1980s teen movies
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- DirectorRobert ZemeckisStarsMichael J. FoxChristopher LloydLea ThompsonMarty McFly, a 17-year-old high school student, is accidentally sent 30 years into the past in a time-traveling DeLorean invented by his close friend, the maverick scientist Doc Brown.
It's a timeless classic and a perfect film.
Grade: A+ - DirectorKatsuhiro ÔtomoStarsMitsuo IwataNozomu SasakiMami KoyamaA secret military project endangers Neo-Tokyo when it turns a biker gang member into a rampaging psychic psychopath who can only be stopped by a teenager, his gang of biker friends and a group of psychics.Didn't even consider this a teen movie at first. But it totally is. The best anime film ever, violent, great teen characters who are just hardcore, trippy visuals, badass movie.
Grade: A+ - DirectorJohn G. AvildsenStarsRalph MacchioPat MoritaElisabeth ShueA martial arts master agrees to teach karate to a bullied teenager.Grade: A+
- DirectorIsao TakahataStarsTsutomu TatsumiAyano ShiraishiAkemi YamaguchiA young boy and his little sister struggle to survive in Japan during World War II.Not what often comes to mind when you think 1980s teen movie, but the lead is a twin and it's one of the most haunting and beautiful films ever.
Grade: A+ - DirectorRob ReinerStarsWil WheatonRiver PhoenixCorey FeldmanA writer recounts a childhood journey with his friends to find the body of a missing boy.About younger characters than most teen movies are, it's timeless it's themes relate to any era, Stranger Things, IT, etc take from this movie. The best Stephan King Adaption.
Grade: A - DirectorMichael LehmannStarsWinona RyderChristian SlaterShannen DohertyAt Westerburg High where cliques rule, jocks dominate and all the popular girls are named Heather, it's going to take a Veronica and mysterious new kid to give teen angst a body count.Ahead of its time what other dark teen movies strive to be.
Grade: A - DirectorPaul BrickmanStarsTom CruiseRebecca De MornayJoe PantolianoA Chicago teenager is looking for fun at home while his parents are away, but the situation quickly gets out of hand.Grade: A
- DirectorAmy HeckerlingStarsSean PennJennifer Jason LeighJudge ReinholdA group of Southern California high school students are enjoying their most important subjects: sex, drugs and rock n' roll.Grade: A
- DirectorJohn HughesStarsEmilio EstevezJudd NelsonMolly RingwaldFive high school students meet in Saturday detention and discover how they have a great deal more in common than they thought.Grade: A
- DirectorJohn HughesStarsMatthew BroderickAlan RuckMia SaraA popular high school student, admired by his peers, decides to take a day off from school and goes to extreme lengths to pull it off, to the chagrin of his Dean, who'll do anything to stop him.Grade: A
- DirectorDennis HopperStarsLinda ManzDennis HopperSharon FarrellA young girl whose father is an ex-convict and whose mother is a junkie finds it difficult to conform and tries to find comfort in a quirky combination of Elvis and the punk scene.Linda Manz gives one of the best young performances ever, Dennis Hopper is menacing and gives assured direction, a spirtual sequel to easy rider. Cool, grim, nihisltic, unsung masterpiece.
Grade: A- - DirectorSteven SpielbergStarsHenry ThomasDrew BarrymorePeter CoyoteA troubled child summons the courage to help a friendly alien escape from Earth and return to his home planet.Some might say they are too young. But everyone considers stand by me in the same genre and the age difference isn't huge. A all time classic not much to say.
Grade: A- - DirectorFrancis Ford CoppolaStarsKathleen TurnerNicolas CageBarry MillerPeggy Sue faints at a high school reunion. When she wakes up, she finds herself in her own past, just before she finished school.Kathleen Turner was nominated for the Oscar for her performance in this film. She's great here, as is Nic Cage. Directed by Francis Ford Coppla- Peggy Sue Got Married is a great time travel teen movie, amazing lead performance, sweet message, great 50s setting.
Grade: A- - DirectorTim HunterStarsCrispin GloverKeanu ReevesIone SkyeA high school slacker commits a shocking act and proceeds to let his friends in on the secret. However, the friends' reaction is almost as ambiguous and perplexing as the crime itself.Crispin Glover has never been better, Keanu Reeves first starring role he captures grunge perfectly, a dark teen movie that's unlike the glossy films of the 80s, Ione Skye is great, Dennis Hopper is great and crazy as always, Daniel Roebuck is menacing, Joshua John Miller as Tim, who was originally supposed to be played by Cory Haim, is excellent at such a young age. One of the darkest teen movie's ever, captures aimless youth, low-budget, cool, feels authentic. The film also has some easy rider connections, way ahead of its time, still relevant today, movies like Super Dark Times, and Mean Creek clearly inspired by this film. Aimless teens. The stuff with the teacher is hilarious.
