The Most Iconic Movie Posters from the 80s

The 1980’s were a golden era for blockbuster cinema, with movies that defined a generation and posters that became pop culture touchstones. As Hollywood embraced bigger budgets, special effects, and unforgettable soundtracks, the art of the movie poster evolved, too. They became bolder, brighter, and more imaginative than those in the decades before. 1980’s movie posters went beyond advertising films, capturing the spirit of the decade so vividly that the iconography remains just as popular today.

The 80’s saw the neon glow of sci-fi classics to the cool confidence of action heroes. The posters remain as collectible and beloved as the films themselves, for both those who lived through the era and those newly drawn to the styling. Here are some of the most iconic designs from this unforgettable decade.

Why 80’s Movie Posters Were So Iconic

The 80’s saw the rise of the blockbuster and the superstar artist. Illustrators like Drew Struzan and John Alvin became legends in their own right, crafting posters that were as memorable as the movies they promoted. With hand-painted artwork, dramatic lighting, and inventive layouts, these posters drew audiences in and promised adventure, romance, or a good scare. The era’s posters are instantly recognizable, often featuring bold typography, dynamic compositions, and a sense of fun that perfectly matched the films’ larger-than-life stories.

A Few Standout Posters from the 80s

Back to the Future (1985)

The Back to the Future poster is pure 80’s magic, as are the sequels! Featuring Michael J. Fox’s Marty McFly glancing anxiously at his watch as he steps out of the iconic DeLorean, the poster captures the film’s blend of sci-fi adventure and teenage wonder. The glowing light trails and dynamic pose promise a wild ride through time, making this one of the most beloved and instantly recognisable posters of the decade.

Fun movie fact: The DeLorean’s time-travelling “flux capacitor” was inspired by a dream director Robert Zemeckis had!

Ghostbusters (1984)

Who you gonna call? You know exactly who! The Ghostbusters poster is a masterclass in simplicity and branding. The bold, red “no ghosts” logo became an instant pop culture icon, plastered on everything from t-shirts to lunchboxes. You don’t have to be embarrassed to admit having embraced the Ghostbusters in the 80’s. The whole world was right there with you! With its playful design and memorable tagline, this poster perfectly captured the film’s mix of supernatural comedy and New York attitude.

Fun movie fact: Due to existing copyrights, Ghostbusters was nearly called Ghost Smashers! Thankfully, the studio secured the rights in time.

Top Gun (1986)

Featuring Tom Cruise in his aviator sunglasses with a fighter jet roaring behind him, the Top Gun poster is the epitome of 80’s cool. And having had a sequel in 2022, it’s clear that the love for this bit of cinema history is still strong. The design radiates confidence and adrenaline, promising high-flying action and romance. It’s a poster that made everyone want to join the “Danger Zone”.

Fun movie fact: The U.S. Navy set up recruitment booths in theatres showing Top Gun, and saw a considerable spike in enlistment!

Risky Business (1983)

The Risky Business poster is as slick as the film’s protagonist. If you saw this at the time, you’d spot the poster in an instant! Tom Cruise’s iconic sunglasses dominate the foreground, reflecting a mysterious, seductive world. The minimalist design and suggestive tagline perfectly capture the film’s blend of teenage rebellion and dark comedy, a mix that was tried and tested throughout the 80’s and just as popular today.

Fun movie fact: Tom Cruise’s famous dance in his underwear was improvised!

The Goonies (1985)

Adventure awaits! Yes, calling all ’80s kids: The Goonies poster features the gang of misfit kids dangling from a cliff, hinting at the treasure-hunting thrills and camaraderie that made the film a classic. The hand-drawn style and sense of peril and excitement make this poster a favourite among collectors and fans alike.

Fun movie fact: The pirate ship was built full-size and kept secret from the cast until filming their reactions!

A View to a Kill (1985)

You couldn’t have a Bond-inclusive decade without an iconic Bond poster, song, and so much more. The poster for A View to a Kill, Roger Moore’s final outing as James Bond, is a dazzling blend of action and glamour. With Bond and Grace Jones’ May Day poised atop the Eiffel Tower, the artwork promises international intrigue and high-stakes adventure. The bold colours and dynamic composition are pure 80s Bond: stylish, daring, and unforgettable.

Fun movie fact: The film’s theme song by Duran Duran became a chart-topping hit, making it the only Bond theme to reach number one in the US!

Other Unforgettable Posters

The 80s gave us a treasure trove of iconic posters: the shadowy menace of The Terminator, the neon-lit wonder of Blade Runner, the heartwarming glow of E.T., and the whip-cracking adventure of Raiders of the Lost Ark . Each one instantly transports us back to the immersive movies they represent.

Today, these posters are highly sought after by collectors and continue to inspire designers and filmmakers. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi, action, or coming-of-age classics, there’s an '80s poster that speaks to you.

At PortstewART Galleries, we celebrate the artistry of vintage movie posters, including those from the 80s. These original pieces were originally displayed in movie theatres and are windows into a vibrant era of cinema, where imagination and craftsmanship ruled.

Explore Our Collection

If you’re as captivated by the artistry of 80s movie posters as we are, we invite you to explore our collection at PortstewART Galleries. From the bold designs of the 80s to iconic posters from other decades, we have something for every collector and film enthusiast. Visit us today to discover the perfect piece that brings a touch of cinematic history to your home.

Explore some of our movie posters.