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Fresh Air

The 8 Sci-Fi Movies Of 1982 That Changed Everything

Jul 31, 2024
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.
43:46

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Quick takeaways

  • 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.

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