The 1980s: a time of vibrant pop culture, groundbreaking technological advancements, and an unforgettable era in the world of cinema. This decade, drenched in creativity and innovation, offered an array of movies that continue to resonate with audiences today, particularly tweens. From whimsical adventures to heartwarming family stories, the 80s have left a cinematic legacy that transcends generations.

A New Age of Adventure

Adventure movies of the 80s were defined by their energetic pace, compelling characters, and imaginative storylines, capturing the hearts of young audiences.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Steven Spielberg’s classic E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial offered more than a science fiction narrative; it explored themes of friendship, compassion, and courage. The plot revolves around a young boy, Elliot, who befriends an extraterrestrial being, fondly named ‘E.T.’ Their bond underlines the movie, painting a profound representation of unconditional love and empathy.

• Memorable Quote: “E.T. phone home.”;
• Iconic Scene: The flying bicycle scene, with the moon as a backdrop;
• Fun Fact: E.T. was designed by Italian special effects artist Carlo Rambaldi.

The Goonies (1985)

The Goonies, directed by Richard Donner, tells the story of a group of friends who embark on a thrilling quest after discovering an old pirate map. The film shines through its well-rounded characters, their camaraderie, and a narrative masterfully weaving humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments.

• Memorable Quote: “Goonies never say die!”;
• Iconic Scene: The discovery of One-Eyed Willy’s pirate ship;
• Fun Fact: The actors were not shown the pirate ship before the scene was filmed to capture their genuine reactions.

Indiana Jones Series (1981, 1984, 1989)

Created by George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, the Indiana Jones series introduced audiences to the thrilling escapades of archaeologist Indiana Jones. Each film presented high-stakes adventures filled with action, humor, and a dash of romance.

• Memorable Quote: “It’s not the years, honey. It’s the mileage.”;
• Iconic Scene: The rolling boulder escape in Raiders of the Lost Ark;
• Fun Fact: Harrison Ford did many of his own stunts in the series.

Movie	Memorable Quote	Iconic Scene	Fun Fact
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial	“E.T. phone home.”	The flying bicycle scene	E.T. was designed by Carlo Rambaldi
The Goonies	“Goonies never say die!”	The discovery of One-Eyed Willy’s ship	The actors’ reactions to the ship were genuine
Indiana Jones Series	“It’s not the years, honey. It’s the mileage.”	The rolling boulder escape	Harrison Ford did many of his own stunts

Comedies and Family Films: A Blend of Humor and Warmth

The 80s saw a wave of family and comedy films that perfectly balanced humor, emotional depth, and life lessons, making them ideal for tween audiences.

Big (1988)

Big, directed by Penny Marshall, offered a unique perspective on growing up. It follows 12-year-old Josh, who wakes up as a 30-year-old man after wishing to be “big”. The film highlights the complexities of adulthood through the lens of child-like innocence.

• Memorable Quote: “I wish I were big.”;
• Iconic Scene: Josh playing “Heart and Soul” and “Chopsticks” on a giant piano at FAO Schwarz;
• Fun Fact: The giant piano scene was improvised on the spot.

Back to the Future (1985)

Back to the Future, a blend of science fiction and comedy, tells the story of Marty McFly, a teenager accidentally sent 30 years into the past. The film stands out for its innovative premise, humorous dialogues, and captivating plot filled with suspense and heartwarming moments.

• Memorable Quote: “Where we’re going, we don’t need roads.”;
• Iconic Scene: The DeLorean time machine’s first departure;
• Fun Fact: The DeLorean was chosen because its design made it believable as a spacecraft.

The Princess Bride (1987)

The Princess Bride is a delightfully witty fairytale adventure with memorable characters, delightful plot twists, and a heartwarming love story. Its unique narrative structure, being a story within a story, adds a distinctive charm that has captivated tweens for decades.

• Memorable Quote: “As you wish.”;
• Iconic Scene: Westley’s battle of wits with Vizzini;
• Fun Fact: The film’s screenplay was written by William Goldman, who also wrote the novel.

Movie	Memorable Quote	Iconic Scene	Fun Fact
Big	“I wish I were big.”	Josh playing the giant piano	The giant piano scene was improvised
Back to the Future	“Where we’re going, we don’t need roads.”	The DeLorean’s first departure	The DeLorean was chosen for its spacecraft-like design
The Princess Bride	“As you wish.”	Westley’s battle of wits with Vizzini	The film’s screenplay was written by the novel’s author, William Goldman

Coming-of-Age Narratives: The Bittersweet Journey of Growing Up

The 80s was a pivotal era for coming-of-age films, portraying the trials and tribulations of adolescence in a way that was both entertaining and deeply resonant with tweens.

Stand by Me (1986)

Stand by Me, based on Stephen King’s novella “The Body”, explores themes of friendship, the loss of innocence, and the transition into adolescence. The film showcases a series of events shared by four friends, revealing the complexities and poignant realities of growing up.

• Memorable Quote: “I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve.”;
• Iconic Scene: The boys running from the approaching train on a railway bridge;
• Fun Fact: The title of the film comes from the Ben E. King song, which is played in the end credits.

The Karate Kid (1984)

The Karate Kid is more than a sports film; it’s a narrative on resilience, hard work, respect, and friendship. It follows bullied teen Daniel, who learns karate—and valuable life lessons—from an unassuming maintenance man, Mr. Miyagi.

• Memorable Quote: “Wax on, wax off.”;
• Iconic Scene: The climactic “Crane Kick” in the tournament finale;
• Fun Fact: Pat Morita, who played Mr. Miyagi, was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance.

Sixteen Candles (1984)

John Hughes’ directorial debut, Sixteen Candles, is a definitive 80s coming-of-age comedy, capturing the essence of teenage angst and the trials of growing up. Samantha Baker, the protagonist, grapples with the complexities of adolescence — from crushes to forgotten birthdays — in this unforgettable classic.

• Memorable Quote: “I can’t believe I gave my panties to a geek.”;
• Iconic Scene: Sam’s birthday wish by the candlelit cake;
• Fun Fact: Molly Ringwald, the lead actress, was actually 16 years old when she filmed this movie.

Movie	Memorable Quote	Iconic Scene	Fun Fact
Stand by Me	“I never had any friends later on like the ones I had when I was twelve.”	The boys running from a train on a bridge	The title comes from the Ben E. King song played in the end credits
The Karate Kid	“Wax on, wax off.”	The “Crane Kick” in the tournament finale	Pat Morita was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance
Sixteen Candles	“I can’t believe I gave my panties to a geek.”	Sam’s birthday wish by the cake	Molly Ringwald was 16 years old during filming

Conclusion

The 80s was a remarkable decade in cinema, particularly for movies catering to tweens. The diversity in genre, the exploration of universal themes, and the blend of humor, adventure, and heart gave this era a distinct identity in the history of filmmaking. The unforgettable characters, the iconic scenes, and the memorable dialogues from these films continue to entertain and inspire, making the 80s an undeniably influential decade in the realm of tween cinema. The enduring popularity of these films stands as testament to their timelessness and universal appeal, ensuring that they will continue to be enjoyed and appreciated by future generations of tweens.

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