The 1980s was a great decade for action movies, with many classic films being released that are still widely regarded as some of the best in the genre. From epic sci-fi adventures to intense thrillers and heart-pumping action movies, the 80s had it all. Here are my 20 best 80s action movies that should not be missed.
The Best 80s Action Movies
These are my best 80’s action movies that I will never stop watching and some of them are my favourite movies of all time.
Let’s Take a Look at My 20 Best 80s Action Movies
20. Conan the Barbarian
Year: 1982
Director: John Milius
Conan the Barbarian is considered one of the best 80s action movies for a number of reasons. One reason is its use of special effects, which were innovative for the time and helped to bring the fantastical world of Conan to life on screen. The film also features strong performances by its lead actors, particularly Arnold Schwarzenegger as Conan, and has a compelling plot that combines elements of action, fantasy, and adventure.
Additionally, the film has a memorable score and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the character of Conan and the film’s iconic lines and imagery. Overall, Conan the Barbarian is a well-crafted and entertaining film that has stood the test of time and remains popular with audiences today.
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19. Escape From New York
Year: 1981
Director: John Carpenter
Escape from New York has garnered a devoted fan base over the years. One reason for its enduring popularity is its unique premise: in a future dystopian version of New York City, which has been turned into a maximum-security prison, the protagonist Snake Plissken (played by Kurt Russell) is tasked with rescuing the President of the United States from the city. This high-stakes, high-pressure scenario provides the perfect backdrop for intense action scenes and nail-biting tension.
Additionally, the film boasts impressive special effects for its time, including practical effects and miniatures that help bring the post-apocalyptic version of New York to life. The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Lee Van Cleef as the villainous Hauk and Ernest Borgnine as Cabob, and has a memorable score by composer John Carpenter. Overall, Escape from New York is a classic action movie that combines a compelling premise with impressive effects and strong performances to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience.
18. Beverly Hills Cop
Year: 1984
Director: Martin Brest
Beverly Hills Cop is one of the best 80s action movies action movie that has remained popular with audiences due to its combination of action, comedy, and memorable performances. One of the key reasons for the film’s success is the performance of Eddie Murphy as the main character, Detective Axel Foley. Murphy’s combination of wit, charm, and physical comedy make him a likable and entertaining lead, and his improvisational style adds an element of spontaneity to the film.
In addition to Murphy’s performance, Beverly Hills Cop also features strong supporting performances from actors such as Judge Reinhold and John Ashton as Foley’s allies, and Steven Berkoff as the film’s antagonist. The film also has a well-written and fast-paced script that keeps the action moving and the laughs coming. Overall, Beverly Hills Cop is a classic 1980s action movie that combines strong performances, clever writing, and plenty of action to deliver an enjoyable and memorable viewing experience.
17. Commando
Year: 1985
Director: Mark L. Lester
Commando could be considered the prototype 1980s action movie that is known for its over-the-top violence and high-octane action scenes which many other movies tried to emulate. The film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as the main character, John Matrix, a former special forces soldier who must rescue his daughter from a group of mercenaries. The film features a number of memorable action set pieces, including a fight on a plane and a climactic battle in a jungle compound, that showcase Schwarzenegger’s physicality and martial arts skills.
While some viewers may find the level of violence in the film to be excessive, it is an integral part of the film’s action-packed and adrenaline-fueled tone. The film also features strong supporting performances from actors such as Rae Dawn Chong and Vernon Wells, and has a memorable score by composer James Horner. Overall, Commando is a classic 1980s action movie that is known for its over-the-top violence and high-energy action scenes, making it a popular choice for fans of the genre.
16. Big Trouble in Little China
Year: 1986
Director: John Carpenter
Big Trouble in Little China is a cult classic action film that has gained a devoted fan base over the years due to its unique blend of action, comedy, and fantasy elements. One of the key reasons for the film’s enduring popularity is the performance of Kurt Russell as the main character, truck driver Jack Burton. Russell’s deadpan delivery and sarcastic humor make him a likable and entertaining lead, and his chemistry with co-star Dennis Dun as his sidekick, Wang Chi, adds an element of fun to the film.
In addition to its strong performances, Big Trouble in Little China also features impressive special effects for its time, including practical effects and miniatures that help bring the film’s fantastical world to life. The film also has a memorable score by composer John Carpenter, who also directed the film. Overall, Big Trouble in Little China is a cult classic action film that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and a unique blend of genres to deliver an entertaining and memorable viewing experience.
