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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Carthage chapter.

Ever get tired of watching the same romantic comedies over and over again? Of course the answer is no, but we should still try to mix it up every once in a while. If you want to make your next movie night a throwback (extra points if it’s on a Thursday), try picking up some ’80s classics, throwing on your comfiest leg warmers, and settle in for a night of teen drama and shoulder pads.

1. Say Anything (1989)

John Cusack will have you saying “Noah Centineo who?”

2. Pretty in Pink (1986)

Molly Ringwald’s first appearance on this list.

3. Heathers (1988)

Not your average teen romance, but if you’re into Mean Girls meets murder, hey, Winona Ryder and Christian Slater are here to appease you.

4. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

This one is on repeat for me.

5. Sixteen Candles (1984)

I mean, come on – it’s Jake Ryan. Hannah Montana‘s Jake Ryan wishes he was this good.

6. Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (1986)

Most people have seen this one by now, but it’s always fun to rewatch.

7. The Goonies (1985)

I personally haven’t seen this one, but now that it’s on the list, you’re all responsible for holding me accountable for it. It needs to be watched now.

8. Beetlejuice (1988)

Halloween might have passed, but Alec Baldwin in those pants is something that can be enjoyed all year round. Plus, Queen Winona Ryder is in this one, too.

9. Dirty Dancing (1987)

*Cue “Time of My Life” and all my tears*

10. Can’t Buy Me Love (1987)

Have you ever wondered what young Patrick Dempsey looked like? Now, you don’t have to. You can just sit back and enjoy.

Since the ’80s we’ve brought back leggings, cold-shoulder tops, statement jewelry, Rob Lowe’s career after his sex tape scandal – but now it’s time to bring the amazing films that were made during the decade back into popularity.

Emily is a senior at Carthage College double majoring in English, with an emphasis in creative writing, and theatre, with an emphasis in costume design. She has also studied writing at Columbia University in the City of New York and The Second City - Chicago. Some of Emily's talents include eating large portions of pasta, quoting 80s romantic comedies, and unwanted Louis Armstrong impressions. These will all be very useful for her future career in television writing and producing.
Jane Eckles

Carthage '19

Jane graduated from Carthage College in May 2019 with a degree in English and Secondary Education. She is from Merced, California, which is close enough to San Fransisco for her to confirm that the City by the Bay is her absolute favorite. When she's not teaching or writing articles, she can be found collecting any book she can get her hands on, watching Netflix, staring mindlessly into the void, or napping.