There's something especially nostalgic about '80s movies and how revolutionary they were in utilizing practical effects in a manner that'd appeal to a broad audience. Whether kids or adults watch them for the first time, a select few films feel like discovering cinematic magic that often makes so many of us love movies the way we do as adults. Still, it can be tricky trying to decide which film to show kids because while some are less afraid and more open to various genres, others might have a harder time with the stories until they're a bit older.
That said, some of these movies feel like the type of timeless must-watch gems that every parent should watch with their kids at least once. We've compiled a list of various genres that can be appealing to both boys and girls, as well as where to find them on Disney+, Netflix, and more.
The Goonies (1985)
At this point, The Goonies is synonymous with iconic '80s films, and it's in large part due to its unreplicated charm. From the cast to the boldly gripping plot, it leaves an instant impact. For the kids who are brave enough to watch and love a series like Stranger Things (2016), The Goonies is a perfect film to show for its inclusion of friendships, adventure, and all-around similar vibes.
Perfect for kids with every kind of personality, it is especially for the ones who love adventures and the forgotten lost things, and the ones who spend their days outside. It's also perfect for kids who have tight-knit friend groups and can be a great introduction as a movie night experience with others. Plus, the hopeful ending makes it the type of movie that can quickly become a comfort watch on a gloomy day—a sign that the good guys win in the end.
The Empire Strikes Back (1980)
Star Wars is a special franchise for countless adults, but there's something especially magical about experiencing it for the first time as a kid. I don't remember the first time I watched many movies, but I do remember the first time I watched The Empire Strikes Back, and how it felt like the world of movies could be something so much bigger than moving pictures on a screen. While every kid isn't going to grow up to love the franchise fiercely, it's a perfect starting point to introduce them to well-rounded stories that explore galaxies beyond the Earth.
At the same time, it can be a great film to showcase just how far filmmaking has come for the kids who might have a bigger interest in the industry. It almost feels necessary at that point, but again, it really is the archetype of science fiction and emotionally-driven, heartfelt narratives that are perfect for every type of kid.
Back to the Future (1985)
Does Back to the Future contain some questionable points? Sure. But is it still an absolute '80s movie must-watch for a myriad of reasons? 100%. The magic of time travel and the idea of a kid being tasked with a big life-changing mission is something that feels imperative for all kids to experience as their gateway into time travel narratives. And while some themes might be a bit too mature for very young viewers, with careful conversations, they can shine a light on important matters, such as our agency and choices.
More than anything, Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd make such an iconic team that everything about their banter can be a whole lot of fun to experience with the whole family. Like many of the films on this list, it's also a great testament to filmmaking and how far it's come.
The Princess Bride (1987)
Like Star Wars, The Princess Bride feels like the type of movie that exudes magic in every way. The meta-storytelling and the idea of a little boy not being interested in reading a romance speak to the fact that fairy tales aren't just meant to be consumed by women and little girls. Love stories shouldn't be gendered in the same way that action films shouldn't be, because everything about The Princess Bride represents how various tropes can be geared toward us all.
More than anything, there aren't many films centered on pirates and princesses with the amount of humor that's sprinkled into every word of The Princess Bride. While some moments may be a bit more mature for younger kids, parental guidance can help make them a little less awkward. Plus, really, most kids are here for the action as opposed to the words being spoken aloud, so it can be a great film for kids with big imaginations.
Willow (1988)
Willow is, without a doubt, one of the most underrated movies to grace our screens. For years, it felt like no one was talking about it until Willow (2022), the series, came out, and even then, it remained a hidden gem that was unfortunately canceled. Full of wholesome adventure and an endearing message about fighting for what's right, it's a stunning, gorgeously shot film that also shows the evolution of filmmaking in a manner that can make it compelling for kids to experience.
For kids wanting to experience an epic in the form of a wholesome fantasy, Willow is the perfect film to start with. It not only feels magical, but the production value of the time is what showcases how grand films can be without AI or any absurd tampering. Plus, it's always exciting to discover something underrated and realize how much greatness exists beyond what becomes hugely popular.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
As another science fiction staple, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a no-brainer when it comes to introducing kids to films that are both well-made and thematically significant to get parenthood right. As an exploration of gentleness and kindness toward otherworldly beings, E.T. is indescribable when it comes to showing how much more grace kids extend and how their very willingness to embrace the unknown makes the world a brighter place.
E.T. is also a must-watch for the kids who have an interest in how films are made. Steven Spielberg's revolutionary work on the film is a cultural phenomenon for a reason, and it features a number of great techniques to showcase the magic behind the scenes. It's a wholesome, unbelievably sweet, and joyous adventure for all ages. And even the kids who might find things to be scary at times will certainly be fine with E.T. As a certified scaredy-cat, I always was. It can also be a lovely older film to show kids who recently loved Pixar's Elio (2025).
The Karate Kid (1984)
Compelling and surprisingly comforting, The Karate Kid is a legendary '80s movie for a reason. Whether a kid has an interest in karate or not, it's one of the films that's so evocative in its means of highlighting discipline and goodness that it feels like an imperative must-watch. More than anything, the late Noriyuki 'Pat' Morita's impeccable performance as Mr. Miyagi feels like one of those roles that are imperative to know for how it revolutionizes the role of a mentor and hero.
In addition, the kids who watch The Karate Kid can later watch the sequel series Cobra Kai (2018), which brilliantly expands upon the story even further. This way, kids and families who want to deep dive into a franchise that isn't a fantasy or sci-fi can get a solid experience with these stories.
The Fox and the Hound (1981)
There are a few animated classics from the '80s that feel like significant cultural points for kids to experience, but the underrated masterpiece that is The Fox and the Hound feels especially timeless. It's devastating at times, but utterly significant in every way as a showcase of what it means to trust someone fully, how nature and nurture work, as well as a representation of the importance of loyalty.
While the themes are ones that Disney films often explore, there's something especially wonderful about how they come to fruition in The Fox and the Hound. The film's slightly darker tone with the vibrant animation allows it to be more evocative in the exploration of heavy subject matter, and it can be an especially gripping film to show kids who show signs of being animal lovers. Or, for the ones who aren't yet ready for live-action.
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Similar to Star Wars, the Indiana Jones franchise feels like a must-watch for every type of kid. Whether they're seeking adventure, humor, or heart, the first film, in particular, has it all. From Harrison Ford's timeless performance as the titular character to an exhilarating theme and original score from the great John Williams, Raiders of the Lost Ark is an '80s blueprint in countless ways that combines a thrilling plot with incredible characterizations.
Chock full of surprising humor and a genuinely fun adventure that still holds up, the films are legendary for a reason. More than anything, Indiana Jones is the kind of character who's so easy to appreciate that no matter who or what a kid is into at the time, chances are they'll adore him. Little old me did, and she even tried finding an action figure for her Barbies dolls.
Three Men and a Baby (1987)
While a majority of the movies on this list are full of action and fantasy that can help light up a kid's imagination, Three Men and a Baby is a comedy must-watch that could provide a reprieve from the world of make-believe. More than that, as one of the most hilarious comedies that manages to leave an instant mark, it can be fun for the whole family to introduce kids to legendary stars like Tom Selleck, Steve Guttenberg, and Ted Danson.
There are a few comedy films from the decade that leave a mark, but there's something especially great about how Three Men and a Baby feels fully organic, even with all the wild hijinks. A large part of the film's appeal is the stars, but more than that, the premise fully sticks the landing. An undeniable hit for both boys and girls, this one will surely be fun for the whole family when a good, hearty laugh is needed.
