10 Iconic Kids Movies From The 80s That Every Generation Should See

Nov 19, 2024 · 17 min read

Explore the magic of 80s cinema with ten timeless childrens movies that capture the essence of adventure, friendship, and wonder. A must-watch list for nostalgia or discovering these classics.

Hadwin Maverick

Editorial and Creative Lead

10 Iconic Kids Movies From The 80s That Every Generation Should See

In the vibrant tapestry of cinematic history, the 1980s stand out as a decade that not only revolutionized storytelling but also captured the innocence, adventure, and sheer joy of childhood in movies. These films, with their memorable characters, imaginative plots, and emotional depth, have transcended generations, making them timeless classics that should be shared with every child, young and old. Let's take a journey back in time to explore 10 iconic kids' movies from the '80s that have left an indelible mark on pop culture.

1. The Goonies 🔍

The tale of friendship, adventure, and treasure hunting, "The Goonies" (1985), directed by Richard Donner, has become a cornerstone of children's cinema.

Plot: A group of young friends, known as the Goonies, discover an ancient map in the attic that leads them on an adventure to save their homes from foreclosure by finding the long-lost fortune of pirate One-Eyed Willy.
Key Moments: The infamous Truffle Shuffle, the escape from the Fratelli family, and the discovery of the pirate ship.
Why it's Iconic: This movie captures the essence of youthful exuberance, the power of imagination, and the importance of friendship.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Note: While "The Goonies" remains a beloved film, it's worth noting that it contains some scenes that might be too intense or scary for very young children.</p>

2. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial 👽

Steven Spielberg's masterpiece, "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" (1982), tells a heartwarming story of alien visitation that has touched hearts worldwide.

Plot: After an alien botanist is left behind on Earth, he forms an unlikely friendship with a young boy named Elliott.
Key Scenes: The iconic bike flight scene, "E.T. phone home," and the emotional climax.
Why it's Iconic: E.T. is more than just a film; it's an emotional journey about acceptance, family, and the universal desire for connection.

3. The Princess Bride 💕

A romantic comedy fantasy adventure, "The Princess Bride" (1987), directed by Rob Reiner, offers a story filled with swashbuckling, romance, and humor.

Plot: In this fairytale, a farmhand named Westley embarks on a rescue mission to save his true love, Buttercup, from an arranged marriage and other perils.
Memorable Lines: "As you wish," "My name is Inigo Montoya," and "Inconceivable!"
Why it's Iconic: Its blend of romance, comedy, and adventure, along with its quirky characters and enduring love story, makes it a treasure for all ages.

4. Labyrinth 🎤

Directed by Jim Henson and starring David Bowie, "Labyrinth" (1986) is a dark fantasy about a girl navigating a magical maze to rescue her brother.

Plot: Sarah, fed up with her babysitting duties, inadvertently wishes her baby brother away to the Goblin King, Jareth. She then has to solve the labyrinth to save him before midnight.
Notable Elements: The surreal visuals, the Goblin King's costumes, and the songs performed by David Bowie.
Why it's Iconic: Its unique blend of puppetry, storytelling, and music, coupled with the theme of growing up, gives it an enduring charm.

5. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids 🔬

A family comedy with a science fiction twist, "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids" (1989) presents an imaginative premise where a quirky scientist's experiment goes awry.

Plot: Wayne Szalinski invents a machine that shrinks objects. His kids, along with the neighbor's kids, are accidentally reduced to microscopic size.
Famous Scenes: The kids' survival in the garden, confronting a giant ant, and eventually meeting their enlarged parents.
Why it's Iconic: Its premise opens up a world of wonder and danger from the perspective of children, showing their ingenuity and resourcefulness.

<p class="pro-note">🛠️ Note: This film promotes creative problem-solving, which can inspire young viewers to think outside the box in their own adventures.</p>

6. The NeverEnding Story 📘

This fantasy epic, "The NeverEnding Story" (1984), directed by Wolfgang Petersen, takes viewers on a journey through a fantastical world that needs saving.

