8 Action Heroes From the ’80s Who Haven’t Stood the Test of Time

Action movie culture flourished in the 1980s, when a host of legendary figures with unquestionable swagger, bravery, and strength were introduced. But not all of these heroes have been able to hold onto their charm as the world and film preferences have changed. Though many people still hold dear memories of them, their story, substance, and style may run counter to modern sensibilities.

John Matrix from “Commando”

John Matrix from “Commando” is a perfect example of the quintessential ’80s hero—muscle-bound, invincible, and always ready with a snappy comeback. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Matrix was the epitome of action hero cool. Yet, the sheer extravagance of the movie, from the improbably large body counts to the physics-defying stunts, strikes a discordant note with modern viewers who prefer a bit more realism or complexity in their protagonists and their plots. While still enjoyable for a nostalgic romp, “Commando” serves more as a time capsule of ’80s excess than a template for contemporary action cinema.

John Rambo from “Rambo”

John Rambo started as a troubled Vietnam vet in “First Blood,” a film that was as much about its character’s internal battles as his physical confrontations. It was a role filled with nuance and grit, brilliantly captured by Sylvester Stallone. However, as the sequels piled up, the depth of Rambo’s character was overshadowed by an escalation in action-packed spectacle and a departure from the realism that grounded the original. The transformation of Rambo into an almost superhuman figure dilutes the authenticity that made him relatable, rendering the later movies more fantastical than impactful.

Cobra from “Cobra”

Cobra, another Stallone vehicle, introduced Marion Cobretti – a cop who was the quintessence of ’80s action hero machismo. “Cobra” reveled in its overabundance of action and a level of violence that was characteristic of the decade’s blockbusters. Today, however, the movie’s depiction of crime and justice feels not only exaggerated but somewhat insensitive, failing to resonate with viewers who seek more complexity and moral ambiguity in their heroes and villains.

Missing in Action’s Braddock

Chuck Norris’s Braddock from “Missing in Action” encapsulated the era’s penchant for straightforward, unambiguous narratives. Braddock was a hero with a single mission and a binary sense of right and wrong. While Norris’s physical prowess was undeniable, the films suffer from a simplicity that modern audiences might find naive. The world has become recognized as a more complex place, and the good-versus-evil stories of “Missing in Action,” without depth or nuance, have not aged well.

Snake Plissken from “Escape from New York”

Snake Plissken in “Escape from New York” is a significant departure from the clean-cut heroes of his time, offering a more gritty and nuanced figure. Kurt Russell gave us a character with edge and a moral complexity that was refreshing. Yet, the dystopian future “Escape from New York” envisioned feels increasingly implausible and somewhat quaint compared to the sophisticated speculation seen in contemporary science fiction. While Plissken is a memorable character, the environment and scenarios he navigates now appear more like caricatures of societal collapse than plausible futures.

Conan the Barbarian

Conan the Barbarian saw Arnold Schwarzenegger bringing to life a fantasy icon with brute strength and a primal code of honor. In its time, Conan was a spectacle of physical prowess and epic storytelling. However, the fantasy genre has evolved, favoring intricate world-building and character-driven narratives. The simplicity of Conan’s quests and the portrayal of its universe no longer captivate audiences as they once did, highlighting a shift in what viewers expect from fantasy storytelling.

Flash Gordon

Flash Gordon is remembered fondly, in no small part due to Queen’s unforgettable soundtrack. Yet, the movie itself, with its campy portrayal of a hero thrust into a cosmic adventure, has not aged as well. In contrast to the depth and visual sophistication of modern science fiction, Flash Gordon feels particularly dated, a relic of an era less concerned with authenticity and more with colorful escapism.

The American Ninja

The American Ninja series, with Michael Dudikoff at the helm, captured the imagination of audiences with its blend of martial arts and military intrigue. At the time, the portrayal of ninjutsu enthralled viewers, but as martial arts cinema has advanced, the action in “American Ninja” appears simplistic and sometimes unconvincing. The evolution of action choreography and a deeper understanding of martial arts in film have left the American Ninja feeling like a first step in a journey that has since gone much farther.