National Film Registry Adds 'Dirty Dancing' And 'Beverly Hills Cop'

This image released by the Library of Congress shows Jesse Eisenberg in a scene from the 2010 film "The Social Network." (Sony Pictures Entertainment/Library of Congress via AP)

The Library of Congress has announced the addition of two iconic 1980s films, 'Dirty Dancing' and 'Beverly Hills Cop,' to the National Film Registry. These films, along with 23 others, were selected for preservation due to their cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.

'Dirty Dancing,' released in 1987, captivated audiences with the on-screen chemistry between Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey. The film not only entertained but also tackled important issues such as abortion, classism, and antisemitism. The memorable line, 'Nobody puts baby in a corner,' has become a classic moment in cinematic history.

Another 1980s hit, 'Beverly Hills Cop' from 1984, marked Eddie Murphy's rise to stardom and popularized the action comedy genre for years to come.

'Dirty Dancing' addressed social issues; 'Beverly Hills Cop' marked Eddie Murphy's rise.

Library of Congress adds 'Dirty Dancing' and 'Beverly Hills Cop' to National Film Registry.

Annual selection of films for preservation by the Librarian of Congress since 1988.

Total films in the registry now reach 900, with 25 new additions this year.

Turner Classic Movies to host special screening of newly added films.

Notable additions include 'Pride of the Yankees,' 'The Miracle Worker,' and 'Star Trek II.'

'Up in Smoke,' 'No Country for Old Men,' 'Common Threads,' and 'My Own Private Idaho' also added.

National Film Registry aims to preserve impactful American films.

Diverse selection showcases the rich tapestry of cinematic history.

Since 1988, the Librarian of Congress has been annually selecting films for preservation, bringing the total number of films in the registry to 900. Turner Classic Movies will host a special screening of the newly added films as part of the announcement.

Notable Films Added to the National Film Registry

• 'Pride of the Yankees' (1942) - A sports tear-jerker featuring Gary Cooper as Lou Gehrig.
• 'The Miracle Worker' (1962) - A powerful story of Helen Keller and her teacher, Anne Sullivan.
• 'Up in Smoke' (1978) - A groundbreaking stoner comedy starring Cheech Marin and Tommy Chong.
• 'Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan' (1982) - A thrilling addition to the 'Star Trek' franchise.
• 'No Country for Old Men' (2007) - An Oscar-winning film by the Coen Brothers.

Other notable additions include 'Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt' (1989), a documentary on the AIDS Memorial Quilt, and 'My Own Private Idaho' (1991), featuring a standout performance by River Phoenix.

The National Film Registry aims to preserve films that have made a lasting impact on American culture and storytelling. The diverse selection of films added this year showcases the rich tapestry of cinematic history.