15. The Running Man
Year: 1987
Director: Paul Michael Glaser
The Running Man is a classic 1980s action film that is known for its memorable villains and high-octane action scenes. The film is set in a dystopian future where a popular television show involves prisoners competing in a series of deadly games in order to win their freedom. The main character, Ben Richards (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger), is a former police officer who is falsely accused of a crime and forced to participate in the games.
One of the key reasons for the film’s popularity is the performance of Schwarzenegger as Richards, who brings his signature combination of physicality and humor to the role. The film also features a number of memorable villains, including Captain Freedom (Jesse Ventura) and Dynamo (Erland van Lidth), who provide formidable challenges for Richards to overcome. In addition to its strong performances and action scenes, The Running Man also has a memorable score by composer Harold Faltermeyer and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery. Overall, The Running Man is a classic 1980s action film that combines memorable villains, high-energy action scenes, and strong performances to deliver an exciting and entertaining viewing experience.
14. Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom
Year: 1984
Director: Steven Spielberg
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is a classic action movie was in 1984 and is the second film in the Indiana Jones franchise. The film is known for its dark and suspenseful tone, which sets it apart from the more light-hearted and humorous tone of the other Indiana Jones films.
One of the key reasons for the film’s success is the performance of Harrison Ford as the main character, Indiana Jones. Ford brings his signature mix of wit, charm, and ruggedness to the role, and his chemistry with co-stars Kate Capshaw and Jonathan Ke Quan helps to create a sense of camaraderie and adventure. The film also features impressive special effects, including practical effects and miniatures, which help to bring the film’s exotic locations and action scenes to life. Additionally, the film has a memorable score by composer John Williams and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic imagery.
Overall, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is a classic action movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and a unique blend of action, adventure, and horror to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience.
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13. Aliens
Year: 1986
Director: James Cameron
James Cameron’s Aliens is a classic action sci-fi movie that is the sequel to the 1979 film Alien. The film is known for its high-octane action scenes and strong performances, and is widely regarded as one of the best sequels in cinematic history. It take the Alien series from horror firmly into the action movie genre and it certainly runs with it.
One of the key reasons for the film’s success is the performance of Sigourney Weaver as the main character, Ellen Ripley. Weaver brings a sense of toughness and determination to the role, and her chemistry with the other cast members, particularly Carrie Henn as Newt and Michael Biehn as Corporal Hicks, helps to create a sense of camaraderie and family. The film also features impressive special effects, including practical effects and miniatures, which help to bring the film’s iconic alien creatures to life.
The film has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery. Overall, Aliens is a classic action movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and a unique blend of action, horror, and science fiction.
12. The Goonies
Year: 1985
Director: Richard Donner
The Goonies is a classic 1980s action and adventure movie that is beloved by audiences of all ages. The film follows a group of young friends, known as the Goonies, as they embark on a treasure hunt that leads them on a thrilling and dangerous journey.
One of the key reasons for the film’s enduring popularity is the strong performances by the young cast, including Sean Astin, Josh Brolin, and Corey Feldman, who bring a sense of energy and enthusiasm to their roles. The film also features a well-written and fast-paced script that keeps the action moving and the laughs coming, and has a memorable score by composer Dave Grusin.
Additionally, the film has a sense of nostalgia and innocence that appeals to audiences of all ages, and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery. Overall, The Goonies is a classic action and adventure movie that is perfect for families and is sure to delight viewers of all ages.
11. Batman
Year: 1989
Director: Tim Burton
Tim Burton’s Batman is a classic superhero movie that was released in 1989 and is known for its dark and moody tone. The film, which stars Michael Keaton as the titular character and Jack Nicholson as the villainous Joker, is widely credited with reinventing the superhero genre and paving the way for the proliferation of superhero movies that followed in the decades since its release.
Keaton and Nicholson bring a sense of depth and complexity to their characters. Keaton’s portrayal of Batman as a brooding and tormented hero helps to set the film apart from earlier versions of the character (especially the 1960’s TV series), and Nicholson’s over-the-top performance as the Joker is a highlight of the film. The film also features impressive production design and special effects, including the iconic Batmobile, and has a memorable score by composer Danny Elfman. Overall, Tim Burton’s Batman is a classic superhero movie that combines strong performances, impressive production design, and a unique blend of action.
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10. Superman 2
Year: 1980
Director: Richard Lester
Superman II is in my opinion the best Superman movie and was released in 1980. The film follows the titular character as he battles a group of super-powered villains who have come to Earth seeking revenge against Superman.
