Legendary films of the 1980s: what to watch this weekend

The films of the 1980s became the hallmark of an entire era filled with unique stories and vivid characters. It was during this period that cinema presented the world with masterpieces that still delight audiences.

Our selection includes films that have stood the test of time and remain relevant today. They will definitely be a great choice for evening viewing.

Dirty Dancing (1987)

A cult romantic movie that has become one of the symbols of 1980s cinema. The film was directed by Emile Ardolino and starred Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey.

The plot revolves around 17-year-old Frances "Baby" Houseman, who falls in love with a charismatic dancer Johnny Castle while on vacation with her family in the summer of 1963.

The film touches on the themes of love, freedom, social inequality and personal growth. The film's soundtrack, in particular the song "(I've Had) The Time of My Life", won an Academy Award. The film became not only a box office hit, but also an important milestone in the popularization of dance culture.

Top Gun (1986)

An American action movie that made director Tony Scott famous and Tom Cruise a star. The film tells the story of a young and ambitious pilot Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, who studies at the prestigious Top Gun flight school. He faces intense training, competition with other pilots, and a romance with a charming instructor, Charlie Blackwood.

The movie features dynamic aerial battles, charismatic characters and an unforgettable soundtrack, including the hit song "Take My Breath Away". The film became a landmark in 1980s pop culture and won an Academy Award for Best Original Song. In 2022, a sequel, Top Gun: Maverick, which also became successful.

She's Gotta Have It (1986)

The debut film by director Spike Lee, which opened a new page in independent American cinema. This comedy drama tells the story of Nola Darling, a modern woman from Brooklyn who is dating three men at the same time, trying to maintain her independence and freedom.

The film raises important issues of gender equality, sexuality and personal choice. It has been recognized for its unique style, innovative approach and portrayal of African-American culture.

The film became a commercial success and received several awards, including an award at the Cannes Film Festival. In 2017, Spike Lee created a series based on the plot of the movie, which was broadcast on Netflix.

Coming to America (1988)

A cult comedy directed by John Landis and starring Eddie Murphy. The plot tells the story of Akeem, the prince of the fictional African country of Zamunda, who travels to the United States to find true love, unrelated to his royal status. Incognito, he settles in an ordinary Queens neighborhood, works in a restaurant, and falls in love with Lisa McDowell, the daughter of the restaurant owner.

The film is characterized by comedic moments, a witty script and the fact that Murphy played several roles at once. The film became a box office hit and gained the status of a 1980s pop culture classic. In 2021, the sequel, Coming to America 2, was released, returning viewers to the colorful world of Zamunda.

Die Hard (1988)

The legendary action movie directed by John McTiernan, which has become one of the most influential films in the genre. The plot centers on police officer John McClane, who arrives in Los Angeles for Christmas to reconcile with his wife. But the festive evening is interrupted by the capture of a skyscraper by terrorists, and John finds himself the only one who can resist them.

Thanks to Bruce Willis' charismatic performance and tense atmosphere, the film became a classic of the genre, and its antagonist, Hans Gruber, played by Alan Rickman, became one of the most famous movie villains.

The film was a box-office success, won numerous awards and launched a popular franchise. Die Hard not only became the face of action movies in the late 1980s, but also created a new type of hero - an ordinary person in extreme circumstances.

Terms of Endearment (1983)

A touching dramatic comedy directed by James Brooks, which became one of the most prominent films of the 1980s. The film tells the story of a complex but deep relationship between a mother, Aurora, and her daughter, Emma, as they overcome life's difficulties, search for love and loss. The film stars Shirley MacLaine and Debra Winger in the lead roles, with Jack Nicholson as Aurora's charismatic neighbor.

The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director and Best Actress. Its popularity is due not only to the talented acting, but also to the ability to harmoniously combine humor and drama. "The Language of Tenderness" is still considered a classic that touches the heart and makes you think about the value of family ties.

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