If you were growing up in the mid-80s, you know that the decade delivered an iconic mix of adventure, comedy, and nostalgia. Here’s a list of Johnny Spoiler’s favorite films from 1983 to 1989, each offering a unique taste of the era’s cinematic magic.

1983 - The Big Chill
A timeless exploration of friendship and aging, The Big Chill follows a group of college friends reuniting for a weekend after the death of their friend. Filled with poignant moments and an unforgettable 60s-era soundtrack, it delves into themes of lost youth, unfulfilled dreams, and the bonds that define us.

1983 - Return of the Jedi
The epic conclusion to the original Star Wars trilogy, Return of the Jedi takes audiences back to a galaxy far, far away, where Luke Skywalker faces Darth Vader and Emperor Palpatine in a final battle for the fate of the galaxy. With thrilling action, memorable characters, and a heart-pounding rescue mission, it remains a high point in the Star Wars saga.

1984 - The Last Starfighter
In this thrilling space adventure, a teenager gets recruited to fight an intergalactic war after beating an arcade game, which was actually a recruitment tool. With its groundbreaking visual effects, The Last Starfighter blends nostalgia for 80s gaming with a fun, heartfelt hero’s journey.

1985 - Back to the Future
Who doesn’t love Back to the Future? Marty McFly, played by Michael J. Fox, travels back in time in a DeLorean modified by the eccentric Doc Brown. With witty humor, unforgettable characters, and time-traveling hijinks, it became one of the most beloved films of the 80s, sparking a trilogy that still resonates today.

1985 - Masters of the Universe
This live-action adaptation of the popular He-Man cartoon series sees the heroic He-Man battle the evil Skeletor on Earth in a battle for control of the powerful Sword of Power. With a mix of fantasy, action, and campy 80s charm, Masters of the Universe became a cult classic for fans of the cartoon and the genre alike.

1986 - Big Trouble in Little China
John Carpenter’s wild, action-packed comedy Big Trouble in Little China stars Kurt Russell as Jack Burton, a brash truck driver who gets caught up in a supernatural battle in Chinatown. Packed with martial arts, mythical creatures, and tongue-in-cheek humor, it’s a cult classic for fans of weird and wonderful cinema.

1987 - Planes, Trains, and Automobiles
Starring Steve Martin and John Candy, Planes, Trains, and Automobiles is the quintessential 80s comedy about two mismatched travelers trying to get home for Thanksgiving. Heartwarming, hilarious, and full of chaotic mishaps, this movie remains one of the best holiday comedies of all time.

1988 - Scrooged
A modern take on Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, Scrooged stars Bill Murray as a cynical TV executive who’s visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. With sharp wit and heartfelt moments, it captures the holiday spirit while still delivering Murray’s signature comedic style.

1989 - Field of Dreams
Field of Dreams is a beautifully nostalgic film that explores the magic of baseball, family, and following your dreams. Kevin Costner’s portrayal of an Iowa farmer who builds a baseball field after hearing a mysterious voice became a heartfelt story that resonates with audiences who believe in second chances.

These films from the mid-80s represent a golden era of creativity, blending humor, heart, and high-concept stories that continue to inspire generations of movie lovers. Whether you're looking for adventure, laughs, or a bit of nostalgia, these classics are the perfect rewind into a beloved decade of cinema.