Grade: A- - DirectorBob ClarkStarsPeter BillingsleyMelinda DillonDarren McGavinIn the 1940s, a young boy named Ralphie Parker attempts to convince his parents, teacher, and Santa Claus that a Red Ryder Range 200 Shot BB gun really is the perfect Christmas gift.Actor was 12 at the time, I think the character is 9. One of the best chrismiss movies ever and a great coming of age film. Amazing production design and costumes.
Grade: A- - DirectorRobert ZemeckisStarsMichael J. FoxChristopher LloydLea ThompsonAfter visiting 2015, Marty McFly must repeat his visit to 1955 to prevent disastrous changes to 1985...without interfering with his first trip.Grade: A-
- DirectorCameron CroweStarsJohn CusackIone SkyeJohn MahoneyA noble underachiever and a beautiful valedictorian fall in love the summer before she goes off to college.Grade: A-
- DirectorRichard DonnerStarsSean AstinJosh BrolinJeff CohenA group of young misfits called The Goonies discover an ancient map and set out on an adventure to find a legendary pirate's long-lost treasure.Grade: A-
- DirectorWolfgang PetersenStarsNoah HathawayBarret OliverTami StronachA troubled boy dives into a wondrous fantasy world through the pages of a mysterious book.main character is a teen/ tween.
Grade: A- - DirectorSidney LumetStarsRiver PhoenixChristine LahtiJudd HirschThe eldest son of a fugitive family comes of age and wants to live his own life.An interesting blend of political thriller, teen angst film, and family film. River Phoenix is phenomenal and was nominated for the Oscar, at 18 years old. Also nominated for best screenplay. However, despite be River Phoenix's only nominated performance and its acclaim the film even today I never hear talked about and is on no streaming services.His parents in the film played by Judd Hirsch and Christine Lahti are great as the parents. This film has one of the best performances in River and director's in Lument of this whole decade/ genre. Bombed at the box office sadly making only. Martha P is also great. In 1989 River Phoenix expressed interest in a sequel, which would have been cool to seen given how the film ends.
Grade: A- - DirectorJames FoleyStarsSean PennChristopher WalkenMary Stuart MastersonReunited with his career criminal father, tough teen Brad thinks he's found his ticket to an exciting life of crime, only to find out he's wrong.Not a conventional 80s teen movie. Sean Penn plays a tough teen and gives one of his best young performances. Christopher Walken is menacing in this dark movie based off a true story.
rade: A- - DirectorJohn BoormanStarsPowers BootheMeg FosterYara VaneauAfter the son of engineer Bill Markham is abducted by an aboriginal tribe on the edge of the rain forest, the engineer spends the next 10 years searching for him.One of the most underrated adventure movies of all time. Overlooked or foolishly not seen as a teen film the film is about a father and son. Powers boothe is Amaizng here and his son tomme played by John boomer man son is also great. He 15 in the film and much of it focoused on him.
Grade; A- - DirectorHayao MiyazakiStarsMayumi TanakaKeiko YokozawaKotoe HatsuiA young boy and a girl with a magic crystal must race against pirates and foreign agents in a search for a legendary floating castle.Two main characters are 13. One of the best anime movies ever and best scfi movies of the 80s. Great characters, a good villian turn by mark hammil, and gorgeous animation.
Grade: A- - DirectorJoe DanteStarsZach GalliganPhoebe CatesHoyt AxtonA young man inadvertently breaks three important rules concerning his new pet and unleashes a horde of malevolently mischievous monsters on a small town.Grade: A-
- DirectorAlan ParkerStarsMatthew ModineNicolas CageJohn HarkinsAfter two friends return home from the Vietnam War one becomes mentally unstable and obsesses with becoming a bird.An early Nic Cage film that showed his promise he lost 15 pounds and pulled out two teeth for this part. Mathew Modine who like cage was an 80 teen star (vison quest came out year later). Both are great here. Alan Parker who directed another unique 80s teen movie with Fame shows off his visually prow-less as a director. 12 million budget and made under 2 million at the time. Alan Parker uses quick shots and cuts to string togethor moments into fluid scenes without feel jarring just like would do in Angelhert. Birdy is one of the most unique and honest teen films of the 80s. And is also a great anti- war film. Two amazing lead performances and strong direction.
