MovieChat Forums > Secret Admirer (1985) Discussion > Possibly the most under-rated '80s Genre...

Possibly the most under-rated '80s Genre' movie


I have been watching this movie for the past 20 years. I first saw it when I was 8 and now I'm 29. It never gets old. When people talk of "80s Genre" movies, the same ones are always discussed - Breakfast Club, Pretty in Pink, 16 Candles, Ferris Bueller's Day Off, St. Elmo's Fire, etc. Believe it or not, not many people are too familiar with Secret Admirer. Here are some reasons why I feel it is one of the most under-rated 80s flicks. First, believable performances from C. Thomas Howell, Lori Loughlin, and Kelli Preston. Every guy could empathize with Howell's character, Michael. You strive for the hot chick and when you finally land her, you realize she isn't that great. You realize that the down-to-earth cool chick is the right one. Lori Loughlin was amazing in this movie. If you are a big fan of hers, I suggest you see another 80s hidden gem, Rad. Second, great performances by all 4 parents. They really added a great comedic touch. Fred Ward had some excellent one-liners that Arnold would have been proud of. Third, the soundtrack is pretty cool. Especially, Jan Hammer's amazing score that plays throughout the movie. Fourth, even though the ending is predictable, you gotta love it, especially if you're a big sap like me. From the time he punches Steve Powers, the excitement really builds. I love the music playing in the background while he's in pursuit. And the best part about the scene is the desperation in Michael's voice when he utters, "Toni." You really feel for the guy. I hope I didn't bore anyone. Feel free to share your thoughts on this 80s classic.

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Not going to write a long comment. i just want to say that I agree. This is one of my favorite 80 movies (I'm a 46 yo male) and I'd 8 star this.

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OP back again - 37 now and watching it with my stepson. I swear to God this movie doesn't get old. Lori Loughlin still blows me away. Who wouldn't want a girl like that? The ending gets me every time. I love some of the other movies mentioned. Some of my other 80s faves with a great romance angle - Valley Girl, Rad (Loughlin), Some Kind of Wonderful, Mischief (Preston), Can't Buy Me Love (Why isn't this mentioned more????? Amanda Peterson was amazing as Cindy Mancini. She was my #2 after LL in SA. May she rest in peace). I hope more people post. Glad there seems to be people out there who really loved this movie!

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1 last one I forgot to mention - Vision Quest. Excellent all around.

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It's a cliche, insulting film with a beta male who "gets the girl". Bla bla. Predictable. Barfy

http://stephenpaultaylor.net

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Cliche-ridden, but geez this is a guilty pleasure for me. It hits on the right notes in regard to high-school wish fulfillment, but package that up with Jan Hammer and what you have is 80's cinematic gold!

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Absolutely agree. I just watch two movies for the first time in 20 years, this one and Three For the Road, an even more obscure 80's gem.

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I agree! I love this movie so much. I actually like it better than all the ones you mentioned :P

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