A Look Back at the ’80s Movies That Deserve a Second Chance
The 1980s were a transformative decade for cinema. As filmmakers moved away from the gritty realism of the 1970s, they began to explore new storytelling techniques, special effects, and genres that would define the next few decades. While many films from this era became iconic, there were also several movies that didn’t quite hit their mark—either due to poor marketing, weak scripts, or unfulfilled potential. These mid-tier films, however, still hold value and could benefit from a modern reboot. Let’s take a closer look at some of these overlooked ’80s movies and why they deserve another shot.
Action Jackson (1988)
Carl Weathers, best known for his role as Apollo Creed in Rocky, took on the lead in Action Jackson in 1988. The film followed Detective Jericho “Action” Jackson as he tried to bring down an auto magnate who was eliminating his competition. Despite being a moderate box office success, Action Jackson received mostly negative reviews at the time. However, it has since gained a cult following. A modern reboot could focus more on action and less on comedy, making it more appealing to today’s audiences.
Cat People (1982)
The 1982 remake of Cat People was a supernatural horror film starring Nastassja Kinski. It followed a woman who discovers she is descended from werecats. While the film received positive reviews, it didn’t attract large audiences, grossing over $7 million during its theatrical run. With the right adjustments, such as adding more horror elements, Cat People could find a new audience today. Its seductive and mysterious nature could be reimagined for a modern horror landscape.
Chopping Mall (1986)
Originally titled Killbots, Chopping Mall was a techno-horror film that followed a group of teens trapped in a mall after hours when security robots malfunction. The concept was ahead of its time, blending the popularity of shopping malls with sci-fi horror. Although it didn’t perform well at the box office, the idea has potential for a modern reboot. Incorporating advancements in artificial intelligence and security systems could make Chopping Mall relevant again.
Howard the Duck (1986)
Based on a Marvel comic, Howard the Duck was a disaster upon release, criticized for its acting and inconsistent tone. However, it has since developed a cult following. With Marvel Studios’ current dominance in superhero films, a reboot of Howard the Duck could be a unique opportunity. By shifting the tone to something more serious, the character could be reintroduced in a way that resonates with today’s audiences.
House (1985)
House was a horror-comedy film that followed an author moving into a haunted house while trying to solve the mystery of his son’s disappearance. While it was a box office success, it didn’t receive the same acclaim as other horror classics like Friday the 13th or Nightmare on Elm Street. However, its cult status makes it a good candidate for a reboot. A modern version could focus on straight-up horror, potentially becoming a new classic.
Just One of the Guys (1985)
This high school comedy, loosely based on Twelfth Night, followed a female journalist who disguises herself as a male to gain credibility. While it wasn’t a huge hit, it offered a fresh perspective on gender dynamics. A modern reboot could address issues like gender dysphoria in a positive and informative way, making it relevant for today’s audiences.
The Wraith (1986)
Starring Charlie Sheen, The Wraith was a low-budget film about a dead high school hero returning as a hi-tech spirit seeking revenge. While the concept was intriguing, the film failed to live up to its potential. A reboot could update the story with better writing and technology, potentially making it a hit on platforms like Netflix.
Tango & Cash (1989)
Sylvester Stallone and Kurt Russell starred in this action-comedy about rival detectives forced to work together. While it was a box office hit, it was criticized for being a generic action film. A modern reboot could rework the script and add fresh elements to make it stand out in today’s market.
These ’80s movies may not have been instant successes, but they each have unique qualities that could be reimagined for a new generation. With the right approach, a modern reboot could give these films a second chance to shine.
