The Best '80s Disaster Movies
These are the best disaster movies from the ‘80s. Disaster films can impact the whole world a select group of people such as on an airplane or in a city. These disaster films from the 1980s are edge-of-your-seat thrill rides that still hold up today and are certainly fun to watch. With famous actors such as Mel Gibson in The Chain Reaction and Leslie Nielsen in the satirical disaster movie Airplane!, 1980s disaster movies are some of the most exciting and memorable films in the genre. This list includes man-made disasters like The Day After and natural disaster movies like When Time Ran Out.
Other great disaster movies from the nineteen-eighties include films such as Anxious Sunday and Cave-In!.
Now it’s time to determine the greatest ‘80s disaster movies. Vote up the good 1980s disaster movies to make sure that the right film makes its way to the top of the list. Don’t see your favorite ‘80s disaster movie? Feel free to add it to the list.
- 1Bruno Lawrence, Alison Routledge, Pete Smith
For Fans Of: Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, Drama
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: The Quiet Earth stands as a haunting and atmospheric post-apocalyptic movie that showcases the eerie emptiness of an abandoned world, making it a classic of 80s disaster cinema. This New Zealand-based film presents strong visuals and thought-provoking themes that continue to resonate with viewers today. As an exploration of isolation and human connection, this movie is a must-watch for those seeking a powerful representation of 80s filmmaking.When everyone around him vanishes overnight, scientist Zac Hobson (Bruno Lawrence) finds himself seemingly the only person on the planet. The isolation initially drives him to the brink of suicide, but eventually Zac adapts to a day-to-day routine. After meeting two other survivors, Joanne (Alison Routledge) and Api (Peter Smith), a Maori, the trio roams New Zealand trying to understand what caused everyone else to disappear, why they remained behind -- and whether disaster will strike again.More The Quiet Earth
- #126 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
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- 2
Miracle Mile
Anthony Edwards, Mare Winningham, John AgarFor Fans Of: Thriller, Romance, Science Fiction
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Miracle Mile combines elements of romance and apocalyptic dread to create a compelling two-hander between its lead actors, Anthony Edwards and Mare Winningham. Set against the backdrop of a possible nuclear war, this intense real-time thriller captures both the paranoia prevalent during the Cold War era and the distinct visual style characteristic of 1980s cinema. A hidden gem from its time, Miracle Mile is an engaging race-against-the-clock film that keeps viewers glued till its climactic conclusion.Musician Harry Washello (Anthony Edwards) sits down at a Los Angeles diner, where he instantly takes an interest in waitress Julie Peters (Mare Winningham). The feeling is mutual, too, so the pair arranges a date for later that day. But things go awry when Harry picks up a random pay phone call from a frantic soldier who warns of a nuclear attack that will hit L.A. within the hour. Scrambling, Harry finds Julie and the two do everything they can to escape to safety.More Miracle Mile - 3
Threads
Reece Dinsdale, Karen Meagher, Rita MayFor Fans Of: Drama, War, Sci-Fi
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: As a stark portrayal of nuclear devastation in Sheffield, England, Threads remains one of the most harrowing entries in 1980s disaster cinema. With its gritty documentary-style presentation, Threads pulls no punches in depicting the grim realities faced by ordinary people struggling with unimaginable circumstances. Essential viewing for cinephiles interested in exploring chilling representations of global catastrophe from an era when such concerns were at their peak.Threads is a British television drama that first aired in 1984, providing a harrowing depiction of a nuclear attack on the United Kingdom and its devastating aftermath. The film follows two families in Sheffield as they face the terrifying prospect of a nuclear war and struggle to survive the subsequent winter. The main themes include societal fragility, the brutal realities of post-apocalyptic life, and the impact of global politics on individual lives. Threads stands out for its gritty realism and unflinching portrayal of the potential consequences of a nuclear conflict and serves as a stark warning about the dangers of escalation and warfare. The show is noted for its impact on the public perception of nuclear war. It remains one of the most powerful dramatizations of this subject matter.More Threads- #109 of 133 onThe Most Utterly Depressing Movies Ever Made
