A gang of mischievous but good-hearted kids — soon to be broken up, as their homes have been targeted for demolition — finds a gold coin in an attic along with a map to literal pirate’s treasure. If you’re a kid in 1985, this is the fulfillment of your greatest dream. Pursued by gangsters, the police, and their own families, they must find dodge the pirate’s traps and claim the treasure so they can save their homes.

Directed by Richard Donner (The Omen, Superman, Lethal Weapon) from a story by Steven Spielberg, The Goonies is prime ‘80s action-adventure; the kids’ characters are clearly delineated, their goal is clear, the production design is dramatic, and the jokes are sometimes scatological. It’s the archetype of a whole sub-genre. Variety called the vibe “dangerous Disneyland.” We usually call it “kinda like The Goonies.” And this year we’re calling The Goonies 40 years old! Try not to let that sentence ruin the rest of your day.

Stick around after the movie for a post-show Film Talk and audience Q&A with Hector Sotomayor, professor of Film, Art, & Media at the Ringling College of Art & Design.

This screening is held in the Historic Duncan Auditorium. This space utilizes open seating for this event, seat selection is not required.

View the full Family Favorites 2025 series lineup.