Two iconic films from the 1980s, "The Princess Bride" and "The Goonies," continue to prove their enduring appeal, captivating new generations of viewers and solidifying their status as timeless classics. Both fantasy and adventure staples, these films exemplify the magic of storytelling that transcends decades, now finding renewed interest through streaming platforms and new adaptations.

"The Princess Bride," directed by Rob Reiner and debuting in 1987, is celebrated as a fantasy masterpiece. Adapted from William Goldman’s 1973 novel, the film narrates the epic quest of Westley (Cary Elwes), a humble farm boy, to rescue his beloved Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright) from the nefarious Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon). Along his perilous journey, Westley encounters a memorable ensemble of characters, including the vengeance-driven Inigo Montoya (Mandy Patinkin), the shrewd Vizzini (Wallace Shawn), and the gentle giant Fezzik (André the Giant).

Despite a modest initial box office performance of $30.9 million against a $16 million budget, "The Princess Bride" achieved cult classic status through extensive VHS rentals and cable reruns. Phrases like "As you wish" became ingrained in popular culture, and today, the film boasts impressive Rotten Tomatoes scores of 96% from critics and 94% from audiences. While a movie sequel remains off the table, with cast members like Robin Wright humorously noting age as a factor, fans have reason to celebrate. A stage musical adaptation, originally announced in 2006, is now in active development, with Disney's "Frozen" composers Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez creating the original score, and Bob Martin and Rick Elice penning the book.

Similarly, "The Goonies," the 1985 action/adventure film from director Richard Donner, stands as another testament to the enduring power of 80s cinema. The story follows Mikey (Sean Astin) and his loyal group of friends, known as the Goonies—including his brother Brand (Josh Brolin), Data (Ke Huy Quan), Mouth (Corey Feldman), and Chunk (Jeff Cohen)—as they embark on a thrilling adventure. Their mission: to find the fabled treasure of the legendary pirate One-Eyed Willie and save their homes from a relentless developer. This quest pits them against the formidable Fratelli family, adding layers of suspense and humor to their journey, with the unexpected help of Sloth (John Matuszak).

The rallying cry "Goonies never say die" embodies the spirit of friendship and determination that defines the film. Praised for its blend of adventure, friendship, and mystery, "The Goonies" has captivated audiences for four decades. Fans can relive the excitement as the classic becomes available for streaming on HBO Max in December, coinciding with its upcoming 40-year anniversary. Both films, through their rich narratives and unforgettable characters, continue to define what makes a movie a beloved classic, connecting with audiences across generations.