The 1980s are remembered for many things. Hair metal, Rubik’s cubes, and truly hideous wallpaper all readily spring to mind. More to the point, the ’80s also saw the release of some of the best sci-fi movies ever made.
Maybe there was something in the water. Maybe it was the sudden influx of writers and filmmakers who had grown up watching humans walk on the surface of the moon. Or maybe Hollywood just honed in on what really makes sci-fi great. Whatever the reason, the ’80s played host to some truly classic sci-fi movies.
For the purposes of this list, we’ve taken into account both public consensus and our own personal opinions. Maybe you picked them up at the local video rental, or maybe you only experienced them for the first time more recently, but they’re all undeniable classic. Balk at our choices if you must, but here are our 10 best sci-fi movies of the ’80s.
10. Predator (1987)
“If it bleeds, we can kill it.” Possibly one of the most badass things ever said in an action movie, and also the driving force behind Predator‘s story. For those not in the know, it’s the story of a group of hardened soldiers who are hunted for sport in the jungle by a technologically-advanced alien.
Directed by John McTiernan, Predator stars Arnold Schwarzenegger, Carl Weathers, Bill Duke, Jesse Ventura, and Shane Black. Though it’s predominantly an action movie, it also heavily features elements of sci-fi and even horror. But what exactly is it that makes Predator so great?
The bulging muscles and abrasive masculinity of the film’s cast seems to set up standard action fare. However, once the Predator arrives, the men find their brawn redundant, hunted as they are by the superior being. It’s a brilliantly-written film and an unforgettable cinematic experience, earning it a spot on this list.