10 Must-See Cult Movies from the 80s

      Tom Jolliffe presents ten essential cult movies from the 1980s that you should check out…

      The cult film phenomenon encompasses everything from obscure gems with a dedicated small following to massive fan bases for mainstream hits like Star Wars during the 80s. Occasionally, a film resonates deeply, possessing a special charm or an imperfect quality that some of the more mainstream offerings lack.

      Highlander is a prime example of a cult classic that has a unique style, although it's not really a hidden gem. It’s not the kind of film you can recommend to a genre enthusiast in hopes of impressing them, as it’s likely they've already seen it. Over the years, I’ve come across numerous entertaining oddities and underrated films across various genres. Here are ten great cult films you might not have seen…

      **Paperhouse**

      Based on the classic fantasy novel "Marianne Dreams" by Catherine Storr, Paperhouse has its share of fans and recognition. Bernard Rose’s film, although somewhat overshadowed by his later iconic horror movie Candyman, is still remarkable. It follows a sick girl who spends her time drawing in her sketch pad, but at night, her creations come alive in her dreams, eventually taking on lives of their own. Although it features horror elements, Rose, much like in Candyman, delves into the protagonist's psyche (played here by a young Charlotte Burke). She grapples with numerous health-related and personal issues that influence her dreams. The late Ben Cross gives a powerful performance as her father, who appears more menacingly in her nightmares.

      **Streets of Fire**

      Like many accomplished directors, some films inevitably fly under the radar. For Francis Ford Coppola, this includes The Conversation nestled between the first two Godfather films. Walter Hill is also known for beloved films like The Warriors, The Driver, and 48 Hours. In the mid-80s, he directed Streets of Fire, an action/musical hybrid brimming with cult potential. This film represented Hill's largest budget to date, having previously directed more modestly financed genre films. Featuring rising stars such as Michael Pare, Diane Lane, and Willem Dafoe, it had an undeniable allure, although it initially flopped at the box office before gaining traction on home video. It exudes a cool style reminiscent of 1950s rock 'n' roll, biker gangs, and leather, while still embodying the essence of the 80s. Nostalgia has certainly revived interest in such period blends and neo-retro styles.

      **Miracle Mile**

      The premise is straightforward: a man meets a woman, and there's immediate chemistry, but she has to leave. He then accidentally receives a call warning of an imminent nuclear attack on the city. Determined to find her amidst the night, he must navigate rising dangers as the nuclear threat becomes public. Anthony Edwards portrays the relatable hero, with Mare Winningham as a compelling lead. The film captures a fantastical nighttime atmosphere in L.A. and unfolds in a brief, suspenseful timeframe. Unfortunately, far too few people have seen Miracle Mile, which deserves broader recognition. Despite its modest budget, it didn't make a significant impact at the box office. Director Steve De Jarnatt also created Cherry 2000, another cult classic with a smaller following. However, Miracle Mile stands out for its engaging story and memorable Tangerine Dream score.

      **To Live and Die in L.A.**

      William Petersen is well associated with cult cinema. Manhunter began as an underground thriller and gained posthumous attention after the success of Silence of the Lambs led viewers back to the original Hannibal Lecter portrayal. A year prior to that, Petersen starred in To Live and Die in L.A., directed by the late William Friedkin. At this stage, Friedkin was still riding high from hits like The Exorcist and The French Connection, despite a few missteps like Sorcerer and Cruising, which affected his reputation. This action-packed crime thriller features a quirky score by Wang Chung, showcasing Friedkin's creative freedom. Petersen excels as a troubled cop, and Willem Dafoe is unforgettable as the film's deranged antagonist. With exciting action sequences and a quintessentially 80s style, this film is not to be missed.

      **The Hidden**

      A blend of sci-fi, action, and comedy, The Hidden should be far more popular. A body-swapping alien criminal wreaks havoc while being chased by an alien cop (disguised as an FBI agent) and a human cop portrayed by Michael Nouri. Although director Jack Sholder may be better known for his controversial first A Nightmare on Elm Street sequel, Freddy’s Revenge, which has garnered its own cult following, The Hidden remains a fun ride. Its modest budget results in minimal visual effects, focusing on the dynamic between the weary Nouri and Kyle Maclachlan's quirky alien character. The film is enjoyable, light on spectacle but rich in character