The 1980s was a decade that left an indelible mark on the film industry, and its visual and sonic aesthetic continues to influence modern cinema to this day. Neon-lit cityscapes, synth-heavy soundtracks, and a dystopian cyberpunk feel defined the era’s sci-fi and action movies, from Blade Runner to The Terminator, and Total Recall to RoboCop. These iconic films, often shot on VHS-tape warm colors, have become synonymous with 80s nostalgia. Their influence can still be seen in contemporary movies that pay homage to these classics, serving up slices of nostalgia for audiences who grew up on these films.
Ti West‘s MaXXXine is the latest movie to shower itself with 80s nostalgia. However, the last two decades have seen many other movies serve up a similar formula. So, here are 6 of the best movies that pay homage to the 80s.
6. The Guest (2014)
The Guest is a 2014 American thriller film that pays homage to the VHS-era thrillers of the 1980s. The movie follows David (Dan Stevens), a mysterious and charismatic drifter who appears at the home of a recently bereaved family, claiming to be a deceased soldier who served with their son. As he quickly becomes embroiled in their lives, it becomes clear that his true intentions are far from pure.
With its pulsing synth-heavy soundtrack and neon-lit visuals, The Guest has an unmistakable 80s feel that’s amplified by its use of nostalgic references to classic thrillers like The Thing and The Lost Boys. But it’s the film’s climax, set in a neon-drenched high school auditorium, that truly captures the essence of the decade’s cinematic style. As David’s true nature is revealed and the bodies start to pile up, the film’s frenetic energy reaches a fever pitch, culminating in a heart-pumping, retro-futuristic showdown that will leave viewers breathless.
5. Summer of 84 (2018)
Set in the summer of 1984, Summer of 84 follows a group of teenage friends who become obsessed with the idea that their new police officer neighbor, Wayne Mackay (Rich Sommer), is a serial killer. Led by the curious and determined Davey, the friends embark on a series of amateur sleuthing adventures, sneaking peeks into Wayne’s house and gathering evidence to support their theory. As they get closer to uncovering the truth, they find themselves in increasingly precarious situations, with their pranks and surveillance escalating into something more sinister. Along the way, the film pays homage to classic coming-of-age 80s movies like Stand By Me, focusing on a group of young boys who band together to uncover a grave injustice. With its nostalgic nods to the era’s fashion, music, and culture, Summer of 84 captures the thrill and uncertainty of adolescence as it explores themes of trust, loyalty, and the blurring of lines between fact and fiction.
Watch Summer of 84 on Apple TV+
4. VFW (2019)
In the 2019 film VFW, a group of veteran friends from the Vietnam War reunite at their local VFW post, only to find themselves facing off against a group of punk rock thugs who have taken over the building. As the battle-hardened veterans, led by the grizzled and wise-cracking Fred (Stephen Lang), take on the rowdy intruders, it becomes clear that this is more than just a simple brawl. With its grainy, neon-lit cinematography and pulsating electronic soundtrack, VFW pays homage to the gritty, cyber-punk aesthetic of 80s action movies like The Terminator and Repo Man.
What really sets the film apart is its cast of beloved 80s stars, including William Sadler, Fred Williamson, and David Patrick Kelly (Commando, 48 Hrs.). As they bring their signature tough-guy charm to their roles, VFW becomes a love letter to the genre-defining films of yesteryear, with plenty of nods to 80s classics. The result is a wildly entertaining, nostalgia-fueled thrill ride that’s equal parts action-packed and heartwarming in the face of camaraderie.
3. Adventureland (2009)
Set in the sweltering summer of 1987, Adventureland is a coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows James Brennan (Jesse Eisenberg), a recent college graduate who takes a summer job at a local amusement park, Adventureland, to make ends meet. As James navigates the eccentric and quirky world of the park’s employees, he finds himself drawn to Em Lewin (Kristen Stewart), a beautiful and enigmatic worker who seems to be hiding secrets of her own. As the summer wears on, James and Em’s relationship deepens, but so do the challenges they face, from the ups and downs of young love to the struggles of finding their place in the world.
Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, Adventureland has largely flown under the radar since its release, with many praising its nuanced exploration of adolescence, witty dialogue, and memorable performances. Despite being an underrated gem, Adventureland remains a charming and relatable film that captures the nostalgia and uncertainty of late adolescence, making it a must-see for fans of John Hughes‘ (Uncle Buck, Home Alone) classic coming-of-age films.
Watch Adventureland on Paramount+
2. It Follows (2014)
It Follows is a 2014 horror film that has been hailed as one of the most unique and innovative horror movies of the last decade. The film follows Jay (Maika Monroe), a young woman who is pursued by a supernatural entity that takes on the form of different people, always appearing to her as someone she knows or has recently interacted with. As Jay tries to escape her relentless pursuer, she discovers that the entity is drawn to her and will never stop until it catches her.
What sets It Follows apart from other horror movies is its innovative use of the “monstrous other” concept, which blurs the lines between good and evil and raises questions about the nature of identity and mortality. Despite not being set in the 1980s, It Follows has an undeniable 80s feel, thanks to its nods to classic horror movie franchises like Halloween and The Exorcist, as well as its synth-heavy soundtrack that evokes the nostalgia of John Carpenter‘s iconic scores. The film’s retro aesthetic is matched by its bold storytelling and atmospheric tension, making It Follows a standout in the horror genre and a must-see for fans of both classic and modern horror cinema.
Watch It Follows on Prime Video
1. Drive (2011)
Drive is a 2011 neo-noir thriller that has become a cult classic. The movie follows Ryan Gosling‘s unnamed protagonist, a quiet and enigmatic getaway driver who moonlights as a wheelman for criminals while working as a mechanic by day. When he falls for his neighbor Irene (Carey Mulligan), he becomes embroiled in her estranged husband’s debt to a local gangster and must use his driving skills to protect them. The film’s synth-heavy soundtrack, composed by Cliff Martinez, perfectly captures the moody and atmospheric tone of the movie, which is reminiscent of many classic 80s thrillers. The protagonist’s silence and stoicism only add to the film’s mystique, making him an instantly iconic character. With its slow-burning tension, stylish visuals, and memorable score, Drive is a love letter to 80s cinema that has cemented its place as one of the most beloved and influential films of the 2010s. Want to read more about Drive? Here’s where the cast are now.
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