Oct 8th, 2023 on

Classic 80s Comedy Movies For The Whole Family

After much contemplation (alongside the perks of owning a blog), the time has finally come to unveil a brand-new series on my blog. It’s an era that truly deserves its spotlight – the ’80s! This remarkable decade left an indelible mark on both the cinema and music industry, with it’s iconic moments and unforgettable creations. What’s more, I happen to be a product of the ’80s, and in our household, we hold a deep affection for this remarkable era.

Now, for our inaugural post in this series, I’ve handpicked the cream of the crop – my top ten comedies from the ’80s, the kind that’ll have you clutching your sides in fits of laughter until your cheeks ache. So, go ahead and grab your favorite snacks, because we’re about to embark on a journey through the golden age of comedy.

Get ready, dear readers, as we dive headfirst into the world of laughter and nostalgia!

Parenthood (1989)

Parenthood, featuring Steve Martin and Rick Moranis, along with an exceptional ensemble cast that includes the youthful and charming Keanu Reeves, is a heartwarming exploration of family life.

Is Steve Martin the ultimate father figure of cinema, much like Morgan Freeman is often considered the cinematic embodiment of God? That’s a question this film might inspire you to ponder as you immerse yourself in its narrative.

The plot revolves around four siblings who have embarked on the rollercoaster of parenthood, each facing their unique challenges and comedic situations along the way. Parenthood captures the essence of family dynamics, showcasing the laughter and the tears that come with raising children. It’s a heartwarming and relatable journey through the joys and trials of modern family life.

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids (1989)

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids is a fun movie starring Rick Moranis as an imaginative scientist who accidentally shrinks not only his kids but also their neighbor’s kids, while experimenting in their futuristic home. The kids end up in their massive backyard, which has turned into a jungle with giant insects.

What makes this movie special is the blend of cool special effects and a heartwarming story about family and friendship. The kids have to work together to survive their giant surroundings, showing that teamwork and love can conquer challenges.

It’s a classic film from a time when practical effects ruled, and it still charms audiences today. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids is a unique adventure where science fiction meets family, teaching us that even in small moments, we can find big adventures and lessons in life.

Twins (1988)

Julius Benedict, portrayed by the larger-than-life Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Vincent Benedict, brought to life by the incomparable Danny DeVito, are two long-lost brothers who were tragically separated at birth. These two men couldn’t be more different, both inside and out.

As fate would have it, their paths finally cross, and what unfolds is a heartwarming and side-splitting adventure that you won’t soon forget. Julius, a towering and incredibly sweet guy with an earnest demeanor, is the perfect foil to Vincent, the notorious hustler with a penchant for mischief.

Together, they embark on a remarkable journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Twins expertly weaves their contrasting personalities into a tapestry of comedic situations that are so uproarious, they might just bring tears of laughter to your eyes.

These two leads share a brilliant chemistry that elevates Twins to classic comedy status. Twins is a timeless classic that effortlessly combines humor and heart.

The Great Outdoors (1988)

The Great Outdoors has it all. The perfect scenery of the American outdoors, cozy cabins nestled in the heart of the wilderness, surrounded by a lush, untamed forest, and a serene lake ready for all kinds of water adventures. This film captures the essence of a dreamy vacation in the wilderness.

Starring Dan Aykroyd and John Candy, the movie tells the story of a family man, played by Candy, who plans a peaceful getaway with his children. However, his tranquility is disrupted when his brash and eccentric brother-in-law, portrayed by Aykroyd, joins the adventure. With John Candy in the mix, you can expect the unexpected and plenty of laughs.

Here’s a fun fact: if you’re lucky and live in the USA, the movie was filmed on location in Bass Lake, California, nestled near the breathtaking Yosemite National Park – a hiking enthusiast’s dream.

Coming to America (1988)

Coming to America, starring the one and only Eddie Murphy, revolves around the tale of an African prince who ventures to Queens, New York, in pursuit of a bride. What sets this film apart is Murphy’s remarkable ability to play not just one, but multiple characters within the movie. One of these characters is so transformed by heavy makeup that he’s virtually unrecognizable, showcasing Murphy’s exceptional acting talent and adding a generous dose of humor to the film.

