Unfortunately, cuffing season ended long ago in autumn. With Valentine’s Day only a few weeks away, the possibility of meeting “the one” in DRL or Williams Hall is hardly likely. However, Street has just the remedy for you to overcome any feelings of loneliness: '80s movies!
'80s romantic comedies signaled a much simpler time of bigger hair, better music, and vastly unrealistic standards of love. Instead of crying into cookie dough, why not check out these six movie recommendations?
1. Pretty in Pink (1986)
Made by a filmmaker who wrote countless, uniquely romantic American classics, Pretty in Pink is one of John Hughes’ most lauded, human stories of adolescence. Following the life of an average teenage girl who falls for a popular “richie” kid, the movie navigates the anxieties accompanying star–crossed young love. Andie, played by Molly Ringwald, has to deal with a degree of class politics in her attempts to go to prom with Blane. If you ever became interested in someone who wears a Moncler jacket, you can probably relate.
2. Heathers (1988)
One of the most revered and well–known black comedies of its time, Heathers is the dark, morally questionable movie you've been waiting for. Aside from the atypical relationship between Winona Ryder’s and Christian Slater’s characters, the film offers a scathing commentary on much of the unquestioned social dynamics typical to high schools.
3. Sixteen Candles (1984)
Another movie written and directed by John Hughes featuring Molly Ringwald? Of course! This movie follows high school sophomore Samantha as she pines after a senior boy who she believes would only be turned off by her virginal status. All the while, Samantha must brush off the advances of an undesirable freshman.
4. Say Anything (1989)
If you’ve ever dreamt about someone standing outside your bedside window holding a boombox playing a Peter Gabriel song, Cameron Crowe’s Say Anything is an essential watch. Starring John Cusack as Lloyd Dobler, a kickboxer with no set ambitions who falls in love with the valedictorian of his high school after graduation, this movie tells a timeless romantic tale.
5. Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982)
Like most '80s movies about teenagers, Fast Times at Ridgemont High revolves around an intersecting love triangle! Though a lot more raunchy and campy than Sixteen Candles or Say Anything, this movie still captures some heartwarming moments—perfect for Valentine’s Day. The ending offers a realistic, hilarious conclusion typical to the film’s world of weed, awkward sex, and friendship.
6. Can’t Buy Me Love (1987)
Starring Patrick Dempsey, this rom–com classic revolves around Ronald Miller, a nerdy high schooler who uses financial leverage to make his cheerleader crush pretend to be his girlfriend for a month. Simultaneously, Ronald has to face the fact that his newfound popularity may drastically change his life.
