Top 1980s Movies on Disney Plus: Nostalgia on Steroids

Big, directed by Penny Marshall, is a timeless classic that combines fantasy, comedy, and heartfelt drama. Released in 1988, it tells the enchanting story of 12-year-old Josh Baskin, who magically transforms into an adult after making a wish to be big. As Josh navigates adult life with the innocence of a child, he lands a job in toy testing and experiences a romantic relationship, all while seeking a way to return to his youthful self. Starring Tom Hanks in one of his most memorable roles, the film captures the universal themes of childhood wonder and the bittersweet nostalgia of growing up. The unique script, captivating performances, and iconic scenes, like the oversized keyboard dance, make Big a must-watch. It's a heartfelt reminder to cherish the simplicity and joy of being young, appealing to audiences of all ages. Whether it's for its humor, endearing characters, or profound messages, Big remains a beloved film worth watching.

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Honey, I Shrunk the Kids is a must-watch iconic sci-fi comedy directed by Joe Johnston and released in 1989. The films engaging storyline centers on an eccentric inventor who accidentally shrinks his kids and their friends to insect size, leading to an adventurous quest to navigate the dangers of their now enormous backyard. With groundbreaking visual effects by Industrial Light & Magic and impressive giant sets, the film offers a visually stunning experience. The charming performance by Rick Moranis as Wayne Szalinski, along with the lovable, resourceful characters, makes for a heartwarming and hilarious adventure. Fun trivia—like the films origin as a teen horror idea and its life-sized ant models—adds extra layers of interest. Despite not winning major awards, its unique concept and family-friendly appeal have solidified its status as a beloved classic. Dont miss this imaginative, visually captivating family adventure!

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Three Men and a Baby, a 1987 comedy directed by Leonard Nimoy, takes viewers on a delightful, heartwarming journey following three single, career-focused men whose lives turn chaotic when an infant girl is left at their doorstep. With hilarious mishaps and tender moments, the trio navigates fatherhood, evolving from bumbling novices to caring, attached guardians. This American adaptation of Coline Serreaus French film Trois hommes et un couffin features a well-chosen cast, including Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson, each delivering memorable performances. The films humor, charm, and relatable themes of unexpected responsibilities and personal growth make it a timeless favorite. Grossing $167 million in the U.S. and leading to a successful sequel, it remains a compelling watch for its engaging plot, endearing character development, and the joy of witnessing a makeshift family find their way. Dont miss this classic—its a joyous celebration of lifes unexpected surprises.

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Tron (1982), directed by Steven Lisberger, is a pioneering science fiction film that revolutionized visual effects and set the stage for future cinematic technology. The story follows Kevin Flynn, a computer programmer who is absorbed into a mainframe computer, where he interacts with software programs in his quest to the computer systems master control program. With groundbreaking visual effects that combined hand-drawn animation, computer-generated imagery, and live-action footage, Tron was one of the first movies to extensively use CGI, making it a landmark in film history. Despite an initial lukewarm reception, Tron garnered a cult following and inspired sequels, video games, and more. The performances by Jeff Bridges, Bruce Boxleitner, Cindy Morgan, and David Warner enhance the film's engaging narrative. Recognized with a Technical Achievement Award in 1997 for its ahead-of-its-time visuals, Tron remains a must-watch for fans of sci-fi, technology, and innovative filmmaking.

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Big Business is a delightful and cleverly constructed American comedy that showcases the exceptional talents of Bette Midler and Lily Tomlin, who each take on dual roles as mismatched identical twins. Directed by Jim Abrahams, the 1988 film chronicles the comedic chaos that ensues when city-raised twins plan to sell a company affecting their rural counterparts—a mix-up ripe with humor and heart. The distinct environments and characters offer plenty of laughs as the twins worlds collide. The stellar performances by Midler and Tomlin, along with notable supporting roles, bring charm and depth to this engaging story. With its intriguing premise, witty dialogue, and appealing soundtrack by Lee Holdridge, Big Business remains a must-watch for fans of smart, character-driven comedies.

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X-Men: Apocalypse is a must-watch for superhero fans and cinephiles alike. Directed by Bryan Singer, this ninth installment in the X-Men series delivers high-stakes action, a compelling storyline, and a star-studded cast including James McAvoy, Michael Fassbender, Jennifer Lawrence, and Oscar Isaac. The film captivatingly narrates the emergence of Apocalypse, the worlds first mutant, who gains immense power and aims to ensure mutants dominance by bringing about an apocalypse. The X-Men must unite to thwart his cataclysmic plans. The movie stands out for its intricate character arcs, especially the internal struggles of Mystique and the ferocity of Magneto, highlighted by the intense performances of its ensemble cast. Additionally, the film's soundtrack, featuring iconic 80s hits, and a dramatic recreation of pivotal historical events like the Holocaust, enrich the viewing experience. X-Men: Apocalypse combines emotional depth, epic battles, and nostalgic music, making it an unmissable cinematic adventure.

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Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984), directed by Steven Spielberg, is a thrilling adventure film that captivates audiences with its dark tone, intense action, and memorable set pieces. Following Indiana Jones, portrayed by Harrison Ford, this sequel-prequel takes viewers to India on a quest to rescue children and retrieve a sacred stone from a nefarious cult. The film features iconic moments like a mine cart chase and a precarious rope bridge showdown, ensuring its packed with non-stop excitement. Beyond the action, the movie showcases a talented cast, including Kate Capshaw's comedic and romantic flair as Willie Scott and Jonathan Ke Quan's endearing performance as Short Round. Notably, antagonist Mola Ram, played by Amrish Puri, exudes a chilling menace. Award-winning visual effects and a score by John Williams elevate the film, making it a cornerstone of adventure cinema. Watch it for the high stakes, engaging performances, and unforgettable cinematic moments.

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Flight of the Navigator (1986) is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and adventure films. This enthralling tale of a 12-year-old boy named David Freeman, who mysteriously vanishes in 1978 and reappears in 1986 without aging, takes viewers on an extraordinary journey involving time travel and a unique bond with a sentient alien ship named Max. Directed by Randal Kleiser, famous for Grease, the film boasts stellar performances, particularly from Joey Cramer as David and Paul Reubens (voicing Max). The movies heartfelt family dynamics, captivating special effects, and memorable musical score by Alan Silvestri make it a timeless classic. Though it didnt claim major awards, its nomination for Best Science Fiction Film at the Saturn Awards underscores its enduring appeal. With intriguing trivia, such as the spaceship model at Disney World, Flight of the Navigator offers a nostalgic, exciting, and touching cinematic experience.

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