Top 10 Modern Movies with an 80s Soundtrack

This tale of Cold War-era spies and international espionage comes with a Cold War-era soundtrack. Mostly. Director David Leitch wanted not just ‘80s music, but modern arrangements of the songs for a more contemporized feel. Hence, “Atomic Blonde” includes artists like David Bowie, Marilyn Manson, George Michael, and Siouxsie and the Banshees, as well as popular hits such as “99 Luftballons.” The film even throws in the standard “As Time Goes By” of “Casablanca” fame. Stylish and chic, the “Atomic Blonde” soundtrack goes perfectly with the James Bond-esque thrills.

Young love and music go so well together. When Conor is forced to attend a new school, he joins a band, the titular “Sing Street,” all the while pining for the affections of charming, free-spirited Raphina. The band’s original compositions, a pitch-perfect recreation of ‘80s sound, are largely credited to Gary Clark, the frontman of Danny Wilson. The film also features actual ‘80s music by a-ha, Duran Duran, Hall & Oates, and more. Adam Levine even co-wrote “Go Now,” an original song released as a single. The result is a critically-acclaimed soundtrack that recalls ‘80s Ireland perfectly—as well as teen love and angst alike.

Speaking of teen romps, this early-aughts satire set at a summer camp goes above and beyond. A silly spoof of ‘80s sex comedies, this film’s raunchy teens and talking vegetables famously drove Roger Ebert to borrow from Allan Sherman. But it has since become a cult film, no doubt thanks in part to its ‘80s soundtrack. With hits such as “Day by Day” from “Godspell” and “Love Is Alright Tonite” by Rick Springfield, the film is committed to its ‘80s pastiche. This summer camp may be no Camp Granada, but it’s still a blast from the past.

While we’re on the subject of satires, this slasher spoof goes beyond homage and even dabbles in time traveling. Max and her friends find themselves in the world of a cheesy fictional ‘80s slasher film, “Camp Bloodbath.” Realizing that the murderer only goes after those who have intercourse, the group nobly tries to prevent everyone from getting some. The film’s own slick soundtrack is among the many obstacles in their way. With an original analog synth score by Gregory James Jenkins, it also features era-appropriate songs by Toni Basil and Bananarama. At least the victims die listening to some bangers…

The best of ‘80s gamer culture, all in one movie. In this dystopian world, Wade Watts and Co. compete in a virtual reality game designed by an ‘80s-pop-culture-obsessed billionaire. The film is likewise obsessed with the era, although it also includes references to other eras. We get musical nods to many ‘80s juggernauts, including “Back to the Future,” “The Shining,” and “Godzilla.” The film also includes hits from the era by Prince, Van Halen, Twisted Sister, and Blondie. More than a pastiche, there’s no doubt that “Ready Player One” is steeped in ‘80s pop culture.

The ‘80s were more than just teen rom coms and nerd culture. The “greed is good” era is satirized in this 2000s film, based on the controversial novel by Bret Easton Ellis. John Cale of Velvet Underground fame composed the score to the movie. Due to its scenes of violence and depravity, the film struggled to get the rights to some ‘80s songs. Still, the soundtrack managed to feature the work of David Bowie, Phil Collins, and The Cure, among others. The poppy ‘80s songs in contrast with Cale’s melancholic score paint a grim picture of narcissism and corporate greed. Also, we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention the iconic “Hip to Be Square” scene.

A touching depiction of coming-of-age and sexuality in ‘80s Italy, this film makes its setting a character itself. Selected by Luca Guadagnino himself, the soundtrack features songs by The Psychedelic Furs, F. R. David, and Giorgio Moroder, all played during the summer of 1983. Guadagnino also tapped songwriter Sufjan Stevens to write original songs for the movie. He wrote “Futile Devices” and “Visions of Gideon” but it was his lyrical “Mystery of Love” that was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Song. With an eclectic mix of classical and ‘80s songs, “Call Be by Your Name” creates a powerful musical ambience not easily forgotten.

Tell us more about the rabbits, Donnie. This disturbing thriller features more than just visions of a rabbit-suited figure predicting the end of the world. It also features a stellar soundtrack. San Diego songwriter Michael Andrews composed the bulk of the score, with three songs from the decade of decadence included. The 2004 British re-release included even more material by Tears for Fears, Joy Division, and INXS. Oingo Boingo’s “Stay” even makes an appearance. “Donnie Darko” may be a dark, twisted tale, but its ‘80s soundtrack is one bright light.

As one of the most beloved teen comedies of all time, it’s hard to believe this film came out in the early aughts. “Napoleon Dynamite” is heavily steeped in ‘80s culture, featuring side ponytails, Walkmans, and VCRs. Its soundtrack is no exception. From the catchy “I Want Candy” to Alphaville’s synth-pop “Forever Young,” the soundtrack is totally faithful to the sound of the era, even while the film itself is set in 2004. Even the final ending montage sends us off with a delightful Patrick Street cover of pure ‘80s nostalgia.

There is nothing like an ‘80s summer romance to inspire great music. This quirky indie rom-com about a teen’s summer job at a theme park has a mostly reminiscent soundtrack that showcases the best of the era. Apart from selections by David Bowie, The Cure, and The Replacements, the film highlights the music of Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground. And of course, the film also includes its namesake, Yo La Tengo’s “Farewell Adventureland.” Overall, “Adventureland” licensed a total of forty-one selections for use, demonstrating a masterful synergy of setting and music.