Grade: A- - DirectorMel DamskiStarsDoug McKeonCatherine Mary StewartKelly PrestonGuided by James Dean, the eternal symbol of youthful rebellion, a gawky high school student obsessed with the hottest girl in class takes a crash course in teenage coolness from his motorcycle-rebel neighbor.Porky's helped popularize the 80s teen sex raunchy film. Although the 80s is easily the best era for the teen film genre. The heavy sexy comedies in this era or in the teen genre were very hit or miss. Mischeif is one of the most underrated of this genre. And is able to stand apart from other films like it by taking place in the 50s. 1980s were full of 1950s nostalgic films. Similar to how today we have films set in the 80s. Great use of old cars, costumes, and music
Grade: A- - DirectorJohn SaylesStarsRosanna ArquetteVincent SpanoJoanna MerlinIn a 1966 New Jersey high school, Jill and new student Sheik from the other side of the tracks make their way in a first love romance.A hidden gem seemingly forgotten today. Another forgotten John Sayles 80s film. He made one one of the best teen films of the decade with this film. One of the best baseball movies ever and one burt reynolds best with breaking in Sayles is able to show off his talents for period pieces and coming of age in this film. Both performances are great and the ending is surpassingly mature. Great high school to college transition movie. Also good period setting in the 60s.
Grade: A- - DirectorSam RaimiStarsBruce CampbellEllen SandweissRichard DeManincorFive friends travel to a cabin in the woods, where they unknowingly release flesh-possessing demons.Maybe not be considered by many to be a teen movie, but it doe's have college students. So it's a teen horror film.
Grade: A- - DirectorJohn BadhamStarsMatthew BroderickAlly SheedyJohn WoodA young man finds a back door into a military central computer in which reality is confused with game-playing, possibly starting World War III.Grade: A-
- DirectorStephen HerekStarsKeanu ReevesAlex WinterGeorge CarlinTwo rock-'n-rolling teens, on the verge of failing their class, set out on a quest to make the ultimate school history report after being presented with a time machine.I love the Bill and Ted movies and the first one is a classic. It's one of the best time travel movies, the duo of reeves and winter have great chemistry. This film is just so much fun, the way they develop the people they have plucked from the past, the running jokes, it's all excellent!!
Grade: A- - DirectorWoody AllenStarsMia FarrowDianne WiestMike StarrA nostalgic look at radio's golden age focusing on one ordinary family and the various performers in the medium.Inspired by Woody Allen's Childhood mixed I with Radio Vinnetes, short films for his era that he was nostalgic for. A box office bomb and one of his most unknown films.
Grade: A- - DirectorHayao MiyazakiStarsSumi ShimamotoMahito TsujimuraHisako KyôdaWarrior and pacifist Princess Nausicaä desperately struggles to prevent two warring nations from destroying themselves and their dying planet.Similar to castle sky follows teen character. One of the best anime films of the 80s and similar in tech and tone to castle in the sky. Great dub voice cast that include Shia and Patrick Stewart. As well as Uma Thurman.
Grade: A- - DirectorPeter WeirStarsRobin WilliamsRobert Sean LeonardEthan HawkeMaverick teacher John Keating returns in 1959 to the prestigious New England boys' boarding school where he was once a star student, using poetry to embolden his pupils to new heights of self-expression.Grade: A-
- DirectorTaylor HackfordStarsRay SharkeyTovah FeldshuhPeter GallagherBased on the life of rock promoter/producer Bob Marcucci, who discovered, among others, Frankie Avalon and Fabian.An incredibly underrated film. First performance of Peter gal hanger and joe pantilo who are both great here. Two actors who are also great in this film paul land and ray sharky( who won a golden globe for this). Both sadly died young but the whole cast is amazing. Loosely based of Frank avallion and Fabian. Great production design.
Grade: A- - DirectorPeter BogdanovichStarsCherEric StoltzSam ElliottA teenager with a massive facial skull deformity and biker gang mother attempt to live as normal a life as possible under the circumstances.Mask is a beautiful, poignant, and sad film. Eric Stoltz, Cher, Sam Elliot, and laura dern are all great here. The ending with Rocky's death is so sad. The makeup is also great. When it comes to 80s teen movies this film is not talked about enough.
Grade: B+ - DirectorAlex CoxStarsHarry Dean StantonEmilio EstevezTracey WalterA young punk, recruited by a car repo agency, finds himself in pursuit of a Chevrolet Malibu with a huge, $20,000 bounty--and something otherworldly stashed in its trunk.Nothing like I've ever seen. A cult film that is able to mash up multiple genres from punk to Scfi . Great performances from Emilo and harry statnan. Makes the most of it's small budget and very unique. Funny, dark, message on society, weird.