One of the key reasons for the film’s enduring popularity is the strong performance of Christopher Reeve as Superman/Clark Kent. Reeve brings a sense of warmth and humanity to the role, and his portrayal of the character’s dual identity helps to add depth and complexity to the film. Terence Stamp does indeed give a memorable and iconic performance as the villainous General Zod in Superman II. Stamp brings a sense of gravitas and malevolence to the role, and his confrontations with Christopher Reeve’s Superman is one of the highlights of the film.
The film also features impressive special effects, including the iconic scene where Superman flies around the world to reverse time, and has a memorable score by composer John Williams. Additionally, the film has a strong supporting cast, including Gene Hackman as Lex Luthor and Margot Kidder as Lois Lane, and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery.
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9. The Terminator
Year: 1984
Director: James Cameron
The Terminator is a classic sci-fi action movie that was released in the 1984 and is known for launching the career of Arnold Schwarzenegger as a leading man. The film follows the character of Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton), a young woman who is targeted for assassination by a cyborg from the future (Schwarzenegger) who has been sent back in time to kill her.
Schwarzenegger’s imposing physical presence and monotone delivery make him a formidable and intimidating presence, and his portrayal of the character’s single-minded mission helps to make him a memorable and iconic villain. The film also features impressive special effects, including the iconic scene where the Terminator is revealed to be a cyborg, and has a memorable score by composer Brad Fiedel.
Additionally, the film has a well-written and fast-paced script that keeps the action moving and the tension high, and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery. Overall, The Terminator is a classic sci-fi action movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and a compelling blend of action and science fiction to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience.
8. Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Year: 1989
Director: Steven Spielberg
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is a classic action movie that was released in 1989 and is the third film in the Indiana Jones franchise. The film is known for its combination of action, adventure, and humor, and is widely regarded as one of the best films in the series.
Harrison Ford as the main character, Indiana Jones, and Sean Connery as his father, Professor Henry Jones Sr. Ford and Connery have excellent chemistry as father and son, and their banter and playful dynamic adds an element of humor to the film. The film also features impressive special effects, including practical effects and miniatures, which help to bring the film’s exotic locations and action scenes to life. Additionally, the film has a memorable score by composer John Williams and has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery. Overall, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade is a classic action movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and a unique blend of action, adventure, and humor to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience.
7. Return of the Jedi
Year: 1983
Director: Richard Marquand
Return of the Jedi is a classic science fiction movie and is the third film in the original Star Wars trilogy. The film was highly anticipated by audiences due to its place as the final installment in the trilogy, and it did not disappoint, delivering an epic and satisfying conclusion to the story of the characters introduced in the previous two films.
Return of the Jedi is probably the most action packed movie of the original Star Wars Trilogy beginning with the rescue of Han Solo from Jabba the Hutts and going on to feature the battle of Endor, the final lightsaber dual between Luke and Darth Vader and the action packed assault on the second Death Star.
Overall, Return of the Jedi is a classic science fiction movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and a compelling blend of action, drama, and romance to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience for Star Wars fans that at the time thought this was the end of the franchise.
6. Rambo First Blood
Year: 1982
Director: Ted Kotcheff
Rambo: First Blood is a classic action movie that was released in the 1980s and is the first film in the Rambo franchise. The film follows the character of John Rambo (played by Sylvester Stallone), a Vietnam War veteran who is targeted by a small-town sheriff and becomes embroiled in a violent conflict.
Stallone as Rambo brings a sense of physicality and vulnerability to the role. The film also features impressive action sequences, including the iconic scene where Rambo uses his survival skills to evade the sheriff and his deputies, and has a memorable score by composer Jerry Goldsmith.
The film has a strong message about the treatment of veterans, particularly those who served in Vietnam, and the difficulties they can face when returning to civilian life. This theme is woven throughout the film and helps to give it depth and emotional resonance. Overall, Rambo: First Blood is a classic action movie that combines impressive action sequences, a strong performance by Stallone, and a compelling message. As the series moved on the sequels would never match the originality and social commentary of the original movie which remains the best of the Rambo series.
5. Predator
Year: 1987
Director: McTiernan
Predator is a classic action movie that was released in the 1980s and is known for its intense action scenes and iconic creature design. The film follows a team of soldiers who are sent on a mission to a Central American jungle and find themselves being hunted by a mysterious and deadly alien creature. Aliens, lots of guns and lots of muscle combine to make one hell of a movie.
