No decade was more instrumental in connecting the past and present aspects of the film industry than the 1970s. This period witnessed a new breed of movie makers bring to life masterpieces like Jaws and Star Wars, that exceeded studio (and audience) expectations.
As such, putting together a list of the essential movies of the ‘70s is a challenging yet inspiring endeavor.
Playing the lead detective role, Clint Eastwood carried a big gun while on the trail of a Zodiac-like killer. He defined a remarkable genre of vigilante films, with many other titles to follow. Director, Don Siegel, spawned a franchise that would offer the world multiple sequels and launch that well-known phrase "Go ahead. Make my day" into infamy. Indeed, those words were even picked up by President Reagan.
Francis Ford Coppola's version of Mario Puzo's novel deserves its spot on the best movies in Hollywood history. More than Marlon Brando's stellar performance, the movie birthed an entire generation of phenomenal stars like Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Diane Keaton, Robert Duvall, and James Caan.
William Friedkin's insanely scary horror classic about demonic possession brought viewers long nights of trauma, anxiety, and fear. Indeed, this was an extraordinary movie that challenged the dullness of other horror films of the time.
Earning his place in this list of essential ‘70s movies, then-28-year-old director Steven Spielberg terrified audiences in unison with this thriller. After watching Jaws, viewers cast doubts whether to follow through on their long-planned beach vacations.
This classic hit of the era launched Sylvester Stallone to fame (and fortune). More than a sports film, it juxtaposed the right amount of sweetness and charm, inspiring sequels that are no less famous.
Although not considered the best movie in the series, George Lucas' first space opera was epic. It filled theatres and instantly became a worldwide phenomenon. Even today, a new generation of viewers are attracted by the force that started it all.