By Charlotte Brooke

Some flicks and tunes for all you tubular kids out there wanting some entertainment!

80s Movies:

The Outsiders (1983)

Short summary...

The Outsiders tells the story of the greasers and the socs, two loosely-organised teen gangs in mid-1960s Oklahoma. Without giving too much away, we follow the life of 14-year-old Ponyboy Curtis who struggles with what is right and wrong in a society in which he does not feel he belongs.

Reminds me of...

This movie reminds me of Grease without the music! Although from different decades, the gangs remain quite similar and the peer-pressure to fit in is a major theme in both films.

My opinion...

The first time I watched this film I was the protagonist’s age, 14. It allowed me to relate to the ‘teen troubles’ portrayed in the story – the difficulty of fitting into a particular group and the effect of peer pressure. I learnt about class differences, the ‘stereotypes’ of the privileged and the poor, and found myself in the boots of somebody in a situation much different to mine. I thoroughly enjoyed the drama and recommend it to those wanting a tearjerker!

Uncle Buck (1989)

Short summary...

When Cindy and her husband Bob have to leave town for a family emergency, there is only one person available to babysit their three kids... Bob’s lazy, carefree brother, Buck.

Reminds me of...

The first thing that comes to mind is Planes, Trains, and Automobiles. Another great comedy starring John Candy (Buck) and has a similar theme of last-minute-madness!

My opinion...

Ironically, my uncle introduced me to this movie at a young age. I cried with laughter then and to this day, still have it on my list of movies to bring up the mood. The soundtrack is brilliant and serves the comedy well! Despite the humour, there is a strong moral message within the film.

Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983)

Short summary...

A tribute to the original series, aired in the 1950s & 60s, Twilight Zone: The Movie is made up of four distinctly different, supernatural stories.

Reminds me of...

It is difficult to find a similar film/show as this one is uniquely made up of four small movies in one. But if I were to base it off the supernatural feel, I think Stranger Things is great to compare! Although one is a film and the other a tv series, the unusual worlds and creatures are very much alike.

My opinion...

This movie is unlike any I have ever seen before. Because it is made up of four tales, there is something in it for everybody. On first viewing it is an unforgettable experience. Although dated by today's standards, the special effects are incredible for its time. Highly recommended!!

And for your mixtape...

80s Songs:

Say Say Say

A 1983 duet between Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney. This infectious pop hit is definitely one to groove to!

Baggy Trousers

This pop-reggae fusion was one of Madness’s earliest hits, released in 1980. You absolutely must watch the music video... I cannot tell you why otherwise I will spoil it!

Army Dreamers

One of Kate Bush’s lesser-known singles is this soft-pop ballad from 1980. The melancholic lyrics tell of young soldiers who ‘never made it to their 20s.’