Plot: Bastian, a young boy, finds himself drawn into the pages of a mystical book, becoming part of the story where he aids a young warrior, Atreyu, in saving Fantasia.
Memorable Scene: The harrowing scene with the Swamp of Sadness.
Why it's Iconic: Its message about the power of imagination and the importance of storytelling is timeless.

7. Gremlins 🦒

Though rated PG for its time, "Gremlins" (1984) by Joe Dante combines humor with horror, making it a unique entry in 80s cinema.

Plot: A father brings home an unusual pet which turns out to be a mogwai. Following a series of mishaps with the rules, the town is soon overrun with mischievous creatures.
Rules to Remember: No bright light, no water, and don't feed them after midnight.
Why it's Iconic: Its blend of dark comedy and horror has made it a staple in holiday viewing, despite its cautionary tale nature.

8. Willow 🏞️

Directed by Ron Howard, "Willow" (1988) is an epic fantasy that tells the tale of an unlikely hero embarking on a quest to protect a special child.

Plot: Willow Ufgood, a Nelwyn farmer, must ensure the safety of a human baby, Elora Danan, who is prophesied to bring about the downfall of the tyrannical queen Bavmorda.
Key Moments: The transformation of Madmartigan, the confrontation with Bavmorda, and Willow's development as a wizard.
Why it's Iconic: It's an inspiring story of ordinary people rising to the challenge when called upon, set against a beautifully imagined fantasy world.

9. The Little Mermaid 🧜‍♀️

Marking the Disney Renaissance, "The Little Mermaid" (1989) brought Disney animation back into the spotlight with its enchanting underwater adventure.

Plot: Ariel, the youngest daughter of King Triton, yearns for a life above the sea, trading her voice to explore the human world and win the heart of Prince Eric.
Famous Songs: "Under the Sea," "Part of Your World," and "Kiss the Girl."
Why it's Iconic: Its vibrant colors, memorable music, and the message about following your dreams have made it a cherished Disney classic.

10. Pee-wee's Big Adventure 🚴‍♂️

Directed by Tim Burton, "Pee-wee's Big Adventure" (1985) showcases Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman in a comedic odyssey to retrieve his beloved bike.

Plot: Pee-wee's quest leads him from his suburban home to the bright lights of Hollywood, encountering a variety of characters along the way.
Key Scenes: The Alamo basement chase, Pee-wee's daydream montage, and the iconic line, "I'm a loner, a rebel."
Why it's Iconic: Its surreal humor, imaginative storytelling, and the character's infectious enthusiasm have influenced many subsequent comedic works.

From pirates to princesses, aliens to undersea adventures, these films encapsulate the spirit of the 80s, where stories often revolved around the magic of imagination, the beauty of friendship, and the thrill of adventure. Sharing these films with new generations is not just about entertainment; it's about passing on a piece of cinematic history that continues to inspire and entertain. Whether you're watching them for the first time or the hundredth, these movies remind us all of the magic of youth and the stories that shaped our collective imagination.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Why are 80s kids' movies still relevant today?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>These movies offer timeless themes of friendship, adventure, and personal growth that resonate with every generation, showcasing the universal appeal of good storytelling and creative adventures.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can modern children relate to 80s films?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Absolutely! While some aspects might be dated, the core elements of these stories—imagination, courage, and kindness—are universally appealing and can still ignite a child's creativity and sense of wonder.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there any 80s movies that are not appropriate for all ages?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Some films like "Gremlins" might be too intense or scary for very young children due to the darker themes and certain scenes. However, parental discretion can guide when and how these are introduced to kids.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What has made these films timeless?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Their charm lies in their ability to transport viewers to different worlds, with characters that are relatable and storylines that mix humor, emotion, and adventure in a way that remains fresh and engaging.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How can parents share these movies with their children?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>By watching them together, parents can not only relive their childhood but also discuss the movies' themes, characters, and lessons, making it an educational and bonding experience.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>