15 Actresses Who Defined the ’80s: Iconic Roles That Shaped a Decade

1. The Breakfast Club 1985，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 442028, ID: 0088847
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Molly Ringwald shines as Claire Standish in ‘The Breakfast Club,’ a film that captures the essence of teenage angst and social cliques. Her portrayal of the ‘princess’ is both relatable and iconic, making her a standout in this ensemble cast. The film’s strength lies in its ability to break down stereotypes and reveal the vulnerabilities of each character. It’s a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all ages.
2. Pretty in Pink 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 89804, ID: 0091790
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Molly Ringwald’s performance as Andie Walsh in ‘Pretty in Pink’ is a testament to her versatility as an actress. The film explores themes of class and social status, with Ringwald’s character caught between two worlds. Her chemistry with co-stars Andrew McCarthy and Jon Cryer adds depth to this romantic drama, making it a beloved ’80s classic.
3. Sixteen Candles 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 128004, ID: 0088128
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In ‘Sixteen Candles,’ Molly Ringwald delivers a charming performance as Samantha Baker, a teenager navigating the trials of adolescence. The film’s humor and heart make it a standout in the teen comedy genre. Ringwald’s portrayal of a girl whose birthday is forgotten by her family is both endearing and relatable, cementing her status as an ’80s icon.
4. Aliens 1986，IMDB Rating: 8.4, IMDB Votes: 770878, ID: 0090605
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Sigourney Weaver’s role as Ellen Ripley in ‘Aliens’ is nothing short of legendary. Her portrayal of a strong, determined woman facing unimaginable horrors has made Ripley an enduring symbol of female empowerment in cinema. The film’s intense action and suspense, combined with Weaver’s powerful performance, make it a must-watch for sci-fi fans.
5. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial 1982，IMDB Rating: 7.9, IMDB Votes: 441297, ID: 0083866
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Drew Barrymore’s role as Gertie in ‘E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial’ is a delightful addition to this heartwarming tale. Her innocence and charm bring a sense of wonder to the film, making it a beloved classic for audiences of all ages. Barrymore’s performance, along with the film’s timeless story, ensures its place in cinematic history.
6. Beetlejuice 1988，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 346454, ID: 0094721
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Winona Ryder’s portrayal of Lydia Deetz in Beetlejuice is nothing short of iconic. Her gothic charm and quirky demeanor brought a unique flavor to Tim Burton’s supernatural comedy. Ryder’s performance as the dark, misunderstood teenager resonated with audiences and solidified her status as a beloved ’80s actress. The film’s whimsical yet eerie atmosphere, combined with Ryder’s standout role, makes Beetlejuice a timeless classic.
7. Scarface 1983，IMDB Rating: 8.3, IMDB Votes: 926970, ID: 0086250
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Michelle Pfeiffer’s role as Elvira Hancock in Scarface is a defining moment in ’80s cinema. Her icy demeanor and striking beauty perfectly complemented Al Pacino’s fiery Tony Montana. Pfeiffer’s performance added depth to the film’s gritty portrayal of the American Dream gone wrong. Scarface remains a powerful and influential film, with Pfeiffer’s Elvira leaving an indelible mark on movie history.
8. Fatal Attraction 1987，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 99992, ID: 0093010
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Glenn Close’s portrayal of Alex Forrest in Fatal Attraction is a masterclass in psychological thriller acting. Her intense and chilling performance as the obsessive lover left audiences on the edge of their seats. Close’s ability to convey vulnerability and menace in equal measure made Alex Forrest one of the most memorable characters of the ’80s. Fatal Attraction’s exploration of infidelity and obsession remains relevant and gripping.
9. The Color Purple 1985，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 98246, ID: 0088939
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Whoopi Goldberg’s role as Celie in The Color Purple is a tour de force. Her portrayal of a woman overcoming immense adversity and finding her voice is both heartbreaking and inspiring. Goldberg’s performance, combined with Steven Spielberg’s direction, brought Alice Walker’s novel to life in a profound way. The Color Purple is a powerful film that showcases Goldberg’s incredible talent and the resilience of the human spirit.
10. Tootsie 1982，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 115639, ID: 0084805
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Jessica Lange’s role as Julie Nichols in Tootsie is a delightful blend of charm and wit. Her chemistry with Dustin Hoffman’s cross-dressing character added layers of humor and heart to the film. Lange’s performance earned her an Academy Award, and her character remains a beloved figure in ’80s cinema. Tootsie is a comedic gem that highlights Lange’s versatility and the film’s clever commentary on gender roles.
11. Peggy Sue Got Married 1986，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 41339, ID: 0091738
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Kathleen Turner’s portrayal of Peggy Sue in ‘Peggy Sue Got Married’ is nothing short of iconic. The film, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, takes us on a nostalgic journey as Peggy Sue faints at her high school reunion and wakes up in her teenage body. Turner’s performance is both heartfelt and humorous, capturing the essence of a woman given a second chance to relive her youth. This film is a delightful blend of comedy and drama, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good time-travel story.
12. Sophie’s Choice 1982，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 53335, ID: 0084707
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Meryl Streep’s role as Sophie in ‘Sophie’s Choice’ is a masterclass in acting. The film, directed by Alan J. Pakula, tells the harrowing story of a Holocaust survivor grappling with her past. Streep’s performance is both haunting and mesmerizing, earning her an Academy Award for Best Actress. The emotional depth she brings to the character makes this film a poignant and unforgettable experience.
13. Steel Magnolias 1989，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 63901, ID: 0098384
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In ‘Steel Magnolias,’ Sally Field shines as M’Lynn Eatenton, a mother navigating the joys and sorrows of life in a close-knit Southern community. Directed by Herbert Ross, the film is a heartwarming and tear-jerking tale of friendship and resilience. Field’s performance is both powerful and tender, making her character’s journey deeply relatable and moving. This film is a beautiful tribute to the strength and spirit of women.
14. When Harry Met Sally… 1989，IMDB Rating: 7.7, IMDB Votes: 245242, ID: 0098635
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Meg Ryan’s portrayal of Sally Albright in ‘When Harry Met Sally…’ is a defining moment in romantic comedy. Directed by Rob Reiner, the film explores the complexities of friendship and love between men and women. Ryan’s performance is charming and relatable, making her character’s journey from friendship to love with Billy Crystal’s Harry both believable and heartwarming. This film is a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences.
15. The Terminator 1984，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 933642, ID: 0088247
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Linda Hamilton’s role as Sarah Connor in ‘The Terminator’ is a standout in the sci-fi genre. Directed by James Cameron, the film follows Sarah as she becomes the target of a relentless cyborg assassin. Hamilton’s transformation from a vulnerable waitress to a fierce warrior is both compelling and inspiring. Her performance set the standard for strong female characters in action films, making ‘The Terminator’ a groundbreaking and influential movie.