The 80s was a decade that shaped many aspects of today’s culture – from fashion to music and movies. The era’s entertainment industry, in particular, was revolutionary, producing iconic films and timeless lessons. These films are just as relevant and captivating today as they were back then. The reasons behind their lasting influence are numerous and varied, making 80s cinema reign supreme even three decades after its heyday.
The Power of Story
The 80s was a time of great social and political upheaval. The world was changing rapidly, and Hollywood was not immune to these changes. As a result, many of the films released during this time were a reflection of society’s concerns and anxieties. Whether it was the Cold War, nuclear proliferation or the Reagan administration’s policies, films of the 80s were often grounded in real-world issues.
This grounding in reality is what made 80s cinema so powerful. By tackling real-world issues head-on, the films of the 80s were able to convey important messages that still resonate today. Back then, films like “The Breakfast Club» and “Dead Poet’s Society» tackled issues of conformity and the importance of individuality. Today, these same messages are just as relevant, if not more so, than they were in the 80s. It is a testament to the power of storytelling that these films remain so impactful decades after their initial release.
The Rise of the Blockbuster
The 80s was also a time of great change in the film industry itself. Up until the 80s, films were generally categorized into two categories: big-budget epics like «Gone with the Wind» and «The Ten Commandments» or small, independent arthouse films. However, the blockbuster film came into existence in the 80s, a genre of movie that would change Hollywood forever.
The blockbuster was defined by its massive budgets, special effects, and globe-trotting plotlines. These big-budget extravaganzas, such as «Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark» and «Back to the Future,» were not just successful but immense crowd-pleasers. These films exemplified the type of big-budget films that would become the norm in the years to come, making the 80s cinema a milestone in movie storytelling.
The Rise of the Action Movie
The 80s was also the era of the action movie. This may be hard to imagine today, but prior to «Die Hard» and «Lethal Weapon,» the action movie genre was still in its infancy. However, the 80s saw the rise of the action hero who demonstrated unwavering toughness in the face of impossible odds.
The action movie also spawned numerous sub-genres, from the «buddy-cop» films like «48 Hrs.» to pure martial-arts films like «The Karate Kid.» Unlike today’s superhero movies, the action hero was a mere mortal who became a hero because of his ability to fight back and overcome oppression. This resonated with audiences at the time and continues to do so today.
The Music and Fashion of the 80s
The 80s was a time of big hair, neon colors, and spectacular music. These elements were not just iconic but also provided the perfect backdrop for many classic films of the era. The music choices of many of the films in the 80s were not just incidental but underscored the emotion and narrative of the story.
The fashion of the 80s, on the other hand, was bold and unapologetic. From the iconic shoulder pads of «Working Girl» to the punk and goth fashion showcased in «The Lost Boys,» fashion played a crucial role in many of the films of the era. This fashion was so impactful that it is still imitated today, proving that 80s fashion is still as popular as ever.
Practical Lessons Learned from the 80s Cinema
The lessons and themes of 80s cinema are timeless and relevant even today. Here are some practical lessons that can be learned from some of the most iconic films released during the 1980s:
Stand By Me (1986)
The coming-of-age classic «Stand By Me» is a timeless story about the power of friendship and the temporary nature of childhood. This movie teaches us that life itself is temporary, but the connections we form along the way will last forever. It is a reminder to cherish the moments we have in the present and to appreciate the relationships we have in our lives.
The Karate Kid (1984)
«The Karate Kid» is a movie that teaches us the importance of self-discipline and perseverance. The protagonist, Daniel, learns the value of hard work and dedication as he trains to become a karate master. This movie also teaches us that it is important to stand up for ourselves and fight back against bullies.
Back to the Future (1985)
«Back to the Future» is a movie that is loved by audiences even today. The movie teaches us the value of taking chances, even if it means going against the norm. Marty McFly learns that courage and persistence can change the course of history, which is a lesson that is still relevant today.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
«The Breakfast Club» is a movie that explores the dynamics of high school cliques and the social pressures that teenagers face. The movie teaches us the importance of accepting others for who they are and the value of empathy. It is a reminder that no matter how different we may seem, we are all human and share the same struggles in life.
The Legacy of 80s Cinema
The legacy of 80s cinema is undeniable. The films produced during this era left a lasting impression, not just on Hollywood but on American culture as a whole. These movies have become a part of our shared cultural heritage and continue to captivate audiences even today.
Whether it is the timeless lessons imparted or the bold fashion and music, the 80s was an era that gave birth to some of the most enduring films in cinematic history. These films are not just relics of the past but continue to inspire new generations of creatives and audiences alike.
In conclusion, the 80s was a decade of great change in the film industry. This era produced films that are iconic, timeless, and still relevant to this day. The lessons and themes contained within these films have proven to be just as valuable today as they were in the 80s. It is a testament to the power of storytelling that these movies remain relevant even after thirty years. So the next time you watch an iconic 80s film, remember that you’re not just watching a movie but a piece of cultural history that shaped Hollywood and society for decades to come.