Coming to America also impresses with lively dance scenes, where talented performers showcase intricate choreography. The colorful and extravagant costumes further enhance the movie’s visual appeal, adding to the overall enjoyment of this heartwarming and humorous story.

Fun Fact: The fictional fast-food restaurant in the movie, McDowell’s, cleverly parodies the real McDonald’s. The subtle nod to McDonald’s, with its similar menu items and color scheme, is a hidden gem that adds an extra layer of amusement for eagle-eyed viewers.

Big (1988)

Big is a heartwarming tale of a young boy, masterfully portrayed by Tom Hanks, who makes a wish to become an adult and wakes up one morning in an adult’s body. As he navigates the challenges of adulthood with childlike wonder, the film uniquely and humorously illustrates how grown-ups tackle their problems.

There’s an iconic scene when Josh (Tom Hanks) and his coworker, Mr. MacMillan (Robert Loggia), find themselves in the legendary FAO Schwarz toy store.One of the film’s standout moments occurs at the iconic FAO Schwarz toy store, where Josh (Tom Hanks) and his coworker, spontaneously perform on a giant piano with their feet.It’s a magical and unforgettable moment that makes Big a true classic!

Summer School (1987)

Summer School in always sunny California might sound like a blast, but for Mark Harmon, a gym-relaxed teacher, it’s anything but. He’s stuck teaching English to a group of high schoolers who seem perpetually bored and endlessly distracted by their own love dramas and hobbies. Can you blame them?

Now, Mark faces a daunting challenge – he must find a way to help these misfit students pass their exams, or he’ll find himself in big trouble, facing the threat of being fired. The students themselves form a diverse mix of nerds, rebels, introverts, and the quintessential ’80s archetypes. And of course, there’s a touch of romance sprinkled into the story.All in all, Summer School is a sweet and sunny cinematic escape, perfect for those longing for a taste of carefree summer vibes.

Spaceballs (1987)

Spaceballs is the result of a fantastic collaboration between Mel Brooks, Rick Moranis, and John Candy. This sci-fi comedy masterpiece is a unique and cheesy parody of Star Wars that stands out for its humor and absurdity.

The plot may seem simple – a heroic pilot on a mission to save a princess and a planet – but it’s so much more. Mel Brooks’ direction adds a timeless quality to this sci-fi comedy gem.

Spaceballs is a hilarious ride through the cosmos that’s best enjoyed if you’re familiar with Star Wars. It’s a classic that has left a lasting impact on both sci-fi and comedy. If you haven’t experienced it yet, hop on board and join the fun on the Spaceballs spaceship

Three Amigos! (1986)

Three Amigos! Picture this: Three legends of comedy, Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short, embark on a rollicking journey that blurs the lines between the silver screen and reality. Set against the backdrop of a quaint Mexican village, Three Amigos! delivers uproarious humor as these iconic actors go from playing heroes in movies to unexpectedly becoming heroes in real life.

In Three Amigos! the trio’s real-life personas seamlessly merge with their characters, creating a whimsical and unpredictable adventure. As they struggle with their unexpected hero status in a small Mexican village, the audience is treated to a series of hilarious mishaps and encounters.

What makes Three Amigos! stand out is its skillful use of satire. It cleverly pokes fun at Hollywood’s glamour, blurring the line between fiction and reality. The film humorously delves into the consequences of mixing performance with real life, all while keeping us laughing throughout.

Money Pit (1986)

Are you ready to take on the rollercoaster of buying a house? Well, think twice and then watch The Money Pit because this movie perfectly captures the wild and often hilarious adventure of homeownership.

The film’s plot centers around Walter Fielding, portrayed by the ever-charming Tom Hanks, and his partner-in-crime, Anna Crowley, played by the talented Shelley Long. They are a young couple who dive headfirst into the world of real estate and purchase a seemingly charming, albeit rundown, mansion that’s in dire need of some major renovations. And when I say major, I mean colossal!

What makes this movie truly special is its ability to turn the chaos and tribulations of home improvement into a laugh-out-loud comedy. Only Walter and Anna could transform a home renovation into a sidesplitting, slapstick-filled journey that keeps you in stitches from start to finish!