1970 Movies

The Best Movies of 1970

Movies often serve as windows into specific periods, encapsulating the sentiments and cultural markers of the time in which they are made. The year 1970 was no exception, offering a variety of movies that were not only influential but also touched on multiple facets of life and society during the year. Here's a look at some of the most memorable films released that year.

The Boys in the Band

This movie was groundbreaking in its depiction of a marginalized community. Kenneth Nelson plays Michael, who organizes a birthday party but becomes uneasy when his old roommate Alan (Peter White) makes an unexpected visit. Being part of a gay gathering, Michael is unsure how Alan will react. The film was an important milestone in queer cinema, breaking taboos at a time when representation was scarce. It continues to be significant, providing an honest portrayal of its characters.

Kelly's Heroes

This movie departs from the usual serious tone of World War II films. It tells the story of a group of American soldiers who find out about a hidden treasure located behind enemy lines. Instead of focusing on the war's grim realities, the film adopts a comedic approach. Characters played by Clint Eastwood and Donald Sutherland lead the team, which embarks on an almost impossible mission to steal the gold. The film's blend of humor, military satire, and action scenes set it apart, making it a memorable watch.

Woodstock

The 1969 Woodstock Festival left an indelible mark on both music and social culture. The film documenting the event brings the viewer into the heart of the festival, offering both performance footage and interviews with attendees. It has significant historical value, capturing the moods and sentiments of a generation hungry for change. The festival became a symbol of the broader social shifts taking place, and the film serves as a record of that transformative period.

Scrooge

The movie "Scrooge" is a musical retelling of Charles Dickens' classic story "A Christmas Carol." It revolves around Ebenezer Scrooge, a miserly moneylender who detests the holiday season. On Christmas Eve, Scrooge is visited by a series of ghosts, each presenting him with scenes that force him to reevaluate his life choices. These spectral visits confront him with the dire consequences of his actions, showing him a future devoid of joy if he continues on his current path. Albert Finney's portrayal of Scrooge earned him a Golden Globe, making this version noteworthy. The film holds a special place as it was the first to infuse Dickens' story with musical elements, which offer a refreshing departure from more traditional adaptations.

Patton

"Patton" focuses on General George S. Patton, a commanding officer in the United States Army during World War II. The film skillfully captures the dichotomy of his character. Patton was a military genius, excelling in strategy and warfare, but he was also a subject of controversy due to his temperamental behavior and candid comments. The narrative covers his military career, from triumphs on the battlefield to moments that drew public scrutiny. George C. Scott's portrayal in the lead role stands as one of the defining elements of the film, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor, which he famously declined. The film won seven Oscars in total, adding to its significance in the history of American cinema.

MAS*H

The film "MAS*H" sets its story amid the Korean War but serves as a commentary on the Vietnam War, which was ongoing when the film was made. Following a group of military medical professionals, the narrative defies the conventional depiction of war and military life. These are medics who are technically proficient but who defy military conventions and bureaucracy at every turn. They resort to pranks and humor as coping mechanisms for the horrific circumstances they find themselves in. The film became a cornerstone of American black comedy, offering a critique of war and the systems that enable it. Moreover, it led to a highly successful television series that maintained the film's essence while providing its own unique take on the characters and themes.

The Bird with the Crystal Plumage

Directed by Dario Argento, "The Bird with the Crystal Plumage" falls under the Italian giallo genre, which blends elements of horror and mystery. The film focuses on American writer Sam Dalmas, who becomes an unwilling participant in a police investigation after he witnesses a brutal attack in Rome. As he becomes deeply involved in solving the case, he finds himself in danger. The film showcases the directorial style and visual artistry for which Argento later became famous. It incorporates suspense techniques that pay homage to the works of Alfred Hitchcock but adds a degree of shocking violence unique to Argento's style.

