Cult Classic Movies of 70s You Need to Watch

The 1970s was a golden era for cinema, producing a wealth of films that have since become cult classics. These movies didn't necessarily achieve blockbuster success upon their initial release but gained a dedicated following over time. They were marked by their unique storytelling, unconventional characters, and often controversial themes. In this article, we’ll explore 15 cult classic movies from the 1970s, ranked according to their Tomatometer scores, and delve into what makes them enduring staples in film history.

1. A Clockwork Orange (1971) - Tomatometer: 87%

Stanley Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange is a disturbing yet captivating exploration of violence, free will, and societal control. Based on Anthony Burgess’s novel, the film follows Alex DeLarge, a delinquent with a penchant for ultra-violence, who undergoes an experimental aversion therapy. The movie’s unsettling themes, coupled with its avant-garde style, cemented its place in cinematic history. Despite being banned in several countries upon release, A Clockwork Orange has since been recognized as a masterpiece, inspiring countless discussions on morality and the human condition.

2. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) - Tomatometer: 78%

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is perhaps the epitome of a cult classic. Directed by Jim Sharman, this film is a bizarre and campy musical that became a cultural phenomenon. The story of a young couple who stumbles upon a mansion full of eccentric characters led by the charismatic Dr. Frank-N-Furter has captivated audiences for decades. The movie’s interactive midnight screenings have kept it alive in popular culture, making it one of the longest-running theatrical releases in history.

3. Eraserhead (1977) - Tomatometer: 90%

David Lynch’s debut feature, Eraserhead, is a surrealist nightmare that defies conventional interpretation. The film’s eerie atmosphere, disturbing imagery, and haunting sound design have made it a favorite among fans of experimental cinema. Though it was initially met with mixed reviews, Eraserhead has since been hailed as a masterpiece of the horror genre and a quintessential midnight movie.

4. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) - Tomatometer: 89%

Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a low-budget horror film that became one of the most influential movies in the genre. The story of a group of friends who fall prey to a family of cannibals in rural Texas is as terrifying today as it was in 1974. The film’s gritty, documentary-like style and relentless tension have earned it a permanent place in horror history, influencing countless films and filmmakers.

5. Halloween (1978) - Tomatometer: 96%

John Carpenter’s Halloween is a landmark in horror cinema, often credited with popularizing the slasher genre. The story of Michael Myers, a masked killer who escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown to terrorize teenagers, is a masterclass in suspense. Carpenter’s direction, along with the iconic score he composed, created a chilling atmosphere that has made Halloween a Halloween staple.

6. Suspiria (1977) - Tomatometer: 94%

Dario Argento’s Suspiria is a visually stunning horror film that has become a cult favorite for its striking cinematography and intense atmosphere. The film follows an American ballet student who enrolls in a prestigious German dance academy, only to discover that it is run by a coven of witches. The use of vibrant colors, eerie sound design, and a haunting score by the band Goblin have made Suspiria a favorite among horror aficionados.

7. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975) - Tomatometer: 97%

Comedy meets the medieval in Monty Python and the Holy Grail, a film that redefined parody in cinema. Directed by Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones, this film is a hilarious retelling of King Arthur's quest to find the Holy Grail. The absurd humor, memorable quotes, and iconic scenes have made it a beloved classic among comedy fans. Its influence can be seen in countless comedies that followed, and it remains a staple of pop culture.

8. The Wicker Man (1973) - Tomatometer: 89%

The Wicker Man, directed by Robin Hardy, is a British horror film that blends folk traditions with psychological horror. The story follows a devoutly Christian police officer investigating the disappearance of a young girl on a remote Scottish island, only to uncover the islanders' disturbing pagan rituals. The film's unsettling atmosphere and shocking conclusion have earned it a reputation as one of the greatest horror films ever made.

9. The Warriors (1979) - Tomatometer: 88%

Walter Hill’s The Warriors is a gritty, stylized action film set in a dystopian New York City. The film follows a street gang trying to make their way back to their home turf after being framed for the murder of a rival gang leader. The movie’s depiction of urban decay, its distinctive costumes, and its portrayal of gang culture have made it a cult favorite, particularly among fans of 1970s exploitation cinema.

