Top 5 Action Movies of the 1980s

The 1980s gave pop culture so much. But when we look back at this decade one thing is abundantly clear… 80s action movies were something else.

For today's countdown, we’re looking at our Top 5 Action Movies from the 80s.

Number 5 - First Blood

Sylvester Stallone is an icon of the action genre and this is largely due to the Rambo franchise. First Blood was the first entry into this action packed film saga and it gave us a raw, emotional and explosive look at the character of John Rambo. First Blood sidelines your standard action cliches in favour of a story that is psychologically thrilling as well as action packed. We connect with Rambo and this drives the plot as it becomes one man taking down crooked cops.

Number 4 - Die Hard

The 80s were clearly the time of the underdog and this story of a lone cop taking down a terrorist plot is a prime example of this. Die Hard may not be one of the most action heavy movies on this list, but my god is it entertaining. John McClain’s journey through Nakatomi Plaza is one of high stakes and supreme tension. Bruce Willis gives us the perfect American hero, but it is Alan Rickman’s villain that ensures Die Hard will not soon be forgotten.

Number 3 - Aliens

Following up one of the greatest sci-fi thrillers of all time could not have been a harder task, yet Aliens did it with ease. This movie took all that we loved about the original and turned up the dial. It was bigger, bolder and far more explosive. James Cameron injected the perfect amount of action into Aliens all the while respecting its predecessor. Aliens played with our expectations and paved the way for a franchise that would scare, thrill and wow us at every opportunity. 

Number 2 - Terminator

Terminator is easily one of the best things to come out of the 80s. James Cameron clearly knows a thing or two about making an action movie and this action sci-fi epic is all the proof you need. Arnold Schwarzenegger is perfectly cast as the big hulking T-800, intent on killing Sarah Conner before she gives birth to the leader of the human resistance against the machines. Terminator is ambitious, visually stunning and undeniably fuelled by outstanding action.

Number 1 - Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back

When talking about the 80s, it’s impossible not to mention Star Wars. Star Wars was at the center of the 80s pop culture explosion and The Empire Strikes Back cemented its relevance. Not only did this film carry on a beloved story, but it forever changed our expectations of a sequel. From its epic opening scene, we are battered with action left, right and center. Pair this with the greatest movie twist of all time and you get the perfect 80s action movie.

Shop Action Classics on 4K UHD Here