5 ’80s Masterpieces That Only Exist Because Star Wars Succeeded

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Blending science fiction, action, and innovative ideas, this film heavily influenced many movies made in the 1980s. In fact, it’s hard to understand the decade’s cinema without recognizing the impact of George Lucas.

Despite only working on Star Wars as a science fiction film, his influence was significant throughout the following decade, particularly in the world of cinema. Many movies owe their existence to the success and innovations of Star Wars.

Flash Gordon Took the Star Wars Phenomenon Back to Its Roots

While developing Star Wars, George Lucas originally intended it to be based on a particular story. However, he wasn’t able to secure the rights to that story. Instead, producer Dino De Laurentiis acquired them and created a beloved cult film from the 1980s.

The wicked alien emperor, Ming the Merciless, is planning to obliterate Earth. Football star Flash Gordon journeys to Ming’s home planet, Mongo, to stop him. He attempts to bring together the various groups on Mongo to rebel against the cruel ruler.

Even after all these years, Flash Gordon remains a thrilling, high-energy experience. It boasts fantastic costumes and set design – some of the best ever seen in a blockbuster – and features a memorable soundtrack by Queen. The movie is wonderfully old-fashioned, with a captivating, grand style reminiscent of classic filmmakers like Cecil B. DeMille. Ultimately, Flash Gordon is pure, joyful fun – perfect popcorn entertainment.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial Is One of the Decade’s Most Timeless Films

There are many reasons why Star Wars became so popular. While critics often point to its combination of science fiction, fantasy, and war elements, its innovative special effects, and its inspiration from different cultures, the film’s underlying spiritual themes are also crucial. George Lucas’ blend of popular ideas and mysticism helped influence films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.

When an alien spacecraft touches down in California, a young boy named Elliot is initially scared, but quickly forms a close bond with the visitor. Unfortunately, government officials want to capture the alien and study it for themselves.

For years, people have wondered if E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a story with religious parallels to the life of Christ. The alien arrives from the sky, seemingly dies when captured by the government, then comes back to life before finally going home, leaving a lasting impression on those who care for him. Whether or not you agree with that idea, everyone…

Tron Changed Computer Understanding Forever

While the original Star Wars used mostly physical effects, it included some early computer-generated imagery. Disney’s Tron then really pushed the boundaries, becoming one of the first movies to heavily feature CGI. It’s appropriate, then, that Tron is set within the world of computers.

Kevin Flynn, a computer programmer, is unexpectedly transported inside his own computer system. Within this digital world, the computer programs have come to life and see humans as divine beings. Flynn then has to figure out how to escape and return to reality.

Instead of imagining incredible technology in a distant galaxy, the movie Tron explored what could happen with advancements being made right now. As technology evolves, the film’s vision of the future might seem increasingly accurate.

Back to the Future Is the Perfect Blend of Past and Present

While Star Wars is celebrated for its groundbreaking vision, it also drew heavily from older stories and traditions. George Lucas blended ancient myths, classic science fiction, and the pop culture of his generation into the film. Back to the Future similarly combined elements of the past and future, but in a more direct and obvious way.

As a huge film fan, one of my all-time favorites is about a teenager named Marty McFly and his eccentric scientist friend, Doc Brown. Doc actually built a time machine out of a DeLorean! Things get crazy when they accidentally end up in 1955, and Marty starts unintentionally messing with how his parents first met. It’s a total race against time for him to get back to the ’80s, because if he fails, he risks never being born! It’s such a clever and thrilling story.

When Back to the Future first came out, it reminded people of the 1950s. Now, audiences enjoy it as a trip down memory lane to the 1980s! No matter when you watch it, the film’s blend of comedy, exciting scenes, and memorable music is sure to delight.

Spaceballs Remains Cinema’s Best Star Wars Parody

By the 1980s, Mel Brooks was famous for hilariously poking fun at different movie genres, like Westerns and classic monster films. Star Wars was such a massive hit that it inspired Brooks to create an entire parody movie around it. Although many other Star Wars spoofs have been made since, Brooks’ film remains one of the best.

Lone Starr and Barf, a mischievous duo from outer space, get caught up in a big adventure when they’re tasked with rescuing Princess Vespa. Their mission quickly becomes much more complicated as they find themselves facing off against the powerful President Skroob and his menacing second-in-command, Dark Helmet.

I’ve always loved Mel Brooks, and while some of his films really tackle big issues, Spaceballs is a total departure – it’s pure, silly fun! It’s ridiculously over-the-top, but surprisingly, it still manages to capture that sense of wonder and adventure that made Star Wars so special. It feels like a goofy, affectionate fairytale, honestly.

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2026-03-16 02:37