The Best-Rated Movies of 1986

The year 1986 was a standout time for movies, giving us a ton of unforgettable films that people still talk about today. It was a year filled with groundbreaking stories and amazing performances, offering something for everyone to enjoy. From epic action adventures to heartfelt dramas and hilarious comedies, the movies of 1986 really left their mark on cinematic history. This was an era where filmmakers were taking creative risks and pushing the boundaries of what was possible on the big screen.

Looking back, it’s clear that 1986 was a special year for film lovers, producing a wide range of movies that have truly stood the test of time. Many of these films became cultural touchstones, influencing future generations of filmmakers and continuing to entertain audiences decades later. Whether you were there to see them in theaters or are just discovering them now, the best movies of 1986 offer a fantastic snapshot of a vibrant and exciting time in movie making. Get ready to explore a list of incredible films that defined a remarkable year in cinema.

‘Aliens’ (1986)

‘Aliens’ is a science fiction action film that follows Ellen Ripley, the sole survivor of an alien attack on her spaceship. After floating through space in stasis for 57 years, she is rescued and brought back to a space station. She learns that the planet where her crew first encountered the alien eggs has now been colonized. When contact with the colony is lost, Ripley reluctantly agrees to accompany a team of colonial marines back to the planet to investigate what happened.

The movie was directed by James Cameron and stars Sigourney Weaver, who reprises her role as Ripley. The cast also includes Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, Lance Henriksen, and Carrie Henn. The film was a huge success, both critically and commercially, and is often considered one of the greatest films in its genre. It was praised for its intense action sequences, strong characters, and groundbreaking special effects.

‘Platoon’ (1986)

‘Platoon’ tells the story of a young American soldier named Chris Taylor who volunteers for combat duty in Vietnam. He soon finds himself caught in a moral and physical struggle between two of his sergeants, the battle-hardened and cynical Sergeant Barnes and the more compassionate and idealistic Sergeant Elias. As he experiences the horrors of war, Taylor’s idealism is shattered, and he must confront the brutal realities of the conflict and the darkness within himself.

The film was written and directed by Oliver Stone, who based the story on his own experiences as an infantryman in Vietnam. It features a large ensemble cast that includes Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, and Willem Dafoe. The movie was highly acclaimed for its realistic portrayal of the Vietnam War and won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Stone.

‘Stand by Me’ (1986)

‘Stand by Me’ is a coming-of-age story about four young boys who embark on a journey to find the body of a missing teenager in their small Oregon town. Gordie, Chris, Teddy, and Vern set out on an unforgettable two-day adventure along the railroad tracks. Along the way, they confront their fears, share their secrets, and learn about the true meaning of friendship. The trip becomes a defining moment in their lives.

Directed by Rob Reiner, the film is based on Stephen King’s novella ‘The Body’. The movie stars Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, and Jerry O’Connell as the four main characters. Richard Dreyfuss narrates the film as the adult Gordie. The movie was praised for its heartfelt story and the strong performances of its young cast, becoming a timeless classic about friendship and growing up.

‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ (1986)

‘Ferris Bueller’s Day Off’ follows a charismatic high school senior who decides to skip school for a day and have an epic adventure in downtown Chicago. He concocts an elaborate plan to fool his parents and his dean of students, Ed Rooney, into believing he is sick. Along with his girlfriend Sloane and his best friend Cameron, Ferris embarks on a day of fun and freedom, which includes visiting a museum, attending a baseball game, and even participating in a parade.

The comedy was written and directed by John Hughes, known for his popular teen films. Matthew Broderick stars as the charming and witty Ferris Bueller. The cast also includes Alan Ruck as the perpetually worried Cameron and Mia Sara as the lovely Sloane. The film became a cultural phenomenon and is celebrated for its humor, memorable characters, and its uplifting message about living life to the fullest.