Grade: B+ - DirectorFrancis Ford CoppolaStarsMatt DillonMickey RourkeDiane LaneAbsent-minded street thug Rusty James struggles to live up to his legendary older brother's reputation, and longs for the days of gang warfare.My favorite of the SE Hilton Matt Dillon films. It's funny that outsiders is the most known of the three because I think tex and Rumble fish are both better. Mickey Rorque, Dennis Hopper, Chris Penn, a young Nic Cage, Diane Lane, and Fishbourne round out this impressive cast.
Grade: B+ - DirectorJohn WatersStarsSonny BonoRuth BrownDivineA 'pleasantly plump' teenager teaches 1962 Baltimore a thing or two about integration after landing a spot on a local TV dance show.Great ensemble cast and production designs better than the 2007 remake
Grade: B+ - DirectorTim HunterStarsMatt DillonJim MetzlerMeg TillyAfter their mother dies and their father leaves them, teenage brothers Tex and Mason McCormick struggle to make it on their own.Amazing lead performance from Matt Dillion and the actor who played mason was also great. Dark, realistic, raw. Also an se Elliot addition like rumble fish and outsiders.
Grade: B+ - DirectorEmile ArdolinoStarsPatrick SwayzeJennifer GreyJerry OrbachSpending the summer at a Catskills resort with her family, Frances "Baby" Houseman falls in love with the camp's dance instructor, Johnny Castle.Grade: B+
- DirectorDavid AnspaughStarsGene HackmanBarbara HersheyDennis HopperA coach with a checkered past and a local drunk train a small-town high school basketball team to become a top contender for the state championship in 1950s Indiana.Although Gene Hackman and Dennis Hopper are what most remember from this film. The teens (aka the team) the audience roots for. Although conventinal this sports drama is elevualted by great performances.
Grade: B+ - DirectorJoel SchumacherStarsJason PatricCorey HaimDianne WiestAfter moving to a new town, two brothers discover that the area is a haven for vampires.Joel Schumacher was always hit or miss as a director, but this film was one of his best. This film has a great cast full of iconic 80s teen actors- Kiefer Sutherland, the Corey's, Jason Patric, Alex Winter, and Dianne Wiest. Not only does this film have a great cast, it does a great job of mashing genres, has cool lore, a great villain, and a bunch of cool fights. The Lost Boys is a classic!
Grade: B+ - DirectorJohn HughesStarsMolly RingwaldAnthony Michael HallJustin HenryA girl's "sweet" sixteenth birthday is anything but special: her family forgets about it, and she suffers from every embarrassment possible.Much of Sixteen Candles has not aged well, but it's a classic. Anthony Michael Hall gives his signature performance as the geek, more mature that other films like it at the time, the ending it sweet, it's an iconic, fun, at times deep film.
Grade: B+ - DirectorHoward DeutchStarsMolly RingwaldJon CryerHarry Dean StantonA poor girl must choose between the affections of dating her childhood sweetheart or a rich but sensitive playboy.Molly Ringwald could do no wrong in the early to mid-80s. This is the most overlooked of her three 80s teen classic, but this is a great romance film and it gives her the most too work with. John Cryer is iconic as Duckie. Fans can argue on which ending they like more. This film is sweet, has great characters, is another classic from John Hughes, and an update of a classic story.
Grade: B+ - DirectorMichael DinnerStarsDonald SutherlandAndrew McCarthyJohn HeardA new transfer student to St. Basil's Boys' Prep School tries to fit in while romantically pursuing a troubled young girl.Set in the 1960s one of the most underated teen movies ever great supporting cast Donald Sutherland and John heard. A young Patrick Dempsey, Kevin Dillion is fantastic, and Andrew McCarthy is amazing. A box office bomb McCarthy would later say “ it was the favorite of his films from that era” better than his other teen films like less than zero maybe even better than the cult classic pretty in pink. Deserves a second look. Mary Stuart matterson Is also good
Grade: B+ - DirectorTony BillStarsChris MakepeaceAdam BaldwinMatt DillonWhen a boy comes to a new school and gets harassed by a bully, he acquires the services of the school's most feared kid as a bodyguard.Unlike other teen films of this era, my Bodyguard is more realistic, emotional, and the teens actually look like teens. All the performances are great: Chris Makepeace as the sweet clifford, his cooky family- ruth gordon is great, Adam Baldwin as the gentle giant, young cocky matt Dillon, young Joan Cusack, and Paul Quandt who never acted again after this movie steals scenes. It's a nice little film with an emotional climax. A great 80s teen movie that will bring a smile to your face.
