12 Awesome '80s Movies That Only the Cool Kids Remember

      We all recall the blockbuster films of the ’80s, the iconic John Hughes classics, and comedies that still resonate today. However, here are some lesser-known ’80s movies that only the cool kids remember.

      **The Wraith (1986)**

      Starring Sherilyn Fenn and Charlie Sheen, The Wraith features Sheen as Jake, a mysterious new arrival in a desolate Arizona town. The film follows him as a potential alien entity that uses a Dodge M4S Turbo Interceptor to confront road racing bullies. The cast also includes a young Sherilyn Fenn as a high school girl interested in Jake, Randy Quaid as the sheriff, Nick Cassavetes as the main antagonist, and Clint Howard as “Rughead.” While it wasn't a box office success, it has maintained its appeal over the years.

      **License to Drive**

      Produced as a showcase for the Coreys, Corey Haim and Corey Feldman, License to Drive is fondly remembered for introducing Heather Graham as the film's '80s dream girl, Mercedes. Graham shared during a discussion at the San Luis Obispo International Film Festival that she was 17 when she landed the role and was taken aback by her co-stars' drug habits, as she had a sheltered upbringing. She also mentioned having a crush on Haim, which added authenticity to their onscreen chemistry. The film performed well, grossing $22 million against an $8 million budget.

      **Three O’Clock High (1987)**

      Despite being a box office failure, Three O’Clock High showcases a high school confrontation where Jerry Mitchell (played by Casey Siemaszko) inadvertently offends the dangerous newcomer Buddy (Richard Tyson). Following a misstep where Jerry touches Buddy, the latter declares that they will fight after school — at three o'clock. In contrast to other upbeat ’80s teen films, Phil Joanou’s Three O’Clock High is marked by a darker tone and an ambitious soundtrack by Tangerine Dream. On a positive note, during production, Joanou met U2, who later asked him to direct their 1988 concert film, Rattle and Hum.

      **Gleaming the Cube (1989)**

      Gleaming the Cube, a skateboarding movie featuring Christian Slater, centers on a teen skater who investigates the death of his adopted Vietnamese brother. With impressive skating credentials for its time, the film included legendary skaters like Stacy Peralta as the technical advisor and featured Natas Kaupas and Tony Hawk. The film's title stems from a question posed in a 1983 Thrasher magazine interview with skater Neil Blender. Although it didn't perform well at the box office, it garnered a following.

      **Rad (1986)**

      Similar to Gleaming the Cube, Rad focuses on BMX biking and was directed by Hal Needham. It follows teen racer Cru Jones (Bill Jones) who must choose between qualifying for the prestigious Helltrack or taking the SATs. Along the way, he meets Lori Loughlin’s character, Christian, known for her freestyle bike tricks. Though it was not a box office hit, it remains a cherished memory among its fans.

      **Just One of the Guys**

      This comedy features female journalist Terri Griffith (Joyce Hyser), who goes undercover as a boy to see if she can fit in as “one of the guys.” With lessons learned and expectations challenged, the film also stars William Zabka and Sherilyn Fenn. It performed well at the box office, thanks to its appeal among cool kids.

      **Slumber Party Massacre II (1987)**

      The Slumber Party Massacre films are notable as both genuine slasher movies and clever parodies of the genre, all created by women. Slumber Party II amps up the fun with a rockabilly villain who wields a drill shaped like a guitar and combines charisma with flamboyant dance moves during his attacks. While all three films were profitable due to their low budgets, Slumber Party Massacre II had the highest budget at $500,000, likely because of its impressive villain and special effects.

      **Slumber Party Massacre (1982)**

      It would be remiss to mention Slumber Party Massacre II without discussing the original film that set the tone. Directed by Amy Holden Jones and produced by Roger Corman, this film captures the true essence of attending a gritty high school in the ’80s.

      **Better Off Dead (1985)**

      In Better Off Dead, Lane Meyer (John Cusack) spirals into destructive behavior after his girlfriend breaks up with him for Roy Stalin. Fortunately, he finds solace in Monique (Diane Franklin), a French exchange student. While it may seem like a typical teen comedy, its absurdity elevates it to a cult classic, fondly remembered by those who experienced the ’80s.

      **One Crazy Summer (1986)**

      This spiritual sequel to