Rewinding The Reel: My Personal Top Ten 80s Movie Hidden Treasures For Ultimate Geek-Outs

Diving deep into the 80s film vault, join me on a personal journey through the top 10 underrated gems that satisfy every geeky craving and keep the spirit of the decade alive.

Greetings, fellow pop culture enthusiasts and fellow old-movie geeks! If you're like me, you've probably worn out your VHS tapes of the mainstream 80s classics. But fear not, because I've dug deep into the 80s vault and unearthed some lesser-known gems that deserve your attention. So, buckle up, grab your popcorn, and join me on a nostalgic journey as I share my personal list of the top 10 underrated 80s movies that continue to spark my nerdy heart.

1. "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" (1984)

My own creation via Canva

Okay, imagine if you mixed an over-the-top rockstar, a neurosurgeon, and an interdimensional adventure. Yep, that's "The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension" for you. This quirky sci-fi comedy blends eccentric characters, parallel dimensions, and a healthy dose of wacky humor that's so uniquely 80s.

2. "Legend" (1985)

Now, let's venture into a fantasy realm that's not your usual Tolkien fare. "Legend" is a visually breathtaking dark fantasy that throws you into a world of unicorns, goblins, and a sinister darkness threatening to consume everything. It's a visually stunning masterpiece that'll transport you to a land of pure enchantment.

3. "Real Genius" (1985)

My own creation via Canva

Nerds, rejoice! "Real Genius" is your ultimate nerd haven. It follows a group of young prodigies at a university who create the most mind-blowing inventions while navigating the hilarious world of academia. From laser-powered popcorn to crazy dorm room pranks, this one's an ode to the unsung heroes of the intellectual world.

4. "The Last Starfighter" (1984)

Remember the dream of every arcade fanatic - that their high score might lead to something bigger? "The Last Starfighter" takes that fantasy and blasts it into space. It's an epic adventure where a video game master ends up piloting an actual starfighter in an intergalactic war. Gaming meets sci-fi in the best way possible.

5. "Time Bandits" (1981)

My own creation via Canva

If you're a fan of Monty Python's absurd humor, "Time Bandits" will tickle your geeky funny bone. Imagine a young boy joining a gang of time-traveling dwarves as they steal treasures throughout history. It's a delightful blend of historical references, quirky characters, and a dash of Python-esque silliness.

6. "Flight of the Navigator" (1986)

Here's one for the sci-fi lovers who also dream of exploring the cosmos. "Flight of the Navigator" tells the story of a young boy who gets abducted by an alien spaceship, only to return years later with no memory of his disappearance. It's a heartwarming tale of friendship, discovery, and, of course, a space-faring saucer.

7. "They Live" (1988)

Alright, conspiracy theorists and lovers of sci-fi with a twist, gather round. "They Live" is a hidden gem that reveals the world's hidden messages through a pair of special glasses. Suddenly, billboards and ads show their true, subliminal messages, making for a surreal commentary on consumerism and control.

8. "The Dark Crystal" (1982)

Fantasy buffs, let's step into the realm of puppetry and enchantment. "The Dark Crystal" is a Jim Henson masterpiece that invites you into a world inhabited by creatures like you've never seen before. This epic journey follows a Gelfling's quest to restore balance to a land threatened by a dark power.

9. "Krull" (1983)

Sword and sorcery meet sci-fi tech in "Krull." It's a fantastical tale of a prince's quest to save his princess from a beast, but the catch? It's set in a world where castles float and mystical weapons shoot energy beams. It's a curious blend of genres that's worth the watch.

10. "Tron" (1982)

If you've ever wondered what it's like to be sucked into a computer, "Tron" is here to satisfy that curiosity. This groundbreaking film takes us inside a digital world, where a hacker battles against rogue programs. With its pioneering visual effects, it's a geeky feast for the eyes.

There you have it, fellow Cnostalgic souls! These are my personal picks for the most underrated and geek-worthy 80s films that continue to transport me to a world of nostalgia and wonder. If you're tired of rewatching the same old hits, give these hidden treasures a chance.