The 1970s marked a revolutionary period in cinema history, characterized by bold filmmakers who fearlessly challenged social and political norms through outrageous and often campy films. This decade, heralded as the New Hollywood era, shifted the power dynamics in filmmaking, placing creative control into the hands of visionary directors. As a result, audiences were treated to a plethora of unconventional, subversive, and delightfully trashy films that ultimately defined a generation. From shocking horrors with NC-17 or X ratings to avant-garde B-movies that danced on the edge of good taste, this was a time when the cinematic landscape was truly limitless, and creativity knew no bounds.

Some of the most talented filmmakers of the 1970s embraced the absurdity of trashy fun by crafting films that were initially panned but have since garnered a loyal following as cherished cult classics. Reflecting the surreal and psychedelic wave of cultural change initiated by the tumultuous 1960s, these films encapsulated the era’s spirit. Although some offerings were so unconventional they alienated certain audiences, others found joy and entertainment in the sheer ridiculousness and excitement these films provided, leading to a renaissance of cult cinema that continues to influence filmmakers today.

10 Zardoz (1974)

Experience the Surreal World of Zardoz, Directed by John Boorman

Set in a dystopian future, Zardoz features Sean Connery as Zed, an exterminator who uncovers the truth behind the god-like figure Zardoz that governs his society. This 1974 science fiction film delves into themes of class struggle and human evolution through a bizarre and complex lens.

Director

John Boorman

Release Date

February 6, 1974

Writers

John Boorman

Cast

Sean Connery , Charlotte Rampling , Sara Kestelman , John Alderton , Sally Anne Newton , Niall Buggy , Bosco Hogan , Jessica Swift

Main Genre

Sci-Fi

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While Sean Connery is typically associated with his suave portrayal of James Bond from the 1960s, he ventured into the realm of the surreal with Zardoz. This film features Connery in a strikingly minimal costume, famously a red mankini, as he navigates a post-apocalyptic narrative. Zardoz tells the story of Zed (Connery), who exists among stone-worshipping barbarians while secretly cultivating crops for an elite group known as the Eternals. The film’s outrageous premise and visual style contribute to its status as a unique entry in the realm of cult cinema.

As Zed’s journey unfolds, he becomes increasingly entangled in the conflict between two factions, leading to a climactic, action-packed finale filled with gunfire and chaos. Despite its initial poor reception, Zardoz has since been recognized as an undervalued cult classic, celebrated for its audacious themes, eccentric aesthetics, and unforgettable performances. With its daring concept, bizarre fashion choices, and thought-provoking narrative, Zardoz remains a thrilling ride through the eccentricities of 1970s cinema.

9 Lisztomania (1975)

Experience the Eccentric Genius of Lisztomania, Directed by Ken Russell

The 1970s was not only a golden era for American filmmakers like Martin Scorsese and Francis Ford Coppola but also a time of innovative experimentation in British cinema. One of the most distinctive voices of this period was Ken Russell, known for his audacious and visually striking biographical films. In his 1975 feature Lisztomania, Russell explored the life of the legendary composer Franz Liszt through a lens of flamboyance and eccentricity.

Lisztomania starred Roger Daltrey from The Who, who portrayed the titular character in a film that interwove the musical genius of Liszt with extravagant imagery, sexual escapades, and even a vampiric subplot. The film’s score, composed by Rick Wakeman, adds a progressive rock flair that elevates its surreal narrative. Featuring memorable cameos from rock icons like Ringo Starr as the Pope, Lisztomania stands out as a wild cinematic experience that encapsulates the spirit of 1970s rock culture.

8 Foxy Brown (1974)

Unleash the Vengeance in Foxy Brown, Directed by Jack Hill

Foxy Brown follows a determined woman seeking vengeance against the mobsters responsible for her boyfriend’s murder. Going undercover as a high-class sex worker, she navigates the criminal underworld to exact her own brand of justice.

Director

Jack Hill

Release Date

April 5, 1974

Writers

Jack Hill

Cast

Pam Grier , Antonio Fargas , Peter Brown , Terry Carter , Kathryn Loder , Harry Holcombe , Conrad Bachmann , Jack Bernardi , Juanita Brown , Russ Grieve , H.B. Haggerty , Kimberly Hyde , Edward Knight , Sid Haig , Sally Ann Stroud , Bob Minor , Tony Giorgio , Fred Lerner , Judith Cassmore , Boyd ‘Red’ Morgan , Robert Nadder , Brenda Venus , Jon Cedar , Esther Sutherland , Mary Foran , Jeannie Epper , Stephanie Epper , Peaches Jones , Helen Boll , Rodney Grier , Roydon Clark , Don Gazzaniga , Jay Fletcher

Character(s)

Foxy Brown , Link Brown , Steve Elias , Michael Anderson , Katherine Wall , Judge Fred Fenton , Roy , Tedesco , Claudia , George , Brandi , Jennifer , Adams , Hays , Deb , Oscar , Eddie , Bunyan , Vicki , Slauson , Chemist , Arabella , Dr. Chase , Nurse Crockett , Bartender , Bobbie , Jackie , Barbara , Large Lady , Dawes , Sly , O’Brien , Taco Cook

Runtime

94 Minutes

Expand

Following the trailblazing Civil Rights movement of the 1960s, Black filmmakers in the 1970s sought to reclaim their representation through the lens of Blaxploitation cinema. This genre not only highlighted the African-American experience but also infused a sense of style and empowerment into its narratives. A quintessential example is Foxy Brown, an exhilarating action film featuring the incredible Pam Grier in a powerful role.

Foxy Brown offered a fresh, female-centric take on the Blaxploitation genre, intertwining themes of empowerment and sexuality to create an engaging and progressive cinematic experience. Despite facing controversy, including being seized in the UK under the Obscene Publications Act, Foxy Brown has solidified its status as a classic in its genre. This film not only inspired Quentin Tarantino to cast Pam Grier in his tribute to Blaxploitation, Jackie Brown, but also left an indelible mark on the landscape of American cinema.

7 The Warriors (1979)

Fight for Survival in The Warriors, Directed by Walter Hill

Directed by Walter Hill and based on the 1965 novel of the same name by Sol Yurick, The Warriors is a 1979 Thriller and Action release. The plot sees a gang that must travel through rival territory to make it home safe after being framed for murder.

Director

Walter Hill

Release Date

February 9, 1979

Studio(s)

Paramount Pictures

Distributor(s)

Paramount Pictures

Writers

Walter Hill , David Shaber

Cast

David Harris , Brian Tyler , Dorsey Wright , James Remar , Michael Beck

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