When it comes to movies, the 1970s were a transformative decade. The period was marked by a departure from the idealism of the 1960s and a shift towards a grittier, freer, crazier, and, last but not least, groovier era.In this article, we take a nostalgic journey back to this groovy decade and explore 20 iconic movies that not only reflect the spirit of the times but also continue to captivate audiences today.
Disco fever coming-of-age stories, nail-biting political thrillers, and dreamy adventures filled with that special hint of wild eroticism characteristic of the times; these films transport us to the turbulent, stylish, and sometimes outrageous world of the 1970s, helping us relive the magic of this iconic decade on the silver screen.
20 The Mack (1973)
The Mack (1973) is a captivating and gritty blaxploitation film (a mostly low budget genre from the ’70s featuring Black actors and themes, often centered on crime, action, and empowerment) that takes us on a wild trip through the criminal underworld of 1970s Oakland, California. Directed by Michael Campus, it stars Max Julien as Goldie, a cool and street-smart hustler who rises to power as a big-time pimp.
What makes this film stand out is its unapologetic portrayal of a complex antihero. Goldie is not just a hustler; he’s a man with ambition, style, and charisma. As he goes through the treacherous streets and confronts the challenges of his criminal empire, audiences are drawn into his world, torn between rooting for him and questioning his choices. The Mack‘s captivating story is complemented by a catchy soundtrack, including a memorable theme song by Willie Hutch.
19 One Sings, the Other Doesn’t (1977)
Here, we have a heartwarming and uplifting picture directed by French filmmaker Agnès Varda. Set during the women’s liberation movement in 1970s France, One Sings, the Other Doesn’t (1977) follows the powerful friendship between two women, Pauline and Suzanne, whose lives take divergent paths.
What makes this film special is its early celebration of female empowerment and the accent on the importance of true friendship – an ode to the resilience of women and their capacity to support one another through life’s trials.
18 Ginger in the Morning (1974)
Kyma-Circle Productions
Ginger in the Morning (1974) is a light-hearted romantic comedy that contains the essence of a spontaneous cross-country road trip during the 70s. Starring the wondeful Sissy Spacek and Monte Markham, the film tells the story of Ginger and Joe, two strangers who cross roads by chance and share an unexpected adventure.
The audience is treated to the blossoming of an unlikely romance and the discovery of deeper connections between its characters, whose magnetic presence and witty dialogue make Ginger in the Morning a delightful and eye-watering experience, which reminds us that love can be found in the most unexpected places.
17 Super Fly (1972)
Gordon Parks Jr.’s Super Fly (1972) is a film that immerses us in the mad and complex world of the 1970s Harlem drug scene. This blaxploitation classic is famous for its stylish portrayal of antihero Youngblood Priest (Ron O’Neal).
The gritty realism, groovy soundtrack by Curtis Mayfield, the unflinching look at life’s challenges in the inner city, and the protagonist’s determination to escape the drug trade have made it a memorable film that resonates with fans of the genre half a century later. Super Fly is more than just a crime drama; it’s a cultural time capsule that captures the era’s music, fashion, and social issues. The film’s soundtrack, featuring hits like Pusherman and Freddie’s Dead, also elevates the viewing experience.
16 Black Mama White Mama (1973)
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Black Mama White Mama (1973) blends action, drama, and social commentary into an unforgettable experience in the blaxploitation sub-genre. Directed by Eddie Romero, it stars Pam Grier as Lee Daniels and Margaret Markov as Karen Brent, two women from different backgrounds who find themselves shackled together while escaping a merciless women’s prison.
In their fight for freedom, Lee and Karen find themselves entangled in daring escapes and intense action sequences. The dynamic mix of humor and drama, a unique premise, and the charismatic performances by Grier and Markov make Black Mama White Mama an adventure that leaves a lasting impact on 1970s-themed film history.
15 Pick-Up (1975)
Released in 1975, Pick-Up is a captivating, intimate drama directed by Bernard Hirschenson. The film introduces us to Carol, a young woman brilliantly portrayed by Jill Senter, whose journey of sexual exploration takes center stage.
The film is an honest and unapologetic exploration of themes of empowerment and personal freedom, making it a compelling narrative that transcends its era. Pick-Up invites us to dive into its characters’ emotional and sensual complexities, exploring themes of love and self-discovery with grace and authenticity. It reminds us that the journey to self-acceptance is a universal one, and it does so with a sense of depth and emotional resonance.
14 Coffy (1973)
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In what is one of Pam Grier’s most prominent roles next to Foxy Brown and Jackie Brown, Coffy (1973) is a dynamic and empowering film that follows the fierce and determined character of Coffy, a nurse who takes matters into her own hands to seek revenge against the heroin dealer responsible for her sister’s addiction and the drug epidemic plaguing her community.