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- 4Masao Kusakari, Tsunehiko Watase, Isao Natsuyagi
For Fans Of: Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic, Thriller
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: This Japanese post-apocalyptic science fiction film offers breathtaking visuals and impressive effects that exemplify state-of-the-art technology during the '80s. Featuring an international cast led by Masao Kusakari, George Kennedy, Robert Vaughn, Chuck Connors, Olivia Hussey, and Edward James Olmos, Virus serves as both a nail-biting disaster movie and an ambitious collaboration between Japanese and American cinema. A bold testament to the power of human resilience in the face of global annihilation, this film is a standout for fans of 1980s science fiction.Survivors of a worldwide catastrophe attempt to rebuild civilization from their Antarctic stronghold. - 5Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Peter Graves
For Fans Of: Comedy, Satire, Parody
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: As a beloved parody of the disaster film genre, Airplane! masterfully lampoons the conventions of its contemporaries while delivering uproarious laughter from beginning to end. Showcasing unforgettable performances by Leslie Nielsen, Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, and Lloyd Bridges, this high-flying comedy continues to be celebrated for its rapid-fire gags and razor-sharp wit. A quintessential 1980s comedy that remains influential today, Airplane! is essential viewing for fans seeking timeless humor delivered with unmatched energy.In the 1980 comedy Airplane!, ex-fighter pilot Ted Striker (Robert Hays) finds himself thrust into an unexpected role. When food poisoning incapacitates the flight crew, including his ex-girlfriend Elaine Dickinson (Julie Hagerty), Striker must overcome his crippling fear of flying to land the plane safely. The film, directed by Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers, is renowned for its rapid-fire humor and satirical take on disaster films. Leslie Nielsen plays Dr. Rumack, a character whose deadpan delivery became iconic. Despite its comedic nature, Airplane! won a BAFTA award for Best Screenplay.More Airplane!- #33 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #1 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #4 of 64 onThe Best Movies Of 1980
- 6Jason Robards, JoBeth Williams, John Cullum
For Fans Of: Drama, Science Fiction, Post-Apocalyptic
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Poignant and unsettling, The Day After stands out among 80s disaster movies for its somber depiction of nuclear war's devastating aftermath on American soil. Highlighting powerful performances by Jason Robards, JoBeth Williams, Steve Guttenberg, and John Lithgow in a made-for-TV format that resonated with millions of viewers upon its initial airing in 1983. Navigating themes of survival and loss with unflinching honesty, this Emmy-winning telefilm remains an emotionally resonant journey into one possible consequence of armed conflict.In the mid-1980s, the U.S. is poised on the brink of nuclear war. This shadow looms over the residents of a small town in Kansas as they continue their daily lives. Dr. Russell Oakes (Jason Robards) maintains his busy schedule at the hospital, Denise Dahlberg prepares for her upcoming wedding, and Stephen Klein (Steve Guttenberg) is deep in his graduate studies. When the unthinkable happens and the bombs come down, the town's residents are thrust into the horrors of nuclear winter.More The Day After- #43 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
- #14 of 293 on250+ Movies And Shows With After In The Title
- #2 of 20 onThe Best Movies About The Atomic Bomb
- 7
Testament
Jane Alexander, William Devane, Roxana ZalFor Fans Of: Drama, Disaster, Post-Apocalyptic
