Perusing a list of films released in 1985 reveals an unexpectedly high number of movies that have achieved classic status over the past four decades. The year was marked by major blockbusters such as Back to the Future, The Goonies, Pale Rider, The Breakfast Club, and Mad Max: Beyond Thunderdome. It also featured critically acclaimed arthouse favorites like Kiss of the Spider Woman and Akira Kurosawa's masterpiece, Ran. As we approach a long Thanksgiving weekend, here's a list, organized alphabetically, showcasing some of the more unique gems from 1985 that have stood the test of time.
(Note: While this overview includes some spoilers, it avoids any major plot reveals.)
After Hours
Have you ever experienced a dream verging on a nightmare, where endless obstacles prevent you from reaching your destination? Martin Scorsese’s After Hours embodies this anxiety-fueled dreamscape on film. Griffin Dunne stars as Paul, a meek computer data entry worker who meets a young woman named Marcy (played by Rosanna Arquette) and ventures to SoHo after work to see her. Trouble arises when his $20 cab fare flies out the window on the way. The date goes awry, and Paul finds himself navigating a series of increasingly bizarre encounters in his effort to return to his uptown neighborhood.
After Hours masterfully blends screwball comedy with film noir, a testament to Scorsese's skillful directing. Despite its foray into strange and occasionally dark territory, the film maintains the right tonal balance. It grossed approximately $10 million at the box office but was critically praised and has since gained a loyal following. The film's influence is evident, having even inspired an episode of Ted Lasso. While it may not sit atop Scorsese's list of masterpieces, it certainly ranks as one of his most original works.