‘Blue Velvet’ (1986)

‘Blue Velvet’ is a neo-noir mystery film that delves into the dark underbelly of a seemingly perfect suburban town. A young college student named Jeffrey Beaumont discovers a severed human ear in a field and reports it to the police. His curiosity leads him to team up with the detective’s daughter, Sandy, and they begin their own amateur investigation. Jeffrey’s journey takes him into a dangerous and disturbing world of crime and corruption that lurks beneath the town’s placid surface.

The movie was written and directed by David Lynch, who is known for his surreal and unconventional filmmaking style. The cast includes Kyle MacLachlan, Laura Dern, Isabella Rossellini, and Dennis Hopper. Hopper’s performance as the menacing and volatile Frank Booth was particularly acclaimed. The film received a great deal of attention for its controversial themes and striking visuals, and it has since become a cult classic.

‘Top Gun’ (1986)

‘Top Gun’ is an action-packed drama that centers on a group of elite U.S. Navy fighter pilots at a prestigious training school. The story follows the talented but reckless pilot Maverick, who is sent to the Top Gun school with his Radar Intercept Officer, Goose. There, he competes with the best of the best, including the cool and collected Iceman, while also falling for his civilian instructor, Charlie. Maverick must navigate intense rivalries and a personal tragedy to become the top pilot.

Directed by Tony Scott, the film stars Tom Cruise in the iconic role of Maverick. The cast also features Kelly McGillis, Val Kilmer, Anthony Edwards, and Tom Skerritt. The movie was a massive commercial success, known for its thrilling aerial combat sequences, a hit soundtrack, and its stylish cinematography. It became a cultural touchstone of the 1980s and cemented Cruise’s status as a major Hollywood star.

‘The Fly’ (1986)

‘The Fly’ is a science fiction horror film about a brilliant but eccentric scientist who invents a teleportation device. When he decides to test the machine on himself, a common housefly accidentally enters the telepod with him. As a result, his DNA becomes genetically fused with the fly’s. He initially experiences enhanced strength and energy, but he soon begins a horrifying and grotesque transformation into a human-fly hybrid creature.

The movie was directed by David Cronenberg and stars Jeff Goldblum as the scientist Seth Brundle and Geena Davis as his journalist girlfriend who witnesses his terrifying metamorphosis. The film was praised for its groundbreaking and stomach-churning special effects, which earned it an Academy Award. Goldblum’s compelling performance and the film’s tragic love story also received widespread acclaim, making it a classic of the body horror genre.

‘Hannah and Her Sisters’ (1986)

‘Hannah and Her Sisters’ is a comedy-drama that explores the intertwined lives of three sisters and their complicated relationships over the course of two years. The story is set between two family Thanksgiving dinners and revolves around Hannah, a successful actress and devoted wife and mother, and her two sisters, Holly and Lee. The film delves into their romantic entanglements, personal insecurities, and search for meaning in their lives, painting a rich and intimate portrait of a family.

The film was written and directed by Woody Allen and features a large ensemble cast. The main cast includes Mia Farrow as Hannah, Barbara Hershey as Lee, and Dianne Wiest as Holly, alongside Michael Caine as Hannah’s husband. The movie was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its witty and insightful script. Michael Caine and Dianne Wiest both won Academy Awards for their supporting roles.

‘Hoosiers’ (1986)

‘Hoosiers’ is an inspiring sports drama based on the true story of a small-town Indiana high school basketball team that wins the state championship. In the 1950s, a new coach with a troubled past arrives to lead the team from the tiny town of Hickory. He faces resistance from the community but, with the help of a local basketball enthusiast who becomes his assistant coach, he guides the underdog team on an improbable journey to the top.

The film was directed by David Anspaugh and features a strong cast. Gene Hackman stars as the determined coach Norman Dale, and Barbara Hershey plays a teacher who becomes his love interest. Dennis Hopper earned an Academy Award nomination for his supporting role as the town’s basketball-loving outcast. The movie is widely regarded as one of the best sports films ever made, celebrated for its heartfelt story and thrilling basketball sequences.

