Listomania
Christina Fakhry

Anis Tabet Recommends: The Ultimate 80s Movies List

If there’s anyone in Lebanon who knows his movies, it’s Anis Tabet. The blogger, movie critic and biologist-by-day has established a name for himself among Lebanon’s film enthusiasts. Now he’s launched a cine club dedicated to the screening and discussion of classic movies.

Inspired by impromptu dance numbers and decades-old dreams of John Hughes directing a movie based on our lives, Beirut.com decided to ask Tabet for a breakdown of his ultimate list of favorite 80s flicks. Take a look:

1. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

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With its terrific cast, memorable soundtrack, witty script and impressive cinematography, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is easily one of the best 80s movies. Almost timeless.

2. The Goonies (1985)

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This one probably works better if you’ve seen it as a kid but is still just as funny and entertaining today.

3. Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

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A timeless adventure film that spurred three sequels. Harrison Ford delivers a stylishly kick-ass performance.

4. The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

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One of the best sequels ever made. This chapter delivers greater excitement and more dazzling special effects than any other Star Wars movie.

5. The Karate Kid (1984)

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A childhood favorite, I’ve seen this over a hundred times. It is also the first movie that pops into mind when the 80s are mentioned.

6. Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)

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Favorite high school comedy. You wouldn’t want to miss out on young Sean Penn in this one.

7. Sixteen Candles (1984)

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Another John Hughes film that blends memorable plot and noteworthy performances (I also had a crush on Molly Ringwald).

8. Back to the Future (1985)

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Constantly coming up with hilarious twists and turns, an all-time favorite.

9. Ghostbusters (1984)

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Who you gonna call? Enough said.

10. Big (1988)

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Best comedy of the 80s hands down. Huge break for Tom Hanks, who fetches an absolutely terrific performance.

11. Top Gun (1986)

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One hell of a cheesy movie. But it just works like a charm thanks to a highly charismatic Tom Cruise.

12. Footloose (1984)

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Probably the best dance-themed movie of that decade. Also, Kevin Bacon is a badass.

13. The Breakfast Club (1985)

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I grew up on John Hughes films and this one is a favorite given its exceptional depiction of a group of misfits that anyone can relate to.

14. Ordinary People (1980)

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A devastating family drama that melds brilliant direction and outstanding cast performances.

15. Amadeus (1984)

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Probably the best picture ever made about Mozart, or music for that matter. And let’s not forget the eight Oscars it won.