisingly for a PG-13 film, it manages to include a brief flash of female nudity.
12. Teen Wolf (1985)
Teen Wolf, a movie that thinly disguises its exploration of the challenges of adolescence, takes this concept to an incredibly exaggerated level. In this film, teenager Michael J. Fox grapples with the typical high school struggles while also contending with the fact that he’s a werewolf. It’s worth noting that for a comedy, the movie occasionally tiptoes into potentially horrifying territory (such as Fox’s character ominously demanding a keg of beer with demon-red eyes).
However, thanks to Fox’s immensely likable portrayal and his ability to maintain his charm even under layers of werewolf makeup, the movie manages to navigate these darker elements effectively. It delves into themes of identity and self-discovery, which resonate strongly with anyone who has experienced the tumultuous journey of high school.
13. Weird Science (1985)
When it comes to capturing the essence of teenage life, few do it better than John Hughes. While “Weird Science” may not always be top of mind when discussing his classic teen dramas and comedies, it holds a special place for its unique twist on adolescent preoccupations with a healthy dose of comical sci-fi. Wyatt and Gary, tired of being labeled as social outcasts by the more popular kids in school and frustrated by their dating struggles, embark on an unconventional experiment. They decide to don bras on their heads and use their trusty ’80s Commodore computer to create the perfect woman.
Subverting the classic Frankenstein’s Monster narrative, the boys’ creation takes the form of Lisa, portrayed by Kelly LeBrock—a sentient, almost-genie-like woman who guides them toward self-improvement. The film’s comedic highlights revolve around the lovably irritating character Chet, played by the intentionally obnoxious Bill Paxton. Things take an unexpected turn when Chet undergoes a transformation that can only be described as a peculiar blend of a turd and a toad.
14. Better Off Dead (1985)
The wonderfully eccentric filmmaker Savage Steve Holland gifted us with two cult classics: ‘Better Off Dead’ and ‘One Crazy Summer.’ While both films have their devoted fans, ‘Better Off Dead’ often holds a special place in the hearts of ’80s kids who grew up with it, thanks to countless HBO viewings. This outlandish satire takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride, complete with singing and dancing hamburgers and an Asian-American teen delivering a spot-on Howard Cosell impression right before a dramatic drag race—a true testament to John Cusack’s exceptional ’80s teen performance.
Cusack portrays Lane Meyer, a character as quirky as they come, with an equally eccentric family. When his girlfriend leaves him, Lane embarks on a series of hilariously failed suicide attempts. His life takes a turn when he falls for a new foreign exchange student and challenges Beth’s new boyfriend to a high-stakes ski competition. What sets this film apart is Holland’s unbridled creative spirit—his script feels like it was brought to life without any interference from the studio. It’s a shame that today’s high school comedies can’t enjoy the same level of creative freedom.
15. Stand By Me (1986)
Director Rob Reiner’s remarkable adaptation of Stephen King’s story stands out as one of the author’s finest cinematic translations, ranking alongside classics like ‘The Shawshank Redemption.’ ‘Stand By Me’ revolves around a group of young and diverse teens embarking on a quest to find the deceased body of a local kid. The film skillfully weaves between moments of comedy and drama.
As the kids draw closer to their morbid discovery, they gain profound insights into themselves and the profound impact of their families’ hidden secrets. ‘Stand By Me’ excels at delving into the idea that the unspoken aspects of our lives often convey more than we realize. It’s a coming-of-age tale that reminds us that we have the power to rise above the shadows of our past and become more than we ever imagined.
16. Pretty In Pink (1986)
John Hughes, known for his knack for capturing the essence of ’80s teen life, continues his cinematic exploration of these formative years with ‘Pretty In Pink.’ Following the success of ‘The Breakfast Club,’ Hughes delivers another must-see film in the genre. Starring Molly Ringwald, Andrew McCarthy, and Jon Cryer, this ’80s cult classic is a romantic comedy that skillfully dissects the social dynamics of high school.
The film delves into the complexities of teenage love, revealing that even young romance isn’t immune to the challenges and messiness found in more mature relationships. ‘Pretty In Pink’ is considered a quintessential part of the ‘Brat Pack’ movies, featuring a talented ensemble cast of up-and-coming stars. Not to mention, the movie’s soundtrack is truly exceptional, adding an extra layer of charm to this beloved film.
17. Lucas (1986)
Have you ever wondered about the origins of the iconic slow-clap, building to a thunderous applause? Well, the concept can be traced back to ‘Lucas,’ a film that became a staple for ’80s teens through cable and VHS. Corey Haim takes on the role of the titular character, Lucas, a highly intelligent student who often finds himself targeted by bullies, making him something of a social outcast.
Lucas exists on the fringes of high school popularity, yearning for a deeper connection with his peers. When he strikes up a friendship with the new girl, Maggie (Kerri Green from ‘The Goonies’), and develops a crush on her, he decides to join the football team in an attempt to impress her. This movie masterfully blends comedy and drama, delivering a heartwarming story that culminates in those unforgettable final moments that might just inspire you to join in on the slow-clap.
