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High schooler Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) is accidentally sent thirty years into the past where he unwittingly threatens his own existence by interfering with his parents’ introduction to one another. With the help of crack-pot scientist Doc Brown, (Christopher Lloyd), Marty must introduce his parents and make sure they fall in love before attempting a daring return trip to the future. Back to the Future is very much a product of its time, but unlike so many other dated ’80s flicks, it’s passing the test of time with flying colors. The screenplay, co-written by Bob Gale and director Robert Zemeckis (Romancing the Stone, Who Framed Roger Rabbit) is slicker than snot and pretty much beyond reproach — a flat-out masterpiece. If you want to know the best way to structure a screenplay and dole out tons of exposition with the utmost grace, this script is your bible. But it’s not just a mechanical marvel, it’s also an emotional one, as character-driven, sweet, or charming as science-fiction flicks and summer blockbusters ever come.

Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd own their roles, helping Marty McFly and Doc Brown forge an odd but compelling relationship that becomes the heart of the story. Equally brilliant are Lea Thompson and Crispin Glover, playing Marty’s parents in both 1955 and 1985, with the help of facial prosthetics and skilled body movement. Thomas F. Wilson is also memorable as the McFlys’ oafish nemesis. Even the bit parts are superbly cast here, from Wendie Jo Sperber as Marty’s sister to James Tolkan as the high school principal. Props also go to Alan Silvestri for one of the most memorable film themes of the decade.

Back to the Future has it all: comedy, romance, action, spectacle, a cool car, a high concept, rock and roll, and superior craftsmanship all around. It’s also one of the most utterly re-watchable movies ever made (seriously, how many times have you seen it?) You don’t need a DeLorean time machine to know this movie will be with us for a long, long time to come.

Academy Award: Best Sound Effects Editing

Oscar Nominations: Best Original Screenplay, Best Sound, Best Song (“The Power of Love” by Huey Lewis and the News)