5 Underrated Sci-Fi Movies That Every 1980s Kid Remembers

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Science fiction is a consistently popular genre across all forms of entertainment. These imaginative stories, which often explore potential futures or amazing technologies, can be set among the stars or in more familiar settings. While rooted in scientific principles, sci-fi has become a major part of pop culture. Many classic sci-fi films have become deeply ingrained in our shared culture, achieving iconic status and frequently launching successful franchises that continue to entertain audiences today.

Unfortunately, many fantastic sci-fi movies have been overlooked and forgotten. Those who grew up in the 1980s likely remember a surge of great films from that era, but many of them haven’t received the recognition they deserve. For kids growing up in the 80s and early 90s, it was a golden age for sci-fi, and it’s a shame these movies aren’t more widely appreciated today.

5) Batteries Not Included (1987)

The 1980s were a fantastic era for science fiction, and even some of the best films from that time have been overlooked. A perfect example is Batteries Not Included, a charming movie that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. It tells the story of an elderly couple who receive help from aliens when greedy developers try to tear down their apartment building in New York City.

Released in the 1980s, Batteries Not Included is a classic example of imaginative science fiction geared towards families. Though it clearly shows the influence of filmmakers like Steven Spielberg and Brad Bird, the movie hasn’t stayed popular over the years. It’s a shame, but those who grew up in the ‘80s likely still remember it as a charming and magical sci-fi adventure.

4) Alien Nation (1988)

While not a prophetic vision of the future, the movie Alien Nation feels surprisingly timely today. Starring James Caan, Mandy Patinkin, and Terence Stamp, the film tells the story of alien refugees trying to integrate into 1990s Los Angeles. By blending sci-fi action with a focus on discrimination, Alien Nation tackled important issues and was remarkably forward-thinking for its time.

It’s unfortunate that Alien Nation has faded from memory over time. While it inspired a short-lived 1980s sci-fi series, the film itself has become something of a cult classic, largely forgotten by many. Those who grew up in the ’80s likely still remember it, and the film’s core ideas are still surprisingly strong.

3) The Rocketeer (1991)

“The Rocketeer” is a naturally nostalgic film, but it’s become strangely self-aware as a hidden sci-fi treasure. Originally inspired by the adventure serials of the 1930s, this early 90s movie never achieved mainstream success despite being a classic. While it’s gained a dedicated cult following over the years, many modern viewers are probably unfamiliar with it.

Those who grew up in the 1980s probably remember the movie The Rocketeer. When it came out, it felt fresh and unique, with a slightly retro-futuristic style that made it stand out from other superhero films. Though it’s still not widely recognized, people who saw it back then generally have very fond memories of it as a fantastic comic book adaptation.

2) Earth Girls Are Easy (1988)

Many who remember it fondly consider Earth Girls Are Easy a charming, retro sci-fi film. However, it’s still something of a hidden gem, despite starring Jeff Goldblum, Jim Carrey, and Damon Wayans as aliens who come to Earth looking for love. They end up befriending a woman played by Geena Davis instead of pursuing romance.

Though it mixes different types of movies, Earth Girls Are Easy is fundamentally a science fiction film. Its bright colors and unusual style make it particularly memorable for people who watched it as children. While it wasn’t entirely suitable for kids, those who grew up in the ’80s often remember it with fondness, and it’s now considered a hidden gem from that time.

1) Slipstream (1989)

Slipstream is a thought-provoking sci-fi film that might have found a larger audience if it had come out a bit later. The movie features exciting action and a strong cast including Mark Hamill, Bill Paxton, Bob Peck, and Kitty Aldridge. It also includes notable supporting performances from Robbie Coltrane, Ben Kingsley, and F. Murray Abraham. Directed by Steven Lisberger, who made Tron, and produced by Gary Kurtz – known for the first two Star Wars films – Slipstream has a solid foundation in science fiction history.

The 1980s sci-fi film Slipstream takes place in a future where people are struggling to rebuild after a major climate disaster. Though it wasn’t successful in theaters and is now largely forgotten, it’s a surprisingly good movie with imaginative ideas and a strong cast. Anyone who saw it when it came out likely remembers it fondly, but it remains underrated and unknown to most viewers today.

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2026-02-19 23:10