9 Forgotten '80s Movies That You've Probably Never Heard Of

7. Batteries Not Included (1987)

Now although the films I have so far mentioned were obscure VHS releases, I feel it is actually a travesty that "Batteries Not Included" seems to be all but forgotten in the eyes of the general public. As in terms of family fun entertainment, this should be held in just a high regard as others from the same era like "ET" and "Short Circuit." This delightful little gem stars veteran actors Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy who are elderly tenants of an apartment block scheduled for demolition by a dubious corporation. Luckily for them a group of mechanical Alien life forms take refuge on their roof who use their extra-terrestrial abilities to beat the bad guys and save the day. Think Cocoon meets WALL-E.

Originally a story concept for the tv show "Amazing Stories" but stretched out into a full length feature by the production genius known as Steven Spielberg, it has all the traits that make a great film for children of all ages, but does not feel the need to fall back on subtle sexual innuendos or risque themes to appease the more adult demographic that seem to grace the majority of "family" film nowadays. It is simply a nice story about people who are saved by a miracle. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this movie and can be viewed by everyone both young and old. With the addition of a stellar support cast, cute special effects and child like fantasy themes, it is a great piece of filmmaking that needs to be re-evaluated and its position in film culture re-assessed. For although initially it was a success in the theatres, it has now been relegated to status of "never heard of it." And people wonder why kids today are so messed up.