20 awesome ’80s movies you should totally see before you die

1. Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back (1980)

Before the prequels and sequels were even a glimmer in moviegoers’ eyes, fans of Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope were waiting with bated breath (for three years) for the second installment of the trilogy.

Upon its release, The Empire Strikes Back received lukewarm reviews. This could be attributed to a perceived sophomore slump, or the sequel’s inability to rise to the incredibly high expectations set forth after the success of the first movie. Hey, people hated It’s a Wonderful Life, The Wizard of Oz and A Christmas Story at first, too. Wookies aren’t everybody’s cup of tea.

While the first film put all the pieces on the chessboard, the second starts making very carefully planned moves. Over time, an appreciation for the complexity of the architecture of these films may account for a change of heart. The Empire Strikes Back is now considered by many to be one of the best films of all time.

The glimmer of sexual tension between Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) and Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) is snuffed out, evolving into something meaningful but platonic. A beloved new character takes center stage, providing much-needed insight into this mysterious force and the Jedi. There’s the big reveal regarding the identity of the man behind the dark mask, and Han Solo (Harrison Ford) and Princess Leia take their relationship to the next level.

The movie even ends on a cliffhanger, harkening back to the serials popular during the first half of the 20th century.

The Empire Strikes Back isn’t just a movie. It’s an integral part of a cultural phenomenon. It may not have Princess Leia clad in a gold bikini, but it is Ewok-free.

Which ’80s movie is an absolute must-watch for you? Let us know in the comments.