Arnold Schwarzenegger as the leader of the team, Dutch. Schwarzenegger brings his signature mix of physicality and humor to the role, and his chemistry with the rest of the cast helps to create a sense of camaraderie and tension. The film also features impressive special effects, including the practical effects used to bring the Predator creature to life, and has a memorable score by composer Alan Silvestri.
Predator has had a lasting impact on popular culture, with many people still being familiar with the film and its iconic lines and imagery. Overall, Predator is a classic action movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and intense action scenes to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience.
4. Die Hard
Year: 1988
Director: John McTiernan
Die Hard is a classic action movie that follows the character of John McClane (played by Bruce Willis), a New York City police detective who becomes trapped in a high-rise building during a Christmas party and must fight off a group of terrorists who have taken over the building.
Willis as McClane, who brings a sense of wit and determination to the role. The film also features impressive action sequences, where McClane fights off the terrorists using only his wits and whatever he can lay his hands on, and has a memorable score by composer Michael Kamen.
Overall, Die Hard is the ultimate 1980s Christmas action movie that combines strong performances, impressive action sequences, and a compelling blend of action, drama, and humor to deliver an exciting and memorable viewing experience.
3. Robocop
Year: 1987
Director: Paul Verhoeven
RoboCop is known for its satirical and violent tone. The film is set in a dystopian future where crime is rampant and follows the character of Alex Murphy (played by Peter Weller), a police officer who is brutally murdered and then brought back to life as a cyborg law enforcement officer known as RoboCop.
The strong performance by Weller as RoboCop brings a sense of humanity and emotion to the role despite being encased in a robotic suit. The film also features impressive special effects, including the practical effects used to bring the RoboCop suit to life, and has a memorable score by composer Basil Poledouris.
The film’s portrayal of a dystopian future and its commentary on the dangers of corporate control and the militarization of law enforcement have made it a classic of the science fiction genre. Overall, RoboCop is a classic action movie that combines strong performances, impressive special effects, and violence you won’t see in other 80s action movies.
2. The Empire Strikes Back
Year: 1980
Director: Irvin Kershner
The Empire Strikes Back is a classic science fiction movie that was released in 1980 and is the second film in the original Star Wars trilogy. The film is widely regarded as the best Star Wars film in the entire series (it is in my opinion)and is known for its iconic characters, memorable action scenes, and emotional depth.
One of the key reasons for the film’s enduring popularity is the strong performances by the cast, particularly Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, and Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia.
The film also features impressive special effects, including the iconic battle on the snow planet Hoth between the Rebel Alliance and the Galactic Empire, and introduces the classic Imperial March by composer John Williams.
The Empire Strikes Back was directed by Irvin Kershner, who did an excellent job of bringing the film to life and delivering a classic science fiction movie. Kershner, who was a veteran film director with a wide range of experience, was able to balance the film’s action and drama with its more emotional moments, and his direction helped to bring out strong performances from the cast, particularly Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker and Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia. Kershner’s ability to create a sense of atmosphere and tension was also evident in the film’s action scenes, which are still widely regarded as some of the best in the Star Wars series. Overall, Kershner’s direction was a key factor in the success of The Empire Strikes Back and helped to make it a classic of the science fiction genre.
1. Raiders of the Lost Ark
Year: 1981
Director: Steven Spielberg
Raiders of the Lost Ark is my favourite 80s action movie and is in my opinion the best the 1980s has to offer. It is the first film in the Indiana Jones franchise. The film follows the character of Indiana Jones (played by Harrison Ford), an archaeologist who embarks on a thrilling and dangerous treasure hunt in search of the Ark of the Covenant.
Raiders of the Lost Ark is features a number of memorable scenes that have become iconic in popular culture. Some of the film’s most famous scenes include:
- The opening scene with the famous and often copied giant boulder chasing down and nearly squashing Indy.
- The scene where Indiana Jones and his partner, Marion Ravenwood, are chased through the streets of Cairo by a group of armed thugs is another memorable action sequence that showcases the film’s high-octane style.
- The scene where Indiana Jones and Marion Ravenwood escape from the Nazi stronghold in the Well of Souls is a memorable set piece that combines action, suspense, and humor (and snakes).
My Best 80s Action Movies
Overall, the 1980s was a great decade for action movies, with many classic films that are still widely regarded as some of the best in the genre. These films have had a lasting impact on popular culture and continue to be beloved by fans of action movies around the world.
Keep it retro and action packed.
Darren.