8 Reasons Why ‘The Americans’ Evokes Nostalgia for the ’80s

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Updated: July 27, 2016
Originally Published: April 22, 2005

Patrick Harbron/FX

‘The Americans’ stands out as a remarkable television series that skillfully intertwines espionage and the complexities of marriage. It uniquely employs DIY dentistry as a metaphor for intricate relationships and would undoubtedly excel at the hypothetical Wig Awards. Each episode serves as a nostalgic journey back to the quirky yet straightforward decade of my youth. Below, I outline eight aspects that make ‘The Americans’ rekindle my fond memories of the ’80s. (Spoilers ahead!)

1. Free-Range Parenting Before It Had a Name
   In the context of 2015, the parenting style of Philip and Elizabeth (Soviet agents residing in suburban Washington, D.C.) can be deemed drastically inadequate. Their children could easily be classified as “latch-key kids.” By the time I turned 17, my parents had grown comfortable leaving me home alone during weekends—until they discovered the infamous open-house parties I held in their absence. Those were the days!
2. The Comfort of Real Books
   Teenage Paige, the daughter of our protagonists, evokes a sense of longing for the simple pleasure of dozing off with a hardcover book resting on my chest. I find myself wishing to replace my nightly routine of mindlessly scrolling through social media—a deep dive into its daunting blue light—with the joy of reading a beautifully bound novel.
3. Old-School Scrabble
   Forget about Words with Friends; I nostalgically yearn for the tactile experience of arranging cool, lettered tiles in Scrabble, relishing the satisfying sound of achieving a triple word score. If I had played against a cunning spy-handler portrayed by a charismatic actor, I might feel even more attached to this pastime.
4. YAZ
   The music of the ’80s, including iconic bands like YAZ, transports me back to a time when melodies defined moments of our lives.
5. Political Innocence
   Despite the show’s frequent depictions of violence and distorted geopolitical landscapes, there’s a refreshing quality in the characters’ motivations, which stem from ideals rather than mere financial gain. In the pre-Citizens United environment portrayed in ‘The Americans,’ characters passionately believed in their causes, seeking to enact real change.
6. Fashion Elegance Amidst Chaos
   While many remember the ’80s for its fashion faux pas—think oversized shoulder pads and voluminous hairstyles—’The Americans’ showcases the decade’s more sophisticated style. Keri Russell’s character, with her elegant form, effortlessly embodies the chicness of neutral wrap dresses and high-waisted jeans, inspiring me to adopt a timeless black turtleneck layered under a tailored blazer.
7. The Soundtrack of Youth
   At fifteen, having a much older, charismatic figure meet me at a party while “Goody Two Shoes” played in the background was certainly memorable. The allure of that moment is amplified when the man in question resembles the charming lead actor, dressed in a sleek leather jacket and aviators.
8. Genuine Human Connection
   I find myself longing for uninterrupted dinners filled with candid conversations, uncomfortable silences, and complex secrets—far removed from the distractions of modern technology. I would gladly exchange a single meal free from phones and social media for the thrilling intrigue experienced by KGB operatives. If Philip and Elizabeth offered me a chance to escape into a world devoid of selfies and emojis, I would enthusiastically accept.

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In summary, ‘The Americans’ not only captivates with its thrilling narrative but also serves as a poignant reminder of the cultural and social nuances of the 1980s. The series embodies an era filled with political idealism, tangible experiences, and a fashion sense that has left a lasting impact.