1. The Wedding Singer (released in 1998, set in 1985)

A fairly standard comedy romance, The Wedding Singer’s big hook was that it was a loving tribute to the goofy 80’s.  This included gobs of pop culture references, a kickin’ 80’s soundtrack, wild fashion, poofy hair, bright colors, and a heavily made-up Billy Idol.  All movies are better with Billy Idol.

2. Wet Hot American Summer (released in 2001, set in 1981)

An uneven yet fun movie about the more innocent days of summer camp… well, “innocent” might be a misnomer here, as the counselors and campers have a hard time walking the virtuous path even to the outhouse.  It’s a cross-blend of a parody and a homage to 80’s summer camp movies, and worth it for the short-shorts alone.

3. Totally Awesome (released in 2006, set in the 80’s)

Never heard of Totally Awesome?  That’s okay, we don’t blame you.  This was a fairly limp attempt by VH1 to make an 80’s parody movie with the help of Ben Stein and Chris “I Have No Career” Kattan, and you’re probably better off never having seen it.

4. Adventureland (released in 2009, set in 1987)

It’s more than a bit heartbreaking to realize that these “modern” 80’s movies are set over two decades ago, robbing me of any vestiges of youth that may remain.  However!  The fact that the 80’s endures so strongly in popular culture tells me that there’s something about the Me Decade that will never die.  Hence, Adventureland.

5. 13 Going On 30 (released in 2004, set in 1987 [parts])

This may be cheating a bit for this list, but hear me out: the beginning and end of the film is set in the late 80’s, but even though Jennifer Garner’s character spends the majority of the movie in the 2000’s, she brings an 80’s sensibility with her — including a bizarre Thriller dance sequence.  Girls just wanna have fun!

6. Rent (released in 2005, set in 1989)

Rent stays true to the musical, firmly established as a 1989 setting, and thereby contractually fulfilling the last part of this list.  So what did I miss?