Aliens, adventures, wacky plotlines – the ’80s were an interesting era for movies. And now, since the Netflix original drama Stranger Things has aired and boomed in popularity, people have become obsessed with the ’80s all over again.
Want to introduce your kids to some of the best ’80s movies? We’ve compiled a list of kid-friendly flicks — complete with those cheesy synth soundtracks — for you and your kids to watch together. So, take a break from the same sequence of TV shows or movies you normally watch and kick it old school with these ’80s flicks.
The Goonies
- Year: 1985
- Rated: PG
A group of misfits sets out to find treasure in order to save their home from foreclosure. They encounter many obstacles along the way – including tiny but mighty Mama Fratelli and her sons who are after the same fortune. Some little ones might get spooked watching this flick, so use your judgment when it comes to audience age.
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
- Year: 1982
- Rated: PG
This science-fiction film involves a boy who will do anything to help a friendly alien escape Earth and return to his home. Your child is sure to become engrossed in this tale of a unique friendship.
Labyrinth
- Year: 1986
- Rated: PG
A 16-year-old girl who is forced to babysit her baby brother wishes the Goblin King would take him. When the Goblin King actually does, the teen has to solve a maze in only 13 hours – or her little sibling will be gone forever. This movie will make your teen think twice about being mean to their younger sister or brother.
The Princess Bride
- Year: 1987
- Rated: PG
This film takes place in two separate eras: the present as a grandfather reads the tale of The Princess Bride to his ill grandson, and the past as the love story unfolds. While the child isn’t eager to hear the tale, he’s forced to listen. Watch the story unfold with your kiddos.
The Land Before Time
- Year: 1988
- Rated: G
In this adorable animated flick, dinosaurs go on a quest to find their families after an earthquake separates them. Will they be reunited? Watch it with your kids to find out. The friendship depicted in the flick is something that all ages will love.
The Karate Kid
- Year: 1984
- Rated: PG
A tormented teen learns karate in order to stand up for himself against someone bullying him. This underdog story is a must-see for all ages. Don’t be surprised if your kids are saying, “Wax on, wax off” for a while after watching this one!
The Little Mermaid
- Year: 1989
- Rated: G
This Disney classic is about a 16-year-old girl, who becomes fascinated with humans and being able to walk on land. Since she is actually a mermaid and doesn’t have any legs, she makes a deal with an evil sea urchin that takes away her beautiful voice. This story will help children to remain grateful for what they have.
Pee-wee’s Big Adventure
- Year: 1985
- Rated: PG
When Pee-wee Herman’s beloved bicycle is stolen, he sets out on an adventure across the United States to find it. Who will be encounter along the way?
Back to the Future
- Year: 1985
- Rated: PG
Marty McFly accidentally travels back to 1955 in this ’80s classic. While he’s there, Marty must make his parents fall in love in order to get back to his life in the future.
Gremlins
- Year: 1984
- Rated: PG
This film is about these little creatures that can turn evil if you get them wet, expose them to light, or feed them after midnight. The comedic horror film has certain parts that might be too scary for little kids, but most of it is just plain silly.
Flight of the Navigator
- Year: 1986
- Rated: PG
This sci-fi film is about a 12-year-old boy who gets abducted by a UFO and misses out on eight years of his life. It incorporates scenes with him inside the spacecraft, which the kids will love!
The Great Muppet Caper
- Year: 1981
- Rated: G
Kermit, Gonzo and Fozzie are reporters who travel to Britain to interview a wealthy woman whose jewels have just been stolen. When the thieves strike again – and frame Miss Piggy – it’s up to the reporters to figure out who these thieves really are.
An American Tail
- Year: 1986
- Rated: G
After emigrating to the United States, a Russian mouse gets separated from his family and tries to find them in this great new world. Will he do it? Families can watch him overcome obstacles and make new friends along the way.
Ghostbusters
- Year: 1984
- Rated: PG
Three former college professors decide to become Ghostbusters to save New York City from destruction. This supernatural comedy will have the whole family cracking up!
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
- Year: 1989
- Rated: PG
This silly movie takes place when a scientist father accidentally shrinks his kids along with two other kids from the neighborhood. The kids, who are now the size of ants, have to face my challenges in their shrunken state.
Looking for even more old-school flicks to watch with the kids? Check out our list of the 10 best ’90s movies to watch as a family for more. And if you know of any other ’80s movies you think we should add to this list, tell us about them in the comments.
This post was originally published in 2018 and is updated regularly.
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