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Testament offers a heartrending look at one family's struggle after a nuclear attack devastates their small California town. Praised for its realistic portrayal of everyday life during apocalyptic circumstances and anchored by Jane Alexander's Academy Award-nominated performance as a mother fighting for her children's survival. This 1983 drama showcases the power of human resilience and determination, making it a highly relevant exploration of the human spirit amid disaster.It is just another day in the small town of Hamlin until something disastrous happens. Suddenly, news breaks that a series of nuclear warheads has been dropped along the Eastern Seaboard and, more locally, in California. As people begin coping with the devastating aftermath of the attacks -- many suffer radiation poisoning -- the Wetherly family tries to survive. Led by mom Carol (Jane Alexander), the clan tries to support each other even as they take in other stranded survivors. - 8Jon Voight, Eric Roberts, Rebecca De Mornay
For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Drama
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: With its adrenaline-fueled plot and riveting performances by Jon Voight, Eric Roberts, and Rebecca De Mornay, Runaway Train set new standards for action-packed cinema in the 1980s. Based on an original screenplay by Japanese director Akira Kurosawa, this high-octane thriller about escaped convicts trapped aboard a speeding train captures both the imaginative storytelling and nail-biting suspense that characterized much of 80s filmmaking. A must-watch for those seeking exhilarating entertainment with emotional depth.Escaped convicts (Jon Voight, Eric Roberts) and a stowaway girl (Rebecca De Mornay) ride an unmanned diesel speeding out of control through Alaska.More Runaway Train- #389 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- 9Catherine Mary Stewart, Kelli Maroney, Robert Beltran
For Fans Of: Comedy, Horror, Post-Apocalyptic
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Mixing elements of sci-fi horror with biting satire and dark comedy, Night of the Comet delivers an entertaining romp through post-apocalyptic Los Angeles. Starring Catherine Mary Stewart and Kelli Maroney as teenage sisters navigating a world overrun by zombies created by cosmic debris from Halley's Comet, this cult classic showcases an inventive blend of genres that defined much of 1980s cinema. Quirky characters, vibrant visuals, and memorable dialogue make this film a standout among disaster movies from its decade.The film Night of the Comet is a blend of science fiction and horror, sprinkled with elements of comedy. The plot revolves around two sisters, Regina (Catherine Mary Stewart) and Samantha Belmont (Kelli Maroney), who are among the few survivors after a comet wipes out most life on Earth. The celestial event turns those exposed to it into dust or zombie-like creatures. Navigating this post-apocalyptic landscape, the Belmont sisters grapple with cannibalistic zombies, dodgy scientists from an underground facility, and the daunting reality of repopulating the planet. As they adapt to their new reality, they exhibit courage, resilience, and surprising wit.More Night of the Comet- #273 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #29 of 125 onThe Top 100+ Zombie Movies Of All Time
- #211 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- 10Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, Lloyd Bridges
For Fans Of: Comedy, Satire, Sci-Fi
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Continuing in the hilarious vein of its predecessor, Airplane II: The Sequel takes viewers on another wild ride through parody-filled skies while poking fun at trends popular in '80s science fiction films like Star Wars and Star Trek. Returning cast members Robert Hays and Julie Hagerty join newcomers Lloyd Bridges, William Shatner, and Raymond Burr for more fast-paced gags designed to keep audiences in stitches throughout this uproarious follow-up. For fans of the original, this sequel delivers more gut-busting laughs grounded in a distinct 1980s comedic sensibility.Though haunted by combat memories, heroic pilot Ted Striker (Robert Hays) agrees to return to the cockpit to man the controls of Mayflower One, America's first commercial spacecraft. But, as soon as Mayflower One lifts off, an electrical malfunction sends the ship veering off course. A shaken Striker struggles to guide the shuttle through a treacherous asteroid belt, tame its failing computer systems and stop the disgruntled Joe Seluchi (Sonny Bono) from detonating a deadly bomb on board.- #276 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #128 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #102 of 164 onThe Best Movie Sequels Ever Made
