by Michelle Strozykowski

Created on: April 16, 2008

The eighties was a decade defined by cinema's insatiable appetite for big budget fantasy adventures. Included within its span was a trilogy of Indianna Jones films, two Ghostbusters films, two Back to the Future films, two Star Trek films, Romancing the Stone and its sequel Jewel of the Nile, the second and third Superman films, the second Alien film and the conclusion of George Lucas' original and much revered Star Wars trilogy, Return of the Jedi.

It's a given that many of these films fall into more categories than is typified by the singular term fantasy, encompassing as they do other genres such as action, comedy, horror and science fiction. Therefore, despite the inevitable genre amalgamations common to almost all cinematic output, the following 10 films have been selected for the specific reason that fantasy assumes a dominating presence within the major elements of structure and storyline.

1. Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's raucously uplifting comedy ghost story was arguably Winona Ryder's finest hour. She plays the introspective goth daughter of particularly obnoxious parents. The three of them move into a new house, but it soon becomes apparent that the recently deceased previous tenants are still in occupation. These ghosts are the sweet, lovely couple Adam and Barbara, and in their desperation to get rid of the new arrivals they call on Beetlejuice to help. Big mistake.

2. Ghostbusters (1984)
Funny, scary, amazing special effects and a cool story to boot. Ghostbusters is chock full of memorable scenes, quotable lines and perfectly pitched performances.

3. The Princess Bride (1987)
William Goldman's spectacular script (based on his book) parodies many fairy tale cliches, but with a wit and affection that only serves to enhance his own work. The characters may be familiar, but the story is full of twists and turns, humor and adventure. A near perfect fantasy with pirates, giants and rodents of unusual size.

4. The Lost Boys (1987)
A fantastic vampire flick, dark, exciting and completely stolen by Kiefer Sutherland who mesmerizes in every scene. The soundtrack is pretty good too.

5. The Terminator (1984)
Arnie's first outing as The Terminator, a fantastical futuristic cyborg, remains one of James Cameron's greatest achievements. A film of truly outstanding daring and drama.

6. Flash Gordon (1980)
Funny costumes, hammy acting and cartoonish visuals in bright primary colors make Flash Gordon a hilarious camp classic.

7. Clash of the Titans (1981)
A classic historical

• 1
• 2
• Next Page >>