Summer of 1986, Part Two: Aliens, The Karate Kid Part II, and the Movies That Took Over

The summer movie season of 1986 only got bigger as the temperatures rose. In Part Two of this special series, The 80s Movie Podcast continues its deep dive into one of the most exciting stretches in 1980s cinema, revisiting the films that dominated theaters, inspired repeat viewings, and turned weekends at the multiplex into unforgettable experiences. We explore the movies that defined the middle of the summer, from massive crowd-pleasers and sequels to genre films that would later become beloved cult classics. Along the way, we discuss how 1986 balanced blockbuster spectacle with creative risks, delivering one of the most varied and rewarding summers movie fans have ever experienced. For many audiences, this was peak 1980s moviegoing, when every week seemed to bring another future classic. Whether you remember standing in line at the theater or discovering these movies years later, Part Two revisits the excitement, surprises, and cinematic highs that kept the summer of 1986 firing on all cylinders. Join us as we continue exploring one of the most legendary movie seasons ever assembled.