The National Film Registry stands apart from awards like the Oscars by focusing on the historic and artistic value of films, allowing for broader representation across genres. Annually, 25 films are selected for preservation, often after a ten-year eligibility period. Unlike the Academy Awards, which can overlook certain genres such as comedy and horror, the National Film Registry embraces diverse forms of cinematic art.
The 2024 list features numerous 1980s blockbusters, including 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan,' 'Beverly Hills Cop,' and 'Dirty Dancing.' These films are significant not merely for their initial popularity but for their growing acknowledgment as important cultural artifacts. The public’s appreciation has shifted, recognizing the depth and artistry within these “empty entertainment” pieces from the past.
The trends of film during the 1980s arose from the ashes of the 1970s film era, known as the Golden Age of filmmaking. Notable films from this period, such as 'The Godfather,' 'Jaws,' and 'Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,' established the director's vision as central to Hollywood filmmaking. Yet toward the end of the 1970s, this trend began to decline. The decade witnessed several expensive flops, including Steven Spielberg's '1941' and Francis Ford Coppola's 'One from the Heart,' which resulted in financial strain for studios. The release of Michael Cimino's 'Heaven's Gate' in 1980 was particularly disastrous, leading to the bankruptcy of United Artists and prompting Hollywood to reassess its direction.
With the fall of auteur-driven films, MTV emerged as a game-changer for the industry. Premiering in 1981, MTV's music video format quickly captivated audiences and inspired filmmakers. The success of 'Flashdance' (1983), produced by Don Simpson and Jerry Bruckheimer, exemplifies this shift. The film, centered on a steelworker aspiring to be a professional dancer, was short on plot but visually captivating, generating over $200 million against its $7 million budget. Jennifer Beals became an instant star, and her performance immortalized through the iconic final audition sequence to Irene Cara's 'Flashdance... What a Feeling!'
The commercial success of 'Flashdance' laid the groundwork for subsequent hits such as 'Footloose,' 'Top Gun,' and 'Ghostbusters.' These films epitomized the 1980s cinematic experience, decorated with high-energy music sequences tightly aligned with MTV's style. While some received public praise, the artistic merit of many remained up for debate, often seen as byproducts of their time rather than groundbreaking cinema.
Some films from this era, including 'Beverly Hills Cop' and 'Dirty Dancing,' defy earlier perceptions. Released in 1984 and 1987 respectively, both films made substantial box office profits with modest investments. They are also notable for their soundtracks, which included chart-topping hits from the era. While critics may not have initially hailed them as award-caliber productions, they possessed themes and socio-political commentaries worth revisiting.
'Beverly Hills Cop', featuring Eddie Murphy, served as both a comedy and social commentary on race relations within the U.S. The film taps deep-rooted issues of privilege and systemic inequities through its protagonist, Axel Foley, whose success disrupts the status quo. Conversely, 'Dirty Dancing' encapsulates themes surrounding abortion and personal freedom—a poignant message within its romantic narrative during the politically charged climate of the late 1980s.
While both films found commercial acclaim, they were often overshadowed by historical dramas at award shows—films like 'Amadeus' and 'The Last Emperor,' which, though artful, tackled broader themes rather than contemporary issues. Each year, the National Film Registry has honored significant films from the 1980s, including previous selections like 'Ferris Bueller's Day Off' and 'Top Gun.' The inclusion of films from 2024 emphasizes the understated complexity housed within these seemingly commercial narratives.
Both 'Beverly Hills Cop' and 'Dirty Dancing' are popular once again, now available for streaming on platforms like Peacock and Paramount+. Their storylines resonate with audiences today, marking how art evolves within cultural contexts. With each passing year, nostalgia for 1980s films and their cultural relevance continues to flourish.