The Best Movies Of 1986: A Look Back

Hey guys! Let's take a rad trip back to 1986 and explore some of the most iconic movies that hit the big screen that year. 1986 was an awesome year for cinema, delivering a mix of action-packed blockbusters, heartfelt dramas, and quirky comedies that have stood the test of time. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's dive into the cinematic treasures of '86!

Action-Packed Blockbusters

Action movies in 1986 were all about high-octane thrills, and one film that truly defined the genre that year was "Top Gun." Directed by Tony Scott, "Top Gun" took audiences into the thrilling world of naval aviation, following the journey of Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, played by Tom Cruise, as he navigates the challenges of becoming a top fighter pilot. The film's breathtaking aerial sequences, combined with a killer soundtrack and memorable characters, made it a massive hit. "Top Gun" not only dominated the box office but also influenced fashion and pop culture, with aviator sunglasses and bomber jackets becoming must-have items. Its impact is still felt today, with the recent sequel, "Top Gun: Maverick," proving that the need for speed never fades.

Another standout action film from 1986 was "Aliens," directed by James Cameron. As a sequel to Ridley Scott's "Alien," "Aliens" took a different approach, amping up the action and introducing a team of space marines to battle the xenomorphs. Sigourney Weaver reprised her role as Ellen Ripley, delivering an even more badass performance as she fought to protect a group of colonists from the alien threat. "Aliens" was praised for its intense action sequences, innovative special effects, and strong female lead, cementing its place as one of the greatest action sci-fi films ever made. The film's success demonstrated Cameron's ability to blend action and horror seamlessly, paving the way for his future blockbusters.

"Cobra," starring Sylvester Stallone, was another notable action flick from 1986. Stallone played Lieutenant Marion "Cobra" Cobretti, a no-nonsense cop who takes on a violent gang terrorizing Los Angeles. The film was packed with over-the-top action, explosions, and Stallone's signature tough-guy persona. While "Cobra" received mixed reviews, it was a commercial success and remains a cult classic among action fans. Its stylized violence and gritty atmosphere captured the spirit of the era, making it a memorable entry in Stallone's filmography. These action-packed movies truly made 1986 a thrilling year for cinema.

Heartfelt Dramas

Heartfelt dramas in 1986 offered audiences compelling stories and memorable characters, and one film that stood out was "Stand by Me." Directed by Rob Reiner, "Stand by Me" is a coming-of-age story based on Stephen King's novella "The Body." The film follows four young boys as they embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy, facing various challenges and learning valuable lessons about friendship along the way. "Stand by Me" was praised for its authentic portrayal of childhood, its strong performances from a young cast including Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O'Connell, and its nostalgic feel. The film's themes of friendship, loss, and self-discovery resonated with audiences of all ages, making it a timeless classic.

Another notable drama from 1986 was "The Color of Money," directed by Martin Scorsese. A sequel to "The Hustler," "The Color of Money" saw Paul Newman reprising his role as Fast Eddie Felson, a former pool hustler who takes a young protégé, played by Tom Cruise, under his wing. The film explored themes of ambition, mentorship, and the complexities of human relationships. "The Color of Money" was praised for its sharp writing, stylish direction, and strong performances from Newman and Cruise. Newman won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role, marking a career highlight. The film's success demonstrated Scorsese's versatility as a filmmaker, proving he could deliver compelling dramas as well as his signature crime films.

"Children of a Lesser God" was also released in 1986. This drama tells the story of a deaf woman and a hearing man who fall in love. The film was praised for its sensitive portrayal of deafness and its exploration of communication and relationships. Marlee Matlin won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance, making her the first deaf actress to win the award. These heartfelt dramas provided deep, emotional experiences for moviegoers in 1986.

Quirky Comedies

Quirky comedies in 1986 brought laughter and unique perspectives to the big screen, and one film that exemplified this was "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." Directed by John Hughes, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" follows a high school student, played by Matthew Broderick, as he fakes illness to skip school and enjoy a day of adventures in Chicago with his best friend and girlfriend. The film was a celebration of youthful rebellion, spontaneity, and the importance of seizing the moment. "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" was praised for its clever writing, memorable characters, and Hughes's signature blend of humor and heart. The film's quotable lines and iconic scenes have made it a beloved comedy classic, and its message of living life to the fullest continues to resonate with audiences today.

Another standout comedy from 1986 was "Little Shop of Horrors," directed by Frank Oz. A musical comedy horror film, "Little Shop of Horrors" tells the story of a nerdy florist who discovers a talking plant that feeds on human blood. The film was a quirky and hilarious adaptation of the off-Broadway musical, featuring catchy songs, memorable characters, and impressive special effects. "Little Shop of Horrors" was praised for its dark humor, its energetic performances from a cast including Rick Moranis, Ellen Greene, and Steve Martin, and its creative blend of genres. The film's success demonstrated Oz's talent for directing comedies with a unique and offbeat sensibility.

"Down and Out in Beverly Hills," directed by Paul Mazursky, was another notable comedy from 1986. The film, starring Nick Nolte, Bette Midler, and Richard Dreyfuss, told the story of a homeless man whose life is changed when he tries to drown himself in the swimming pool of a wealthy Beverly Hills family. These quirky comedies added laughter and originality to the cinematic landscape of 1986.

Other Notable Films

Besides the aforementioned movies, other notable films also made their mark in 1986. "Pretty in Pink," another John Hughes classic, captured the essence of teenage romance and social dynamics. "Hannah and Her Sisters," directed by Woody Allen, offered a sophisticated and introspective look at family relationships. "The Fly," directed by David Cronenberg, combined horror and science fiction to create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. Each of these films contributed to the rich tapestry of cinema in 1986.

In conclusion, 1986 was a fantastic year for movies, offering something for everyone. From action-packed blockbusters to heartfelt dramas and quirky comedies, the films of 1986 continue to entertain and inspire audiences today. So, next time you're looking for a great movie to watch, why not take a trip back to 1986 and rediscover some of these cinematic gems? You won't be disappointed!