Grade: B+ - DirectorFrancis Ford CoppolaStarsC. Thomas HowellMatt DillonRalph MacchioIn a small Oklahoma town in 1964, the rivalry between two gangs, the poor Greasers and the rich Socs, heats up when one gang member accidentally kills a member of the other.( the complete novel 2021 directors cut)
A vast improvement over the original theatrical cut. This director cut fills in the gaps and is more faithful to the book. This 80s teen movie classic takes place in the 1960s. This film has an all star cast and is full of great performances, especially from Matt Dillon. The new music in this film also greatly improves the films atmosphere. It's also shot beautiful and new 4k restoration looks great
Grade: B+ - DirectorRob ReinerStarsJohn CusackDaphne ZunigaAnthony EdwardsWalter Gibson is a university freshman going through a dry spell. His old buddy arranges a "sure thing" for him in California. Gibson and his classmate Allison then take a long road trip out to Cali, and both foil each other's plans.John cusack breakout role a sweet film in a crass time for the genere
Grade: B+ - DirectorSavage Steve HollandStarsJohn CusackDavid Ogden StiersKim DarbyAfter his girlfriend ditches him for a boorish ski jock, Lane decides that suicide is the only answer. However, his increasingly inept attempts bring him only more agony and embarrassment. Filled with the wildest teen nightmares.This is not an average 80s teen film. It's one of the wittiest, smartest, and underrated. Dark and clever, but not as dark and clever as someone another unconventional teen movie's on this list like River's edge and Heathers. Better off Dead flips 80s tropes on their heads or turns them up to 11. Instead, of having the protagonist mope around after a breakup, he actually tries to kill himself, but it's played off as jokes. A foreign exchange student romance, who does not speak English. An Ex GF who breaks up for silly artificial reasons. A mother who can not really cook, and they show like live animals. The use of claymation and drawings is fresh. The humor is dark and sly. Killer newsman and a father who is conventional, and a parody of himself at the same time. This movie pokes fun at the genre, it also falls into to, it's dark, it's weird, that burger moment. The way how they speak English to her. Darkly comic and underrated. The explosion at dinner, such a weird fun film. Ahead of its time. Not everything works, and it's not as enjoyable to watch as other films on this list. Oh and the racing stuff is hilarious.
Grade: B+ - DirectorMartha CoolidgeStarsNicolas CageDeborah ForemanElizabeth DailyJulie, a girl from the valley, meets Randy, a punk from the city. They are from different worlds and find love. Somehow they need to stay together in spite of her trendy, shallow friends.Great performance from young Nic Cage in his starmaking role. I like how they get the valley speak down in this. An adaption of shake sphere. That does a good job of fleshing out the friends and parents, which many 1980s teen films fail to do. Same director of another teen classic that subverts and thrives in its genre trappings in Real Genius. What I appreciate about valley girl is that it has a more authentic and indie feel than many movies from this era, which even the good John huge ones can feel overly glossy at times. For example, Randy's feelings after the breakp, the cursing, etc.
Grade: B+ - DirectorJoyce ChopraStarsTreat WilliamsLaura DernMary Kay PlaceA free-spirited 15-year-old girl flirts with a dangerous stranger in the Northern California suburbs and must prepare herself for the frightening and traumatic consequences.Based off a short story and clearly inspired by badlands. Laura dern first lead performance after a supporting turn in mask. Made only 16k at the box office a forgotten gem. And one of the more serious films on this list.
Grade: B+ - DirectorBill ForsythStarsJohn Gordon SinclairDee HepburnJake D'ArcyGregory is a normal teen who is infatuated with a classmate. He must work to win her affection.One of the best British movies of all time and sweet and mature. Launched bill foryse carrer years later he would make a sequal in 1998 that killed his career sadly
Grade: 89 - DirectorBoaz DavidsonStarsLawrence MonosonDiane FranklinSteve AntinPizza delivery boy Gary, loudmouth David and hunky Rick are three high school students out to lose their virginity any way they can. Gary falls for transfer student Karen, who gets involved with Rick.One of the most realistic and underrated teen movies of the 80s. Most of the actors did not get big, but it does have Diane Franklin who was in this, Bill and Ted, and Better off Dead. I enjoy all the characters- I feel like the romance between Gary and Karen could have been better. Like he justs loves her and we're supposed to expect it. All of the cast especially- Rick and David, are all good. Great soundtrack, it's a remake of Lemon Popsicles. One of Cannon Group-best films, this movie is cut from the 80s, timeless, feels predictable, and starkly different from other teen films of the time. Clashing of tones- dark=sexplotation. The last 20 minutes after eric gets with Karen- is where the movie changes- it gets way darker, the abortion, the fight between best friends, and that ending- ( to Karen with love), such a sad, but realistic ending.
