The 1970’s was a decade that changed the face of cinema forever. Each year of the 70s there was a movie that either defined its genre or changed the way movies were made. We discover 12 movies that moved the needle in the 1970s, and we even threw in something from 1980 and Gow also throws an old personal favourite of his in at the end.
Using the theatrical trailers as a backdrop let’s find out why the 1970s was the most important decade in movie history.
The 1970s marked a pivotal decade in the history of cinema, ushering in a wave of artistic innovation and challenging the conventions of storytelling and filmmaking. It was a time when a new generation of bold and visionary filmmakers emerged, pushing the boundaries of creativity and transforming the landscape of cinema forever. From ground breaking storytelling techniques to thematic exploration of social and political issues, the 70s became a golden era that redefined the art of filmmaking.
One of the key factors that shaped the cinema of the 70s was the newfound creative freedom bestowed upon filmmakers. The studio system that had dominated Hollywood for decades began to crumble, allowing a generation of auteurs to emerge. Directors like Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, and Stanley Kubrick were given unprecedented control over their projects, resulting in a surge of highly personal and artistically daring films that would leave an indelible mark on the industry.
The 70s witnessed a shift towards gritty realism and social commentary in cinema. Filmmakers sought to reflect the turbulent times they lived in, tackling controversial subjects and exploring the complexities of human existence. Movies like "Taxi Driver," "The Godfather," and "A Clockwork Orange" delved into themes of violence, corruption, and societal decay, offering stark and thought-provoking narratives. Audiences were confronted with the harsh realities of the world, as filmmakers courageously confronted political issues, racial tensions, and the consequences of war.
The 70s also witnessed a remarkable expansion of storytelling techniques and a blurring of genre boundaries. Directors experimented with non-linear narratives, intricate character studies, and unconventional plot structures. Films like "The French Connection," "Jaws," and "Star Wars" revolutionized the action and adventure genres, introducing ground breaking special effects and captivating audiences with epic stories. The emergence of independent cinema further fueled this wave of experimentation, giving rise to films like "Annie Hall" and "Apocalypse Now," which defied traditional storytelling conventions and embraced unconventional narratives.
The 1970s marked a shift towards diversity and inclusion in filmmaking. The industry began to welcome fresh perspectives and underrepresented voices, leading to a more inclusive cinematic landscape. Directors such as Spike Lee and Julie Dash explored African-American experiences, while women filmmakers like Lina Wertmüller and Jane Campion broke barriers and offered unique viewpoints. These filmmakers brought stories and characters to the forefront that had been previously marginalized, enriching the art of storytelling and broadening the cinematic canon.
The 1970s were a transformative period in the history of cinema. The decade saw a perfect storm of creative freedom, social consciousness, and technical innovation, resulting in a wave of ground breaking films that continue to inspire and influence filmmakers to this day. The movies of the 70s challenged traditional norms, opened doors for diverse voices, and redefined the possibilities of storytelling. It was an era that left an indelible mark on cinema, shaping the industry's trajectory for years to come.
