Top 10 Highest Grossing films of 1980
The year 1980 was a landmark moment for cinema, delivering unforgettable blockbusters that dominated theaters and captured hearts worldwide. From thrilling sci-fi epics to laugh-out-loud comedies and heartfelt dramas, these films not only smashed box office records but set the stage for cinematic greatness that continues to resonate today. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 highest-grossing films of 1980 and their global earnings.
10. “The Blues Brothers”
Grossing $57,239,530 worldwide, this musical comedy follows brothers Jake and Elwood Blues on a mission to save their childhood orphanage by reuniting their band for a fundraising performance. Directed by John Landis, the film stars John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd. Released on June 20, 1980, it became a cult classic, known for its musical performances and car chase scenes.
9. “The Blue Lagoon”
Earning $58,853,106 globally, this romantic adventure tells the story of two young cousins stranded on a tropical island, growing up together and eventually falling in love. Directed by Randal Kleiser, it features Brooke Shields and Christopher Atkins. Released on June 20, 1980, the film sparked discussions due to its themes of adolescence and sexuality.
8. “Smokey and the Bandit II”
With a worldwide gross of $66,132,626, this action-comedy sequel follows Bandit and his crew as they transport a pregnant elephant across the country, facing various obstacles. Directed by Hal Needham, the film stars Burt Reynolds and Sally Field. Released on August 15, 1980, it continued the trend of car chase comedies popular in the late ’70s and early ’80s.
7. “Coal Miner’s Daughter”
Grossing $67,182,787 worldwide, this biographical film depicts country singer Loretta Lynn’s rise from humble beginnings to stardom. Directed by Michael Apted, it stars Sissy Spacek and Tommy Lee Jones. Released on March 7, 1980, the film brought country music to a wider audience and earned Sissy Spacek an Academy Award for her portrayal of Lynn.
6. “Private Benjamin”
Earning $69,847,348 globally, this comedy follows a sheltered woman who joins the U.S. Army after her husband’s sudden death, leading to comedic situations. Directed by Howard Zieff, it features Goldie Hawn and Eileen Brennan. Released on October 10, 1980, the film addressed themes of female empowerment and independence, resonating with audiences during a time of shifting gender roles.
5. “Any Which Way You Can”
With a worldwide gross of $70,687,344, this action-comedy features a trucker and bare-knuckle brawler who gets entangled with the mafia while trying to help his love interest. Directed by Buddy Van Horn, the film stars Clint Eastwood and Sondra Locke. Released on December 17, 1980, the film’s blend of action and comedy, along with Eastwood’s rugged persona, appealed to a broad audience, reinforcing his versatility as an actor.
4. “Airplane!”
Grossing $83,454,782 worldwide, this parody of disaster films focuses on a traumatized ex-fighter pilot forced to land a commercial airplane after the crew becomes incapacitated. Directed by Jim Abrahams, David Zucker, and Jerry Zucker, it stars Robert Hays, Julie Hagerty, and Leslie Nielsen. Released on July 2, 1980, “Airplane!” became a benchmark for parody films, influencing the genre for decades.
3. “Stir Crazy”
Earning $101,300,000 globally, this comedy features two friends who are wrongfully imprisoned and hatch a plan to escape. Directed by Sidney Poitier, the film stars Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor. Released on December 12, 1980, the film showcased the comedic chemistry between Wilder and Pryor, solidifying their status as a dynamic duo in comedy cinema.
2. “9 to 5”
With a worldwide gross of $103,290,500, this comedy revolves around three female office workers who turn the tables on their egotistical, sexist boss. Directed by Colin Higgins, it features Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton. Released on December 19, 1980, the film highlighted workplace gender inequalities and inspired discussions on women’s rights, resonating with the feminist movements of the time.
1. “Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back”
Topping the list with $209,398,025 worldwide, this second installment in the original Star Wars trilogy continues the saga of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia as they battle the Galactic Empire. Directed by Irvin Kershner, it stars Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher. Released on May 21, 1980, the film deepened the Star Wars mythos, introducing iconic elements like Yoda and the memorable revelation of Darth Vader’s identity, leaving a lasting imprint on pop culture.
These films not only achieved commercial success but also left significant cultural impacts, influencing various aspects of cinema and society.
