Some films never go out of style. Whether they introduced unforgettable characters, reshaped genres, or simply defined a generation, these cinematic classics continue to captivate audiences decades after their original release. From rebellious teens and singing cowboys to mob bosses and men of steel, these iconic movies are always worth a rewatch or an overdue first-time viewing.
We’ve rounded up five must-stream classics that still hold up in every way. And the best part? You don’t have to go far to watch them. They’re all available to stream right now.
Fast Times at Ridgemont High
A snapshot of 1980s high school life, Fast Times at Ridgemont High follows a group of teenagers as they deal with everything from part-time jobs and dating drama to pizza deliveries in class. Anchored by Sean Penn’s unforgettable performance as stoner-surfer Jeff Spicoli, the film captures the angst, humor, and awkwardness of adolescence with surprising honesty.
When it debuted in 1982, some critics weren’t sure what to make of its frank tone, but time has turned this into a beloved teen classic. It helped set the blueprint for future high school films, balancing comedy with deeper emotional threads and moments of raw realism. Amy Heckerling’s direction and Cameron Crowe’s script gave it a layered charm rare for teen comedies of its era.
Its impact can’t be overstated. From launching careers (Phoebe Cates, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Forest Whitaker) to influencing every high school movie that followed. Even today, lines like “Aloha, Mr. Hand” and Spicoli’s surfer wisdom still echo through pop culture.
Stream Fast Times at Ridgemont High on Peacock here.
Blazing Saddles
In Blazing Saddles, a Black sheriff is appointed to a racist frontier town as part of a corrupt political scheme but he ends up turning the town’s expectations (and the Western genre) on its head. Mel Brooks directs this wild, fourth-wall-breaking satire that takes aim at Hollywood clichés and real-world prejudices with unrelenting humor.
Released in 1974, the film was instantly controversial but also revolutionary. A testament to the changing times, this film pushed boundaries with its language and themes, yet its biting commentary on racism and hypocrisy struck a chord. Critics have since praised its daring approach. The New York Times called it “outrageous” and “brilliant” in equal measure.
Blazing Saddles remains one of the most quoted and studied comedies of all time. Its comedic chaos, fearless performances (especially from Cleavon Little and Gene Wilder), and genre-breaking finale continue to influence modern satire and comedy.
Stream Blazing Saddles on Paramount+ here.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
When a gentle alien is stranded on Earth, a lonely boy named Elliott befriends him, hiding the creature from adults while trying to help him return home. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a heartwarming story of friendship, family, and the bittersweet magic of childhood, all wrapped in Steven Spielberg’s unmistakable style.
The film was a critical and commercial phenomenon when it premiered in 1982, becoming the highest-grossing movie of its time. Critics praised its emotional depth and universal appeal, with Roger Ebert calling it “a movie that connects so powerfully with our feelings.” It earned four Oscars and remains one of Spielberg’s most beloved films.
From the glowing finger to the soaring bike ride across the moon, E.T. became an instant cultural icon and a 1980s marketing juggernaut. Its impact can be seen in everything from Stranger Things to toy aisles across generations. It’s more than a movie. It’s a rite of passage.
Stream E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial on Hulu here.
Superman: The Movie
“You’ll believe a man can fly.” With that promise, Superman: The Movie introduced the world to Christopher Reeve as the definitive Clark Kent, a small-town farm boy turned heroic icon. From Krypton to Metropolis, the story follows Superman’s origin, his battle against Lex Luthor, and his journey to inspire humanity.
Premiering in 1978, the film was groundbreaking in both visual effects and tone. It combined sincerity with spectacle, paving the way for the modern superhero blockbuster. Critics applauded Reeve’s earnest performance and John Williams’s soaring score, which remains one of the most recognizable in film history.
More than four decades later, Superman still stands tall and Hollywood struggles to fill the super-shoes that Reeves once filled. It showed that comic book characters could be portrayed with heart and depth, influencing everything from The Dark Knight to the MCU. For many, this incarnation of superhero is still the gold standard.
Stream Superman: The Movie on MAX here.
The Godfather
A tale of power, family, and betrayal, The Godfather chronicles the rise of Michael Corleone as he reluctantly becomes the head of a powerful crime family. With iconic performances from Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, Francis Ford Coppola’s adaptation of Mario Puzo’s novel is both intimate and epic.
From the moment it premiered in 1972, The Godfather was hailed as a masterpiece. It won Best Picture at the Academy Awards, along with Best Actor for Brando and Best Adapted Screenplay. Critics and audiences alike praised its depth, complexity, and haunting beauty.
Its influence is immeasurable. From countless parodies to mafia lore in pop culture, The Godfather reshaped American cinema. Even today, it remains a benchmark for storytelling and character development, with lines like “I’m gonna make him an offer he can’t refuse” etched into film history.
Stream The Godfather on Fubo here.
Stream The Godfather on DIRECTV here.