‘Little Shop of Horrors’ (1986)

‘Little Shop of Horrors’ is a musical horror-comedy about a nerdy floral assistant named Seymour who discovers a strange and unusual plant. He names the plant Audrey II, after his coworker crush. The plant brings Seymour fame and fortune, but he soon learns that it has a sinister secret. Audrey II requires human blood to survive and begins to grow into a giant, man-eating venus flytrap with a craving for world domination.

The film was directed by Frank Oz and is based on the off-Broadway musical of the same name. It features a cast that includes Rick Moranis as Seymour, Ellen Greene as Audrey, and Steve Martin in a memorable role as a sadistic dentist. The voice of the carnivorous plant, Audrey II, is provided by Levi Stubbs of the Four Tops. The movie is beloved for its catchy songs, dark humor, and impressive puppetry.

‘The Color of Money’ (1986)

‘The Color of Money’ is a drama that serves as a sequel to the 1961 film ‘The Hustler’. The story catches up with the aging pool hustler Fast Eddie Felson, who has long since retired from the game. He discovers a talented but naive young pool player named Vincent and sees a younger version of himself. Eddie takes Vincent under his wing, teaching him the art of the hustle and planning to make a comeback in the world of professional nine-ball.

The movie was directed by Martin Scorsese and stars Paul Newman, who reprises his role as Fast Eddie Felson. Tom Cruise plays the cocky and gifted young protégé, Vincent Lauria, and Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio portrays Vincent’s street-smart girlfriend. For his compelling performance, Paul Newman finally won the Academy Award for Best Actor. The film was praised for its sharp direction and the dynamic chemistry between its two leads.

‘Big Trouble in Little China’ (1986)

‘Big Trouble in Little China’ is an action-comedy fantasy film that follows the adventures of a swaggering truck driver named Jack Burton. After his friend’s fiancée is kidnapped by a street gang in San Francisco’s Chinatown, Jack finds himself drawn into a mystical underworld beneath the city. He must battle an ancient Chinese sorcerer and his army of supernatural warriors to rescue the woman and save the day.

The movie was directed by John Carpenter and stars Kurt Russell as the wisecracking hero, Jack Burton. The cast also includes Kim Cattrall, Dennis Dun, and James Hong as the villainous sorcerer, David Lo Pan. While it was not a box office success upon its initial release, the film has since gained a massive cult following. It is celebrated for its unique blend of martial arts, comedy, and fantasy, as well as its memorable one-liners.

‘Labyrinth’ (1986)

‘Labyrinth’ is a musical fantasy film that tells the story of a teenage girl named Sarah who wishes her baby brother would be taken away by goblins. When her wish is granted, she is filled with regret and must venture into a magical maze to rescue him from the clutches of the Goblin King. Along her journey through the labyrinth, she encounters a host of strange and wonderful creatures who either help or hinder her quest.

The film was directed by Jim Henson, the creator of The Muppets, and was executive produced by George Lucas. It stars Jennifer Connelly as Sarah and the iconic musician David Bowie as the charismatic and enigmatic Jareth the Goblin King. The film is renowned for its imaginative creature designs, created by Henson’s Creature Shop, and its memorable soundtrack, which features several songs written and performed by Bowie.

‘Highlander’ (1986)

‘Highlander’ is a fantasy action-adventure film about a race of immortal warriors who can only be killed by decapitation. The story follows Connor MacLeod, a Scotsman born in the 16th century who discovers he is one of these immortals. The narrative jumps between his past, where he is trained by another immortal named Ramírez, and the present day, where he must face his final and most powerful enemy, the Kurgan, in a battle to win the ultimate prize.

The movie was directed by Russell Mulcahy and stars Christopher Lambert as Connor MacLeod. Sean Connery plays the role of the wise and flamboyant mentor, Ramírez, and Clancy Brown portrays the menacing villain, the Kurgan. The film is famous for its epic sword fights, its sweeping cinematography, and its iconic soundtrack composed by the rock band Queen. It has since spawned a franchise of sequels and television series.

