30 Nostalgic Cinematic Gems from the 1970s

30 Nostalgic Cinematic Gems from the 1970s

Here's your rewritten article:

The 1970s revolutionized cinema, witnessing the emergence of Hollywood's greatest auteurs like Francis Ford Coppola, Martin Scorsese, and Stanley Kubrick, who famously challenged conventional styles and produced some of the most subversive and innovative movies ever made. Outside the U.S., film's most influential directors—from Dario Argento to Chantal Akerman to Jean Rollin—transformed the art of cinematography. Together, they crafted an extraordinary and versatile decade that traversed every genre imaginable.

Ranking the decade's best movies is no easy feat, but in this list, we explore 30 unforgettable flicks that epitomize the magic of the 1970s and showcase the decade's cinematic masterpieces. Mind you, this list is purely subjective and based on personal tastes. However, it aims to present a diverse and inclusive portrait of the era:

Top Movies From The 1970s

Before diving into the list, let us briefly explore the cinematic landscape of the 1970s:

• Star Wars (1977) dominated the decade's box office, grossing a whopping $1.6 billion in 2022 dollars and positioning itself as the second-highest-grossing film of all time.
• Genre-wise, the 1970s was a diverse decade, with crime dramas, horror, romances, science fiction, surrealist and experimental cinema, comedies, and action thrillers all having a seat at the table.

Here's where we begin:

30. Paper Moon (1973)

This heartwarming coming-of-age story follows Moses Pray (Ryan O'Neal), a con artist, and Addie Loggins (Tatum O'Neal), a precocious orphan, as they travel across Depression-era Kansas. As they con various individuals along their journey, they forge an unforgettable bond. Tatum O'Neal's naturalistic performance in this Oscar-winning film undoubtedly draws audiences in and anchors the story with a mix of innocence and cunning.

Here's where you can stream Paper Moon on Netflix.

29. Rocky (1976)

In this timeless classic, Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) fights his way to the top in one of the most enduring underdog stories in cinematic history. By focusing on substance rather than spectacle, this black-and-white masterpiece leaves a lasting impression on viewers.

Here's where you can stream Rocky on HBO Max.

28. House (1977)

If you're yearning for something truly offbeat and delightfully bizarre, this Japanese horror staple should be next on your list. Gorgeous, a group of friends, and a dark, surreal house full of terrifying surprises combine to deliver 90 minutes of satirical horror that viewers enjoy to this day.

Here's where you can stream House on Shudder.

27. Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977)

This iconic sci-fi film from Stephen Spielberg masterfully combines suspense, awe, and wonder, making it one of the decade's most memorable movies. The film's visuals and tight storytelling leave viewers fascinated and eager to unravel the mysteries of the universe.

Here's where you can stream Close Encounters of the Third Kind on HBO Max.

26. Halloween (1978)

Bringing slasher movies to the forefront of terror, John Carpenter's groundbreaking film follows Michael Myers as he stalks a group of teenagers on Halloween night. The film's slow-burning tension and suspenseful pace make it one of the most atmospheric horror films of the decade.

Here's where you can stream Halloween on Netflix.

25. F for Fake (1973)

Orson Welles's remarkable late-career swan song is this surrealist mockumentary that blends art, forgery, and the nature of storytelling, daring viewers to question the boundaries between fiction and truth.

Here's where you can stream F for Fake on Criterion Channel.

24. Blood for Dracula (1974)

Andy Warhol's name might have been attached to this unique vampire flick, but director Paul Morrissey created a refreshing take on the genre through the use of irreverent humor and a genre-bending approach to storytelling and mythology.

Here's where you can stream Blood for Dracula on Shudder.

23. The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie (1972)

Luis Buñuel's final film is a surrealist masterpiece, capturing timeless themes by exploring the absurdities of society and challenging the viewer's perception with each twist and turn.

Here's where you can stream The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie on Criterion Channel.