Five Easy Pieces

In "Five Easy Pieces," Jack Nicholson plays Bobby Dupea, a man who has turned his back on his privileged upbringing to work on an oil rig. When he receives news that his father is gravely ill, he returns home, reigniting tension and unresolved issues. The film is particularly notable for Nicholson's compelling performance, which delves into the complexities of a man at war with his past and present. He has to navigate his relationships with his family, his pregnant girlfriend, and his own desires, all while struggling with the responsibility his past and present demand.

The Aristocats

The film "The Aristocats" tells the story of a family of cats set to inherit a fortune from their wealthy owner. When the owner's butler hatches a scheme to remove the feline family from the picture, the cats find themselves stranded far from home. Along their journey back, they befriend various animals who assist them in outsmarting the butler and reclaiming their home and potential inheritance. While it may not be as celebrated as some other Disney classics, "The Aristocats" remains a charming film that has retained its fan base for over five decades. It's particularly well-regarded for its voice acting and jazzy soundtrack. A live-action adaptation is also in development, with Questlove slated to direct.

Little Big Man

"Little Big Man" is a Western film that stands out for its unique portrayal of Native Americans and its blend of humor and tragedy. The film's narrator, Jack Crabb, claims to have been raised by the Cheyenne and recounts his life, which spans significant historical events. One of the film's most striking aspects is its shift in tone, moving effortlessly from comedy to drama as it portrays Native Americans in a far more nuanced and empathetic light than many other films of its time. This shift offered audiences a different perspective on the injustices committed against indigenous communities, contrasting sharply with the often negative portrayal in other Westerns.

1970 Movies & Industry Highlights

As Vietnam War protests and civil rights movements dominated headlines, the film industry responded with a blend of innovation and traditionalism. Let's take a closer look at this intriguing year, including its top-grossing films, noteworthy events, and industry transformations.

Top Grossing Films of 1970

• Love Story: In a year filled with socio-political upheaval, Love Story, distributed by Paramount Pictures, captured the nation's attention and topped the box office with domestic rentals amounting to $50,000,000. The film's romantic tale resonated with audiences and became an instant classic.

• Airport: Coming in second, Airport, distributed by Universal, raked in $44,500,000. This film tapped into the suspense and drama of a high-stakes aviation crisis, proving that action-packed narratives still had a secure place in the industry.

• MAS*H: Fox's MASH* came in third, with a domestic rental income of $30,000,000. The film was as unconventional as it was successful, merging comedy with the grave realities of war, reflecting the sentiments of a nation grappling with the ongoing conflict in Vietnam.

• Other Notable Entries:

  • Patton, a biographical war film, fetched $27,000,000 at the box office.
  • The concert film Woodstock, distributed by Warner Bros., accumulated $16,400,000.
  • Little Big Man, dealing with a Western theme, made $15,000,000.

Noteworthy Events

Career-Ending Moments: On January 9, Larry Fine, known as the second member of The Three Stooges, experienced a significant health issue, putting an end to his career in show business. His departure marked the end of an era for slapstick comedy.

Film Debuts and Soundtracks: On February 11, The Magic Christian made its New York premiere. Peter Sellers and Ringo Starr led the cast, and the film's soundtrack album featured the iconic Badfinger's "Come and Get It," produced by none other than Paul McCartney.

Industry Changes: In a symbolic move indicative of changing times, MGM began selling off its studio back lot property and movie props in Culver City, California. This action signaled a transformation within the industry, as studios adapted to new economic realities.

Industry Transformations: The year 1970 was not only marked by its films but also by technological innovations. The IMAX motion picture projection system made its debut at the Fuji Pavilion, during Expo '70 in Osaka, Japan. This development laid the groundwork for future advancements in film technology that would redefine cinematic viewing in years to come.

Social Impact: The film The Boys in the Band opened in theaters on March 17, directed by William Friedkin. The film was a controversial release for its time, as it portrayed a group of gay men gathering for a birthday party. Its release is often considered a landmark in representing the LGBTQ+ community in mainstream cinema.