- 11Mel Gibson, Hugh Keays-Byrne, Steve Bisley
For Fans Of: Action, Drama, Thriller
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Fusing elements of action, thriller, and disaster cinema, The Chain Reaction tells the story of a nuclear engineer fighting against corporate cover-ups and an impending meltdown. Shot on location in Australia with a gritty aesthetic reflective of its time, this film balances high stakes and thrilling chase sequences that will appeal to fans of 1980s genre cinema. Aided by an evocative synthesizer-heavy score from composer Andrew Thomas Wilson, The Chain Reaction presents nail-biting suspense set against a backdrop of environmental peril.The Chain Reaction is a 1980 Australian independent action/disaster/thriller film directed and written by Ian Barry. The film stars Steve Bisley, also starring in the film Mad Max and Arna-Maria Winchester. The film's plot is about an engineer badly injured in an accident caused by an earthquake. He knows that the nuclear waste will poison the groundwater and wants to warn the public. The movie features many actors who were in Mad Max, among them Mel Gibson as a bearded mechanic, though he doesn't appear in the title credits. The taglines used in advertising the film included "A fast drive to Paradise turns into a nuclear nightmare!" and "Mad Max meets The China Syndrome"; the latter referring to the car chase and nuclear accident. The film is not to be confused with Chain Reaction, a 1996 American film of the same name. The film was rated M in Australia. - 12Scott Glenn, Michael Murphy, Helen Shaver
For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, War
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: This timely political drama weaves together themes of global conflict, media manipulation, and personal integrity as it follows news reporters covering escalating tensions between the United States and Soviet Union in real-time. With its cerebral exploration of diplomacy amid crisis, Countdown to Looking Glass remains relevant for modern audiences while showcasing a distinct 1980s television sensibility. Featuring strong performances by Scott Glenn and Helen Shaver alongside a captivating plot grounded in Cold War anxieties, this made-for-TV movie offers engaging drama steeped in historical context.Countdown to Looking Glass is a Canadian made-for-television movie that premiered in the United States on HBO on 14 October 1984 and was also broadcast on CTV in Canada. The movie presents a fictional confrontation between the United States and the Soviet Union over the Strait of Hormuz, the gateway to the Persian Gulf. The narrative of the film details the events that lead up to the initial exchange of nuclear weapons, which was triggered by a banking crisis, from the perspective of an on-going news broadcast. Unlike similar productions such as the previous year's Special Bulletin and the later Without Warning, the producers of this film decided not to make the entire production a simulated newscast, but instead break up the news portions with dramatic narrative scenes involving Shaver and Murphy. The appearance of real-life newscasters, as well as noted CBC Television host Patrick Watson lent additional authenticity to the production. One of the CTV rebroadcasts of the film in the mid-1980s occurred only days before an actual confrontation in the Persian Gulf occurred between American and Soviet ships, although the outcome of the real-life dispute was rather more positive. - 13Peggy Ashcroft, John Mills
For Fans Of: Animation, Drama, War
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: As an animated adaptation of Raymond Briggs' graphic novel about an elderly couple navigating life after a nuclear attack, When the Wind Blows offers both heart-wrenching emotion and stunning visual storytelling. Employing a unique blend of hand-drawn animation with painstakingly crafted miniature sets for background imagery, this British production stands out as an innovative work within both disaster cinema and '80s animation techniques. This deeply moving film is essential viewing for those interested in exploring creative responses to global catastrophes through rich visuals and compelling character studies.In this hand-drawn animated tale, elderly married couple Hilda (Peggy Ashcroft) and Jim Bloggs (John Mills) have their quiet, simple lives in the English countryside interrupted when they learn of an impending nuclear attack. Not completely understanding the gravity of their situation, Hilda and Jim react archaically and insufficiently after the attack -- and the film takes a dark turn as the radiation begins taking its toll on the unsuspecting couple. - 14Bill Paxton, Meg Tilly, Tim Matheson