‘The Mission’ (1986)

‘The Mission’ is a historical drama that tells the story of a Spanish Jesuit priest who goes into the South American jungle to build a mission and convert a community of indigenous people to Christianity. He is later joined by a reformed slave trader who seeks redemption for his past sins. When a treaty reassigns the land from Spain to Portugal, the Jesuits must decide whether to obey the church and abandon their mission or to stand with the native people against the brutal Portuguese colonizers.

The film was directed by Roland Joffé and features powerful performances from its lead actors. Jeremy Irons stars as the dedicated Jesuit priest, and Robert De Niro plays the repentant slave trader. The movie was widely acclaimed for its stunning cinematography, which captured the breathtaking beauty of the South American landscape, and its moving musical score composed by Ennio Morricone. It won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

‘Children of a Lesser God’ (1986)

‘Children of a Lesser God’ is a romantic drama about a dedicated speech teacher who takes a job at a school for the deaf. There, he meets a strong-willed and enigmatic deaf woman who works as a custodian and refuses to learn to lip-read or speak. The two develop a passionate and complex relationship, but they struggle to find common ground and bridge the communication gap between the hearing and deaf worlds.

The film was directed by Randa Haines and is based on the Tony Award-winning play of the same name. It stars William Hurt as the teacher and Marlee Matlin, in her film debut, as the deaf woman. For her powerful and groundbreaking performance, Matlin won the Academy Award for Best Actress, becoming the youngest person to win in that category and the only deaf performer to have won the award.

‘Down by Law’ (1986)

‘Down by Law’ is an independent black-and-white film that follows the story of three convicts who escape from a New Orleans prison. A down-on-his-luck DJ, a small-time pimp, and a cheerful Italian tourist who is in jail for a crime he didn’t commit find themselves sharing a cell. The three unlikely companions manage to break out of prison and must then navigate the Louisiana bayou together as they try to evade the law and find their way to freedom.

The movie was written and directed by Jim Jarmusch, a prominent figure in independent cinema. The film stars musicians Tom Waits and John Lurie, along with Italian actor Roberto Benigni. The film was praised for its minimalist style, its droll humor, and its unique and quirky characters. It has been lauded for its beautiful black-and-white cinematography and its atmospheric depiction of New Orleans and the surrounding swampland.

‘Manhunter’ (1986)

‘Manhunter’ is a psychological thriller that introduces the character of the brilliant but terrifying serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecktor. The story follows a retired FBI profiler with a unique ability to empathize with criminals, who is called back to service to help track down a serial killer known as the Tooth Fairy. In order to catch the killer, he must confront his own demons and seek the help of the incarcerated Dr. Lecktor, the man who nearly killed him.

The film was directed by Michael Mann and is based on the novel ‘Red Dragon’ by Thomas Harris. William Petersen stars as the troubled FBI profiler, and Brian Cox delivers a chilling performance as Dr. Hannibal Lecktor, a role that would later be made famous by Anthony Hopkins. The movie was noted for its stylish and slick visuals, its intense atmosphere, and its suspenseful storytelling, and has since gained a significant cult following.

‘An American Tail’ (1986)

‘An American Tail’ is an animated musical adventure that tells the story of a young Russian-Jewish mouse named Fievel Mousekewitz. In the late 19th century, Fievel and his family emigrate from Russia to the United States by boat after their home is destroyed by cats. During a fierce storm at sea, Fievel is washed overboard and gets separated from his family. The film follows his journey through the streets of New York City as he searches for his loved ones and tries to make a new life in America.

The movie was directed by Don Bluth and was produced by Steven Spielberg’s Amblin Entertainment. It features the voices of Phillip Glasser as Fievel, alongside Dom DeLuise, Madeline Kahn, and Christopher Plummer. The film was a major box office success and was praised for its beautiful animation, its heartfelt story, and its memorable songs, including the Oscar-nominated ‘Somewhere Out There’.

