1. The Last Starfighter (1984)
The Last Starfighter was a sleeper hit that mixed sci-fi adventure with video game culture, and it has a special place in the hearts of ’80s fans. The story follows Alex Rogan, a teenager who gets recruited by an alien race to defend their planet after mastering a video game. The movie was ahead of its time with groundbreaking special effects, but it didn’t get the credit it deserved. Imagine a modern reboot that blends current gaming culture with epic space battles and a fresh, diverse cast.
With the explosion of online gaming and virtual reality, this movie would resonate with today’s tech-savvy generation. It could explore the evolution of gaming and its potential for intergalactic warfare. The mix of family-friendly action with high-tech themes would make for an exciting, heartwarming reboot. Fans of nostalgic ’80s films could also appreciate the deep space adventure re-imagined for today’s technology.
2. The Monster Squad (1987)
The Monster Squad is one of those hidden gems that blends horror, comedy, and adventure in a way that feels distinctly ’80s. It’s about a group of kids who band together to stop classic movie monsters, including Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Mummy, from taking over the world. The film is full of heart and humor, but it didn’t receive much love during its initial release.
Today, a modern reboot could dive into a much darker, more cinematic version of these iconic monsters, while keeping the fun spirit of the original. With today’s special effects, the monsters could be far more terrifying, while the kids could bring in the charm and wit needed for a memorable coming-of-age story. Adding a more modern setting, and possibly a nod to modern monster lore, could make this a hit for both old fans and new audiences.
3. The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai Across the 8th Dimension (1984)
A cult classic, Buckaroo Banzai is one of those ’80s films that left audiences scratching their heads but also captivated them with its unique charm. The movie follows Buckaroo Banzai, a scientist, brain surgeon, and rock star, who has to save the world from interdimensional aliens. It’s quirky, bizarre, and full of offbeat humor that didn’t quite find its audience in the ’80s.
A modern reboot could lean into the absurdity of the plot even more, embracing a surreal, visually dynamic aesthetic. Think of a combination of high-octane action and science fiction, with a contemporary twist on the multidimensional concept. A fresh take could offer updated special effects and a star-studded cast that embraces the film’s unique blend of genres.
4. Short Circuit (1986)
Short Circuit features an adorable robot named Johnny Five who gains consciousness and decides he doesn’t want to be part of the military program that created him. The film mixes science fiction and comedy, with the robot’s childlike wonder and the film’s warmhearted humor making it memorable. At its core, it’s a story about freedom, technology, and humanity, but the world has changed since its release.
A modern reboot could tackle themes like artificial intelligence, ethics in robotics, and the potential for machines to develop empathy. With advancements in AI and robotics, the movie could take on a much more sophisticated tone, while still maintaining its heart. Imagine a tech-savvy young protagonist bonding with Johnny Five in a world where AI is more advanced than ever.
5. Real Genius (1985)
Real Genius is a quirky, intellectual comedy about a genius student at a prestigious university who uncovers a plot to use his laser research for military purposes. Starring Val Kilmer as the snarky, smart, and hilariously offbeat student, the movie blends science with satire. It didn’t achieve massive success in its day but has become a favorite for those who love its nerdy humor and clever commentary on academia.
In today’s world of tech and engineering breakthroughs, a reboot could shine a light on contemporary academic and scientific environments. The film’s original themes about ethical research, power, and corporate greed could be refreshed with current issues like AI ethics or privacy concerns. Plus, the combination of high-tech humor and intelligent characters could resonate with a new generation.
6. WarGames (1983)
WarGames is a thrilling movie about a teenager who accidentally hacks into a U.S. military supercomputer and almost triggers World War III. The film is a cautionary tale about technology and its potential consequences, with a sense of tension that still holds up today. With modern hacking, cybersecurity, and AI threats being more relevant than ever, the movie’s premise is begging for a reboot.
In a modern version, the hacker could be a highly skilled teenager who hacks into a global system, only to realize the massive power he wields. The reboot could explore the evolving relationship between humans and technology, offering an up-to-date take on data manipulation, surveillance, and the ethics of artificial intelligence. A high-tech thriller with a sense of social responsibility would capture today’s audience.
7. The Last Emperor (1987)
While The Last Emperor is a historical epic that won several Academy Awards, it remains relatively forgotten by mainstream audiences today. The film chronicles the life of Puyi, the last emperor of China, who was crowned as a child and later became a political pawn in the 20th century. Its beautiful cinematography and sprawling narrative earned it critical acclaim, but it hasn’t been rebooted or revisited in recent years.
A modern version of The Last Emperor could reframe the story through a fresh lens, exploring the intersection of politics, history, and culture in China’s modern age. With current interest in Chinese history and international relations, this story could resonate on a much broader scale, focusing on Puyi’s legacy in the context of today’s global power dynamics.
