I guess you could go check out the Oscar history to see what "serious" movies occurred in the 80's. But it seems in general, while the 70's produced so many movies that's still being discussed and regarded as iconic today, 80's just doesn't have anything close to that. Maybe it's Star War's fault.

I was surprised with the Joe Millionaire's popularity too. But I think it can be explained. While sappy love songs and romantic comedies reign supreme, everybody still harbor a lot cynicism about what the opposite sex wants, and a show like Joe Millionaire exploit that petty desire to see our suspicions vindicated, cruelly, on national TV.

A hand up for Brad.