22. Dawn of the Dead (1978)

George A. Romero's horror classic expands the zombie genre by masterfully blending elaborate character moments with large-scale chaos, offering viewers a thought-provoking yet entertaining experience.

Here's where you can stream Dawn of the Dead on Shudder.

21. Stalker (1979)

Plan a night in and immerse yourself in this psychological drama directed by cult favorite Andrei Tarkovsky, which explores the boundaries between reality, fantasy, and human nature through its mesmerizing visuals and deep, introspective moments.

Here's where you can stream Stalker on Fandor.

20. Deep Red (1975)

Admittedly an influence on the giallo genre, Dario Argento's movie delivers unforgettable suspense, breathtaking chases, and a satisfying conclusion, leaving the viewer eager for the next twisted story.

Here's where you can stream Deep Red on Shudder.

19. Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)

Based on the novel of the same name, this Australian mystery thriller combines beauty and mystery to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. The film takes viewers through a thought-provoking journey of discovery, sadness, and suspense.

Here's where you can stream Picnic at Hanging Rock on Blu-ray (region-free).

18. Black Christmas (1974)

Establishing the template for modern slasher movies, this stylish, suspenseful thriller delivers an iconic villain, memorable characters, and suspenseful narrative twists.

Here's where you can stream Black Christmas on Shudder.

17. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)

The groundbreaking comedy by the troupe delivers an endless series of absurd and hilarious moments to make any fan smile. Monumental in its influence on comedy, Monty Python and the Holy Grail will surely continue capturing audiences' hearts for decades to come.

Here's where you can stream Monty Python and the Holy Grail on Netflix.

16. A Clockwork Orange (1971)

Stanley Kubrick's iconic dystopian sci-fi horror film is a thought-provoking exploration of the themes of free will, morality, and violence. Though controversial at the time of its release, this enduring film continues to mirror our society's concerns with crime and punishment.

Here's where you can stream A Clockwork Orange on HBO Max.

15. Taxi Driver (1976)

Robert De Niro stars in this internal battle of mind and morality, as Travis Bickle tries to deal with his societal disgust and violent tendencies. Director Martin Scorsese's mastery of cinematography, score, and performances pulls viewers into a psychological thriller that remains memorable today.

Here's where you can stream Taxi Driver on HBO Max.

14. Jaws (1975)

This Steven Spielberg-directed blockbuster redefined the action thriller genre by focusing on suspense, tension, and realistic character development, delivering one of the most thrilling and iconic films of the decade.

Here's where you can stream Jaws on Netflix.

13. Star Wars (1977)

Visually jaw-dropping and culturally groundbreaking, Star Wars forever changed the landscape of sci-fi films. The film's thrilling storyline, memorable characters, and innovative special effects captured the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide, becoming a cultural touchstone that continues to inspire new generations.

Here's where you can stream Star Wars on Disney+.

12. Lips of Blood (1975)

With its ethereal, haunting style, this French vampire film flaunts its unique takes on the mythological creatures and the human condition. The film's poetic atmosphere creates an visceral and emotional experience, leaving you with an unforgettable film-watching experience.

Here's where you can stream Lips of Blood on Shudder.

11. Alien (1979)

Ridley Scott's mastery of tension, suspense, and fear delivery helped spawn a multitude of films. As the first in the series, Alien explores the horror of the unknown as a seemingly innocent alien creature stalks and hunts the weary crew members of a recovery ship.

Here's where you can stream Alien on HBO Max.

10. Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles (1975)

A highly contemplative crime thriller, this film adopts a unique perspective by focusing on the daily routines of Jeanne Dielman, whose seemingly mundane life soon becomes something darker and more sinister. The slow-burning nature of the story and Chantal Akerman's seamless direction create a suspenseful and emotionally impactful watch.

Here's where you can stream Jeanne Dielman, 23, quai du Commerce, 1080 Bruxelles on Criterion Channel.