18. Hoosiers (1986)
Gene Hackman’s illustrious acting career is marked by numerous outstanding and unforgettable performances, and ‘Hoosiers’ is undoubtedly one of them. Few actors can portray gruff yet endearing characters as brilliantly as Hackman, and this quality is paramount for his role in this film. He takes on the character of a washed-up college basketball coach who gets a shot at redemption – and the chance for a championship – when he takes the reins of a struggling high school team in 1950s Indiana.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest sports dramas ever made, ‘Hoosiers’ skillfully taps into our nostalgia for days gone by. It weaves a compelling tale that uses sports as a metaphor, illustrating how one’s potential for the future should not be defined by a past that failed to fully realize it.
19. Peggy Sue Got Married (1986)
Time travel combined with the complexities of teenage emotions, all from the director of ‘The Godfather’? Count us in! Kathleen Turner takes on the role of Peggy Sue, a woman whose marriage is on the rocks due to her unfaithful husband (Nicolas Cage). She’s also dreading her 25th high school reunion, feeling disillusioned with the life choices she’s made. Overwhelmed by the real-world consequences of her decisions, Peggy Sue faints at the reunion and miraculously wakes up back in 1960.
In this unexpected twist, she’s given a second chance to relive her high school years and correct mistakes she never thought she could. Director Francis Ford Coppola’s skillful and nuanced approach to this potentially tricky material prevents it from sliding into campiness or melodrama. Meanwhile, Kathleen Turner delivers an outstanding and often overlooked performance that truly shines.
20. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” a movie seemingly on constant replay on cable TV, struck a chord with teenagers everywhere, who found it all too easy to identify with Matthew Broderick’s Ferris and his habit of breaking the fourth wall. The film revolves around Ferris’s elaborate scheme to ditch school, enlisting the company of his beautiful girlfriend, Sloane (Mia Sara), and his sheltered best friend, Cameron (Alan Ruck), who has some serious daddy issues. However, Ferris’s arch-nemesis, Principal Rooney (Jeffrey Jones), is hot on his trail.
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While Ferris’s day of adventure in Chicago is undoubtedly a blast for the film’s target audience, he can come across as a bit of a selfish character. “Borrowing” Cameron’s dad’s prized Ferrari and putting his best friend through a nerve-wracking ordeal isn’t exactly the epitome of friendship. Yet, in the end, Ferris manages to make it home unscathed, just in the nick of time before his parents and Principal Rooney uncover his misadventures. It’s a testament to John Hughes’ screenplay that we find ourselves cheering for such a morally complex character to evade capture.
21. Adventures in Babysitting (1987)
Every time we stumble upon the opening scene of this movie while channel surfing, we can’t help but get hit with a wave of nostalgia. In that iconic moment, babysitter Chris (Elizabeth Shue) dances in her bedroom to the tune of “Then He Kissed Me.” It’s arguably the last carefree moment Chris experiences before her plans with her older boyfriend go awry, leaving her with a last-minute babysitting job.
Chris and her young charges find themselves lost in the bustling city of Chicago, where they misplace their car and serendipitously befriend a mechanic who bears a striking resemblance to Marvel’s Thor – a role played by none other than a young Vincent D’Onofrio. Interestingly, Adventures in Babysitting hit theaters just two weeks after D’Onofrio’s career-defining performance as Gomer Pyle in Full Metal Jacket. These delightful little details in Chris Columbus’ directorial debut endeared this comedy to a passionate fan base.
22. Can’t Buy Me Love (1987)
The ’80s flick that catapulted Patrick Dempsey to stardom and teenage heartthrob status, Can’t Buy Me Love, features the future Dr. McDreamy as a nerdy young man grappling with the quest for love and social acceptance. For a cool $1000, he recruits cheerleader Cindy (portrayed by the late Amanda Petersen) to pose as his girlfriend and teach him the art of coolness – or at least, as cool as one can get with ’80s fashion and hair products.
While it may not boast the wittiest or most flawless script ever written, the moments of humor certainly outweigh the missteps. Plus, the endearing characters more than make up for any storytelling gaps as we eagerly cheer for these two teens to find their way to each other. And when they finally do, it culminates in one of the most unforgettable closing scenes in the realm of high school movies.
23. Three O’Clock High (1987)
Three O’Clock High is one of those high school comedies that makes you wonder why it didn’t attract a larger audience when it first hit theaters. With the pace of a drama and the wit of a satire, High revolves around a conflict between Jerry, the timid kid at school (played by Casey Siemaszko), and Buddy, the troublemaking bully who sets his sights on Jerry.
As the story unfolds, it steadily builds toward the classic after-school showdown scheduled for 3 pm in the parking lot. Every scene crackles with sharp humor and unexpected tension, and you’ll be amazed at how emotionally invested you become in the unassuming hero’s “David vs. Goliath” predicament. Jerry’s innovative determination takes everyone by surprise, making this film a hidden gem in the world of high school comedies.