10. Mad Max (1979) - Tomatometer: 90%

Before becoming a global franchise, Mad Max was a low-budget Australian film that took the world by storm. Directed by George Miller, the film is set in a post-apocalyptic future where society has collapsed, and lawlessness reigns. Mel Gibson stars as Max Rockatansky, a police officer seeking revenge on a gang of bikers who murdered his family. The film’s intense action scenes, innovative stunts, and bleak vision of the future have made it a cornerstone of the action genre.

11. Dawn of the Dead (1978) - Tomatometer: 93%

George A. Romero’s Dawn of the Dead is a seminal zombie film that combines social commentary with gore and horror. The film takes place in a shopping mall overrun by zombies and explores themes of consumerism and societal decay. Dawn of the Dead is not only a landmark in horror but also a critical examination of modern society, making it a favorite among both horror fans and film scholars.

12. Chinatown (1974) - Tomatometer: 99%

Roman Polanski’s Chinatown is a neo-noir masterpiece that has gained a cult following for its intricate plot, stunning cinematography, and unforgettable performances. Jack Nicholson stars as private investigator J.J. Gittes, who becomes embroiled in a complex web of corruption and deceit in 1930s Los Angeles. The film’s dark, atmospheric tone and its exploration of moral ambiguity have made it one of the most revered films of the 1970s.

13. Phantom of the Paradise (1974) - Tomatometer: 85%

Brian De Palma’s Phantom of the Paradise is a rock musical that blends elements of Phantom of the Opera, Faust, and The Picture of Dorian Gray into a unique cinematic experience. The film tells the story of a disfigured composer who seeks revenge on a music producer who stole his work. Though it was not a commercial success, Phantom of the Paradise has since gained a cult following for its satirical take on the music industry and its eclectic soundtrack.

14. Enter the Dragon (1973) - Tomatometer: 95%

Bruce Lee became a global icon with Enter the Dragon, a martial arts film that has since become a cornerstone of the genre. Directed by Robert Clouse, the film follows Lee as he enters a martial arts tournament to uncover the criminal activities of a notorious drug lord. The movie’s breathtaking fight scenes, Lee’s charismatic performance, and its blend of Eastern and Western cinematic elements have made it one of the most influential martial arts films ever made.

15. Harold and Maude (1971) - Tomatometer: 87%

Hal Ashby’s Harold and Maude is a dark comedy that tells the unconventional love story between a death-obsessed young man and a vivacious elderly woman. The film’s offbeat humor, existential themes, and charming performances by Bud Cort and Ruth Gordon have made it a cult classic. Though it was initially met with mixed reviews, Harold and Maude has since been recognized as a unique and touching exploration of life, death, and love.

Why These Movies Endure as Cult Classics

The 1970s was a time of experimentation in cinema, with filmmakers pushing the boundaries of what was possible on screen. Many of the movies listed above were not mainstream hits upon their release, but they resonated with audiences who were looking for something different from the typical Hollywood fare. These films often dealt with taboo subjects, explored new cinematic techniques, and challenged the status quo, which led to their enduring appeal.

For instance, A Clockwork Orange and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre shocked audiences with their graphic content, but their deeper themes and unique styles kept viewers coming back for more. The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Eraserhead, on the other hand, embraced the weird and the surreal, creating cinematic experiences that were unlike anything else at the time.

Additionally, many of these films found new life through home video releases, midnight screenings, and word-of-mouth recommendations. The Rocky Horror Picture Show is perhaps the best example of this, as its cult following grew primarily through interactive midnight screenings, where audience members would dress up, sing along, and throw props at the screen. This communal experience turned the movie into more than just a film; it became a cultural event.

Another reason these movies have endured is their influence on future generations of filmmakers and artists. Monty Python and the Holy Grail and The Warriors have inspired countless parodies, homages, and references in other media. Directors like Quentin Tarantino and Guillermo del Toro have cited films like Dawn of the Dead and Suspiria as major influences on their work, further solidifying these movies’ place in cinematic history.

Conclusion

The cult classic movies of the 1970s are more than just films; they are cultural touchstones that continue to influence and inspire. Whether through their innovative storytelling, groundbreaking visuals, or subversive themes, these movies have carved out a special place in the hearts of cinephiles around the world. With their dedicated fanbases and ongoing influence on pop culture, these films prove that even if a movie doesn’t achieve immediate success, it can still leave an indelible mark on the world.

So, whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or a newcomer looking to explore the best of 1970s cinema, these 15 cult classics offer a fascinating glimpse into a transformative decade of filmmaking. Each film, with its unique voice and vision, continues to captivate audiences, proving that true art endures the test of time.