7 Cult Sci-Fi Movies of the 80s to Watch for Free in December 2023

Let's face it, the '80s produced more cult sci-fi classics than any other recent decade. With an entire generation of films that relied on creative special effects, imaginative storytelling, and a rewatchability that made studios fully embrace the idea of multi-movie franchises for the first time.

For those looking to revisit some of their favorite cult classics, here are the top 7 sci-fi movies of the '80s available for free streaming this December.

1. Superman II (1980)

Watch it on: Max, Tubi

Considered by many to be the best of Christopher Reeve's Superman films, Superman II gives us the very best of the Man of Steel on screen. In this new heroic adventure, Superman agrees to sacrifice his powers in order to begin a relationship with the love of his life, Lois Lane. But unbeknownst to him, three Kryptonian criminals are plotting to take over Earth. Superman will have to make a tough decision if he wants to save the planet once again.

This sequel is just as good as the first movie, but with even more heart and a fantastic cast of villains.

2. Escape From New York (1981)

Watch it on: Tubi, Pluto TV, Freevee

Directed by John Carpenter, this science fiction action film stars Kurt Russel as Snake Plissken, an ex-soldier and federal prisoner from a dystopian future. Plissken is suddenly tasked with rescuing the President from a New York City that has been turned into a maximum security prison. If he can accomplish the rescue in less than 24 hours, he'll finally earn his freedom.

This film was a commercial success when it was released, spawning a sequel called Escape from L.A., as well as becoming the inspiration for the popular Metal Gear Solid video game series.

3. Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983)

Watch it on: Tubi, The Roku Channel, Kanopy

Based on Rod Serling's 1959-1964 television series of the same name, this sci-fi anthology film features four individual stories, each produced by the legendary Steven Spielberg and John Landis. The film contains a mix of original content and remakes of episodes from the original series. The movie was a commercial success that even led to the resurrection of a Twilight Zone TV series a few years later.

4. Return of the Living Dead Part II (1988)

Watch it on: The Roku Channel, Tubi

The first sequel to Return of the Living Dead, this comedy-horror film had an all-new cast, with some actors returning to the film as completely different characters, but still battling the living dead epidemic. In this film, after a bunch of kids unearth a barrel of the same Trioxin gas that brought back the dead before, the townspeople must once again fight to stay alive as the living dead rise.

5. Highlander (1986)

Watch it on: Prime Video, Fubo, Peacock, The Roku Channel, Hoopla, Vudu, Crackle, Pluto TV, Shout TV, Dark Matter TV, Plex, Freevee, Philo, Sling TV

One of the most original fantasy epics of the 80s told the story of a Scottish highlander who suddenly discovers he's an immortal. The movie follows his life through the ages to the present day, where he is hunted by others like him who want to steal his power. Featuring performances by Christopher Lambert, Roxanne Hart, Clancy Brown and Sean Connery, this fantasy adventure is notable for its talented fight choreography, epic soundtrack by rock band Queen and the quotable line, 'There can only be one!'.

6. The Final Countdown

Watch it on: Prime Video, Fubo, Peacock, The Roku Channel, Vudu, Crackle, Pluto TV, Plex, Freevee, Xumo Play, Philo

The Final Countdown is a historical sci-fi war movie about a modern nuclear-powered aircraft carrier near Hawaii that is suddenly thrown back in time to the day before the attack on Pearl Harbor. While the premise may be unusual for a war flick, it's still an entertaining watch and features a notable ensemble cast including Kirk Douglas, Martin Sheen, James Farentino, Katharine Ross and Charles Durning.

7. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial

Watch it on: The Roku Channel

Perhaps Spielberg's most iconic work, this family sci-fi adventure tells the story of a young boy named Elliott who befriends a lost alien. Together with his friends, Elliott must help his new friend make contact with his own family in order to return him to his world.

With an inspiring score by John Williams, stunning visual effects, and Spielberg's signature whimsical style, E.T. is a must-see movie with heart and a memorable storyline you'll never forget.