For Fans Of: Thriller, Crime, Drama
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Impulse, a lesser-known thriller from 1984, boasts the talents of Meg Tilly and Tim Matheson as they grapple with inexplicable changes in human behavior following an earthquake-triggered release of toxic gas. Blending elements of disaster cinema with psychological horror, this film highlights the growing paranoia and desperation present in its small-town setting while showcasing strong performances from its lead actors. With a gripping screenplay that challenges viewers to question their own impulses, this hidden gem deserves rediscovery by fans of 1980s suspense.Impulse is a 1984 science fiction thriller film. - 15David Hasselhoff, Angie Dickinson, Tom Bosley
For Fans Of: Drama, History, Action
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: This made-for-TV movie presents a heartrending dramatization of actual events surrounding the tragic crash of Delta Flight 191 in Dallas, Texas. Featuring powerful performances by Charles Haid, Angie Dickinson, David Hasselhoff, and Tom Bosley, Fire and Rain captures both the devastating aftermath faced by victims' families and the heroic efforts of first responders working tirelessly to save lives. A poignant testament to human resilience amid tragedy, this film remains a compelling watch for those interested in exploring true-life disaster stories through '80s cinema.Fire and Rain is a 1989 made-for-television film directed by Jerry J. Jameson, starring Charles Haid, Angie Dickinson and Tom Bosley, as well as an all-star ensemble television cast in supporting roles. The film was based on the Delta Air Lines Flight 191 aircraft crash at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport on August 2, 1985, as depicted in Fire and Rain: A Tragedy in American Aviation by Jerome Greer Chandler. Jerry J. Jameson had become known for his work on "... movie-of-the-week phenomenon and group-jeopardy suspense and terror."", although he also became a specialist in "one-off" television and film features. Fire and Rain was an example of the aviation "disaster" film, as well, it also very much fits the additional genre of the complex, heavily character-driven ensemble cast film, exploring the personal dramas and interactions that develop among the passengers and crew as they deal with a deadly onboard emergency. Fire and Rain, however, veers from the traditional format as it based on a real-life accident. - 16Leslie Nielsen, Eve Plumb, Desi Arnaz Jr.
For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Disaster
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: With its ensemble cast including James MacArthur, Desi Arnaz Jr., Leslie Nielsen, and Eve Plumb navigating life-or-death scenarios atop a collapsing bridge, The Night the Bridge Fell Down offers high-stakes suspense grounded in human drama. Showcasing impressive miniature work alongside practical effects that bring its disastrous premise to life on-screen, this made-for-TV movie exemplifies '80s filmmaking techniques at their most inventive. As both an exploration of character dynamics under pressure and a thrilling race against time for survival, fans seeking edge-of-their-seat entertainment will appreciate what this film has to offer.The Night the Bridge Fell Down is a 1980 American disaster action film directed by Georg Fenady. A group of random individuals get stranded on a bridge that begins collapsing at both ends. - 17Barbara Eden, Steve Forrest, Dan Haggerty
For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Disaster
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Adapted from John D. MacDonald's novel of the same name, Condominium presents a compelling look at greed, personal ambition, and corporate corruption as it follows residents of a Florida high-rise facing disaster amidst an approaching hurricane. With a star-studded cast including Barbara Eden, Dan Haggerty, Richard Anderson, and Ana Alicia, this made-for-TV movie offers engaging character-driven drama set against the backdrop of impending catastrophe. A relevant examination of human nature in the face of environmental threats, Condominium stands as a captivating entry in 1980s disaster cinema.Condominium is a 1980 action drama thriller film written by Steve Hayes, Robert A. Cinader and John D. MacDonald and directed by Sidney Hayers. - 18Aleksandra Yakovleva, Komaki Kurihara, Georgiy Zhzhonov
