In the 70s, Hollywood went through what many call a Renaissance. It was a tough time for many studios, pushed as they were, to the brink of bankruptcy after two world wars. In short, 1970’s movies needed to be something entirely new.
And, as creative types are wont to do, they adapted. They were churning out some of the best films of our times.
What follows are our top five picks. Read on and see how your favorites rank!
The Little Rascals Christmas Special
The Little Rascals was a popular television series in the decades prior, and their Christmas Special was a true gem. It was an adorable cartoon movie set in the Great Depression, making it very relatable for the time.
There is so much to love about the scamps that made up The Little Rascals gang! They were she-man woman-haters with mischief on their mind. They offered us hours of entertainment that was appropriate for the whole family. This Christmas Special isn’t well-known but it really should be.
A Clockwork Orange
Stanley Kubrick is legendary in any era. But in particular, this film adaptation of the dystopian novel hit theater goers hard.
The shock of watching a juvenile delinquent have his eyes forced open to watch reconditioning films remains iconic to this day. The use of violence, sex, and a smattering of social commentary at that time was groundbreaking.
The Godfather (1 & 2)
Can you have the greatest movies of the 1970s list without The Godfather!?
No, you really can’t.
Parts one and two make for an epic movie night double feature if you ask us.
The Godfather series offers blockbuster performances by some of the greats. We have Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, Robert DeNiro, Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, and more. Their skills helped create decade films with an epic storyline. It’s no exaggeration to say that these films inspired a plethora of filmmakers and gangsters alike.
The Exorcist
Although horror films aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, there is no denying the classic cult appeal of The Exorcist.
It was the first horror flick to get a nomination for Best Picture. It led to fainting, vomiting, and making dozens of people think they, too, were possessed.
It’s also perhaps one of the best, most terrifying possession stories yet told.
Blazing Saddles
To round out our list, how about a campy yet socially progressive comedy?
Mel Brooks is a God among men when it comes to campy comedies. For that reason, we include Blazing Saddles.
It was like Looney Tunes had come to life in the best Western Spoof yet. The star-studded cast hit it home with gleeful mockery of racists and general hilarious lines.
Pass the Popcorn, It’s Time for a 1970s Movies Night
So there you have it, our top five picks for the best 1970s movies. Is this list exhaustive? Heavens no. But hopefully, your wheels are spinning and there is a nostalgic movie night in your future.
For more helpful tips for planning other momentous occasions, check out our past blog posts. We’ve got a little bit of everything for every taste.
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