The 1980s gave us some of the most iconic and beloved films of all time. From epic adventures to timeless comedies, these movies hold a special place in pop culture. But what made these films even more fascinating were the little-known stories from behind the scenes.

These secrets reveal the creative risks, controversial decisions, and surprising details that shaped the classics we still love today.

The Skeksis in "The Dark Crystal" Were Modeled After the Seven Deadly Sins

If you have ever been mesmerized or creeped out by the Skeksis in “The Dark Crystal,” there is a reason for that. These bird-like, villainous creatures were carefully designed to represent something deeper than just evil antagonists. Each Skeksis was modeled after one of the seven deadly sins: lust, greed, gluttony, wrath, envy, pride, and sloth. This added an eerie psychological layer to their already disturbing appearance.

Eca / Director Jim Henson and artist Brian Froud made sure that the personalities of “The Dark Crystal” characters aligned with their respective sins.

For instance, one Skeksis, SkekSil the Chamberlain, embodies envy, constantly scheming for power. These behind-the-scenes decisions about character design gave “The Dark Crystal” a complex, moral depth, even though most viewers may not have realized it while watching.

Crispin Glover Was Removed From "Back to the Future Part II" Without His Consent

Another shocking fact about the behind the scenes of 1980s movies involves Crispin Glover’s role in “Back to the Future.” After playing George McFly in the first film, Glover was noticeably absent in “Back to the Future Part II.” However, his likeness was used in the sequel - without his consent. The filmmakers used prosthetics and archival footage to create the illusion that Glover’s character was still present, even though the actor wasn’t involved at all.

Glover was outraged and sued the filmmakers for using his likeness without permission, setting a precedent in Hollywood. This lawsuit led to new laws in the film industry that protected actors from having their images used without their consent. What seemed like a minor casting switch turned into a groundbreaking case that reshaped how movies handle intellectual property and actor rights.

Brooke Shields Was Naked Constantly in "The Blue Lagoon" Despite Being Only 14!

Shields was just 14 years old when she filmed the 1980 movie, which featured several scenes where she was either nude or scantily clad. To protect her modesty, the production used body doubles for many of the nude scenes, but Shields was still involved in shooting highly suggestive material.

The controversy didn't end with the filming. Shields' role sparked outrage from critics and audiences who felt it was inappropriate for a child actor to be involved in such a mature film. Despite the backlash, “The Blue Lagoon” became a commercial success.

Behind the Scenes of 1980s Movies: Michael Keaton Almost Didn’t Play ‘Batman’

It is hard to imagine anyone else but Michael Keaton donning the cape and cowl in Tim Burton's “Batman.” But surprisingly, Keaton was far from the first choice to play the 'Dark Knight.' Many behind-the-scenes discussions in the 1980s revolved around who would take on the role of this iconic superhero.

Marca / Back in the ‘80s, studio executives were pushing for a more traditionally "tough guy" actor, such as Mel Gibson or even Bill Murray. Though it sounds bizarre now but was a serious consideration at the time.

Keaton, known primarily for his comedic roles in films like “Beetlejuice,” wasn’t considered a good fit for the gritty, serious tone Burton envisioned. Fans were outraged when Keaton was finally cast, but all the doubt disappeared after his performance. His portrayal brought a unique blend of intensity and charm to Bruce Wayne, and the film's massive success made Keaton one of the most memorable Batmans in history.

Harrison Ford Was Almost Killed While Filming "Raiders of the Lost Ark"

In one of the movie's most famous scenes, Indiana Jones has to outrun a giant boulder. While that boulder may have been a prop, it was still incredibly dangerous. Weighing about 300 pounds, the massive prop rolled down a specially designed slope, but things didn’t go quite as planned.

During one take, Ford tripped and barely managed to scramble out of the way before the boulder crushed him. The intense realism of the scene was no accident. Ford insisted on doing his own stunts whenever possible.