Buckle up—we’re going to discuss some pretty heavy stuff. “Back to the Future” is the first movie in what is considered one of the greatest movie trilogies of all time. The film is deemed a classic and one that stands the test of time (no pun intended).

It’s hard to know where to begin when discussing what makes this film so popular, but one of the major reasons would be the time traveling element of the plot.

While time travel itself is not a new concept in movies, the use of it in “Back to the Future” is one of the most original in cinema. Marty McFly has to go back in time and ensure that he is even born, by making sure his parents still end up together. Most people are interested in their parents growing up and the story of how they met, so using that theme is one many people can relate to.

Watching Marty on his mission to intervene with his teenage parents and make sure he doesn’t destroy his own existence is a use of time travel we have not seen before.

The film also explores the consequences of one’s actions in terms of time travel.

Throughout the film Marty has to consider what effect his meddling in the timeline will have on his world and what will become of his family and friends. Theorizing about time travel and all its intricacies makes the film extremely fascinating and gives it a fun sci-fi feel.

The movie is also made memorable by the phenomenal performance of Christopher Lloyd as Dr. Brown.

While Michael J. Fox’s performance as Marty McFly is solid, Lloyd’s performance is the one that has become such a fan favorite over the years.

Brown is not your typical mad scientist; with his witty humor and kindly manner, Brown is easily the most popular and most likable character in the series, as well as the most oft-quoted. Over the course of the film he becomes a grandfather figure, not just for Marty McFly but for the audience as well. Plus, his classic line “Great Scott!” is not easily forgotten.

The humor and tone of this film are a large part of what makes it work as well. For a film that deals with the main protagonist dealing with saving his parents’ relationship and making sure his very existence doesn’t fade away, it is extremely light- hearted.

From jokes about Calvin Klein underwear, DeLorean cars, to Marty McFly being hit on by his teenage mother, “Back to the Future” does not lack in laughs. However, the deeper tone of the movie gives “Back to the Future” its necessary heart.

At the beginning of the film, Marty is embarrassed by his family, especially his nerdy dad who he wishes would stick up for himself. As he fights to keep his family together and in existence, he begins to realize just how much he appreciates and cares about his family, quirks and all.

If for some reason you have not watched “Back to the Future” by this point, drop whatever you are doing and go and watch it, right now.

In fact, watch all three of these great movies in a row. It is a must-see classic that you will not regret watching.