The 1970s produced some of the most influential and unforgettable movies in Hollywood history. From crime epics and groundbreaking blockbusters to horror classics, science fiction adventures, and unforgettable comedies, the decade changed what audiences expected from the big screen. These 25 movies helped define ’70s cinema and went on to become classics that continue to influence filmmakers and audiences decades later.
The Godfather
One of the greatest films ever made, the tale of the Corleone family and the rise of Michael Corleone as a crime boss is a classic of the medium.
Rocky
Rocky Balboa’s journey as an underdog boxer, as he falls in love with Adrian, remains one of the most uplifting and powerful stories in fiction.
Taxi Driver
The story of Travis Bickle, played by Robert DeNiro, and his mental decay in New York remains one of the most powerful portrayals of regression displayed on the big screen.
Jaws
A film that is a masterful display of tension and build-up.
The Exorcist
One of the films that helped elevate the horror genre and prove there was artistic merit within said genre.
Chinatown
One of the first notorious films starring Jack Nicholson and an amazing crime noir film, at that.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
Another film starring Jack Nicholson. Adapting Ken Kesey’s novel of the same name, it is an insightful and fascinating introspection into what constitutes individual freedom.
The Deer Hunter
A complete and profound exploration of the Vietnam War and the toll this took on young men.
Star Wars
The definitive film blockbuster. Star Wars changed cinema forever and remains a cultural milestone across media as a whole.
Alien
A masterful mix of horror and sci-fi, pushing the envelope of blockbusters while having one of the most iconic female protagonists in Western media.
Barry Lyndon
A historical drama piece directed by Stanley Kubrick, turning into one of the most unique films in the history of the medium.
Annie Hall
Arguably the best romantic comedy of the 70s, it also shows the ups and downs of a failed relationship, elevating actress Diane Keaton to a whole new level.
The Godfather Part II
Perhaps the best sequel film ever made, it shows the consequences of Michael Corleone’s rise to power and the toll this takes on him and his family.
Apocalypse Now
One of director Francis Ford Coppola’s many masterpieces, this 1979 movie explores the psyche of the Vietnam War while loosely adapting Joseph Conrad’s novella, Heart of Darkness.
Superman
The first major superhero film to hit the mainstream. And arguably, still the best Superman movie ever made.
Grease
One of the most notorious musical films ever made in the medium and the rise of John Travolta as an actor.
Enter The Dragon
This 1973 production helped with the rise of kung fu films, and it is by far the most popular movie starring Bruce Lee.
The Amityville Horror
Another major horror landmark during this decade.
Saturday Night Fever
One of those films that simply screams 70s. It is visually stunning and the dancing sequences have become legendary.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind
Another one of Steven Spielberg’s most notorious films of the 70s and another one that elevated the sci-fi genre.
The Towering Inferno
Disaster films didn’t happen that often in the 70s, but The Towering Inferno proved to be an underrated masterpiece.
A Clockwork Orange
Stanley Kubrick’s dystopian masterpiece pushes the boundaries of mainstream entertainment and cinema.
Carrie
Director Brian De Palma adapted Stephen King’s first novel in 1976, doing justice to the struggles of the titular character and the awakening of her psychic powers.
American Graffiti
Director George Lucas became known worldwide in the 70s thanks to Star Wars, but he made American Graffiti in 1973, exploring American youth through the lens of a comedic setting.
Animal House
A comedy film of a fraternity tormenting a dean with their antics, this 1978 production is a snapshot of this genre during this decade.