Grade: B+ - DirectorMarshall BrickmanStarsJohn LithgowChristopher ColletRichard CouncilA high school prodigy builds an atomic bomb with stolen plutonium to win the 45th National Science Fair and expose a nuclear weapons lab posing as a nuclear medical research facility in Ithaca, NY.A forgotten fun film with a neat premise from this genre. 18 million budget only made roughly 3 and was not given great reviews by critics (50 RT). However, Roger Ebert gave it a (4/4). Anyway I found this film to be fun. Jon Ligthow is creepy and great as always. Christopher Collet starred in a trio of underated 80s teen films in firstborn, sleep away camp, and Manhattan project. Here he is charismatic. Post Watergate 70s and 80s movies were full of paranoia thrillers. To do this genre in a teen setting is a nice change of pace. The second hour is tense, thrilling, and ligthow is warm and great.
Grade: B+ - DirectorJohn G. AvildsenStarsPat MoritaRalph MacchioPat E. JohnsonDaniel accompanies his mentor, Mr. Miyagi, to Miyagi's childhood home in Okinawa. Miyagi visits his dying father and confronts his old rival, while Daniel falls in love and inadvertently makes a new rival of his own.Initially had this lower, but better on a rewatch- the empire strikes back of the franchise. It's dark, it looks beautiful in japan, Chozen is a good villain, and Daniel learns the importance of mercy. It's the biggest sin is what it did to Allie, however, that was out of the producer's hand. They change up the formula of the 1st one and make an underrated darker sequel.
Grade: B+ - DirectorRichard BenjaminStarsSean PennElizabeth McGovernNicolas CageIn 1942 California, two young men await induction into the U.S. Marines and say goodbye to their girlfriends.Young Cage and Penn in both one of their early lead films are great here. I love the 1940s setting. The constumes, cars, setting all looked great (6.5 million budget)- sadly only made 6 million. Completely forgotten another forgotten was from this subgenre. Today many film pundits have criticized the 80s as a decade talking about of course the serious of 70s films. Which are credited in starting (the new teen movie genre with American Graffiti). Although there was Rebel without the cause (a top 5 teen movie ever ) years earlier the genere needed a revival. Anyway the 80s and 80s teen films have been mangled unfairly. Although there was many bad films from this genere I hope this list shines attention to what I think are the best of what i have seen including the classics and the underated gems. Except teen wolf Too I enjoy everything on this list. This film was actually nominated for AFI 100 year list for top 100 romance films in 2002. Outside of that it doesn't getting talked about or praised only 10 reviews on RT. Crispin Glover and Michael Madsen also make fun small scenes.
Grade: B+ - DirectorMartha CoolidgeStarsVal KilmerStacy PeraltaDaniel AdesAn uptight teenage prodigy enters a top engineering college, but feels awkward among the freewheeling students. When a professor aims to turn their laser project into a military weapon, he and his offbeat roommate plot to ruin the plan.One of the most underrated teen movies of the 1980s. Val Kilmer is great here, the film takes place in college, has a fun weird premise, and that popcorn scene. A smart teen film that deserves more recognition. This film also has an important message about how to use your mind/ talents.
Grade:B - DirectorMarek KanievskaStarsAndrew McCarthyJami GertzRobert Downey Jr.A college freshman returns to L.A. for the holidays at his ex-girlfriend's request, but discovers that his former best friend has an out-of-control drug habit.RDJ shines and spader is also great. One of the darker films on this list perfectly captures the era
Grade: B - DirectorJoe JohnstonStarsRick MoranisMatt FrewerMarcia StrassmanThe scientist father of a teenage girl and boy accidentally shrinks his and two other neighborhood teens to the size of insects. Now the teens must fight diminutive dangers as the father searches for them.Grade: B
- DirectorEmile ArdolinoStarsCybill ShepherdRobert Downey Jr.Ryan O'NealA reincarnated man unknowingly falls in love with his own daughter from his previous life. Once he realizes this, he tries to end their relationship before angels erase his memory.Grade: B
Main character our college students. Also romance with older characters, but id still consider an 80s teen film. - DirectorBob FosseStarsMariel HemingwayEric RobertsCliff RobertsonA successful young model finds trouble when her obsessive manager-turned-husband becomes dangerously jealous.May not come to mind when think teen movie. But lead character is 19
- DirectorZelda BarronStarsPhoebe CatesBridget FondaScott CoffeySummer of 1963. Carson is getting married to her boyfriend so her friends Melaina, Pudge and Luanne take her to Myrtle Beach for one last irresponsible weekend.Am underrated teen film with great period setting and bolsterd by strong performances from the cast.
