The 8 Sci-Fi Movies Of 1982 That Changed Everything
Jul 31, 2024
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Chris Nashawaty, an entertainment writer and author of 'The Future Was Now,' joins journalist Tonya Mosley to dissect the monumental sci-fi films of 1982, like 'E.T.' and 'Blade Runner.' They discuss how these films altered Hollywood's genre filmmaking, igniting a passionate sci-fi fanbase. Ken Tucker adds depth with insights on the New York Dolls' anniversary album, connecting music and cinema's transformative moments. Dive into the creativity, challenges, and lasting legacy of this pivotal summer in film history.
The summer of 1982 marked a turning point for Hollywood as influential sci-fi films like 'E.T.' and 'Blade Runner' expanded the genre's commercial viability.
Steven Spielberg's contrasting productions, 'E.T.' and 'Poltergeist,' showcased his ability to blend personal storytelling with blockbuster appeal, redefining cinematic expectations.
Deep dives
The Sci-Fi Summer of 1982
The summer of 1982 was a pivotal moment in cinema, marked by the release of several influential science fiction and fantasy films such as 'E.T.,' 'Blade Runner,' and 'Poltergeist.' These films demonstrated the potential of the sci-fi genre, which had previously been dismissed as niche or kid-friendly, revealing a lucrative rabid fanbase eager for quality content. Hollywood executives began to realize the financial opportunities associated with merchandise and sequels in this genre. This shift not only changed the landscape of films being produced but also set the stage for the blockbuster model that continues to dominate today.
Impact of Star Wars and Jaws
Earlier blockbusters like 'Star Wars' and 'Jaws' played significant roles in paving the way for the films of 1982, creating a template for summer hits that appealed to wide audiences and generated significant box office returns. The success of these films showcased a new era of cinema where studios recognized the importance of catering to passionate fan cultures. Consequently, the industry began exploring high-concept films capable of attracting repeat viewings. This marked a shift in Hollywood's approach as studios started seeking original stories while simultaneously banking on the potential profitability of existing franchises.
Steven Spielberg's Dual Releases
During this summer, Steven Spielberg showcased his prolific creative abilities by simultaneously producing two iconic films: 'E.T.' and 'Poltergeist.' 'E.T.' was a deeply personal project for Spielberg, stemming from his own childhood experiences of loneliness and alienation, ultimately transforming into a classic tale of friendship. On the other hand, 'Poltergeist' reflected darker themes and was initially conceived as a horror story before evolving into a supernatural experience of family terror. The juxtaposition of these films illustrated Spielberg's versatility and desire to explore contrasting narratives within a short timeframe, redefining expectations of commercial cinema.
Reboot Culture and Future Trends
The podcast discusses how the successes of the 1982 summer films have fostered a contemporary landscape saturated with reboots and sequels, often lacking the originality seen in earlier productions. Hollywood's current trend leans towards mass-market appeal and franchise reliance, contrasting sharply with the bold, original storytelling evident in the films of the 1982 summer lineup. As studios grapple with competition from streaming services and changes in audience consumption, there is a growing need for innovative storytelling and risk-taking in filmmaking. The conversation emphasizes that for Hollywood to thrive, it requires a balance between commercial viability and artistic integrity.
In 1982, eight science fiction films were released within eight weeks of each other: E.T., Tron, Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan, Conan the Barbarian, Blade Runner, Poltergeist, The Thing, and Mad Max: The Road Warrior. Entertainment writer Chris Nashawaty talks to Tonya Mosley about how those movies shaped the genre and the movie industry. His book is The Future Was Now.
Also, Ken Tucker reflects on the New York Dolls' album Too Much Too Soon for its 50th anniversary.