10 Unforgettable ’80s Movies That Earned Roger Ebert’s Perfect Score

by

Movie critics’ reviews serve as crucial guides for audiences, helping them decide which films merit their time and money. Among the most renowned and respected film critics was Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times, who was admired for his sincere and fervent movie appraisals. While he is often remembered for his “thumbs up, thumbs down” rating system and collaborations with fellow critics Gene Siskel and later Richard Roeper, film enthusiasts and filmmakers primarily recognized Ebert for his unbiased movie evaluations.

Ebert’s reviews frequently boosted attendance for the movies he endorsed, as he advocated for a wide variety of genres such as dramas, documentaries, and comedies. Exploring his website under the “Great Movies” section reveals an extensive list of highly-rated films, the top score he would give to any movie. These were his personal picks of the cream of the crop, and they might surprise you or confirm your impressions, as some are well-known classics that certainly deserved that high rating.

10 movies from the ’80s that received a flawless rating from Roger Ebert, listed in the order they were released.

10
‘Do the Right Thing’ (1989)

Roger Ebert often championed new filmmakers as they were making their way in Hollywood, one such director being Spike Lee. His movie “Do The Right Thing” helped establish his career. In this film, we follow a group of diverse characters living in Brooklyn’s streets, where the tension and heat escalate, eventually reaching a critical point.

Spike Lee’s groundbreaking movie ‘Do the Right Thing’ not only catapulted his own career but also introduced and elevated other talented actors like Samuel L. Jackson, John Turturro, and Martin Lawrence to A-list status. This iconic film served as their debut in the industry. Critically acclaimed, it is often considered Spike Lee’s masterpiece, with Roger Ebert expressing his admiration for the movie in his review.

Among the movies I’ve watched throughout my life, none have left as profound an impact as the first time I saw “Do the Right Thing.” Unlike many other films that remain on the screen, this one seeped deep into my soul. In May of 1989, after watching it at the Cannes Film Festival, I walked out with tears in my eyes. Spike Lee accomplished something almost unattainable – he created a film about race in America that resonated with every character involved.

9
‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ (1987)

The movie titled “Planes, Trains and Automobiles” is a beloved comedy that numerous individuals consider essential viewing during the weeks approaching Thanksgiving. This film chronicles the journey of two travel companions who are strangers, as they undertake a three-day adventure involving various modes of transportation – planes, trains, and automobiles – all in an attempt to reach home before enjoying their Thanksgiving meal together.

Under the guidance of renowned filmmaker John Hughes, this movie features comedy greats Steve Martin and John Candy. Known as a heartwarming classic, Planes, Trains and Automobiles is a cherished tradition for Roger Ebert’s family during Thanksgiving holidays. In his glowing appraisal, Ebert noted:

“This film never fails to touch my heart whenever I watch it.” (Roger Ebert)

Not all films immediately reveal their greatness. Some, like ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’ (1987), grow on us over time. Initially, I found it quite enjoyable, wrote a positive review, and then moved along. However, this movie lingered in my mind, much like classics such as ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ ‘E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial,’ and ‘Casablanca.’ These films aren’t just popular because they tackle universal themes; they also feature the perfect cast and plot, setting them apart from other similar films and elevating them to a near-perfect status.

8
‘The Color Purple’ (1985)

The book titled “The Color Purple” depicts the struggles endured by African-American women in the early 1900s. This narrative focuses on Celie Harris (played by Whoopi Goldberg) and her associates, revealing the sexual and physical hardships, economic difficulties, and racial prejudice they each encountered.

For many, “The Color Purple” stands as a notable achievement. To director Steven Spielberg, it represented a shift from the big-budget films he was accustomed to directing. It also signified Oprah Winfrey’s first film role and provided an outstanding debut for budding actress Whoopi Goldberg. Critic Roger Ebert deemed “The Color Purple” the top movie of 1985. He praised Goldberg’s portrayal of Celie, stating that it was exceptional.

Although the film might contain some inconsistencies, puzzling moments, and implausible scenes, it boasts an exceptional element: the portrayal of Celie, brilliantly brought to life by Whoopi Goldberg.

7
‘Come and See’ (1985)

This film titled ‘Come and See’ is renowned from the realm of Russian cinema. It narrates the story of a young man who decides to join a resistance group as Germany invades Belarus during World War II.

Visit and Witness” is often hailed as one of the most impactful war or anti-war films ever created, and it also ranks among the greatest movies ever produced. Critics, such as Roger Ebert, have praised this film for its chilling and authentic depiction of war, focusing on the brutal psychological impacts of combat. In his sober yet optimistic review, Ebert begins by stating:

“Drop in and Observe” is frequently acclaimed as one of the most powerful war or anti-war movies ever made – and it also ranks among the greatest films ever produced. Critics, including Roger Ebert, have lauded this film for its chilling and accurate portrayal of war and the harsh psychological consequences of battle. In his somber yet hopeful review, Ebert starts by saying:

It’s often argued that crafting an impactful anti-war movie is challenging due to war’s inherent allure and the fact that the narrative typically concludes with the experiences of the survivors. However, this perspective would never apply to Elem Klimov’s “Come and See.” Produced in Russia in 1985, this film stands as one of the most harrowing portrayals of any subject, where even the survivors might envy the fate of the deceased.

