December 1985 was packed with some quotable cinematic gems. Some were hilarious, others heart-wrenching, but all were unforgettable. Forty years later, these films continue to resonate, earning cult status among movie history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering them for the first time, these classics deserve a revisit. We’ve rounded up five iconic titles celebrating their 40th anniversaries this month to keep you contently streaming your streaming content.
Clue
This murder-mystery comedy, based on the popular board game, unfolds in a spooky New England mansion where six eccentric guests arrive for dinner only to find themselves embroiled in a series of bizarre murders. With Tim Curry leading the charge as the butler Wadsworth, Clue leans heavily into zany antics, slapstick humor, and clever one-liners. The film famously features three different endings, each offering a different murderer and a whole new way to enjoy the story.
Upon its release, Clue received mixed reviews, with some critics unsure of its unconventional structure and rapid-fire absurdity. As you know, critics, like communism, are just a red herring. That’s because over the years, it found a second life on home video and cable reruns, eventually becoming a beloved cult classic. Fans quote its most outrageous moments (“Flames. On the side of my face!“) and celebrate its ensemble cast’s dedication to physical comedy and wit.
Today, Clue is often ranked among the greatest cult comedies of all time. It inspired stage adaptations, endless Halloween costumes, and even talks of a reboot. Its humor still holds up, its pacing feels fresh, and few comedies are as rewatchable in today’s age. The fact that it was once overlooked makes its legacy all the more satisfying. I still laugh when thinking of the singing telegram girl.
Stream Clue on DIRECTV here
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The Color Purple
Steven Spielberg’s powerful adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel follows the life of Celie, a young Black woman in the American South who endures abuse, racism, and isolation before ultimately finding her voice and identity. Featuring breakout performances by Whoopi Goldberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Danny Glover, the film tells a deeply emotional story about resilience, sisterhood, and hope.
Upon its release, The Color Purple was met with critical acclaim and earned 11 Academy Award nominations. Although it controversially didn’t win any Oscars, the film was praised for its emotional depth and stellar performances. It marked a pivotal moment in Hollywood, shining a spotlight on stories centering Black women. The story offered mainstream audiences a raw, emotional, and empowering narrative.
Decades later, The Color Purple remains a landmark in cinematic storytelling. It continues to be studied and revered for its honest portrayal of trauma and transformation. The film inspired a Broadway musical and a 2023 musical film adaptation. It has gone on to solidify its place among cinema’s most celebrated titles.
Stream The Color Purple on HBO MAX here
A Chorus Line
This film adaptation of the Broadway hit takes us inside a grueling audition for a new musical, where dancers bare their souls in the hope of landing a coveted spot in the chorus. Led by Michael Douglas as the intense director Zach, A Chorus Line pulls back the curtain on the emotional toll of life on stage. With a story told entirely within a theater, the blockbuster film captures intimate feel as we peer into the characters’ confessions and performances.
While the film didn’t achieve the same acclaim as its stage predecessor, it brought the spirit of Broadway to a wider audience. Critics were divided on its execution, with some missing the immediacy of the live experience. Still, its choreography, musical numbers, and emotional honesty struck a chord with fans of the original show and dance lovers everywhere.
In the years since, A Chorus Line has earned respect as a snapshot of 1980s musical filmmaking. The film preserved iconic numbers like “What I Did for Love” and “One” for posterity and introduced the show’s themes of identity and self-worth to a new generation. As a companion piece to the Broadway phenomenon, it still holds historical value in cinema and musical theater circles. Its legacy has paved the way for current favorites like Wicked.
Stream A Chorus Line on Prime Video here
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Spies Like Us
Doctor…doctor…doctor…doctor…doctor…doctor…annnnnd Doctor.
Chevy Chase and Dan Aykroyd team up in this Cold War-era comedy about two inept government employees mistaken for elite spies. What follows is a globe-trotting adventure filled with espionage, hijinks, and a surprising nuclear showdown. Directed by John Landis, the film mixes slapstick and satire, poking fun at the era’s international paranoia with plenty of 1980s flair.
Spies Like Us was a box office hit despite lukewarm reviews. Critics questioned its scattershot tone, but audiences responded to the chemistry between its stars and the absurd humor. Over time, it carved out a niche among fans of ‘80s comedies, bolstered by its catchy theme song and memorable set pieces. Think Stripes with spies.
Now seen as a time capsule of Reagan-era comedy, Spies Like Us remains a quirky cult favorite. Its influence can be spotted in later spy spoofs, and for fans of Chase and Aykroyd, it’s a must-watch. The film’s blend of goofball comedy and satirical undertones keeps it entertaining even 40 years later.
Stream Spies Like Us on Plex here
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Police Story
In Police Story, Jackie Chan stars as a Hong Kong cop framed for murder after a high-stakes drug bust. The film blends intense action, slapstick comedy, and groundbreaking stunts with many performed by Chan himself. It opens with a jaw-dropping chase through a shantytown and doesn’t let up, culminating in one of the most chaotic and dangerous mall fight scenes ever filmed.
A decade before Chris Tucker was his riding partner, Jackie Chan showcased his range in Police Story. Critics applauded its creativity, kinetic energy, and sheer spectacle. The film was a commercial success in Asia and helped elevate Chan to international superstardom. Its blend of action and humor (not to mention Chan’s charisma) helped redefine what action movies could be.
The movie’s influence on Hollywood action films can’t be overstated. Directors like Quentin Tarantino and Edgar Wright have cited Police Story as a major inspiration. Today, it’s recognized as a cornerstone of martial arts cinema and a Jackie Chan essential. Even 40 years later, it’s still jaw-droppingly fun.
Stream Police Story on HBO MAX here
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