Grade: B - DirectorGarry MarshallStarsMatt DillonHector ElizondoMolly McCarthyA recent high-school graduate unsure of his future gets a summer job at the Flamingo beach club, and meets the charismatic Phil Brody.Grade: B
Great lead performance by Matt d who did a string of good 80s teen films - DirectorJames TobackStarsMolly RingwaldRobert Downey Jr.Dennis HopperA womanizer meets his match when he falls for a woman in debt to the mafia.Not the typical Molly 80s teen film. Funny but also dark and witty. Young RDJ shines and a stacked supporting cast of Harvey kitel, and Dennis hopper. A young tony sirco is also solid
grade: B - DirectorRod DanielStarsMichael J. FoxJames HamptonSusan UrsittiAn ordinary high school student discovers that his family has an unusual pedigree.In 85, Michael J Fox could do no wrong! This film is raunchy, has a fun premise, 80s hijinks, it's just a blast. Sure, it's cheesy and preediciblee. But, it's a fun very watchable movie and Fox is great here.
Grade:B - DirectorSteve RashStarsPatrick DempseyAmanda PetersonCourtney GainsAn outcast secretly pays the most popular girl in school one thousand dollars to pretend to be his girlfriend for a month.Another Patrick Dempsey teen movie, this movie made him a teen heartthrob. An underrated teen film that has since gain more love. This film has a silly troubling premise but is so much fun. The two leads are great, it pokes fun at clicks, and teen dynamics. A classic teen film. With a goofy great ending.
Grade: B - DirectorHoward DeutchStarsEric StoltzMary Stuart MastersonLea ThompsonWhen Keith goes out with Amanda, the girl of his dreams, Amanda's ex-boyfriend plans to get back at Keith. Meanwhile, Keith's best friend, tomboy Watts, realizes she has feelings for Keith.Grade: B
A reworking of pretty in pink with different genders some kind of wonderful might be predictable but has great performances and characters you care about. - DirectorPhil Alden RobinsonStarsPatrick DempseyTalia BalsamBeverly D'AngeloA 14-year-old nicknamed the 'Woo Woo Kid', is a teenage casanova who has affairs and runs away to marry two older women, mothers themselves, fascinating the public and the media with his romantic prowess.A crazy true story, Patrick Dempsy is known for a few good teen movies from the 80s. People talk about Cant Buy me love and Loverboy, but this film is an underrated gem. Amazing lead performance by Patrick Dempsy, awesome production design, made for 7 million but did not even crack a million. Article below tells all the facts. Fun underrated teen genre film.
Grade: B
https://clickamericana.com/topics/love-marriage/14-year-old-woo-woo-kid-gets-married-1944 - DirectorLisa GottliebStarsJoyce HyserClayton RohnerBilly JayneTerry feels discriminated against when the summer jobs at the Sun Tribune go to two guys. She decides to do something about it. She dresses like a guy and gets a haircut. Will students at the other high school notice? Girls notice "him".The other 80s William Zabka teen movie, this movie has actually gained a cult following over the years. Joyce Hyser gives a great performance, gender bender, ahead of it's time, what she's the man wishes to be.
Grade: B - DirectorChris ColumbusStarsElisabeth ShueMaia BrewtonKeith CooganA babysitter must battle her way through the big city after being stranded there with the kids she's looking after.Elizabeth Shue is great here, more family-friendly, but still has that 80s charm and humor. Different from other films on this list. This film has a solid set up and is just a bunch of fun to watch. It's not as deep as some of the films below, but it's just a solid watch. Chris Columbus brings the same energy and wit here, he brought to other 80s classics.
Grade: B - DirectorPenelope SpheerisStarsMaxwell CaulfieldCharlie SheenPatti D'ArbanvilleRoy and Bo leave their small California town the weekend after graduation for a short road trip to Los Angeles. Soon, they find themselves lashing out and leaving a trail of bodies behind them. The violence escalates throughout.A forgotten early Charlie Sheen film. Maxwell Caulfield, of grease 2 fame, is also good here. The film follows two cynical teens. However, unlike more glossier films from this genre/ decade. This film is one of the darker and grimiest on this list. A young Christopher Macdonald is solid here. Like Over the Edge (1979), Valley Girl, and badlands shows the negative side of calforina teenager, as well as Cool opening, bombastic finally, underated, it's a shame Caulfield career never took off because he's great here.
Grade: B - DirectorJoseph RubenStarsTerry O'QuinnJill SchoelenShelley HackAfter murdering his entire family, a man marries a widow with a teenage daughter in another town and prepares to do it all over again.Great performance from Jill scholan, effective thriller with a solid teen side plot.
