The Most Memorable Action Movie Moments from the 80s

The 1980s was an iconic era for action movies, with countless films released that have become cult classics. From pulse-pounding car chases to unforgettable explosions, the decade was filled with electrifying action scenes that have stood the test of time. Here is a look back at some of the most memorable action movie moments from the 80s that still thrill audiences today.

The Terminator’s Arrival – The Terminator (1984)
James Cameron’s The Terminator is a sci-fi classic and one of the defining action movies of the 80s. One particular scene is Arnold Schwarzenegger’s arrival as the titular cyborg assassin in Los Angeles. After emerging from a time-traveling vortex, Schwarzenegger strides out with his signature robotic walk and sunglasses and immediately begins scanning for his target. It’s an iconic moment that has been referenced and parodied countless times since its release.

Indiana Jones vs. the Giant Boulder – Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)
Steven Spielberg’s Raiders of the Lost Ark is another classic from the 80s, and its opening scene sets up Indiana Jones as a brave hero willing to take on any danger in his quest for adventure. As Indy searches for a golden idol hidden in an ancient temple, he finds himself running from a giant boulder that threatens to crush him. His daring escape through a narrow passageway is thrilling and humorous, making it one of the most memorable action movie moments ever.

Riggs vs. Mr. Joshua – Lethal Weapon (1987)
The Lethal Weapon series has become synonymous with buddy cop movies, and its first installment featured some intense action scenes between Mel Gibson’s Martin Riggs and Gary Busey’s Mr. Joshua. When Riggs enters Joshua’s hideout to rescue his partner Roger Murtaugh, he finds himself in a fight against a seemingly unbeatable foe. The brawl is filled with close-quarters combat and explosive stunts, culminating in an epic showdown between Riggs and Joshua in which Riggs finally emerges.

John Matrix vs. Bennett – Commando (1985)
Commando stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as John Matrix, a retired military operative who embarks on a mission to rescue his daughter from kidnappers led by former colleague Bennett (Vernon Wells). The film features several intense action scenes, but none more memorable than Matrix’s final confrontation with Bennett at his compound. After being taken captive by Bennett’s henchmen, Matrix fights his way out in spectacular fashion before finally taking on Bennett himself in an explosive battle that ends with Matrix victorious.

Die Harder – Die Hard (1988)
Bruce Willis stars as John McClane in Die Hard, one of the most influential action movies ever. The film features several thrilling set pieces throughout its runtime but perhaps none more memorable than McClane’s standoff against Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman). After escaping from Gruber’s clutches, McClane finds himself face-to-face with Gruber atop Nakatomi Plaza while surrounded by armed mercenaries. It culminates in an epic battle between McClane and Gruber that ends with McClane emerging triumphant yet again – cementing him as one of cinema’s greatest heroes.

These five iconic action movie moments are just some examples of why 80s action films remain popular today amongst fans of all ages worldwide; they are filled with thrilling stunts and larger-than-life heroes that have become ingrained into pop culture always. While these moments may have been created over thirty years ago, their impact continues to be felt today – proving that great action movies never go out of style!