Feeling nostalgic for a beloved movie from the 1980s?
Check out our pick of the best family favourites.
You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll be awe-struck and you’ll yearn for your own childhood.
E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982):
When a kind and gentle alien lands on Earth, he’s found by a young boy named Elliott (Henry Thomas). The two quickly form a close friendship, and Elliott brings E.T. home with him. But when E.T. falls ill and the government learns of his existence, Elliot races against time to return him to his home planet.
Where to watch: Stream this childhood favourite on Netflix.
The NeverEnding Story (1984):
If you believe in dreams and magic, this flick was likely your favourite growing up. While fleeing the school bullies, young Bastian (Barret Oliver) hides in a bookstore, where he stumbles upon an intriguing tale, The NeverEnding Story. As he begins to read about mystical land Fantasia, Bastian finds a description of… himself. He wonders if it’s more than just a make-believe story…
Where to watch: Pop this flick on repeat on Netflix or pick it up at JB Hi-Fi.
The Goonies (1985):
After finding a mysterious map, a group of boys, played by Sean Astin (Mikey), Corey Feldman (Mouth), Ke Huy Quan (Data), Josh Brolin (Brand), Jeff Cohen (Chunk) and John Matuszak (Sloth), launch a treasure hunt.
Where to watch: Pick up a copy at JB Hi-Fi or stream it on Netflix.
Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986):
In this classic by writer and director John Hughes, the mischievous Ferris (Matthew Broderick) wants to live life to the fullest rather than waste another moment at school. He skips class and hatches a brilliant plan: to have the day of his dreams with his girlfriend, Sloane (Mia Sara), and bestie, Cameron (Alan Ruck), in tow.
Where to watch: Watch Ferris get up to mischief on Netflix or grab the DVD from JB Hi-Fi.
Beetlejuice (1988):
Newlyweds Adam (Alec Baldwin) and Barbara (Geena Davis) are enjoying life in the country – until tragedy strikes. As the two realise they’re dead, they’re dealt a second blow when a new family moves into their house. Despite their plan to scare off the owners, Adam and Barbara are hopeless at haunting. Enter Betelgeuse (aka Beetlejuice, Michael Keaton), the professional poltergeist who’s more than they bargained for.
Where to watch: Find this freaky movie for sale at JB Hi-Fi.
Stand By Me (1986):
When four best friends discover a stranger has been killed in their local town, they embark on a search for the body. But their journey isn’t just a physical one – it’s an emotional coming-of-age adventure they will never forget.
Where to watch: Relive the nostalgia on Netflix or pick it up at JB Hi-Fi.
Ghostbusters (1984):
Who you gonna call? These guys. Why? Because they’re hilarious. When three parapsychology professors lose their jobs because of an experiment gone awry, they form a group named the Ghostbusters. Fighting demons and exorcising properties in New York City is all in a day’s work for these nerdy heroes.
Where to watch: Stream on Foxtel Now or grab a copy at JB Hi-Fi.
