- Photo 1:
- Raiders of the Lost Ark
- 20th Century Fox
- Photo 2:
- Back to the Future
- Universal Pictures
- Photo 3:
- The Karate Kid
- Columbia Pictures
The 35 Best Characters From '80s Movies, Ranked
Vote up your favorite movie characters from the 1980s.
Take the ultimate 1980s nostalgia trip with this collection of the most unforgettable characters from a decade that redefined blockbuster cinema. From wise-cracking heroes and villainous masterminds to quirky sidekicks and resilient protagonists, these characters encapsulate the spirit, style, and innovation of '80s filmmaking.
Think about Ferris Bueller, whose epic day off redefined teenage rebellion and made everyone wish for a charismatic best friend like him. Remember Ellen Ripley, the fierce spacefarer who shattered gender norms and battled Xenomorphs with unparalleled courage. Or perhaps you adore the suave Lando Calrissian, whose charm and complexities gave the Star Wars galaxy a whole new dimension.
Each amazing '80s character brings a unique flavor, whether it's the lovable nerdiness of Wayne Szalinski, the terrifying obsession of Alex Forrest, or the tragic heroism of John Rambo.
From whip-wielding archaeologists to time-traveling teens, these '80s legends are here to remind us why that decade remains a golden era of cinematic brilliance. So dive in, reminisce, and don't forget to vote for your favorites.
Played By: Harrison Ford
Appears In: The Indiana Jones franchise
Whip in one hand, fedora firmly placed, Indiana Jones epitomizes '80s adventure. Harrison Ford brought this archaeology professor to life, transforming boring relic hunts into genuinely epic crusades. Debuting in Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indy battles Nazis, conquered booby traps, and discovered ancient artifacts - all while exuding an effortless, rugged charm. Through his antics, Indy reminds us that history is anything but dull. His vulnerability and wry humor set him apart from typical action leads, making him an enduring icon of daring escapades and scholarly bravery.
Great character?Played By: Bruce Willis
Appears In: The Die Hard Franchise
When terrorists take over Nakatomi Plaza on Christmas Eve, there’s only one man for the job: John McClane. Bruce Willis shattered macho '80s action hero norms with this down-to-earth New York cop trapped in LA chaos without shoes or backup.
McClane's wisecracks under fire made him relatable, and his ingenuity under pressure made him unstoppable. His wild stunts redefine what it means to be a hero during the festive season.
Great character?Played By: Michael J. Fox
Appears In: The Back to the Future franchise
Hop into Doc Brown’s DeLorean, because Marty McFly is taking you on a time-traveling joyride! Michael J. Fox brought infectious energy to this skateboarding teen who finds himself bouncing between decades thanks to some plutonium-powered tech wizardry. Whether he's ensuring his parents fall in love at the Enchantment Under the Sea dance or trying not to alter future events too drastically, Marty makes temporal chaos look incredibly fun - and stylishly '80s! Hoverboards, anyone?
Great character?Played By: Eddie Murphy
Appears In: The Beverly Hills Cop Franchise
Detroit detective Axel Foley in Beverly Hills Cop brings unparalleled charisma. Tackling cases with sharp wit and street-smart tactics, Axel navigates luxurious palm-lined streets while delivering sassy quips that leave everyone else playing catch-up. Whether he's crashing high-society parties or outsmarting local law enforcement, Axel's blend of humor and savvy makes him one cool cat in any zip code. Surely, you can hear his theme song in your head right now…
Great character?Played By: Michael Keaton
Appears In: Beetlejuice
In Tim Burton’s darkly whimsical film of the same name, Beetlejuice, simply put, is the ghost with the most. Michael Keaton’s wild performance as the bio-exorcist is a riotous blend of mischief and mayhem. His eccentric outfits and manic energy turn every scene into a spectacle. Beetlejuice displays a gleeful disregard for decorum, which, paired with his bizarre yet brilliant shenanigans, creates a character who is both entertainingly grotesque and devilishly delightful.
Great character?Played By: Pat Morita
Appears In: The Karate Kid franchise
“Wax on. Wax off.” Those words became an immortal part of pop culture thanks to Mr. Miyagi. Pat Morita's portrayal of the character wasn’t just about martial arts, but about instilling discipline through everyday wisdom while training Daniel LaRusso to win against those pesky Cobra Kai adversaries.
An unexpected father figure par excellence, Mr. Miyagi teaches that true strength comes from within - and sometimes from painting fences or sanding floors! He seamlessly blends tough love with heartfelt mentorship, creating a character who remains a touchstone for guidance and resilience.
Great character?
