By: Jamie Carter
Updated: July 27, 2016
Originally Published: April 22, 2005
The Americans stands out as an exceptional television series, intertwining the thrill of espionage with the complexities of marriage. It’s a unique narrative that cleverly uses DIY dentistry to reflect relationship challenges and, if there were such a thing as the Wig Awards, it would undoubtedly take home the top honors. Beyond that, it offers a weekly dive into the wonderfully peculiar yet straightforward era of my youth. Here are 8 ways this show evokes fond memories of the ’80s. (Spoilers ahead!)
1. Unsupervised kids before it was trendy
From a 2015 perspective, Philip and Elizabeth (Soviet spies in suburban Washington, D.C.) seem to struggle significantly with parenting. Their children could easily be labeled as “latch-key kids.” By the time I turned 17, my parents felt secure enough to leave me home alone for weekends—until they discovered the notorious open-house parties I held during their absence. (Ah, those were the days.)
2. Curling up with real books
Teenage Paige, the daughter of our lead characters, brings back memories of dozing off with a heavy hardcover book resting on my chest. I’d gladly swap my current habit of endlessly scrolling through social media for the simple pleasure of reading a good novel.
3. Classic Scrabble nights
I have no time for Words with Friends. I yearn for the satisfying sensation of arranging cool, lettered tiles in Scrabble, enjoying the gratifying sound of a triple word score. If I had played with a cunning spy-master, perhaps I wouldn’t feel so nostalgic.
4. The allure of YAZ
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5. A lost sense of political idealism
While the show often showcases violence and skewed geopolitical perspectives, there’s something refreshing about characters driven by ideals beyond greed or power. In the pre-Citizen’s United world of The Americans, fervent beliefs—albeit misguided—propel the narrative. Everyone is eager to make a difference and genuinely believes in their ability to do so.
6. Chic ’80s fashion
Many reminiscences about this decade focus on its fashion faux pas—the clash of enormous shoulder pads and towering hairstyles. However, The Americans captures the elegance of ’80s style perfectly. Keri Russell’s figure seems tailor-made for neutral wrap dresses and high-waisted jeans, inspiring me to don a fitted black turtleneck under a tailored blazer for eternity.
7. Adam Ant’s nostalgic tunes
When you’re a teenager and an older man unexpectedly meets you at a party with a stash of weed, it certainly sets the mood when “Goody Two Shoes” plays softly in the background. Especially if that man is played by the dashing Matthew Rhys in a sleek leather jacket and aviators.
8. Meaningful dinners with real people
I would trade a single iPhone-free meal for the tangled web of manipulation and intrigue that unfolds over spaghetti. Philip and Elizabeth could easily recruit me if they promised to transport me to a world devoid of selfies, emojis, and Snapchat.
This article was originally published on April 22, 2005.
In summary, The Americans captures the essence of the ’80s, from parenting styles and reading habits to the nostalgic soundtracks and fashion choices that defined a generation. It invites viewers to reflect on a time of idealism and simplicity contrasted with the complexities of life today. For more insights on family planning, check out our blog about fertility boosters for men, while also exploring the enriching content on creating a DIY gallery wall as a delightful home project.