Under the direction of Jack Hill, Grier delivers a magnetic performance, making the film an enduring symbol of female strength. Coffy doesn’t shy away from addressing the issues of its time, from drug abuse to racial injustice, cementing its legacy as a classic of its genre..
13 Live and Let Die (1973)
Live and Let Die (1973) is a thrilling, evergreen James Bond film that takes Agent 007 (Roger Moore) on a high-octane adventure through the exotic landscapes of the 1970s. Co-starring is a captivating young Jane Seymor, who would later become most recognized for her role as Michaela Quinn in the hit TV series Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman (1993–1998).
As Bond investigates a drug lord’s scheme in the Caribbean, this Guy Hamilton picture combines the wild chase sequences, daring stunts, and sharp one-liners we’ve all learned to love, along with an unforgettable theme song by Paul McCartney and the Wings.
12 Pootie Tang (2001)
Award-winning comedian Louis CK’s feature film debut Pootie Tang (2001), is a hilariously offbeat and absurd comedy that takes audiences on a wild ride through the bizarre world of its protagonist, played by Lance Crouther.
Based on a sketch that first saw the light of day on The Chris Rock Show, the film’s refusal to adhere to conventional storytelling or humor makes it a truly unique experience that rocks its own brand of surrealism. Pootie Tang is a mysterious and enigmatic figure with his own language, which sounds a lot like pidgin English, and code of conduct. When evil corporations threaten his community, Pootie uses his belt, a weapon of power, to save the day with humor and style.
11 Dolemite Is My Name (2019)
Directed by Craig Bower and starring comedy legend Eddie Murphy, Dolemite Is My Name (2019) is a cringe-inducing yet entertaining film that celebrates the indomitable spirit of its lead character, Rudy Ray Moore (Murphy). This biographical comedy-drama tells the story of Rudy Ray Moore, a struggling comedian, and musician who stumbles upon his kung-fu fighting alter ego, Dolemite, a character that redefines his career and the blaxploitation genre itself.
As Rudy rallies a team of misfit collaborators to bring Dolemite to the screen, the film serves up a hilarious and heartening journey filled with side-splitting laughter.
10 The Nice Guys (2016)
Bloom
The Nice Guys (2016) is a lively buddy-cop comedy that rocks a refreshing mix of humor, action, and ’70s nostalgia. Directed by Shane Black, the film stars Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe as two mismatched private detectives who find themselves having to solve a complex mystery surrounding the strange death of a pornstar while also having to find a missing girl.
The film captures the essence of 1970s LA with its stylish visuals, funky soundtrack, and colorful period details. It’s a delightful trip back in time for those nostalgic for the era and a fresh and groovy experience for newer generations; a movie in definite need of a sequel.
9 The Warriors (1979)
A timeless cult classic, Walter Hill’s The Warriors is an electrifying 1979 picture that takes us on a thrilling odyssey through the mean streets of New York City – a high-octane blend of action, adventure, and urban survival.
The story follows a street gang, The Warriors, falsely accused of murder as they must battle their way back to their Coney Island turf, facing rival gangs and evading the cops. The film’s gripping narrative unfolds over a single night, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Starring Michael Beck, James Remar, Dorsey Wright, Brian Tyler, and Deborah Van Valkenburgh, among others, The Warriors remains a beloved classic known for its stylish depiction of street culture and its unforgettable rallying cry, “Warriors, come out to play!”
8 Shaft (2000)
Shaft (2000) is a contemporary reboot of the iconic 1971 character, John Shaft. Played with swagger and style by Samuel L. Jackson and directed by John Singleton, this action-packed film brings the beloved detective into the modern era while paying homage to its ’70s roots.
Jackson’s portrayal of Shaft is as cool and unapologetic as expected – a commanding screen presence accompanied by sharp and witty dialogue. The story follows a murder investigation that leads to a web of crime and corruption, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. With its nail-biting action sequences and a compelling supporting cast, including Christian Bale and Jeffrey Wright, Jackson’s rendition offers a fresh take on the beloved character. This is more than just a reboot; it’s a reminder of the character’s enduring appeal and the importance of justice, as well as a modern-day tribute to a cinematic legend. In 2019, Shaft received another reboot by the same name, once again starring Samuel L. Jackson.
7 Enter the Dragon (1973)
A global martial arts phenomenon, Enter the Dragon (1973) catapulted Bruce Lee to superstardom and cemented his status as a cultural icon. Directed by Robert Clouse, the film is a dynamic fusion of action, suspense, and philosophy.