For Fans Of: Action, Drama, Thriller
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: As one of the first Soviet disaster films released during the height of Cold War tensions between East and West, Air Crew presents an intriguing glimpse into filmmaking beyond Hollywood borders while exploring universal themes of courage and camaraderie. Led by an ensemble cast featuring Georgi Zhzhyonov and Leonid Filatov as pilots navigating life-and-death situations aboard their troubled aircraft, this film offers gripping sequences and innovative special effects that will appeal to fans of '80s cinematic spectacle. Air Crew provides an interesting perspective on global disaster cinema by showcasing its Soviet take on thrilling aerial adventures.Air Crew is a movie produced by Mosfilm in 1979. Inspired by Airport movies series, it was the first catastrophe movie shot in the Soviet Union. - 19
Anxious Sunday
For Fans Of: Drama, War, History
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: This rare Japanese entry into '80s disaster cinema revolves around efforts to prevent a catastrophic earthquake from devastating Tokyo by utilizing cutting-edge technology and scientific insight. With its focus on teamwork and perseverance in overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds, Anxious Sunday champions human ingenuity while providing tense action sequences for viewers seeking excitement within '80s filmmaking techniques. By blending suspenseful storytelling with thoughtful exploration of natural disasters' impact on society, this film offers unique insights into Japan's approach to such calamities. - 20
Express on Fire
For Fans Of: Action, Thriller, Disaster
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: This Hong Kong action-thriller showcases the dangers of a runaway train loaded with explosives as it barrels toward a densely populated city, testing both the courage and resourcefulness of those aboard. With its thrilling chase sequences and inventive special effects, Express on Fire represents an exciting example of '80s disaster cinema from outside Hollywood. Combining high-stakes danger with engaging characters, this film offers viewers a gripping and suspenseful ride through international genre filmmaking. - 21Maury Chaykin, Lenore Zann, Tim Choate
For Fans Of: Action, Post-Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: As a Canadian post-apocalyptic sci-fi film, Def-Con 4 explores themes of survival, morality, and humanity in the aftermath of a nuclear war that has devastated Earth. With its low-budget aesthetic and inventive use of practical effects to create an unsettling vision of civilization's collapse, this movie exemplifies the resourcefulness and spirit of independent filmmaking during the '80s. Fans of gritty genre cinema will appreciate this dark tale that showcases an intriguing perspective on humanity's potential downfall.Def-Con 4 is a 1985 post-apocalyptic film, portraying three astronauts who survive World War III aboard a space station and return to earth to find greatly changed circumstances. - 22Jayan, Madhu, Sumalatha
For Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Action
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: This Malayalam-language Indian disaster film follows a tight-knit group of friends facing death-defying situations during their adventure trip gone awry in a remote forest area. Combining elements of suspense, drama, and action within a distinctly '80s visual style, Kolilakkam offers an engaging look at how bonds are tested when confronted with life-threatening obstacles. Emphasizing rich character development and dynamic storytelling against a backdrop of danger, this film presents fans with a unique entry into international disaster cinema from its era.Kolilakkam is a 1981 Malayalam film directed by P.N.Sundaram, and starring Jayan. This was Jayan's last film before his death. His death happened during the shooting of this movie in which he was supposed to board a moving helicopter from a bike. The helicopter carrying him hit the ground while he was still hanging on the foot board. Jayan succombed to the injuries sustained leter in the hospital. The film was an uncredited remake of the 1965 Yash Chopra Hindi movie, Waqt. - 23
Cave-In!