‘The Great Mouse Detective’ (1986)

‘The Great Mouse Detective’ is an animated mystery adventure from Walt Disney Pictures. The story is set in Victorian London and follows a brilliant mouse detective named Basil of Baker Street, who lives in the same building as Sherlock Holmes. A young mouse whose toymaker father has been kidnapped enlists Basil’s help to find him. Basil soon discovers that the kidnapping is part of a dastardly plot by his arch-nemesis, the villainous Professor Ratigan, to take over the British monarchy.

The film was directed by John Musker and Ron Clements, who would go on to direct other Disney classics. The voice cast features Barrie Ingham as Basil and the legendary horror actor Vincent Price in a celebrated performance as the theatrical and evil Professor Ratigan. The movie was a critical and commercial success that is often credited with helping to revitalize Disney’s animation studio and paving the way for the Disney Renaissance.

‘Short Circuit’ (1986)

‘Short Circuit’ is a science fiction comedy about an experimental military robot that is struck by lightning and gains a human-like consciousness. The robot, Number 5, escapes from the military facility where it was created and befriends a young woman who cares for animals. As the robot begins to learn about the world and develop a unique personality, its creators and the military launch a desperate search to find it and bring it back, intending to disassemble it.

The film was directed by John Badham and stars Ally Sheedy as the woman who befriends the robot and Steve Guttenberg as the robot’s eccentric creator. The voice of Number 5, who later renames himself Johnny 5, was performed by Tim Blaney. The movie was a box office hit, praised for its humor, its heartwarming story, and the charming and endearing character of the robot.

‘Pretty in Pink’ (1986)

‘Pretty in Pink’ is a romantic teen comedy-drama about a high school girl from the wrong side of the tracks who falls for a wealthy and popular boy. Andie is a creative and independent teenager who is navigating the social cliques of her high school while also dealing with an underemployed father. When one of the rich kids asks her to the prom, she must overcome her own insecurities and the disapproval of their friends to follow her heart.

The movie was written by John Hughes and directed by Howard Deutch. It stars Molly Ringwald as Andie, in one of her most iconic roles. Andrew McCarthy plays her sensitive love interest, and Jon Cryer delivers a memorable performance as her quirky and devoted best friend, Duckie. The film is a classic of the 1980s teen movie genre, known for its great soundtrack, its memorable fashion, and its relatable story about love and social class.

‘The Karate Kid Part II’ (1986)

‘The Karate Kid Part II’ is a martial arts drama that continues the story of a teenage karate student and his wise sensei. Daniel and Mr. Miyagi travel to Okinawa, Mr. Miyagi’s childhood home, after he receives a letter that his father is dying. There, Mr. Miyagi must confront a bitter rival from his past, and Daniel finds both a new love interest and a new enemy. Daniel learns more about his sensei’s past and the true meaning of honor.

The film was directed by John G. Avildsen, who also directed the first film. Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita reprise their roles as Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Miyagi, respectively. The movie was a major commercial success, even surpassing the box office earnings of the original film. It was praised for its exotic locations, its emotional depth, and for further developing the strong bond between its two main characters.

‘Heartbreak Ridge’ (1986)

‘Heartbreak Ridge’ is a war film that stars Clint Eastwood as a tough and old-school Gunnery Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. Nearing the end of his career, he is assigned to whip a platoon of undisciplined and lazy reconnaissance marines into shape. He uses his unorthodox and often humorous training methods to turn the rebellious group of young soldiers into a cohesive fighting unit, preparing them for the 1983 invasion of Grenada.

The movie was directed by Clint Eastwood, who also plays the lead role of Sergeant Tom Highway. The cast includes Marsha Mason as his estranged wife and Everett McGill as a by-the-book officer. The film was a commercial success and was noted for Eastwood’s charismatic and entertaining performance as the grizzled and foul-mouthed sergeant. It received praise for its blend of comedy, drama, and action.

‘About Last Night…’ (1986)

‘About Last Night’ is a romantic comedy-drama that takes a realistic look at the ups and downs of a modern relationship. The film follows a young man and woman who meet in a Chicago bar and begin a passionate affair. They decide to move in together and try to turn their one-night stand into a long-term commitment. However, they soon discover that building a lasting relationship is more complicated than they anticipated, as they navigate the challenges of intimacy and a fear of commitment.

