Quintessentially 80s Moves

The 1980s were brimming with distinction for a number of reasons, and not just because of the decadence and AIDS outbreaks. The way people spoke and acted during this time seemed to be completely specific to the decade. Whether in music videos or film, the following elucidate quintessentially 80s movements, typically as seen in John Hughes movies.

Holding a pillow to your chest: Clutching to another human being was clearly everyone’s detriment in the 80s, that’s why they had to rely on so many self-soothing techniques.

Leaning against a wall: Because when no one else will support you, a wall will. Plus, it usually makes a great contrast against your outfit.

Playing an instrument, usually saxophone or drums: When there’s no one else to blow, you might as well blow your own horn.

Having a mishap with a cab driver: See After Hours or Desperately Seeking Susan for prime examples.

Finding yourself in front of an audience: From the white person’s blues singing that goes down in Adventures in Babysitting to the impromptu guitar solo of Back to the Future, there always seems to be an audience in the 80s just waiting to be entertained by whoever shows up onstage.

Putting your hands behind your head in contrived relaxation: Ferris Bueller’s Day Off is obviously the best illumination of this.

Making food of epic proportions: Buck in Uncle Buck (John Candy) with the pancakes and Chris (Val Kilmer) in Real Genius blowing up a house with an overflow of popcorn.

As far as subsequent decades, I suppose everyone just got too languid to adopt anything in the way of signature moves.