For as long as I can remember, I’ve always been watching and enjoying films from the eighties. My parents showed me and my sister films from the decade as we grew up, and those are moments I treasure. Not only do I love these films because of the memories I have associated with them, but also because of what they have taught me. Here are eight of my picks that I think are perfect for the next time you have a movie night with your friends:
1. Heathers (1988)
Winona Ryder absolutely kills it in this dark comedy. The film was developed into a musical around ten years ago, and some of the songs have even become increasingly popular thanks to choreographed dances to them in TikTok. I think that a lot of college girls can find inspiration in main character Veronica Sawyer because she learns what friendship really means, as well as how to stand up for herself and refuse to conform to the rules that encompass being in high school.
2. Can’t Buy Me Love (1987)
Grey’s Anatomy fans, this one if for you! A young McDreamy as a nerd pining after the popular girl? Totally cliche, but not at all superficial. Love interest Cindy is more than meets the eye. Even though she seems like a stereotypical “popular cheerleader”, her vulnerability around main character Ronald shows girls that the love they deserve is with someone who appreciates all aspects of themselves, not just all the superficial stuff.
3. The Breakfast Club (1985)
I feel like this one doesn’t need much of an explanation just because of how well-known it is. This movie is a cult classic, and the two female leads Claire (played by Molly Ringwold) and Allison (played by Ally Sheedy) show that even though stereotypes exist, it’s possible for girls to break out of those societal molds.
4. Footloose (1984)
This movie just makes me want to get up and dance, and its portrayal of preacher’s daughter Ariel Moore can be relatable to many college girls. Navigating life after a traumatic accident, the authority figures of the town set harsh rules, such as strict curfews and a law about not being allowed to dance. Newcomer Ren swoops in and changes that, and we see Ariel develop into a young woman who isn’t afraid to voice her mind.
5. Steel Magnolias (1989)
When I say this movie made me ugly cry, I mean it. The ending to this film is absolutely gut-wrenching but beautiful at the same time. The reason I love it though is that not only are there comedic moments, but the film depicts a strong group of women that band together when life throws obstacles their way. Dolly Parton and Julia Roberts are both part of the cast, and they only add to the many examples of female strength shown within the movie.
6. Adventures in Babysitting (1987)
Something about films being set in the Chicagoland area makes me so happy! Main character Chris is tasked with all the crazy antics that pair with babysitting a group of kids, although this film takes it to a new extreme. This film is an underrated gem in my opinion, and seeing Chris develop her leadership skills by the end is something all college girls want to be able to do before graduation day. After all, who said girls can’t rule the world?
7. St. Elmo’s Fire (1985)
This one is probably the most “adult” film on my list. The movie centers around a group of friends who recently graduated college and their gatherings at St. Elmo’s Bar. It deals with a lot of the fears and harsh realities being an adult in the real-world can bring, and how it’s totally okay to admit post-college life isn’t always as glamorous as it seems.
8. Dirty Dancing (1987)
What can I say other than this film has Patrick Swayze delivering that iconic line, “Nobody puts Baby in a corner”?! But on a serious note, this movie shows the main character Baby discovering who she is and becoming more comfortable in her own skin, a process that many young women embark on in their college years. Although learning to dance like Baby does may not be everyone’s way of expressing themselves, college girls can relate to her inner struggles.
Naturally, not every one of my favorite films can make my list, otherwise it would be way too long. I also love films like The Karate Kid, License to Drive, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, and my all time favorite film Stand By Me. Honestly, the eighties were so iconic that almost everyone can find a movie or song from the decade that they identify with! So hopefully my list inspired you to dive into some eighties films, and of course, it can’t be an eighties themed article if I don’t end off with this quote: Sincerely Yours, The Breakfast Club.