Streaming the 80s Aug 2016: Highway To The Robotech Wraith In Critical Condition

Streaming the '80s is your monthly source for the latest '80s titles available on Netflix and Amazon Prime. Not a member of these streaming services? Start your 30-Day free trial now by clicking through the previous links and signing up today!

The releases for August 1st are pretty dismal for both services so I'm adding in some July releases since I missed doing this article while I was on vacation. If you haven't checked out Stranger Things on Netflix, you are missing some new and very creepy '80s nostalgia. I just watched the first episode the other night and like what I'm seeing so far.

Click the links below to add to your Netflix or Amazon Prime queue. Also check out this month's Pop 10 lists for the most popular films and shows...

Highway To Heaven (1985-89)

Rated TV-PG Amazon Prime

"Highway to Heaven" follows a probationary angel sent back to Earth who teams with an ex-cop to help people. This was the final TV series starring the legendary Michael Landon (Bonanza).

I can't remember the last time I watched an episode, more than 20 years. My Gram loved this show and its themes were probably over my head for the time. I know it was highly acclaimed so I might try to watch the first few episodes this month. Amazon added all 5 seasons in July.

Robotech (1985)

Rated TV-Y7 Amazon Prime

A gigantic spaceship crash lands on Earth, foreshadowing the arrival of an alien armada bent on war and destruction. The world unites to unlock the secrets of its alien technology, known as Robotech, to defend the world against impending invasion. The challenges they will face will be greater than anyone could have imagined. Episodes feature remastered video with bonus footage and 5.1 audio mix.

I watched the first few episodes of Robotech not long ago when it was on Crackle. With my boys into a few anime-style series like the new Voltron series and Pokemon, I might have to show them a few episodes to see what they think. Nice that they remastered the series as many from the '80s don't always get update treatment they deserve.

Critical Condition (1987)

Rated R Netflix

After faking insanity, a criminal tries to escape from the psych ward, but his plan goes awry when he's presumed to be a doctor during a blackout.

I don't believe I've ever watched this Richard Pryor comedy. The ratings don't appear to be too great from IMDB and Rotten Tomatoes so I guess this isn't a gross overlook by someone who loves the Pryor/Wilder comedies.

The Wraith (1986)

Rated PG-13 Amazon Prime

Jake is killed by neighborhood thugs, and returns as a mystical figure (The Wraith) to gain revenge. Starring Charlie Sheen and Randy Quaid.

The Wraith has been on my radar for quite awhile but saldy I haven't taken the time to watch it. I know especially with a "star car" like the Turbo Interceptor that I should've seen it by now. Thanks to Amazon, I have no more excuses.


Little Monsters (1988)

Rated PG Amazon Prime

Brian (Fred Savage) is a sixth-grader who recently moved to a new town who finds and befriends Maurice (Howie Mandel), the monster under Brian's bed. While Brian and Maurice have a lot of fun making mischief, things turn serious when Brian's brother gets kidnapped!

Little Monsters was a staple at the video store when it came out. I remember renting it all the time but it's probably been 25 years since I watched it. It's in my queue to screen and share with my boys.

New Amazon Prime titles also include:

• The Shining
• Toxic Avenger Part III
• The Accused

New Netflix titles also include:

• Black Widow
• The Verdict

'80s Pop Ten Lists

Netflix (most popular)

1. The Princess Bride
2. Back to the Future
3. Angel Heart
4. Lethal Weapon
5. Amadeus
6. Spies Like Us
7. Lost in America
8. Sixteen Candles
9. Back to the Future Part II
10. Batteries Not Included

Amazon Prime (most ratings)

1. Annie
2. The Shining
3. Top Gun
4. Star Trek: The Next Generation
5. Gremlins
6. The Terminator
7. Thundercats
8. MacGyver
9. Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
10. Cheers

If you've missed last month's post, visit the Streaming The 80s archive. Featured titles could still be available to stream. Also, feel free to comment with any movies or shows you've recently rediscovered on Netflix or Amazon Prime.

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