6
‘A Christmas Story’ (1983)

Titled “A Christmas Tale“, this heartwarming family comedy is rooted in the semi-autobiographical works of author Jean Shepherd. The story revolves around a spirited young lad named Ralphie (Peter Billingsley), who embarks on an endearing quest to acquire the ideal Christmas present: the Daisy Red Ryder 200-shot BB Gun. Over the years, this timeless holiday film has endeared itself to audiences everywhere.

Not only did Roger Ebert appreciate this film, but he went so far as to give it a four-star rating. In his praiseworthy review, Ebert singled out the movie’s “numerous tiny yet flawless instances” and its evocation of nostalgia, capturing “a realm that is no longer entirely representative of contemporary America.

5
‘Scarface’ (1983)

1983’s “Scarface” is another unexpected movie that might have surprised Roger Ebert. This film is a remake of the 1932 gangster movie with the same title. Writer Oliver Stone and director Brian De Palma gave a modern twist to the original by centering on Cuban drug lords and placing the story in 1980s Miami. “Scarface” tells the story of Tony Montana, a notorious Cuban gangster played by Al Pacino, as he ascends to power becoming Miami’s top drug smuggler. Due to its graphic violence and strong language, “Scarface” was met with criticism upon its release.

Roger Ebert was a visionary when it came to predicting what would become a classic. He awarded the movie “Scarface” four stars back in 1983, praising Al Pacino’s intense, exaggerated, jaw-clenching, hand-waving, cocaine-snorting, scene-stealing performance. Later, most other critics came to share Ebert’s viewpoint. Now, “Scarface” is widely recognized as one of the greatest gangster films ever produced, its memorable lines and characters deeply embedded in pop culture.

4
‘Raiders of the Lost Ark’ (1981)

The film titled “Indiana Jones: The Search for the Lost Ark” introduced audiences to the iconic character Indiana Jones, an adventurer and archaeologist. In his debut cinematic escapade, Indiana traverses the globe, competing against the Nazis, in a quest to discover one of history’s enigmatic lost treasures – the Ark of the Covenant. Since its premiere, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” has become synonymous with greatness and has significantly impacted cinema, ranking among director Steven Spielberg’s finest works.

Back in 2000, Ebert referred to “Raiders of the Lost Ark” as simply enjoyable and praised the movie’s impressive special effects, along with Harrison Ford’s memorable portrayal of Indiana Jones.

3
‘Atlantic City’ (1980)

The city of Atlantic City, known for its international flair, graced American movie screens in 1980. Despite its global origins, this production is spearheaded by two well-known American actors, Burt Lancaster and Susan Sarandon. In this blend of romance and comedy, a Canadian woman with ambitions in the gambling world moves to Atlantic City, where she finds herself entangled in a romantic relationship with an elderly gangster.

The movie “Atlantic City” received praise from critics, even earning accolades from Roger Ebert. He admired the film’s poignant romance and sincere acting, bestowing it with a rating of four stars.

2
‘The Shining’ (1980)

According to renowned director Stanley Kubrick, the chilling horror film “The Shining,” derived from Stephen King’s eponymous novel, was produced. In “The Shining,” character Jack Torrance, portrayed by Jack Nicholson, along with his family, encounter terrifying supernatural occurrences while residing in the deserted Overlook Hotel. Upon its initial release, the film garnered mixed reactions, including from critic Roger Ebert. He expressed difficulty empathizing with any of the characters, labeled the movie a letdown, and awarded it just two stars in his original review.

As a film enthusiast, I must admit my curiosity when I see “The Shining” on our movie list. Over time, this movie’s standing has risen significantly. Critics have reevaluated it, even legendary ones like Roger Ebert. Despite labeling it a flawed ghost story, he acknowledges its brilliance in portraying the themes of madness and the unreliable narrator. Initially giving it a poor review, he later upgraded his rating to four stars and included it in his list of greatest movies. Today, “The Shining” is widely recognized as one of the best and most impactful horror films ever created.

1
‘Raging Bull’ (1980)

The film “Raging Bull” portrays the life story of Jake LaMotta, a boxer known for his fierce temper, who claimed the middleweight championship in the late 1940s and early 1950s. Robert De Niro delivers an exceptional performance in this movie, which is often considered Martin Scorsese’s greatest work.

Roger Ebert praised “Raging Bull” as an instant cinematic masterpiece when he first watched it. He didn’t just give it a four-star rating; instead, he placed it among his top 10 favorite films of all time – a sentiment echoed by many film critics. In his glowing review, Ebert stated that “Raging Bull” offers the most agonizing and moving portrayal of jealousy in cinema – a modern take on “Othello”. He further described it as the best film he’s ever seen about the self-doubt, sexual insecurity, and fear that drive some men to abuse women.

Read More

2025-04-27 23:34