Grade: B - DirectorHarold BeckerStarsMatthew ModineLinda FiorentinoMichael SchoefflingA high school wrestler in Spokane, Washington has trouble focusing on his training regimen when a beautiful young drifter takes up temporary residence at his home.Mathew modine had a good 80s run with full metal jacket and birdy. Here he gives a good performance. An unconventional mature romance. Some solid supporting work from 80s stalwarts like cooch. And even a young forest Whitaker. The best wrestling movie? Surprisingly poignant.
Grade: B - DirectorGene SaksStarsBlythe DannerJonathan SilvermanStacey GlickEugene, a young teenage Jewish boy, recalls his memoirs of his time as an adolescent youth. He goes through the hardships of puberty, sexual fantasy, and living the life of a poor boy in a crowded house.The first movie in the EUGENE trilogy great production design, sweet performances
Grade: B - DirectorJohn HughesStarsAnthony Michael HallIlan Mitchell-SmithKelly LeBrockTwo high-school nerds use a computer program to literally create the perfect woman, who promptly turns their lives upside-down.Classic John Hughes film, not as good as some of his other teen films, but still a lot of fun. This is an iconic, silly teen movie.
Grade:B - DirectorKeith GordonStarsJohn GloverIlan Mitchell-SmithWallace LanghamThe Vigils are a gang of students at Trinity Catholic School... part of the tradition. They control the other boys by intimidation and the threat of violence.Much different than the book, dark, underrated, and overlooked. The film stars Ilan Mitchell-Smith, from weird science. Much different than book
Grade: B - DirectorKathryn BigelowMonty MontgomeryStarsWillem DafoeJ. Don FergusonRobert GordonTrouble ensues when a motorcycle gang stops in a small southern town while heading to the races at Daytona.Not much under the hood, but makes up with It with slick style, a good performance from Dafoe, sturdy direction from a young kb. Great music and costumes. Cleary made for next to nothing. It's teen elements/ characters are aimeless throughout the film. Interesting little film. the 50s elements make it worth a watch.
Grade: B- - DirectorJoan Micklin SilverStarsPatrick DempseyKate JacksonRobert GintyRandy is still unfocused after 2 years in college. When his dad refuses to keep paying his tuition, he gets a job delivering pizzas. Several alluring cougars pay him $200 for pizza delivery and "services rendered." As for their husbands.Patrick Dempsey is a good lead, the premise is hilarious, low production, kind of predictable, but has that 80s cheese charm.
Grade: B- - DirectorJohn G. AvildsenStarsRalph MacchioPat MoritaRobyn LivelyOstracised villain John Kreese attempts to gain revenge on Daniel and Miyagi, with the help of a Vietnam War comrade, the wealthy owner of a toxic waste disposal business.Terry Silver, John Kreese, Mike Barnes are all fun overtop villains. The stuff with Daniel joining Cobra Kai is good. It's dark, violent, over the top, silly, cheesy, bad but so enjoyable to watch. Hardcore fans point out it's bright spots. The romance and tree stuff is whack. Repetitive from the first and all the actors look too old, but it's 80s fluff.
Grad: B- - DirectorPhil JoanouStarsCasey SiemaszkoAnnie RyanRichard TysonA nerd gets himself in hot water with the new bully, a quiet bad boy who challenges him to fight on the grounds of their high school after the day's end.Casey Siemaszko is great here as is Richard Tyson as the bully. They carry this simple but fun film. Even Philip Baker Hall, Jeff Tambor, and Paul feig show up.
Grade: B- - DirectorJohn HughesStarsJohn CandyMacaulay CulkinJean Louisa KellyLaid back commitment-phobe Buck babysits his brother's rebellious teenage daughter and her cute younger brother and sister.Not what comes to mine when someone think's about a teen movie. But, it's a family movie with teen main characters. One of John Candy's iconic films and John Huges less films, it's fun, cute, but nothing special.
Grade: B- - DirectorErnest ThompsonStarsRobert Downey Jr.Kiefer SutherlandBruce DernTwo friends living in a small town during the 1960s, run away to enjoy their freedom during the Vietnam War, thus disappointing the father of one of them. When they return to town, they realize the importance of family unity.Powerful performances from a stack cast improve script and some of it's hokey ideas. But a solid forgotten film
Grade: C+ - DirectorMichael AptedStarsTeri GarrPeter WellerChristopher ColletA teenager must protect his family when his mother's sinister new boyfriend begins exerting his authority in their home.Corey him first film, rdj first film, Christopher coolet made some good 80s teen films. Peter Weller is also good. Michael Apted's most overlooked film good performance from Peter Weller.
Grade: C+ - DirectorChristopher LeitchStarsJason BatemanKim DarbyJohn AstinTodd Howard is a struggling college student. Nothing seems to be going very well for him, until he turns into a wolf.Grade: 50- the first teen wolf is a cheesy classic this one if pretty bad.