10 Forgotten Films of the 1970s
The 1970s were a time of cinematic exploration, and many films from this golden decade have since become ingrained in pop culture—The Godfather, Star Wars, Jaws… the list goes on. But, what about the movies that didn’t make it to the hall of fame? The films that didn’t quite capture the attention of mainstream audiences but still have something extraordinary to offer? Well, lucky for you, I’ve dug through the archives (and the bargain bins) to bring you 10 forgotten gems of the ’70s that deserve another chance to shine.
The Last Detail (1973)
What do you get when you combine Jack Nicholson, an underrated screenplay, and a story about two Navy men escorting a sailor to prison? You get The Last Detail, a movie that showcases Nicholson’s comedic chops before he fully embraced his Joker-esque persona. Directed by Hal Ashby, this dramedy explores the bittersweet relationship between the three men and takes a deeper look at life, freedom, and the unpredictability of human behavior. It’s not the type of film that’ll make you laugh until you cry, but it’s the type of movie that sneaks up on you with its wit and sincerity. Call it the ’70s answer to a buddy road trip film, except with way more existential dread.
Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia (1974)
Sam Peckinpah’s name is usually synonymous with violent Westerns like The Wild Bunch, but Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia proves he could craft darkly comedic tales of moral ambiguity too. The plot revolves around a Mexican bartender hired to track down a man named Alfredo Garcia (you guessed it, he’s dead). What ensues is a bloody, gritty, and off-kilter adventure as Warren Oates, in the lead role, delivers one of his most compelling and weirdly lovable performances. Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia might be one of the most bizarre revenge flicks you’ll ever watch, but if you’re into Peckinpah’s style, this is an underrated gem you shouldn’t miss.
The Long Goodbye (1973)
Robert Altman’s The Long Goodbye is a neo-noir twist on Raymond Chandler’s detective Philip Marlowe, this time brought to life by Elliott Gould. Set in a disillusioned, sun-drenched Los Angeles, the film mixes humor and noir sensibilities in ways that felt unconventional in the ’70s. With its lingering shots, off-kilter plot, and Gould’s laconic performance, it’s a film that doesn’t hand you all the answers but instead draws you into its chaotic web. It’s not your typical detective story—it’s an exploration of the absurdities of life. While it may not be as iconic as other noir adaptations, The Long Goodbye offers a fascinating glimpse into Altman’s unique directorial vision.
The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976)
John Cassavetes was the master of raw, intimate storytelling, and The Killing of a Chinese Bookie is no exception. This film follows Cosmo Vitelli, a strip club owner who gets entangled in a dangerous underworld after a gambling debt goes wrong. What makes this film stand out is its exploration of human vulnerability in a gritty, noir-like setting. Cassavetes’ direction creates an atmosphere that’s both claustrophobic and immersive, making you feel like you’re living in Cosmo’s skin. It may not have received the attention it deserved upon release, but it’s a raw, character-driven thriller that still resonates with those who seek out unconventional cinema.
The Man Who Fell to Earth (1976)
David Bowie’s first major film role as an alien in The Man Who Fell to Earth is the epitome of weird, and that’s precisely why it’s so unforgettable. Directed by Nicolas Roeg, this cult classic explores themes of isolation, alienation, and the dangers of capitalism, all while Bowie struts around in his iconic glam rock persona. It’s a science fiction film, but it’s also much more—bizarre, haunting, and absolutely mesmerizing. Though it wasn’t a hit at the time, The Man Who Fell to Earth has since gained a cult following, and it’s become a must-see for anyone who appreciates unconventional films that challenge the genre.
Sorcerer (1977)
If Jaws made people afraid of the ocean, Sorcerer made audiences afraid of the road—and with good reason. Directed by William Friedkin (who had just given us The French Connection and The Exorcist), Sorcerer follows a group of men who must transport unstable dynamite across treacherous terrain in South America. The film is a tense, gritty survival thriller with some of the most nerve-wracking sequences ever committed to film. Despite its star-studded cast (including Roy Scheider) and high production value, Sorcerer flopped at the box office upon release, overshadowed by the more popular Star Wars. But make no mistake, Sorcerer is a tense masterpiece that deserves to be seen.
The Omega Man (1971)
While Night of the Living Dead redefined the zombie genre, The Omega Man is another apocalyptic tale from the ’70s that often gets overlooked. Starring Charlton Heston as the last surviving human in a world ravaged by a biological plague, the film offers an intriguing mix of survival, action, and eerie sci-fi. The societal breakdown and Heston’s performance create a film that feels ahead of its time—perhaps too ahead, as it never quite found the mainstream audience it deserved. For fans of post-apocalyptic thrillers, The Omega Man is a hidden gem in the genre.
Thieves Like Us (1974)
Another gem from director Robert Altman, Thieves Like Us is a crime drama that doesn’t follow the typical formula. It’s about a group of Depression-era bank robbers who become romantically entangled while on the run. The film is part crime caper, part romance, but it’s Altman’s exploration of the human condition and his ability to bring complex characters to life that really sets it apart. While it didn’t get the recognition it deserved at the time, Thieves Like Us is a great example of Altman’s mastery of ensemble filmmaking and his knack for creating multifaceted characters.
Rollerball (1975)
Rollerball may sound like a cheesy ’70s sports flick, but trust me, it’s much more than that. Set in a dystopian future where a violent sport called Rollerball serves as a metaphor for society’s dark descent into corporate control, the film is a biting critique of capitalism and its dehumanizing effects. James Caan plays the film’s protagonist, Jonathan E., who starts to question his role in the brutal sport. It’s a film that blends sci-fi, action, and social commentary with a healthy dose of roller derby chaos. Though it wasn’t a huge hit, Rollerball is a film that still feels ahead of its time.
The Driver (1978)
Walter Hill’s The Driver is a slick, fast-paced crime thriller that never quite received the love it deserved. Ryan O’Neal plays a mysterious getaway driver caught in a cat-and-mouse game with a relentless cop (Bruce Dern). The film oozes style and tension, with car chases that are still among the best in the genre. If you love gritty, minimalist crime films, The Driver is a must-see, even if it’s been unfairly overlooked in favor of its more famous counterparts. The movie’s stripped-down style and focus on pure, unadulterated action will leave you hooked from start to finish.