Leslie Nielsen, Ray Milland, Susan SullivanFor Fans Of: Drama, Action, Adventure
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: As one of television's earliest made-for-TV disaster movies starring Dennis Cole, Leslie Nielsen, and Julie Sommars trapped inside a collapsed mine tunnel while racing against time for survival. Showcasing thrilling sequences set within claustrophobic confines alongside strong performances from its ensemble cast, Cave-In! captures both the intensity and emotional weight characteristic of ‘80s disaster films. The film presents rich character-driven narratives as they face their greatest fears amid adversity while highlighting universal themes such as human strength under pressure.Cave-In! is an American action film starring Dennis Cole, Leslie Nielsen, and James Olson. The movie was produced by Irwin Allen in 1979 in association with Warner Bros. Television for NBC but not aired until 1983. - 24
Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac
Ken Olin, Richard Masur, Dinah ManoffFor Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, History
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Based on the true story of Air Florida Flight 90's crash into Washington D.C.'s icy Potomac River, this made-for-TV movie showcases both harrowing tragedy and inspiring heroism in the face of disaster. With a strong ensemble cast that includes Richard Masur, Dinah Manoff, and Stephen Macht portraying real-life figures involved in the crisis, Flight 90 offers an intimate look at a high-stakes situation where lives hang in the balance. A gripping retelling of actual events grounded in '80s television sensibilities, this film remains essential viewing for those interested in dramatized accounts of real-life disasters.Flight 90: Disaster on the Potomac is a made for television movie about Air Florida Flight 90 that crashed into the Potomac River. - 25
St. Helens
Art Carney, Albert Salmi, Henry DarrowFor Fans Of: Drama, Thriller, Disaster
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Starring Art Carney as an aging geologist determined to warn others about the impending eruption of Mount St. Helens, this adventure-drama chronicles his fraught journey against time amidst bureaucratic obstacles and human skepticism. Showcasing breathtaking cinematography capturing the beauty and danger inherent within nature's fury, St. Helens serves as both a cautionary tale and a tribute to human perseverance under extreme circumstances. By blending captivating storytelling with stunning visuals from its era, this film offers viewers an emotionally resonant portrayal of natural disasters set within '80s cinema.St. Helens, aka St. Helens, Killer Volcano, is a 1981 made for cable HBO film directed by Ernest Pintoff and starring David Huffman, Art Carney, Cassie Yates, and Albert Salmi. The film centers on the events leading up to the cataclysmic 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens in Washington state, with the story beginning on the day volcanic activity started on March 20, 1980, and ending on the day of the eruption: May 18, 1980. - 26Kirk Cameron, Lauren Hutton, Lee Majors
For Fans Of: Drama, Sci-Fi, Thriller
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: In this made-for-TV sci-fi/disaster hybrid starring Lee Majors, Hal Linden, and Lauren Hutton aboard an experimental spacecraft-turned-passenger airline that must overcome numerous technical issues while attempting re-entry into Earth's atmosphere from outer space. Combining thrilling aerial sequences with tense character interactions amidst life-or-death stakes, Starflight epitomizes many elements that define classic '80s disaster cinema with engaging plotlines rooted in technological advancements pushing humanity’s limits. This unique blend of genres makes Starflight a compelling watch for those seeking unconventional takes on disaster films from its time.Starflight: The Plane That Couldn’t Land is a 1983 made-for-television film directed by Jerry Jameson. The film stars Lee Majors, Hal Linden, Lauren Hutton, Ray Milland, Gail Strickland, George DiCenzo, Tess Harper and Terry Kiser. The film also featured an all-star ensemble television cast in supporting roles. Jameson had become known for his work on "... movie-of-the-week phenomenon and group-jeopardy suspense and terror." His work with Lee Majors had begun with the television series The Six Million Dollar Man in 1973 with the actor starring in three of Jameson's later films. - 27Paul Newman, Jacqueline Bisset, William Holden
For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Drama.
Why These Movies Are Worth Going Back to the 80's: Featuring an all-star ensemble cast that includes Paul Newman, Jacqueline Bisset, William Holden, Ernest Borgnine, and Red Buttons, this disaster movie epic chronicles a group of characters navigating a volcanic eruption on a South Pacific island. With impressive special effects that showcase the destructive power of nature alongside high-stakes human drama, When Time Ran Out presents a thrilling cinematic experience emblematic of '80s blockbuster filmmaking. A grand spectacle filled with dramatic tension and visual splendor, this film offers fans an unforgettable journey into the heart of catastrophe during its era.An oil driller (Paul Newman) leads a dash for high ground when time runs out on a resort island's dormant volcano.
