As a parent with a penchant for realism, I often find myself cringing at the fantastical elements that dominate modern cinema. I prefer narratives grounded in reality—think love stories with relatable characters or gripping historical dramas. However, it seems my children are enchanted by the very genres I resist. Whether it’s superheroes or extraterrestrial adventures, they crave the thrill of science fiction and magic, leaving me to roll my eyes in despair. Family movie nights, it appears, have become a challenge.
Realizing I needed to embrace this sci-fi obsession, I turned to the ’80s—the golden age of cinema—to find films that could bridge our preferences. If I must endure pixelated aliens and oversized creatures, I might as well enjoy the nostalgia of my youth. Here are my top five picks:
1. Back to the Future (All Three Films)
This iconic trilogy serves as a delightful blend of history and adventure, albeit with a playful twist on reality. Marty McFly, played by the charming Michael J. Fox, embarks on time-travel escapades with the eccentric Doc Brown and his loyal dog, Einstein. Their antics through the space-time continuum are filled with humor and heartwarming moments, making it a fantastic choice for family viewing. Plus, who wouldn’t want to relive the ’80s fashion while pondering why I still haven’t seen a pizza hydrator in my kitchen?
2. Space Camp
When I first watched Space Camp at a drive-in theater back in 1986, I was convinced I’d one day work for NASA. This film follows four teens, including ’80s icons Kelly Preston and Leah Thompson, who inadvertently launch themselves into space. While the premise may stretch believability, it captures the wonder of space exploration and features a robot named Jinx, adding to its charm. Plus, a young Joaquin Phoenix makes a memorable appearance before his transformation into a serious actor.
3. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
Even the staunchest anti-sci-fi parents can’t resist the magic of E.T. The film’s heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure resonates across generations. Watching Elliot navigate the challenges of hiding an alien in his home is a timeless experience. The emotional farewell at the end brings tears to the eyes, prompting some questions about parental supervision—like how did Elliot’s mom leave him with a potentially radioactive alien? Nonetheless, E.T. remains a classic that teaches valuable lessons about empathy and connection in a world before smart technology.
4. The Last Starfighter
For kids fascinated by video games, The Last Starfighter is a perfect fit. Alex Rogan, a teenager stuck in a mundane trailer park, discovers that his arcade skills could help save the galaxy. After mastering the titular game, he’s recruited to fight in an epic space war. This film inspires kids to dream big, even if the reality of becoming a space hero remains firmly in the realm of fiction. It’s a nostalgic reminder of the gaming culture of the ’80s.
5. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids
This film holds a special place in my heart, primarily due to Rick Moranis’s portrayal of the lovable yet hapless inventor, Wayne Szalinski. His accidental shrinking of his children leads to a wild adventure in their own backyard. The premise is relatable, and despite the chaos, it’s a family-friendly tale that showcases creativity and resilience. If only my own life could be so entertainingly chaotic!
Despite our differing tastes in film, revisiting the ’80s offers a unique bonding experience with my kids. While I may still struggle with certain sci-fi tropes, there’s undeniable joy in sharing these cinematic gems with the next generation.
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Summary: This article highlights five classic ’80s sci-fi movies that parents can enjoy with their kids, including “Back to the Future,” “Space Camp,” “E.T.,” “The Last Starfighter,” and “Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.” Each film combines nostalgia and fun, making them perfect for family movie nights.