The 1980s were a great decade for space movies. With advances in special effects, filmmakers were able to create more realistic and believable depictions of outer space than ever before. Here are the best space movies of the 1980s.
The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
The Empire Strikes Back was the Space Movie of the 1980s that left a lasting impression in movie history. It was released in May of 1980 and despite being the fifth installment of the Star Wars franchise, it made an exceptional mark with fans. It cleverly explores deeper elements of the story, making it much more exciting for viewers than its predecessor. Fans were enthralled by its characters’ achievements as well as their struggles since it allowed them to relate better with each character.
This Space Movie had an extraordinary cast with outstanding performances from Harrison Ford, Mark Hamill, and Carrie Fisher. Its special effects were remarkable for that era and its changes from fight scenes to psychological struggles captured fans’ hearts. To this day, The Empire Strikes Back remains one of the most remembered Space Movies of the 1980s for its eternal impact on cinema.
The Right Stuff (1983)
The Right Stuff, released in 1983, is considered one of the best space movies of the 1980s. Directed by Philip Kaufman and starring Sam Shepard, Scott Glenn, Ed Harris, Dennis Quaid, and others, it tells the amazing story of the original Mercury 7 astronauts. Chosen to be the first Americans in space, these seven men must survive a battery of grueling tests and training before their mission takes off.
Through stunning visuals mixed with gripping performances from its actors, The Right Stuff captures both the thrill and heartfelt risk that was part of heading into the Space Race era of aviation. Its ability to evoke emotion alongside spectacular effects has kept this movie an essential classic for several generations.
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan (1982)
Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is widely considered to be one of the best Star Trek movies ever made. In this film, Captain Kirk must face off against his old enemy Khan Noonien Singh, who has escaped from exile and is seeking revenge against Kirk. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan is an action-packed movie that is sure to please fans of the franchise.
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Blade Runner (1982)
Blade Runner (1982) is a groundbreaking science fiction movie that pushed the boundaries of Space Movies in the 1980s. Set in a dystopian future, humanity has managed to colonize other planets throughout the galaxy and create bioengineered species known as replicants. The story follows Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a blade runner tasked with hunting down rogue replicants and discovering what it truly means to be human.
With creative visuals and stylish directing from Ridley Scott, Blade Runner became one of the most influential Space Movies of all time for its complex themes about mortality and morality.
Aliens (1986)
Aliens is a sequel to the 1979 classic Alien, and it picks up where that film left off. In Aliens, Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) returns to the planet where she first encountered the aliens, only to find that there is now a colony of humans there who are being terrorized by the aliens. Aliens is a suspenseful and terrifying movie that will have you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end.
Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi (1983)
Star Wars: Episode VI – Return of the Jedi is the third and final installment in George Lucas’ original Star Wars trilogy. In this film, Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) faces off against Darth Vader (David Prowse/James Earl Jones) in a climactic battle that will decide the fate of the galaxy once and for all. Return of the Jedi is an exciting conclusion to an unforgettable trilogy . . . and it’s our pick for the best space movie of the 1980s!
The 1980s were an important era for Space Movies, with a variety of amazing films being released. From The Right Stuff to Return of the Jedi, these movies pushed the boundaries of what was possible in cinema and had a lasting impact on audiences around the world. Whether you prefer thrilling action scenes or touching stories about friendship, there’s something for everyone in this decade’s Space Movies. So sit back and enjoy some of the best space films of all time!
