If you loved the post-apocalyptic adventure and roller-skating action of 'Solarbabies' (1986), you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same blend of dystopian thrills, youthful rebellion, and sci-fi charm. Whether you're a fan of the original or just discovering it, these recommendations will keep you entertained.

Battle Beyond the Stars (1980)
Description: A space opera with a ragtag group of heroes banding together against a common enemy, emphasizing camaraderie and adventure in a sci-fi setting.
Fact: The film's spaceship designs were heavily influenced by 'The Magnificent Seven,' giving it a unique aesthetic.


The Dark Crystal (1982)
Description: A dark fantasy with intricate puppetry and a quest narrative, emphasizing themes of balance and heroism in a richly imagined world.
Fact: The entire film was shot using puppets and animatronics, with no human actors.


Krull (1983)
Description: A blend of sci-fi and fantasy, featuring a heroic quest, mystical weapons, and a young protagonist fighting against overwhelming odds.
Fact: The film's unique weapon, the Glaive, was inspired by a boomerang and became a cult favorite among fans.


Dune (1984)
Description: A grand-scale sci-fi epic with desert landscapes, mystical elements, and a young hero destined for greatness, mirroring themes of destiny and survival.
Fact: The film's production design was so elaborate that it reportedly used more miles of steel than any other movie at the time.


The Last Starfighter (1984)
Description: Features a young protagonist thrust into an intergalactic conflict, blending sci-fi adventure with coming-of-age themes. The film combines futuristic visuals with a sense of youthful heroism.
Fact: One of the first films to use extensive CGI for space battles, pioneering digital effects in cinema.


The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Description: A fantastical journey through a magical world, focusing on a young boy's adventure and the power of imagination, with striking visual effects.
Fact: The film's iconic luckdragon, Falkor, was operated by a team of 16 puppeteers.


Explorers (1985)
Description: Follows young protagonists who build a spaceship and explore the cosmos, blending sci-fi wonder with childlike curiosity and imagination.
Fact: The film's young cast included a then-unknown Ethan Hawke in his first major role.


The Goonies (1985)
Description: Centers on a group of kids embarking on a perilous quest, filled with treasure hunts and fantastical elements, capturing the spirit of youthful adventure.
Fact: The underground pirate ship set was one of the largest ever built at the time, spanning two soundstages.


Labyrinth (1986)
Description: A fantastical adventure with a young heroine navigating a maze of challenges, blending whimsy and danger in a visually stunning setting.
Fact: David Bowie's iconic role as Jareth was originally offered to Michael Jackson, who turned it down.


Willow (1988)
Description: A fantasy epic with a reluctant hero, magical elements, and a journey against dark forces, capturing the essence of classic adventure tales.
Fact: The film's special effects were groundbreaking, including one of the first uses of morphing technology in cinema.
