The Seven Most Iconic Movie Franchises of the 80s and 90s You Won't Want to Miss

By Zoe Jackson | May 9, 2025

The Seven Most Iconic Movie Franchises of the 80s and 90s You Won’t Want to Miss

The 1980s and 1990s were a transformative time for cinema, marked by the emergence of iconic movie franchises that continue to captivate audiences today. From coming-of-age comedies to supernatural romance, these films have become ingrained in popular culture, making them an essential watch for anyone looking to relive the nostalgia of these decades. In this article, we’ll count down the seven most iconic movie franchises of the 80s and 90s that you won’t want to miss.

## 1. The Breakfast Club

Released in 1985, John Hughes’ “The Breakfast Club” is a timeless coming-of-age comedy that explores the complexities of adolescence through the eyes of five high school students from different cliques. The film’s cast, including Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson, Molly Ringwald, Ally Sheedy, and Anthony Michael Hall, deliver memorable performances that have become synonymous with 80s teen cinema. As the characters navigate their personal struggles and relationships, “The Breakfast Club” masterfully captures the essence of teenage angst, making it an essential watch for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider.

## 2. Dirty Dancing

Jane Austen’s classic novel “Pride and Prejudice” may have inspired the iconic romance, but “Dirty Dancing,” released in 1987, is a film that embodies the spirit of 80s summer love. Set in the sweltering heat of the Catskill Mountains, the movie follows Frances “Baby” Houseman (Jennifer Grey), a sheltered young woman who falls for dance instructor Johnny Castle (Patrick Swayze). With its unforgettable soundtrack and steamy romance, “Dirty Dancing” has become an 80s classic that continues to enthrall audiences with its sizzling chemistry and nostalgic charm.

## 3. Sixteen Candles

Another John Hughes masterpiece, “Sixteen Candles,” released in 1984, is a relatable comedy that captures the awkwardness of adolescence. Samantha Baker (Molly Ringwald), a high school junior, is struggling to navigate her 16th birthday, which she fears will be a disaster. As she navigates her relationships with her family and friends, including the dashing Jake Ryan (Michael Schoeffling), “Sixteen Candles” delivers a hilarious and poignant portrayal of teenage life, making it an essential watch for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit in.

## 4. Pretty in Pink

In 1986, John Hughes delivered another hit with the iconic teen romance “Pretty in Pink.” Molly Ringwald reprises her role as Andie Walsh, a poor but spirited high school student who falls for rich and charming Blane McDonnagh (Andrew McCarthy). With its stunning setting, memorable characters, and authentic portrayal of social class differences, “Pretty in Pink” has become an 80s classic that continues to captivate audiences with its witty dialogue and nostalgic charm.

## 5. Ghost

Released in 1990, Jerry Zucker’s supernatural romance “Ghost” is a heart-wrenching love story about two souls trapped between worlds. Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore star as the star-crossed lovers who find each other again through an unlikely medium – the afterlife. With its groundbreaking special effects, memorable soundtrack, and poignant performances, “Ghost” has become a 90s classic that continues to evoke strong emotions in audiences, making it an essential watch for anyone who’s ever experienced love and loss.

## 6. Clueless

In 1995, Amy Heckerling delivered a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s “Emma,” with the iconic teen comedy “Clueless.” Starring Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz, the film follows her journey to discover what makes true friendship and love in Beverly Hills. With its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and nostalgic charm, “Clueless” has become a 90s classic that continues to inspire new generations of audiences with its feminist message and iconic style.

## 7. My Best Friend’s Wedding

Released in 1997, P.J. Hogan’s romantic comedy “My Best Friend’s Wedding” is a hilarious and poignant portrayal of unrequited love. Julia Roberts stars as Julianne Potter, a woman who realizes she’s in love with her best friend, Michael O’Neal (Dermot Mulroney), just as he’s about to get married to someone else. With its memorable performances, witty dialogue, and iconic soundtrack, “My Best Friend’s Wedding” has become an 90s classic that continues to entertain audiences with its relatable themes of love and friendship.

In conclusion, these seven movie franchises from the 80s and 90s are a testament to the enduring power of cinema. From coming-of-age comedies to supernatural romance, these films have captured our hearts and minds, making them an essential watch for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit in or experienced love and loss. So, dust off your old VHS tapes or fire up the streaming services – it’s time to experience these iconic movie franchises all over again!