May 8, 2012 | Throwback Tuesdays at Forum

We mostly remember the 1980s as a golden age of synthesizer solos, but the era also popularized competitive dramas like The Karate Kid, Flashdance, and the USSR-bound Rocky IV. So we weren’t shocked when Forum (755 Boylston Street, Boston, 857.991.1831) announced a new addition to its monthly ’80s-music series, Throwback Tuesdays. Starting this month, the event will feature a spirited showdown between beverage director Michael Ray and a visiting Boston-area bartender. Each will be challenged to create a cocktail using a designated brand of luxury liquor, and their resulting concoctions will be served as $5 specials. Even Ralph Macchio can’t beat that. The party starts at 6 p.m., and there’s no cover.