The year 1985 gave us an eclectic mix of movies, from martial arts cult classics to supernatural horror and feel-good animated adventures. These films, each in their own way, celebrate strength, resilience, and the fight to carve out a place in the world. Whether that’s through fists, friendship, or sheer determination. Forty years later, they still leave their mark, proving that true power comes in many forms.
Berry Gordy’s The Last Dragon
Who’s the master? Leroy Green, better known as “Bruce Leroy” (Taimak), is a young martial artist on a quest to reach the highest level of spiritual enlightenment—the Glow. Along the way, he faces off against Sho’nuff, the self-proclaimed “Shogun of Harlem,” and must rescue a damsel in distress, all while trying to unlock his true potential. With an unforgettable blend of kung fu, music, and 80s swagger, this film delivers high-energy action and an inspiring hero’s journey.
This is the movie that made the term “Kiss My Converse” an ’80s rally cry. Despite mixed reviews at the time of its release, The Last Dragon has grown into a cult phenomenon. Its infectious energy, over-the-top villains, and empowering message of self-discovery make it a standout in both martial arts and Black cinema. Leroy’s story of perseverance and belief in his own greatness still resonates, proving that true strength comes from within.
Stream Berry Gordy’s The Last Dragon on Roku Channel here.
Desperately Seeking Susan
A bored housewife (Rosanna Arquette) becomes obsessed with the free-spirited Susan (Madonna) and, after a case of mistaken identity, finds herself tangled in Susan’s chaotic, adventurous world. What starts as innocent curiosity spirals into a whirlwind of mystery, romance, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of 80s New York’s vibrant underground scene.
As much a cultural moment as it is a movie, Desperately Seeking Susan turned Madonna into a style icon and cemented her status as a pop culture force. The film’s themes of reinvention and breaking free from societal expectations still resonate, and its blend of comedy, intrigue, and fashion makes it a time capsule of 80s cool. It’s a reminder that strength isn’t just about toughness, but rather the courage to embrace change.
Stream Desperately Seeking Susan on MAX here.
The Care Bears Movie
When two lonely children are taken under the wing of the Care Bears, they embark on a magical journey to spread love and kindness. But an evil spirit manipulates a third child into using dark magic, threatening to erase the warmth and care from the world. Only by working together and believing in the power of compassion can the Care Bears restore harmony.
This heartwarming animated adventure introduced the Care Bears to the big screen, launching a franchise that would shape childhoods for decades. More than just a toy commercial, the movie delivers a timeless message about emotional strength and empathy. In a world that often feels cold, its reminder that kindness is a form of power remains as important as ever.
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Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning
Did you know that Friday the 13th made sequels? Probably. There were lots of them. Part five, however, seemed to stand out at the time.
Years after surviving Jason Voorhees’ bloody rampage, Tommy Jarvis (John Shepherd) is haunted by trauma and struggling to move on. But when a new masked killer emerges, bodies start piling up again. Is Jason back, or is something even more sinister at play?
While divisive among fans for its bold narrative twist, A New Beginning is an important entry in the Friday the 13th franchise. It challenges the idea of horror’s cyclical nature, exploring how past trauma shapes the present. Though not as celebrated as its predecessors, it remains a chilling chapter that leans into paranoia and psychological horror just as much as slasher mayhem.
Stream Friday the 13th Part V: A New Beginning on Pluto here.
Ghoulies
This was the movie that every 80s kid wanted to rent from the store. How many films promise a green monster coming out of the toilet right on the VHS cover? Come on!
A young man inherits a creepy mansion and, in his search for answers about his past, accidentally summons a group of mischievous, murderous creatures. What starts as an innocent dabbling in the occult quickly spirals into supernatural chaos, as the Ghoulies wreak havoc on anyone who crosses their path.
Despite its status as a Gremlins knockoff, Ghoulies found an audience among cult horror fans. It was far from a critical darling—its Rotten Tomatoes score reflects its B-movie camp—but that hasn’t stopped it from becoming a nostalgic favorite. Over-the-top practical effects, a ridiculous premise, and its sheer commitment to absurdity have made it an unlikely classic in the so-bad-it’s-good category.
(Ghoulies has a Rotten Tomatoes rating of __%—because some movies are about fun, not acclaim.)
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