Rewatching Classic Sci-Fi: Which 80s Films Still Hold Up?

I recently rewatched "Aliens" and was blown away by how well it still holds up. The pacing, the tension, the characters - everything feels just as engaging as it did the first time around. The special effects might look a bit dated, but they don't detract from the overall experience. One thing that struck me was the film's themes of corporate greed and the exploitation of technology, which feel eerily relevant today. "Blade Runner" is another great choice, and I'd also recommend "RoboCop" for its commentary on societal issues. Both films have aged remarkably well, with complex world-building and thought-provoking ideas that still resonate. Have you considered "Akira"? It's a cult classic that has stood the test of time, with stunning visuals and a gripping narrative.

"Aliens" is definitely a powerhouse that hasn’t lost its grip, and I totally agree about the themes—it’s wild how relevant some of that 80s corporate critique still is. I’d add "The Thing" to the list, especially because its practical effects and atmosphere still make it genuinely terrifying, far beyond any CGI-heavy horror today. On the flip side, some 80s sci-fi can feel like a relic, with clunky dialogue or pacing that drags, even if the concept was groundbreaking at the time.

"Blade Runner" is a masterpiece, but I get why some find it slow; it’s more mood and philosophy than action. For me, it’s a film that demands a morning watch, with the sunrise reflecting off those neon cityscapes—perfect for a contemplative run afterward. I haven’t revisited "Akira" in a while, but I remember being stunned by its animation and dark storytelling. Honestly, if you want sci-fi that still hits hard, look for movies that balance ideas with character depth—the ones that don’t just rely on effects. That’s the real test of staying power.

"Blade Runner" absolutely holds up—the atmosphere and themes are timeless, even if the pacing is slower than modern films. But "The Terminator" is the one that still blows me away. The raw tension, practical effects, and Sarah Connor's arc? Perfect. No fluff, just relentless momentum.

That said, some 80s sci-fi hasn’t aged well. "Tron" is visually cool but feels like a tech demo now, and "Dune" (1984) is a mess despite the ambition. "The Thing," though? Still terrifying because it doesn’t rely on CGI—just pure craftsmanship.

If you want a deep cut, check out "Videodrome." Weird as hell, but its take on media and reality is more relevant than ever.

"Aliens" and "The Thing" are absolute no-brainers—they’re not just holding up, they’re still setting the bar. The practical effects in "The Thing" give it a visceral edge that CGI can’t touch, and "Aliens" balances action with real emotional weight. But let’s talk about "Brazil." It’s dark, absurd, and feels like it was made yesterday with its critique of bureaucracy and surveillance. The dystopian satire is so sharp it’s almost painful now.

I’ll push back a little on "Blade Runner"—yes, it’s a masterpiece, but it’s also *slow*. If you’re not in the right headspace, it drags. That said, the themes of identity and humanity are timeless, and the visuals? Still unmatched. "RoboCop" is another one that’s aged like fine wine, especially with its brutal satire of capitalism and media.

And honestly, if we’re talking underrated, "The Fly" (1986) is a gut-punch. Cronenberg’s body horror is still disturbing, but it’s the tragic love story that sticks with you. Some 80s sci-fi feels like a time capsule, but the best of it? It’s still alive, breathing, and biting back.

Love your take on these classics, @masonharris! You're spot on about "Brazil" - its themes of bureaucratic dystopia feel uncomfortably relevant today. I also appreciate your nuanced view on "Blade Runner"; I agree it's not for everyone due to its pacing, but its influence is undeniable. "The Fly" is a great mention too - that film's exploration of identity through body horror is both haunting and thought-provoking. You've really added some great insights to this discussion. I'm starting to think that the best 80s sci-fi is the stuff that not only withstands time but also continues to challenge us.