Eight '80s classics that deserve a rewatch

Self-isolating has never been so rad.
March 25, 2020 2:19 p.m. EST
April 13, 2020 12:26 p.m. EST
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Canadians are spending a lot of extra time on the couch lately, and as the days go on we’re looking for more great shows and movies to keep us entertained. If you’re ready for a little throwback goodness, we have some ideas that are straight outta the ‘80s. The hair band decade was a glorious time for film, from coming-of-age dramas to straight-up ridiculous comedies. Here’s a fun playlist to get you started—just don’t forget to get up and stretch between films!

GHOSTBUSTERS

Dan Aykroyd, Bill Murray, Sigourney WeaverGhostbusters brings together everything great about ‘80s cinema, incorporating elements of comedy, horror, action and science fiction (plus, those “state of the art” special effects circa 1984). It’s packed with classic Murray and Aykroyd humour (filmed shortly after their SNL days) and showed off a lighter side of Sigourney Weaver. While the 2016 version was fun, the original Ghostbusters is a feel good escape that will entertain people in every age group. Plus, the music is as amazing as you remember. Who ya gonna call?Where to watch: Streaming on CTV Movies

THE KARATE KID

Ralph Macchio, Pat MoritaClassic movie series are perfect for binging at home, and the original Karate Kid films make for an epic rewatch. Daniel’s super intense after school adventures will remind you how much more freedom ‘80s and ‘90s kids had (seriously, can you imagine this scenario today?) while offering the soothing presence of karate master Mr. Miyagi. And hey, maybe the action sequences will inspire a little backyard karate workout session (it’s not a bad idea).Where to watch: Streaming on Crave

STAND BY ME

River Phoenix, Wil Wheaton, Corey Feldman, Jerry O’ConnellIf you argued that one of the best ‘80s films ever centred around a bunch of children finding another kid’s dead body, you wouldn’t be wrong. What sounds grim (and truly is, on many levels) is also a tender, touching coming-of-age story that explores family, grief, friendship and growing up. It’s a heartfelt film with plenty of laugh out loud moments to even out the dark plotline. If you haven’t downloaded the soundtrack already, you will after giving this a rewatch.Where to watch: Streaming on CTV Movies

THE BREAKFAST CLUB

Molly Ringwald, Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Ally Sheedy, Anthony Michael HallA brain, an athlete, a basketcase, a princess and a criminal - that’s how one assistant principal views a group of high school kids in Saturday detention, and how they initially view each other. As their day-long punishment progresses, the group learns plenty about each other and themselves. This classic John Hughes film taught us that nobody is truly defined by a stereotype (an important point that still rings true today). You’ll love it for the sincere, empathetic message but also for the hilarious ‘80s fashion and legendary dance sequence.Where to watch: Streaming on Crave

TOP GUN

Tom Cruise, Val Kilmer, Kelly McGillisIf you can’t think about Top Gun without bursting into “The Danger Zone” by Kenny Loggins, you’re not alone. This action-packed ‘80s drama features a young Tom Cruise as a skilled but reckless U.S. naval aviator who falls for a beautiful astrophysicist while studying at the Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School (all in a day’s work, right?). There’s tragedy, romance and plenty of over-the-top action sequences to thrill you.Where to watch: Streaming on Amazon Prime Video

FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF

Matthew Broderick, Mia Sara, Alan RuckAnother John Hughes classic of the era, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off gave us many things, including a joke that teachers everywhere would make for decades. This film has been called “a love letter to Chicago” as it shows a number of the city’s famous landmarks, and has a celebratory vibe that will leave you in a good mood. Make some popcorn and watch it when you want something light and fun to enjoy.Where to watch: Available for rent on YouTube

THE GOONIES

Sean Astin, Corey Feldman, Martha PlimptonHeyyyyy, youuuuu guyyyys! This wild action-adventure is a classic from every ‘80s kid’s childhood. In true ‘80s fashion, it involves a group of largely unsupervised kids going on a mission to stop a serious crisis (in this case, the foreclosure of their homes). There’s an actual treasure hunt in this movie complete with booby traps and the discovery of a deformed recluse who belongs to a local crime family. If that’s not enough to make you watch, what is?Where to watch: Streaming on Crave

THE PRINCESS BRIDE

Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy PatinkinThink of The Princess Bride as a soothing balm for the soul that you can use as needed in these crazy times. It’s a nostalgic, charming fantasy adventure film that will feel like curling up with a warm blanket. You’ll laugh, you’ll be strangely comforted by the familiar tale and ridiculous scenes, you’ll appreciate the sweet narrator grandpa. Seriously, if you had a hard day, go watch The Princess Bride.Where to watch: Streaming on Crave[video_embed id='1926171']RELATED: Ben and Jessica Mulroney review classic movie wedding scenes[/video_embed]

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