When it comes to movies, I have a pretty straightforward taste. I’m not one for dragons, mythical creatures, or brooding vampires. Give me a heartfelt love story or a gripping historical drama any day. I’m staunchly against the idea of vampires invading my movie night, though I’ll admit that I make an exception for the genius of J.K. Rowling and her Harry Potter series.
Ironically, my kids have developed a fascination with everything I tend to shy away from, particularly the realms of science fiction and fantasy. When they suggest superhero flicks, I can’t help but roll my eyes dramatically. If a movie involves space travel, robots, or fantastical creatures, my children are all in. For me, Family Movie Night often feels like a descent into the abyss.
Realizing I needed to take charge of this cinematic chaos, I turned to the iconic ’80s for guidance. If I had to endure giant furry creatures wielding lightsabers, at least I could introduce my children to the sci-fi films I cherished as a kid. So here are my top picks for must-see ’80s sci-fi movies:
Back to the Future (All Three)
This classic delivers a fun mix of time travel and ’80s nostalgia. Marty McFly, portrayed by the ever-charismatic Michael J. Fox, journeys back in time to rescue his family from a less-than-stellar future. With the help of his eccentric scientist friend Doc Brown and his loyal dog Einstein, Marty navigates the ups and downs of the space-time continuum. While the vision of the future may not be entirely accurate, it remains a beloved adventure that’s easy to watch with the kids.
Space Camp
I remember watching this at a drive-in theater back in 1986, and it ignited my dream of working for NASA—at least as a summer camper. The story follows a group of teens, including the charming Kelly Preston and Leah Thompson, who inadvertently launch themselves into space. It’s filled with thrilling moments of space exploration and even features a quirky robot named Jinx. Plus, a young Joaquin Phoenix makes an appearance, adding to the film’s charm.
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial
Even I, a self-declared sci-fi skeptic, can’t resist the allure of E.T. and his iconic glowing finger. Watching it again with my kids brought back memories of rooting for Elliot as he tries to protect E.T. from the authorities. The film’s emotional depth, especially in its closing moments, tugs at the heartstrings. It’s a classic that perfectly captures the magic of friendship, and it reminds us of a time before smart homes, when E.T. showed us how to “phone home.”
The Last Starfighter
For kids who love video games, this film hits the mark. Alex Rogan, a teenager stuck in a trailer park, finds himself playing an arcade game called Starfighter. Unbeknownst to him, the game is a recruitment tool for a real space war. After mastering the game, he’s thrust into an intergalactic conflict, becoming an unexpected hero. Watching it with my son led to a week of him dreaming about becoming a space pilot—if only that were a reality today!
Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
This is perhaps my favorite ’80s sci-fi film, largely due to Rick Moranis’s hilarious portrayal of the well-meaning but clumsy dad. His character, Wayne Szalinski, accidentally shrinks his children with a homemade invention, leading to a series of wild backyard adventures. The chaos that ensues is both relatable and amusing, making it a delightful watch for families. Honestly, if this happened at my house, it would’ve been titled “Mommy Lost Her Mind Thanks to Dad’s Mistake,” but Disney’s version is much more wholesome.
While my children and I may not always see eye to eye on what makes a good movie, revisiting the ’80s is always a nostalgic adventure. And truth be told, I might just enjoy watching these classics more than I’d like to admit.
If you’re interested in more parenting insights and tips, check out this piece on Cervical Insemination. For those considering at-home insemination, CryoBaby offers reliable products. Additionally, the NHS provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary:
The ’80s produced memorable sci-fi films that are perfect for family movie nights. From time-traveling adventures in “Back to the Future” to the heartwarming story of E.T., these classics offer entertainment for both kids and parents alike. Embrace the nostalgia and enjoy the timeless tales of this iconic decade.
Leave a Reply