8. They Live (1988)
John Carpenter’s They Live is an action-packed science fiction movie that blends political commentary with an alien invasion plot. The movie centers on a drifter who uncovers the fact that society is secretly being controlled by alien overlords through subliminal messages. While the film has gained a cult following, it wasn’t widely recognized in its time.
A reboot could update the commentary on consumerism, societal control, and power structures, making it relevant in today’s world of fake news, corporate influence, and social media manipulation. With today’s technological capabilities, the aliens could have a much more sinister presence, and the hero’s journey could resonate with today’s struggles against corruption and surveillance. A modern take would make the film’s original themes feel fresh and impactful.
9. Ladyhawke (1985)
Set in medieval Europe, Ladyhawke tells the story of a knight and his lady-love who are cursed to never be together, with the twist that by day, she’s a hawk, and by night, he’s a wolf. This fantasy film is an underrated gem, blending romance, action, and a magical curse. It didn’t perform well at the box office, but it still has a devoted following.
A modern reboot could take the fantastical elements of the original and place them in a more gritty, grounded setting. Think about the curse being represented through technology or in a parallel universe, where the lovers fight against forces beyond their control. The film’s emotional depth and unique premise would appeal to modern fantasy lovers, especially with advanced special effects and a darker tone.
10. Explorers (1985)
Explorers is about three kids who build their own spacecraft and venture into outer space, only to discover an alien race. The film is filled with imagination and wonder, and while it was a hit with younger audiences in the ’80s, it didn’t have the staying power of other classics. It’s the perfect candidate for a reboot, given the renewed interest in space exploration.
In a modern reboot, the kids could be driven by their fascination with space and technology, while encountering more complex extraterrestrial life forms. With the advancements in CGI, the visual effects could bring the otherworldly aliens and space scenes to life in a way that feels breathtakingly real. Combining the wonder of space with the emotional journey of the young explorers could make for a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
11. The Hidden (1987)
A high-octane sci-fi action film, The Hidden features a cop and a FBI agent who team up to track down an alien criminal who takes over human bodies. It was an exciting blend of horror and science fiction, but it didn’t gain a huge following when it was released. However, its unique premise of alien possession and body-hopping still has a lot of potential.
A reboot could update the action sequences, adding modern technological elements like surveillance, biometric tracking, or body modification. The dynamic between the cop and the alien-possessed characters could have even more psychological depth, exploring identity, morality, and the human experience. Today’s audiences would appreciate the action-packed sequences with deeper philosophical themes.
12. The Adventures of Robin Hood (1984)
This version of Robin Hood starred Patrick Bergin and Uma Thurman, bringing the classic tale to the screen with an adventurous and somewhat campy flair. The movie didn’t have the lasting impact of other Robin Hood adaptations, but it was a fun take on the legendary hero. Given the resurgence of interest in the Robin Hood legend, a modern reboot could bring the story into a new era.
Imagine a Robin Hood who operates in today’s world of cybercrime and social justice. Instead of fighting with arrows, this Robin Hood could hack into corrupt systems, exposing corporate greed and government corruption. A reboot could be a thrilling mix of action, social justice, and the timeless story of outwitting the rich to help the poor.
13. Flight of the Navigator (1986)
A cult classic, Flight of the Navigator tells the story of a young boy who is abducted by an alien ship and returns to Earth years later, still a child. The film blends adventure, science fiction, and coming-of-age themes, but it didn’t quite capture the mainstream attention it deserved. With the current trend of retro sci-fi, it’s prime for a reboot.
A modern version could explore themes of time travel, the nature of human identity, and the impact of technology on the human experience. With advancements in CGI and more complex storytelling, the visuals and narrative could be updated, but the core of the movie—a child’s adventure and discovery—could remain. It would appeal to both fans of the original and a new generation of sci-fi lovers.
14. Time Bandits (1981)
Terry Gilliam’s Time Bandits is a mind-bending adventure about a young boy who teams up with a group of time-traveling dwarfs to steal treasures throughout history. It’s an odd and surreal film, full of absurd humor and deep philosophical themes, which may be why it’s become a cult classic over the years. Its unusual story and off-the-wall visuals still captivate fans.
A modern reboot could dive deeper into the fantastical elements, with new interpretations of historical events and figures. The team of thieves could be more diverse, and the time travel aspect could be more technologically sophisticated. Today’s audiences would appreciate the film’s absurd humor mixed with a deeper exploration of history, fate, and morality.
15. The Last Dragon (1985)
The Last Dragon is a martial arts film with a twist, blending action with elements of the supernatural and fantasy. The movie follows a young martial artist named Leroy Green, who must face off against the villainous Sho’nuff to become the “Last Dragon.” It’s an underappreciated gem with a unique blend of genres and a strong following among ’80s action fans.
A modern reboot could take the martial arts and supernatural aspects to a whole new level, incorporating modern fight choreography and high-tech effects. The story could explore themes of personal growth, destiny, and identity, while also making the villain and hero dynamic more complex. With the current popularity of action and martial arts films, this reboot would be a hit for both fans of the original and new viewers.
