10 Time-Travel Movies from the ’80s We Love Rewatching

The 1980s brought us some of the most creative and unforgettable time-travel films. These movies continue to entertain new generations with their unique plots and fascinating twists. Here are 10 time-travel movies from the ’80s we love rewatching.

1. Back to the Future (1985)

Back to the Future tells the tale of Marty McFly, a teenager who travels back to 1955 in a DeLorean. Guided by his friend Doc Brown, he must ensure his parents fall in love or risk altering his own existence. The mix of humor and adventure keeps fans coming back.

2. The Terminator (1984)

The Terminator introduces a cyborg sent from the future to kill Sarah Connor. Sarah must evade the relentless robot to protect her unborn son, who will lead a future rebellion. This intense thrill ride, directed by James Cameron, became a genre-defining classic.

3. Time Bandits (1981)

Time Bandits follows a young boy who joins a group of dwarfs on a time-traveling adventure. They journey through various historical events, stealing treasures along the way. This imaginative and humorous film directed by Terry Gilliam offers a unique twist on time travel.

4. Peggy Sue Got Married (1986)

Peggy Sue Got Married features a woman who wakes up in her teenage body after fainting at her high school reunion. Peggy Sue receives a chance to relive her life, changing some choices along the way. This heartwarming story explores regrets and second chances.

5. The Philadelphia Experiment (1984)

The Philadelphia Experiment revolves around a WWII experiment gone wrong, sending two sailors into the future. Struggling to understand their new world, they seek a way back. The film blends sci-fi and mystery, keeping viewers intrigued as the sailors navigate time.

6. Flight of the Navigator (1986)

Flight of the Navigator tells the tale of a boy who vanishes for eight years after encountering an alien spaceship, but he hasn’t aged. He discovers the ship holds secrets that can explain his strange disappearance. This family-friendly movie embraces adventure and discovery.

7. Somewhere in Time (1980)

Somewhere in Time follows a playwright who hypnotizes himself to travel back in time and meet the woman he loves from a portrait. The story explores the power of love and destiny. This romantic tale, starring Christopher Reeve, offers a dreamy take on time travel.

8. The Final Countdown (1980)

The Final Countdown features a modern aircraft carrier that inexplicably travels back to 1941, just before the attack on Pearl Harbor. The crew faces a moral dilemma—whether to change history or let events unfold. This intriguing plot keeps viewers engaged throughout.

9. Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home (1986)

Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home follows the crew of the starship Enterprise as they travel back in time to save humpback whales, which are needed to communicate with an alien probe in the future. The mix of humor and adventure makes it a fan favorite.

10. Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)

Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure tells the story of two high school students who use a time machine to gather historical figures for their history project. Their fun, freewheeling journey through time highlights the value of friendship and learning in an entertaining way.