The film was directed by Edward Zwick and is based on the David Mamet play ‘Sexual Perversity in Chicago’. It features a cast of popular young actors from the era, known as the Brat Pack. Rob Lowe and Demi Moore star as the central couple, and James Belushi and Elizabeth Perkins play their respective best friends who are cynical about their relationship. The movie was praised for its witty dialogue and its honest portrayal of modern romance.

‘¡Three Amigos!’ (1986)

‘Three Amigos’ is a comedy film that follows three silent film stars who are famous for playing heroic cowboys. In 1916, when they are fired from their studio, they receive a telegram from a small village in Mexico, inviting them to come and put on a show. The actors mistakenly believe they have been hired for a personal appearance, but the villagers believe they are real-life heroes who have come to save them from a ruthless bandit and his gang.

The movie was directed by John Landis and stars Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, and Martin Short as the three bumbling actors. The film is a lighthearted and affectionate parody of classic Westerns. It is beloved for its silly humor, its memorable musical numbers, and the hilarious chemistry between its three lead comedians. The movie has become a cult favorite over the years.

‘Back to School’ (1986)

‘Back to School’ is a comedy film starring Rodney Dangerfield. He plays a wealthy but uneducated businessman who enrolls in college to support his son, who is struggling academically and socially.

The father becomes a popular figure on campus, throwing wild parties and using his wealth to get by. However, he soon learns that he can’t buy his way to a real education and must buckle down to pass his classes. The film also features Sally Kellerman and a young Robert Downey Jr.

‘Crocodile Dundee’ (1986)

‘Crocodile Dundee’ is an action-comedy that tells the story of an adventurous American reporter who travels to the Australian Outback to interview a legendary crocodile hunter. She is so charmed by his rugged charisma and survival skills that she convinces him to come back with her to New York City. The film follows the hilarious culture clash as the outback bushman tries to navigate the strange and chaotic world of modern urban life.

The movie stars Paul Hogan, who also co-wrote the screenplay, in the title role of Mick “Crocodile” Dundee. Linda Kozlowski plays the American journalist who becomes his love interest. The film was an international box office sensation, becoming the second-highest-grossing film of the year in the United States. It was praised for its humor, its charm, and Hogan’s iconic and likable performance.

‘Troll’ (1986)

‘Troll’ is a fantasy horror film about a family who moves into a new apartment building in San Francisco. They soon discover that the building is inhabited by a mischievous and malevolent troll who has the power to transform people into fairytale creatures. The troll captures their young daughter and takes on her appearance, then begins to transform the other tenants into a magical forest filled with his troll friends. The girl’s older brother is the only one who realizes what is happening and must find a way to stop the troll.

The film was directed by John Carl Buechler, a well-known special effects artist. The cast includes Michael Moriarty, Shelley Hack, Noah Hathaway, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus in her film debut. While the movie received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since developed a cult following. It is often noted for its bizarre and imaginative story, as well as the fact that one of its characters is named Harry Potter Jr.

‘The Hitcher’ (1986)

‘The Hitcher’ is a road-trip horror-thriller about a young man who is driving a car from Chicago to San Diego. He makes the mistake of picking up a mysterious and menacing hitchhiker. After a terrifying encounter, he manages to escape from the man, but his ordeal is far from over. The hitchhiker begins to stalk him across the desert highways, engaging in a deadly and relentless cat-and-mouse game and framing him for a series of gruesome murders.

The film was directed by Robert Harmon and stars C. Thomas Howell as the young driver and Rutger Hauer in a chilling and unforgettable performance as the psychopathic hitchhiker. The movie is known for its intense suspense, its shocking moments of violence, and its bleak and nihilistic tone. It has been praised for its stylish direction and Hauer’s iconic and terrifying portrayal of the villain.

Tell us what you think of our list and share your favorite movies from 1986 in the comments below.