24. Some Kind of Wonderful (1987)
Even in John Hughes’ most celebrated comedies, there was always an underlying desire to delve into more dramatic territory. Some Kind of Wonderful, an underrated gem in Hughes’ filmography, allows him to fully embrace that inclination. It unfolds as a slow-burn story about an outsider art student, portrayed by Eric Stoltz, who sets his sights on courting the popular girl, played by Lea Thompson, who seems out of his league.
To navigate the challenges of this romantic pursuit, he turns to his best friend, the tomboy Watts, portrayed by the exceptionally talented Mary Stuart Masterson. However, the plot takes an unexpected turn as the protagonist becomes ensnared in an unintentional love triangle. He discovers that Watts loves him in a way she believes he’ll never reciprocate. The latter part of this movie is a poignant exploration of unrequited love, a feeling many of us experienced during our high school years. Fortunately, the film offers a more uplifting conclusion than many of our own personal stories.
25. Heathers (1988)
Amidst the sea of ’80s teen comedies, Heathers managed to stand out by offering a sharp wit that was ahead of its time. This dark and satirical take on teenage angst, laced with a healthy dose of dark humor and murder, found a unique place in the cultural zeitgeist.
Heathers is a pitch-black satire that delves into the complexities of high school life, dissecting the messiness of cliques and the pursuit of popularity. It’s often regarded as one of the finest cult classics of the ’80s. The film is filled with memorable quotes and has a timeless quality that makes it endlessly re-watchable. Heathers is that rare cinematic gem that continues to reveal new layers of brilliance with each viewing.
26. Stand and Deliver (1988)
Despite its sharp and ahead-of-its-time wit, Heathers managed to carve out a unique place in popular culture with its darkly humorous and incisive commentary on teenage angst, spiced up with a hefty dose of deception and murder.
This pitch-black satire takes a critical look at high school life, complete with all the complexities of cliques and popularity. Heathers is arguably the cream of the crop when it comes to ’80s movies that have earned a devoted cult following. It’s a film that you can quote endlessly and re-watch countless times, each viewing revealing something new to appreciate.
27. Say Anything (1989)
Writer Cameron Crowe marked his directorial debut with this endearing high school romance, which immortalized Lloyd Dobler’s iconic gesture of professing his love with a boombox held high. The object of Lloyd’s affection is the seemingly “out of his league” Diane Court, brilliantly portrayed by Ione Skye. Diane, a top student with her life meticulously orchestrated by her caring “helicopter dad,” becomes the focus of Lloyd’s affections.
Lloyd, an awkward teenager with a penchant for trenchcoats and dreams of professional kickboxing, navigates the challenges of teenage romance with Diane in a way that is both relatable and captivating, thanks to Crowe’s skillful handling of the material.
28. Dead Poets Society (1989)
Oh, Captain, my Captain!” The late Robin Williams delivers an unforgettable performance, easily ranking among his top five, as John Keating, an English teacher hired by a prestigious private school to ignite inspiration in his students, urging them to become the best versions of themselves. (Though, let’s face it, realistically, 90 percent of these young men will grow up to be the type who quote Walt Whitman in their Tinder bios, right below gym selfies, their biceps ever so subtly flexing, showcasing their “carpe dime 4 life” tattoos.)
Peter Weir’s masterful direction skillfully guides Williams’ performance, preventing it from going “full Williams,” allowing the story’s more dramatic moments to take center stage. It’s a high school experience outside the norm for most viewers, and watching this ’80s classic invariably makes us want to quote that line and stand on our school desks.
29. Lean on Me (1989)
Directed by John G. Avildsen, known for his work on Rocky, this fact-based film features the incredible Morgan Freeman in a role that truly showcases his talent. Lean on Me tells the story of a determined former teacher’s mission to transform New Jersey’s East Side High, which happens to be the lowest-ranked school in the state. Freeman portrays Principal Joe Clark, a no-nonsense leader who uses tough love to tackle the school’s gang and drug issues while inspiring the students.
Freeman’s performance here is nothing short of impressive and helped catapult him to stardom. Lean on Me served as a blueprint for future films centered on inner-city school students striving for improvement. Unlike some of its counterparts that fall into clichés, Lean on Me stands out thanks to its sincere and gripping approach to the subject.
30. Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)
Fast forward 30 years, and you’ll find that Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure not only remains one of the greatest time travel movies ever crafted but also ranks among the most enjoyable high school comedies. Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter deliver flawless performances in the lead roles, portraying two archetypal California teens with dreams of becoming rock musicians while struggling to pass their history class.
In a quest to improve their historical knowledge, they embark on a journey through time using a phone booth to seek out real-life historical figures. The film’s sharp and witty screenplay, along with its unforgettable lines like ‘Be excellent to each other!’ have solidified its status as a beloved classic, with a dedicated fan base that continues to grow over three decades since its initial release.
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Category: MOVIE FEATURES