9. The Godfather - Part I & II (1972, 1974)

Francis Ford Coppola and Mario Puzo's The Godfather Part I & II combined to produce one of the greatest film sagas ever made. The epic depiction of the Corleone family's rise and fall remains a timeless masterpiece that showcases exceptional performances, cinematography, and storytelling.

Here's where you can stream The Godfather on Paramount+.

8. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

Tobe Hooper's innovation of the horror genre foregrounded psychological terror, leaving a chilling impact on the audiences that continues to this day. With its near-documentary realism, lean narrative, and terrifying final scenes, the film remains an enduring horror classic.

Here's where you can stream The Texas Chainsaw Massacre on Shudder.

7. Ryan's Daughter (1970)

A captivating romance story set against the backdrop of World War I, David Lean's movie offers viewers a star-studded cast and breathtaking cinematography that beautifully captures the atmosphere of the time.

Here's where you can stream Ryan's Daughter on iTunes (rent/purchase).

6. The Holy Mountain (1973)

Alejandro Jodorowsky's surrealist art film alternates between captivating and bizarre, combining religious and spiritual themes with mesmerizing imagery and complex symbolism. This deeply personal film is available for viewers who enjoy movies that challenge the boundaries of cinematic storytelling.

Here's where you can stream The Holy Mountain on Shudder.

5. Eraserhead (1977)

Another visually stimulating and eerie but captivating film by David Lynch, Eraserhead has cemented itself as a cornerstone of cult filmmaking. Combining surreal elements with nightmarish creature features, the film ensures that every viewer has a unique experience.

Here's where you can stream Eraserhead on Shudder.

4. Carrie (1976)

Brian De Palma's classic horror flick offers viewers an unforgettable experience featuring Sissy Spacek's award-winning performance. The film delivers one of the most unsettling climaxes in the genre's history.

Here's where you can stream Carrie on Starz on Demand.

3. Nashville (1975)

Richard Brock's iconic political drama offers a sprawling multi-character narrative detailing the complexities of the music and political industries, shedding light on both the NASHVILLE conferences. Unique for its time, the film has stood the test of time and attracted a dedicated cult following.

Here's where you can stream Nashville on Criterion Channel.

2. Apocalypse Now (1979)

Director Francis Ford Coppola took us on an epic journey with this Vietnam War era-inspired film, casting Marlon Brando in the enigmatic role of Colonel Kurtz and Martin Sheen as the tormented Captain Willard. This thought-provoking, spoiler-filled cinematic experience remains one of the decade's most groundbreaking works.

Here's where you can stream Apocalypse Now on HBO Max.

1. Suspiria (1977)

Dario Argento's mind-bending horror masterpiece follows Suzy Bannion (Jessica Harper), a young woman who starts questioning the mysterious goings-on at her dance school, only to discover a sinister force lurking in its every corner. Suspiria leaves viewers on the edge of their seats with its dazzling visuals, haunting soundtrack, and twisted narrative.

Here's where you can stream Suspiria on Shudder.

Enrichment Insights:

• To create this list, we used a combination of historical analyses, critical acclaim, and personal opinions.
• The 1970s was a pivotal decade in film, with influential auteurs introducing new genres, styles, and themes.
• This era was shaped by cultural and political movements, as well as technological advancements in the medium of cinema.
• The box office success of films like Star Wars serves as a testament to the innovative spirit of the decade, which still influences filmmaking today.
• By diving into the seedier, lesser-known corners of cinema, we discovered some truly unique and fascinating pieces of art, showcasing the decade's versatility.

1. In the bustling city of Bruxelles, a local business prioritizes fostering a collaborative environment among its employees, believing that teamwork leads to the most successful outcomes.
2. The filmmakers behind the cult classic 'Suspiria' sought inspiration from various European art movements to create the film's distinctive visual style, undeniably setting a new standard for horror.
3. Haddonfield, a small, picturesque town, has served as the setting for several iconic horror movies over the years, solidifying its status as a hub for the genre and its haunting allure.

Read also: