Best 1970s Movies

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A saga following three generations of a Russian immigrant family chasing the American dream through music.

Why people love it: Its bold mix of animation styles and a rock‑and‑roll soundtrack capture a vibrant era. Bakshi’s storytelling feels both epic and intimate.

1 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A rowdy fraternity at Faber College throws wild parties and clashes with the dean.

Why people love it: Its outrageous humor and unforgettable characters set a new standard for college comedies. The iconic scenes and quotable lines keep fans laughing decades later.

2 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A neurotic New Yorker navigates love and self-discovery in a witty, bittersweet romance.

Why people love it: Its sharp dialogue and authentic chemistry capture the messiness of modern relationships. Allen blends humor with heartfelt moments, making it both funny and moving. The film’s iconic style still influences rom‑coms today.

3 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A retired private eye teams with his son to investigate crimes, using experience and wit to crack cases.

Why people love it: Barnaby’s gruff charm and clever one‑liners make each episode entertaining. The father‑son partnership adds warmth to classic whodunits.

4 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

After Vietnam, a Black veteran returns home and turns to robbery to survive in 1970s Philadelphia.

Why people love it: The Hughes brothers blend gritty 70s aesthetics with a powerful coming‑of‑age tale. Its soundtrack and stylish action keep viewers hooked.

5 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young East German soldier is sent to West Germany as an undercover spy during the Cold War.

Why people love it: Its gritty realism and 80s soundtrack immerse viewers in a tense Cold War era. The complex characters and twisty espionage keep audiences hooked.

6 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young woman explores her sensuality while vacationing on a tropical island.

Why people love it: Emmanuelle became iconic for its lush visuals and groundbreaking erotic storytelling. Sylvia Kristel's captivating performance set a new standard for adult cinema, and the film's dreamy atmosphere still inspires fans today.

7 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Camp counselors are stalked by a vengeful killer at Crystal Lake.

Why people love it: The film set the template for modern slasher movies with tense atmosphere and an iconic masked killer. Its gritty 70s style and shocking twists keep fans returning.

8 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young woman navigates life in a 1960s psychiatric hospital, confronting mental illness and friendship.

Why people love it: The film's raw portrayal of mental health, powerful performances—especially Jolie's— and its bittersweet tone resonate deeply. Its blend of humor and tragedy offers a poignant look at identity and recovery.

9 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A health inspector discovers an alien takeover spreading through San Francisco, turning people into emotionless duplicates.

Why people love it: The film captures Cold War paranoia with relentless tension and iconic visual effects. Strong performances and a haunting score keep viewers on edge. Its smart script still feels fresh today.

10 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A San Francisco doctor discovers humans are being replaced by emotion‑less alien duplicates.

Why people love it: The film’s paranoid tone captures Cold War anxieties. Its suspenseful pacing and iconic ending make it a lasting sci‑fi horror classic.

11 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young poet gets tangled in a secret society of writers, sparking a real-life murder case.

Why people love it: The film captures the raw energy of youthful rebellion and the complexities of artistic ambition. Daniel Radcliffe delivers a surprisingly intense performance, while the period details immerse viewers in the 1960s literary scene.

12 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Three Irish-American women run a 1970s Brooklyn mob bar while their husbands are in prison.

Why people love it: Fans praise its gritty portrayal of female empowerment in a male‑dominated crime world. Strong performances and sharp dialogue keep the tension high.

13 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A courtroom drama about a young man's tragic fate and the moral dilemmas surrounding justice.

Why people love it: The film captures the tension of a legal battle with raw emotional power. Eccleston's performance is both vulnerable and fierce, drawing viewers into the tragedy. Its period detail and moral complexity keep it relevant today.

14 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A quiet suburb hides the tragic lives of five sisters whose enigmatic beauty mesmerizes their neighborhood.

Why people love it: Coppola’s dreamy visual style and haunting score create a nostalgic melancholy. The film explores adolescence and longing with poetic elegance.

15 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Famed detectives are invited to a mansion where they must solve a seemingly impossible murder.

Why people love it: A clever mash‑up of classic detective tropes, the film delivers witty dialogue and surprise twists. Its ensemble cast brings charm to an entertaining whodunit.

16 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A 1978 thriller about a Texas oil tycoon entangled in murder and betrayal.

Why people love it: Its tense plot and period atmosphere capture the high‑stakes world of oil magnates. Fans praise the strong cast and Altman's signature direction.

17 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A struggling writer discovers an unexpected treasure that changes his life.

Why people love it: Audiences cherish its quirky humor and heartfelt moments, making a modest gem of the late‑70s cinema. It feels both nostalgic and fresh.

18 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Outlaw Billy the Kid teams up with former partner Pat Garrett, now sheriff, in a tense cat‑and‑mouse chase across the New Mexico frontier.

Why people love it: Peckinpah’s gritty direction and the electric chemistry between Oates and Kristofferson bring raw authenticity to the legend. The film’s moody soundtrack and poetic visuals make it a cult classic.

19 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A newlywed couple encounters a flamboyant mad scientist and his eccentric crew at a mysterious mansion.

Why people love it: Its interactive midnight screenings have turned it into a cultural phenomenon. The bold music, campy style, and unforgettable performances keep audiences returning.

20 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tony Manero, a Brooklyn teen, finds freedom and identity on the disco floor, sparking a cultural wave.

Why people love it: Its iconic soundtrack and legendary dance sequences define an era. Travolta's performance captures youthful longing, while the film’s style still influences fashion and music today.

21 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A Moon base crew battles unknown dangers after the Moon is hurled into deep space.

Why people love it: Fans adore its bold vision of humanity stranded in the cosmos, striking visual effects, and memorable characters. Its imaginative storytelling still feels fresh, and the iconic theme music adds to its lasting charm.

22 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A mild-mannered mathematician and his wife encounter escalating hostility in a rural English town, sparking violent confrontation.

Why people love it: The film is praised for its raw intensity and moral ambiguity, delivering a powerful performance by Hoffman. Its stark cinematography and unflinching exploration of violence make it a provocative classic.

23 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

In 1977 NYC, a serial killer stalks the city, disrupting lives and friendships.

Why people love it: Lee captures the era’s tension with vivid style, and the ensemble delivers raw, authentic performances. The film blends horror and social commentary, making the 70s feel alive.

24 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A 1971 London bank robbery unravels a web of political scandal and hidden agendas.

Why people love it: Statham’s charismatic lead anchors a tightly paced heist that blends action with real‑world intrigue. The film’s period details and twisty plot keep viewers on edge.

25 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Chronicles the rebel Portland Mavericks' wild, independent baseball adventure.

Why people love it: It celebrates underdog spirit with humor and heart, showcasing a team that defied corporate baseball. The quirky characters and nostalgic feel make it a fan favorite.

26 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young woman returns to 1970s Detroit and becomes entangled in a charismatic motorcycle club’s power struggles.

Why people love it: The film captures the gritty vibe of 1970s biker culture with vivid detail. Strong performances make the club’s dynamics feel authentic. Its period atmosphere and raw storytelling keep viewers hooked.

27 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A spaceship crew discovers a massive black hole and faces a deranged scientist aboard a mysterious station.

Why people love it: Fans admire its groundbreaking visual effects and eerie atmosphere, which push the limits of 1970s sci‑fi. The film's blend of suspense and philosophical wonder keeps audiences returning.

28 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A washed‑out boxer strives to rebuild his career and reconnect with his estranged son.

Why people love it: Its raw depiction of redemption and the powerful father‑son bond resonate deeply, anchored by a standout performance. Viewers feel inspired by the underdog spirit.

29 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Divers discover a sunken treasure off Bermuda, sparking danger, romance, and betrayal beneath the waves.

Why people love it: Stunning underwater cinematography set a new standard for oceanic thrillers. The chemistry between Shaw and Nolte keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.

30 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A gritty look at the rise of the porn industry in 1970s New York, following the lives of sex workers, pimps, and ambitious cops.

Why people love it: Its raw storytelling and complex characters capture the era’s hedonistic vibe. The blend of crime drama with explicit sexuality keeps viewers hooked.

31 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A biographical drama tracing the rise and turbulent life of rock legend Jim Morrison and his band, The Doors.

Why people love it: Oliver Stone captures the raw energy of the 60s counterculture, delivering a vivid portrait of Morrison's charisma. Fans also praise Kilmer's electrifying performance and the iconic soundtrack.

32 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A French student draws a sibling pair into a provocative, cinematic world during the 1968 protests.

Why people love it: Viewers praise its lush cinematography and daring exploration of youthful desire. The film blends political unrest with intimate storytelling, creating a memorable artistic experience.

33 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A quiet New England town is haunted by an ancient cosmic evil unleashed through occult rituals.

Why people love it: Its moody atmosphere captures classic Lovecraft dread, while strong performances ground the supernatural threat. Fans appreciate its faithful period feel and eerie pacing.

34 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A low‑level Boston gunrunner is forced to betray his criminal friends to avoid prison.

Why people love it: The film captures the gritty realism of 1970s Boston underworld with tight pacing and nuanced performances. Mitchum's stoic lead and Yates' direction make it a timeless crime classic.

35 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A Bronx teen discovers hip‑hop while the disco scene erupts, shaping music history.

Why people love it: Its vivid recreation of 1970s New York and electrifying soundtrack draw viewers in. The series blends personal drama with the birth of a cultural movement.

36 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A suburban family grapples with infidelity and discontent during a 1970s Thanksgiving storm.

Why people love it: Lee's direction captures the era's restless spirit, while Collette delivers a breakout role as a rebellious teen. The film's nuanced look at suburban malaise remains resonant.

37 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Two brothers chase a get‑rich‑quick scheme in Atlantic City, confronting family ties.

Why people love it: A moody, atmospheric tale of ambition and betrayal. Nicholson's nuanced performance anchors the film. The story reflects the gritty reality of the American Dream.

38 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Two Navy sailors escort a runaway sailor, confronting their own morals.

Why people love it: A raw, character‑driven road movie with sharp humor. Nicholson's performance is gritty and charismatic. It captures the tension between duty and compassion.

39 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

An ambitious filmmaker becomes obsessed with a violent cult while shooting his debut horror movie, blurring fiction and reality.

Why people love it: Its self‑referential storyline offers a disturbing glimpse into the dark side of filmmaking. The raw performances and gritty 70s aesthetic have turned it into a cult favorite.

40 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A wealthy couple’s yacht game spirals into murder and intrigue.

Why people love it: Its clever plot twists keep you guessing, while the glamorous 70s setting adds charm. The ensemble cast delivers sharp, witty performances.

41 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young woman inherits a mysterious estate that hides a deadly occult legacy tied to ancient rites.

Why people love it: The film blends gothic suspense with occult horror, creating a chilling atmosphere. Its strong lead performances and ominous setting make it a cult favorite.

42 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A team of investigators enters a haunted mansion to document supernatural phenomena, confronting malevolent forces.

Why people love it: Its expertly crafted scares and atmospheric set design deliver genuine terror. The ensemble cast adds depth, making the haunted house feel truly alive.

43 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A working-class man falls for a free‑spirited woman, sparking a passionate romance in East Berlin.

Why people love it: Its raw depiction of love against a gritty backdrop captured a generation. The film’s iconic soundtrack still echoes today.

44 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A former pro quarterback leads inmates in a rebellious football game against their guards.

Why people love it: Fans love the film’s perfect blend of humor and gritty action, anchored by Burt Reynolds’ charismatic lead. Its underdog story and iconic football showdown remain classic.

45 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A charismatic boxer faces personal and professional challenges on his way to the championship.

Why people love it: Its blend of sports drama and heartfelt romance resonated with audiences. The chemistry between the leads made it a timeless classic.

46 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A suave advertising executive confronts a mysterious doppelgänger after a night in a deserted hotel.

Why people love it: Moore’s charm and the film’s clever twist keep viewers guessing. Its stylish 1970s London backdrop adds a sleek noir feel.

47 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

James Bond confronts the deadly assassin Scaramanga, who wields a golden gun, in a globe‑trotting showdown.

Why people love it: Moore’s suave performance, exotic locations and the iconic golden gun gadget make it a fan favorite. The film blends humor with high‑stakes action, delivering classic Bond style.

48 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A neurotic New Yorker battles a sudden illness and chaotic city life, testing his marriage.

Why people love it: Audiences adore its sharp wit and relatable urban anxiety, brought to life by Lemmon’s flawless timing and Bancroft’s heartfelt performance. The film captures 1970s New York charm while delivering timeless laughs.

49 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A former astronaut is rebuilt with bionic implants, becoming a secret government operative.

Why people love it: Fans adore its blend of futuristic tech and heroic missions, plus Lee Majors' iconic catch‑phrase. The show’s optimism and cool gadgets still inspire.

50 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A former astronaut is rebuilt with bionic implants, becoming a secret government operative.

Why people love it: Fans admire its iconic bionic hero, groundbreaking special effects, and catchy theme song. The blend of action and futuristic tech feels timeless.

51 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young woman explores her desires in a secretive mansion, confronting love and power.

Why people love it: Its bold visual style and sensual storytelling push boundaries, making it a cult classic. Audiences admire its daring take on eroticism and power dynamics.

52 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A group of friends encounter a family of cannibals led by Leatherface in rural Texas.

Why people love it: Its raw, gritty atmosphere redefined horror, making fear feel immediate. The film’s iconic Leatherface and relentless tension have cemented its cult status.

53 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A group of friends is lured into a remote museum where a twisted owner uses mirrors and traps to terrorize unsuspecting tourists.

Why people love it: Its eerie atmosphere and inventive use of mirrors create a claustrophobic dread. The film’s low‑budget charm and surprising twists have earned it cult status among horror fans.

54 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A dramatized look at the 1969 trial of anti‑war activists charged with conspiracy and inciting riots.

Why people love it: Sorkin's razor‑sharp script turns a historic trial into a tense, witty spectacle. The ensemble cast brings energy and modern relevance.

55 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A madcap mix‑up of mistaken identities, a priceless painting, and a wild road trip leads to hilarious chaos.

Why people love it: Audiences adore its razor‑sharp wit, Barbra Streisand’s charismatic performance, and the film’s clever blend of slapstick and sophisticated humor. The iconic chase scene and witty dialogue keep it fresh decades later.

56 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Revisits the iconic 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle" bout and its cultural legacy.

Why people love it: The film blends electrifying fight footage with social context, revealing the event's global resonance. Its storytelling honors legends while exploring themes of power and identity.

57 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A talented driver fights his way up the IndyCar ranks while navigating personal challenges.

Why people love it: Paul Newman's charisma makes the racing world feel both glamorous and gritty. The film balances high‑speed competition with heartfelt character moments.

58 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A group of porn filmmakers in 1979 Texas encounter a deadly, murderous cult while shooting on remote farmland.

Why people love it: The film blends retro aesthetics with relentless tension, delivering a fresh slasher experience. Its strong performances and practical gore make it a standout modern horror.

59 / 73

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A modern take on the classic monster tale, following Dr. Frederick Frankenstein's comedic experiments in a spooky castle.

Why people love it: The film blends clever wordplay with iconic slapstick, delivering endless laughs. Its affectionate homage to classic horror makes it timeless, and the performances are delightfully over‑the‑top.

60 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Teen detectives Hardy and Nancy solve quirky crimes together, blending mystery with 1970s charm.

Why people love it: The crossover brings two beloved literary sleuths to TV, offering light‑hearted intrigue and catchy theme music. Its period style and youthful energy still appeal.

61 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A wealthy heiress invites friends to her yacht, sparking a deadly game of clues and betrayal.

Why people love it: Fans admire its clever puzzle structure and witty dialogue, making every reveal feel earned. The glamorous 1970s setting adds a stylish backdrop to the intrigue.

62 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A teen navigates love, music and friendship on East Berlin’s Sonnenallee in the 1970s, blending humor with everyday life.

Why people love it: Its witty take on Cold War life feels both nostalgic and fresh. Audiences cherish the catchy soundtrack and relatable coming‑of‑age moments.

63 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A renowned skeptic is summoned to investigate a series of inexplicable deaths linked to a cursed relic.

Why people love it: Guinness’s gravitas lends weight to the eerie mystery, while the film’s unsettling imagery captures Lovecraftian dread. Its blend of psychological and supernatural horror still resonates.

64 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Lindsay Wagner stars as a former astronaut given bionic powers, fighting crime and protecting the nation.

Why people love it: The series captivated audiences with its strong heroine and cutting‑edge special effects. Its mix of intrigue and empowerment remains memorable.

65 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A rural English village is haunted by a demonic presence that awakens dark rituals among its children.

Why people love it: Its chilling atmosphere and stark countryside visuals make it a cornerstone of folk horror. The film’s blend of superstition and psychological dread still resonates with modern audiences.

66 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A newly deceased woman confronts her sins and desires in a surreal after‑life courtroom.

Why people love it: Its provocative blend of philosophy and eroticism made it a landmark of adult cinema. Fans cite its emotional depth and iconic performances as timeless draws.

67 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young couple spends a final carefree summer together before facing adulthood’s harsh realities.

Why people love it: Its nostalgic vibe and tender storytelling resonate with anyone recalling youthful freedom. The cinematography beautifully captures the era’s sunlight and sea breezes.

68 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A group of friends reunites on a coastal town, confronting secrets that surface during a lingering summer heat.

Why people love it: The film blends atmospheric tension with intimate character moments, making it a hidden gem of 70s cinema. Viewers appreciate its layered narrative and evocative soundtrack.

69 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A young couple inherits a crumbling estate and uncovers the dark secrets of its previous inhabitants.

Why people love it: Cushing’s brooding performance and the film’s bleak atmosphere create a haunting experience. The slow‑burn narrative rewards patient viewers.

70 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A skeptical doctor confronts a resurrected man whose past hides a terrifying, otherworldly secret.

Why people love it: Its slow‑burn tension and unsettling mystery echo Lovecraftian themes of forbidden knowledge. The film’s eerie score and bleak visuals keep viewers on edge.

71 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Two friends sail the North Sea to uncover a secret German plot before war erupts.

Why people love it: The tense cat‑and‑mouse chase and authentic sailing scenes create palpable suspense. Its period detail immerses fans of classic espionage.

72 / 73

no trailer yet!

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Two former ballet partners confront past choices as their daughters pursue dance careers.

Why people love it: The movie offers a poignant look at sacrifice and ambition within the dance world. Its stellar cast and elegant choreography make it a timeless classic.

73 / 73