The story follows Lee, a skilled fighter invited to a remote island to compete in a deadly tournament hosted by a feared crime lord. Lee’s presence and philosophy of martial arts as a way of life elevate the film beyond its action-packed sequences. But no one can deny that, for its time, this was an unusual spectacle featuring breathtaking fight choreography, which made it rise to legendary status in the world of martial arts cinema.
6 Foxy Brown (1974)
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Another Pam Grier entry, Foxy Brown (1974), is a violent classic that introduces us to one of cinema’s most iconic black heroines, which also happens to be the role that shot the actress to trailblazing stardom.
Directed by Jack Hill, the story follows Foxy, a strong and resourceful woman who takes matters into her own hands to seek justice against those who harmed her boyfriend and her family. She infiltrates a drug cartel, battling against a world of danger, corruption, and betrayal.
5 Saturday Night Fever (1977)
One of the films that defined a generation, Saturday Night Fever (1977) is a dazzling John Badham picture that revolutionized the world of musical cinema. Starring John Travolta as the charming and groovy Tony Manero, this movie immerses us in the electric world of disco-era Brooklyn.
Its pulsating disco soundtrack, featuring the Bee Gees and other legendary artists, became a cultural phenomenon and set the tone for an entire era of dance music. Here, Travolta delivers an electrifying performance as a working-class youth with dreams of escaping his mundane life through dance. After its release, prominent film critic Roger Ebert described Saturday Night Fever as “an especially hard-edged case and a very good movie.”
4 The Doors (1991)
Oliver Stone’s The Doors (1991) is an intense and psychedelic journey into the turbulent life and music of one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most iconic bands. A film that “succeeds in communicating the “acid experience,”” as per Empire Magazine, it offers a kaleidoscopic portrait of the legendary frontman, Jim Morrison (one of Val Kilmer’s most electrifying and convincing roles). Co-starring is a young and magnetic Meg Ryan as Morrison’s long-time partner, Pamela Courson.
The Doors captures the spirit of the 1960s and ’70s counterculture, and Kilmer’s performance channels Morrison’s charisma and self-destructive magnetism to an unbelievable degree. The story explores the band’s meteoric rise and its descent into excess. It is a visual and auditory feast featuring its most beloved tracks performed with passion and extreme energy. The Doors also explores the creative process behind the music and the band’s profound impact on a generation.
3 Starsky & Hutch (2004)
Starsky & Hutch (2004) is a hilarious and action-packed buddy-cop comedy that pays homage to the beloved 1970s TV series with unforgettable performances by Ben Stiller (as Dave Starsky) and Owen Wilson (as Ken “Hutch” Hutchinson). Directed by Todd Phillips, the film centers around two detectives with contrasting personalities, a wild sense for fashion, and a shared love for muscle cars, paired together to solve a murder case. They uncover a drug trafficking operation led by Reese Feldman (Vince Vaughn), a wealthy, ruthless, and crazy businessman.
Stiller and Wilson’s chemistry is electric, and the film offers an outrageously comedic take on the original series, with its Ford Gran Torino, flared pants, a groovy soundtrack, and memorable supporting characters, including Snoop Dogg as Huggy Bear.
2 Boogie Nights (1997)
Boogie Nights (1997), one of Paul Thomas Anderson’s most powerful projects, is an explosive drama that dives into the world of the adult film industry in the San Fernando Valley during the 1970s and 1980s. The film primarily revolves around Eddie Adams, a young dishwasher who transforms into Dirk Diggler, a celebrated adult film star. As he rises to fame, the ensemble cast of characters, including a director, fellow actors, and producers, experiences the highs and lows of the industry.
The film is loaded with high-end talent, including Mark Wahlberg as Eddie/Dirk, Julianne Moore, Burt Reynolds, Heather Graham, Don Cheadle, and Philip Seymour Hoffman. Boogie Nights received critical acclaim and was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor (Burt Reynolds) and Best Original Screenplay (Paul Thomas Anderson). The film also won several awards and accolades in 1998, including three Golden Globe Awards (Best Supporting Actor for Burt Reynolds, Best Supporting Actress for Julianne Moore, and Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson).
1 54 (1998)
Mark Christopher’s 54 (1998) is a groovy and stylish drama that takes us to the glamorous and hedonistic world of Studio 54, one of the most legendary nightclubs of the disco era, which served as a nightly escape for superstars like Mick Jagger, Cher, David Geffen, Jack Nicholson, Michael Jackson, and many others.
The film stars Ryan Phillippe, Salma Hayek, and Mike Myers in a departure from his comedic roles. It brilliantly captures the pulsating energy and decadence of the 1970s nightclub scene, following the life of Shane O’Shea (Phillippe), a young bartender ensnared in the whirlwind of celebrity, excess, and self-discovery. Here, Myers, in particular, delivers an iconic performance as the flamboyant club owner, Steve Rubell.
