Before streaming was even a dream, these movies were lighting up theaters and carving out their place in pop culture history. August 1985 gave us everything from teen werewolves and high school sci-fi experiments to heartfelt puppet adventures and vampire next-door neighbors. Now, 40 years later, these unforgettable films are ready to be rediscovered. Whether you missed them the first time or just want to revisit the magic, here are five movies turning 40 this month that are absolutely worth a watch.
Teen Wolf
In Teen Wolf, Michael J. Fox stars as Scott Howard, a high school basketball player who discovers that he’s inherited a family trait…he’s a werewolf. As Scott grapples with his newfound identity, his athletic abilities soar, his popularity skyrockets, and his confidence swells. But as his wolf persona takes center stage, he’s forced to decide who he really wants to be.
Released shortly after Back to the Future, this 1985 hit further cemented Fox’s place as a teen icon. Though the budget was small, the film became a box office success, thanks to its blend of supernatural comedy, high school drama, and relatable themes of self-acceptance. Its offbeat tone helped it stand out among other ’80s teen comedies.
Culturally, Teen Wolf remains a quirky favorite, spawning an animated series, a sequel, and eventually an MTV reboot with a much darker tone. But the original still holds a special place in pop culture as a coming-of-age tale wrapped in werewolf fur and varsity jackets.
Stream Teen Wolf on Prime Video here.
Stream Teen Wolf on Philo here.
Stream Teen Wolf on AMC+ here.
Stream Teen Wolf on DIRECTV here.
Stream Teen Wolf on The Roku Channel here.
Better Off Dead
It’s the movie that made two dollars famous. John Cusack plays Lane Meyer, a heartbroken teen whose life spirals after his girlfriend dumps him for the smug ski team captain. Through a mix of surreal humor, animated sequences, and bizarre encounters, Lane tries to win her back or at least survive his outlandish misadventures.
While Better Off Dead didn’t light up the box office, it became a cult classic thanks to its absurd tone, quotable one-liners, and unforgettable supporting characters like the Howard Cosell-speaking paperboy demanding “two dollars.” Director Savage Steve Holland’s unique comedic vision made the film an outlier (and a favorite) for those who liked their high school stories a little more twisted.
Over time, the movie earned a loyal fanbase and became a touchstone for offbeat ‘80s humor. Its influence can be felt in countless coming-of-age comedies that embrace the weird, and Cusack’s reluctant charm became a defining element of the decade’s teen fare.
Stream Better Off Dead on MAX here.
Stream Better Off Dead on The Roku Channel here.
Weird Science
Two nerdy high schoolers, Gary and Wyatt, decide to create the perfect woman using their computer, a Barbie doll, and a bolt of lightning. What could possibly go wrong? Enter Lisa (played by Kelly LeBrock), a magical and confident woman who turns their lives upside down while helping them gain courage and self-respect.
A quintessential John Hughes fantasy comedy, Weird Science tapped into adolescent wish fulfillment with a sci-fi twist. While it wasn’t as universally acclaimed as The Breakfast Club or Sixteen Candles, its combination of special effects, quotable dialogue, and outlandish scenarios made it a staple of teen movie marathons.
Today, the film stands as a relic of ‘80s pop culture excess—equal parts problematic and beloved. It inspired a TV series, endless parodies, and debates about technology, gender, and the teenage psyche. For fans of the genre, it’s a weird and wonderful time capsule.
Stream Weird Science on Netflix here.
Stream Weird Science on Peacock here.
Stream Weird Science on Philo here.
Stream Weird Science on AMC+ here.
Stream Weird Science on DIRECTV here.
Stream Weird Science on The Roku Channel here.
Follow That Bird
Big Bird sets off on a journey across America after being placed with a family of dodos who don’t understand him. When he escapes, the Sesame Street gang sets out to find him, resulting in a road trip full of heartfelt moments, memorable songs, and Muppet cameos.
This was the first Sesame Street theatrical film, and it struck a surprisingly emotional chord. While intended for children, the themes of belonging and identity made it resonate with parents and kids alike. Critics praised the movie for balancing educational messages with a rich cinematic experience.
Decades later, Follow That Bird is remembered for its gentle storytelling and respectful portrayal of childhood emotions. It helped pave the way for other family-friendly films with serious undertones and stands as one of Big Bird’s most meaningful adventures.
Stream Follow That Bird on Tubi here.
Fright Night
Charley Brewster is your average horror-loving teenager—until he suspects that his new next-door neighbor is a vampire. When no one believes him, he turns to a washed-up TV horror host for help. What follows is a mix of scares, satire, and ‘80s teen heroics.
Blending campy horror with genuine suspense, Fright Night was a breath of fresh air during a decade full of slasher flicks. It earned praise for its clever script, strong performances, and groundbreaking practical effects. Critics and fans alike embraced its modern take on classic vampire tropes.
The film became a cult hit, spawning a sequel, a remake, and countless fans who appreciated its genre-bending tone. Its reverence for old-school horror paired with teen movie sensibilities made it a bridge between generations of fans—earning it a lasting place in horror history.
Stream Fright Night on Pluto TV here.