We take a look at some of our favourite films released in the 1980’s….
Lethal Weapon:
Comedy, action and great characters, Lethal Weapon is one of the greatest action thriller films that have been created. Directed by Richard Donner, the strength lies in the characters Martin Riggs and Roger Murtaugh and the contrast in their personalities that works in helping to solve the crime at the centre of it. Thrilling and amusing by equal turns it still holds up today.
Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark:
Just simply one of the best adventure films of all time! There is drama, comedy, great action sequences and a superbly put together cast to bring this whole film together. From start to finish it is a bold and adventurous experience that still enthrals from start to finish.
Die Hard:
You think of the 1980’s and one of the top films that you will probably think of is Die Hard. With Alan Rickman as the bad guy (complete with some classic villainous lines), Bruce Willis providing plenty of grit and power as the hero, classic action sequences there is still plenty to love about this film. It still stands the test of time.
Working Girl:
This film is hard to resist because (in my personal opinion) it is inspirational story about never stop believing that you can’t achieve what you want to achieve no matter how many knocks you take in life. It is a film about following your dreams no matter what the cost told in a really realistic way. I love seeing the way Melanie Griffiths’s character blossoms and evolves in the wake of betrayal, Sigourney Weaver as the scheming boss is delightful and Harrison Ford makes for wonderful support as well. Just a delight and inspiring to watch.
9 to 5:
As well as featuring the iconic title song, this film is wonderfully witty and empowering as three women are determined to make changes in the workplace against the tyranny of their misogynistic boss. The performances from Jane Fonda, Dolly Parton and Lily Tomlin are wonderful, with a real highlight scene being exploring their fantasies of how they would get rid of Mr Hart (the boss). Every moment beautifully hold and this is a film that certainly still feels relevant today.
The Princess Bride:
It is hard to imagine a more quirky fairytale story to be released in cinemas and yet somehow it works thanks to the brilliance of the cast who really offer great comical timing and depth to the characters that it is difficult not to be swept away by it all! Based on William Goldman’s book and directed by Rob Reiner it stands out because it never feels conventional – it always has an unexpected twist or turn.
Back to the Future:
This fun filled time-travelling classic shows just how creative and fun film making was in the 1980’s. There is plenty of spirit, comedy and imagination that is put into this film that it is completely hard to resist everything it has to offer. A joy from start to finish.
Fatal Attraction:
I can’t imagine how much it took out of Glenn Close to have to play this particular character day in and day while filming went on. It is a brilliant performance by her – one that definitely keeps us all on the edge of our seats, matched by James Dearden’s (from his 1980 short film Diversion) story and screenplay that ensures the audience is enthralled from start to finish.
Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
For something slightly more family friendly but still with a hint of mystery and laughter to it, Who Framed Roger Rabbit? should be on your list to watch. I love the blend of live action and animation that grabs the audiences attention and holds it as the story unfolds – with plenty of twists and turns along the way.
Romancing the Stone:
Michael Douglas, Kathleen Turner and Danny DeVito star in this chaotically enjoyable action adventure film that is filled with laughter, impressive action sequences and of course romance. Never seen it? Highly recommend this and its sequel The Jewel of the Nile.