May 5, 2025
What if Marty McFly traveled back in time 30 years today? If he traveled the same amount of time he went back in Back to the Future—he’d only end up in the 1990s! That’s right. We're now further removed from the 1980s than Marty was from the 1950s. Feel old yet?
There’s something about 1985 that stuck with me. I clearly remember having a hard time moving on from that year—I was still writing “1985” all the way into 1987. Maybe it was the music (anyone remember Live Aid?) or the amazing television lineup: The Cosby Show, Golden Girls, Who’s the Boss?, Miami Vice, Cheers, and Family Ties were just some airing that year!
But what really stands out is the number of iconic films from 1985 that have stood the test of time. Many are still a massive part of pop culture today, and all are celebrating their 40th anniversary this year. Let’s take a look at some of these unforgettable classics:
Marty travels back in time and accidentally interrupts his parent’s first meeting—resulting in his mom developing a crush on him. Awkward.
The Athlete, The Princess, The Brain, The Criminal, and The Basket Case end up in Saturday detention together. How many versions of this story have we seen since 1985?
A group of kids, a trio of criminals, a monster, and a treasure map lead to an unforgettable adventure. Rumor has it that a sequel is in the works, but that rumor has been around for decades.
Cocoon
A group of seniors discover the fountain of youth thanks to alien pods left in a swimming pool. This Oscar-winning film still isn’t available on streaming. Why?
Two enemies—one human, one alien—are stranded in a distant world. Will they work together to survive or destroy each other first? Also, a pregnant Louis Gossett Jr.!
Teen Wolf
Michael J. Fox had a big year with this film about a high schooler who discovers he’s a werewolf. It even inspired a TV series in the 2010s.
Two boys and a computer create the perfect magical woman. Like Fox, Anthony Michael Hall (The Breakfast Club) also had a standout year in 1985.
D.A.R.Y.L.
A couple becomes foster parents to a seemingly perfect child—only to find out he’s a robot: a lesser-known gem and one of my favorites.
Three kids build a spaceship and head out to meet some TV-loving aliens. Look for a young Ethan Hawke—yes, that’s Maya Hawke’s dad—in one of his first roles.
If you want to take a trip back 40 years to a totally rad time, stop by any MCPL branch and check out one of these classic movies turning 40. Just try not to feel too ancient.
Pamela M.
Antioch Branch
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