Mental Floss

THE '80S

They're robots—and a whole lot of fun—in disguise.

Dive into the fascinating (and sometimes controversial) history of the Transformers toy line, from its roots with Japanese toymaker Takara to the controversy over the Megatron Walther P38 handgun toy and more.

M. Arbeiter
The addictive ’80s game might also have psychological benefits.

Anyone who has ever played ‘Tetris’ knows how addictive the ’80s video game can be. Scientists say the Tetris Effect may even have psychological benefits for people coping with PTSD.

Beth Robertson


It treads a fine line between stupid and clever, but we love it anyway.

Ahead of ‘Spinal Tap II: The End Continues,’ which comes out this fall, discover more fun facts about Rob Reiner’s original film, which turned a fictional heavy metal band into bona fide musical superstars.

Jennifer M Wood






Lukas Haas, Kelly McGillis, Brent Jennings, and Harrison Ford in ‘Witness.’

Roger Ebert loved Peter Weir’s film, calling it “an electrifying and poignant love story” and “a thriller ... Alfred Hitchcock would have been proud to make.” ‘Witness’ turns 40 this year; here’s what you should know.

April Snellings




Michael Putland/Getty Images

Over the course of his illustrious career, George Michael gave the world many gifts. One that keeps on giving is “Last Christmas,” the 1984 holiday classic by Wham!, Michael's pop duo with Andrew Ridgeley.

Kenneth Partridge






Here's to a taste of the past.

Not all the classic frozen treats you remember from the ’80s and ’90s are still available today

Mary Beth Skylis