Unforgettable 1970s Historical Films That Bring the Past to Life

The 1970s were a golden era for cinema, with bold directors pushing boundaries and telling stories that still resonate today. Historical films from this decade stand out for their ability to transport us to different times, blending raw emotion, gripping narratives, and stunning visuals.

These movies didn’t just entertain—they captured the spirit of their settings, from war-torn battlefields to royal courts. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best historical films from the 1970s, each offering a unique window into the past.

20. ‘The Last Picture Show’ (1971)

Set in a fading Texas town during the early 1950s, this film follows a group of teenagers navigating love, loss, and the slow decline of their community. Its black-and-white visuals and raw performances create a haunting portrait of a bygone era.

The story centers on two friends, Sonny and Duane, as they grapple with small-town life and personal dreams. Director Peter Bogdanovich crafts a nostalgic yet unflinching look at youth and change, with standout performances from Jeff Bridges and Cybill Shepherd.

19. ‘Cabaret’ (1972)

This musical drama unfolds in 1930s Berlin, where the vibrant nightlife clashes with the rise of Nazism. Liza Minnelli shines as Sally Bowles, a cabaret performer caught in a world of decadence and looming danger.

The film weaves personal stories with the growing political tension, using unforgettable musical numbers to reflect the era’s chaos. Director Bob Fosse creates a dazzling yet unsettling atmosphere, making this a powerful reflection of a city on the brink.

18. ‘Patton’ (1970)

This biographical epic follows General George S. Patton during World War II, showcasing his brilliance and flaws as a military leader. George C. Scott delivers a commanding performance as the complex, controversial figure.

The film balances intense battle scenes with Patton’s personal struggles, offering a deep dive into his relentless drive. Its honest portrayal of leadership and war earned it multiple Oscars, including Best Picture.

17. ‘The Conformist’ (1970)

Set in 1930s Italy, this stylish drama follows a man tasked with assassinating his former professor under Mussolini’s regime. Jean-Louis Trintignant stars as a conflicted figure torn between duty and morality.

Director Bernardo Bertolucci uses striking visuals and a tense narrative to explore fascism’s grip on society. The film’s lush cinematography and psychological depth make it a haunting look at loyalty and betrayal.

16. ‘The Emigrants’ (1971)

This Swedish drama traces a group of 19th-century farmers leaving their homeland for a new life in America. Max von Sydow and Liv Ullmann lead a heartfelt story of struggle and hope.

The film captures the harsh realities of migration, from grueling journeys to cultural clashes. Its quiet power and authentic performances make it a moving tribute to those who sought a better future.

15. ‘Aguirre, the Wrath of God’ (1972)

This gripping tale follows a 16th-century Spanish conquistador, played by Klaus Kinski, on a doomed quest for El Dorado. Set in the Amazon jungle, it’s a descent into madness and obsession.

Director Werner Herzog crafts a visceral experience, with stunning landscapes and raw emotion. Kinski’s intense performance anchors this chilling exploration of ambition and human folly.

14. ‘The Man Who Would Be King’ (1975)

This adventure follows two British soldiers, played by Sean Connery and Michael Caine, who set out to become kings of a remote region in 19th-century Afghanistan. Their friendship drives the story, but greed leads to tragedy.

John Huston directs with a mix of humor and drama, capturing the era’s colonial ambitions. The chemistry between the leads and the film’s epic scope make it a thrilling historical ride.

13. ‘All the President’s Men’ (1976)

This political thriller follows journalists Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein, portrayed by Robert Redford and Dustin Hoffman, as they uncover the Watergate scandal. Set in the early 1970s, it’s a tense look at truth and power.

Director Alan J. Pakula keeps the focus on the reporters’ dogged investigation, blending suspense with real-world stakes. The film’s sharp dialogue and gripping pace make it a standout.

12. ‘The Duellists’ (1977)

Ridley Scott’s directorial debut follows two Napoleonic-era soldiers locked in a decades-long feud over a petty dispute. Keith Carradine and Harvey Keitel deliver intense performances in this tale of honor and obsession.

The film’s lush visuals and tightly wound narrative capture the era’s military culture. Its focus on personal rivalry against a historical backdrop makes it a unique gem.

11. ‘Barry Lyndon’ (1975)

Stanley Kubrick’s lavish epic follows an 18th-century Irish rogue, played by Ryan O’Neal, as he schemes his way through European society. The film’s meticulous detail brings the period to life.

Every frame is a visual masterpiece, with candlelit scenes and sweeping landscapes. Kubrick’s blend of dark humor and tragedy makes this a captivating study of ambition and fate.

10. ‘The Message’ (1976)

This epic portrays the life of the Prophet Muhammad and the rise of Islam in 7th-century Arabia, with Anthony Quinn as a key figure. Respectful of Islamic traditions, it avoids depicting Muhammad directly.

Director Moustapha Akkad delivers a grand yet sensitive narrative, focusing on faith and struggle. The film’s powerful performances and historical scope make it a compelling watch.

9. ‘The Deer Hunter’ (1978)

This intense drama follows a group of friends from a small American town impacted by the Vietnam War. Robert De Niro and Christopher Walken lead a stellar cast in this emotional journey.

The film contrasts quiet hometown life with the war’s brutal realities, including the infamous Russian roulette scenes. Its raw depiction of trauma and friendship is unforgettable.

8. ‘Days of Heaven’ (1978)

Set in the early 20th-century American Midwest, this visually stunning film follows a young couple, played by Richard Gere and Brooke Adams, who flee to a Texas farm. Their love story unfolds amid betrayal and hardship.

Terrence Malick’s poetic direction and breathtaking cinematography elevate the simple plot. The film’s quiet beauty and emotional weight make it a timeless historical piece.

7. ‘Tora! Tora! Tora!’ (1970)

This war epic recreates the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack from both American and Japanese perspectives. With a focus on historical accuracy, it blends intense action with political drama.

The film’s large-scale battle sequences and detailed storytelling bring the event to life. Its balanced approach offers a gripping look at a pivotal moment in history.

6. ‘The Godfather’ (1972)

This iconic crime saga follows the Corleone family, led by Marlon Brando, in 1940s New York. While not a traditional historical film, it vividly captures the era’s underworld and immigrant experience.

Francis Ford Coppola’s masterful direction and the cast’s powerhouse performances create a gripping tale of power and loyalty. Its cultural impact remains unmatched.

5. ‘The Godfather Part II’ (1974)

Expanding on the first film, this sequel traces the Corleone family’s rise and fall, with Robert De Niro as a young Vito in early 20th-century America. It weaves past and present seamlessly.

The film’s rich storytelling and emotional depth explore ambition and betrayal. Its historical backdrop and stellar performances make it a worthy follow-up.

4. ‘Paper Moon’ (1973)

This charming dramedy follows a conman and a young girl, possibly his daughter, played by Ryan and Tatum O’Neal, as they hustle through the 1930s Great Depression. Their bond drives the story.

Peter Bogdanovich blends humor and heart, capturing the era’s struggles. Tatum’s Oscar-winning performance and the film’s nostalgic tone make it a delight.

3. ‘Apocalypse Now’ (1979)

Set during the Vietnam War, this epic follows a soldier, played by Martin Sheen, on a mission to assassinate a rogue colonel. Francis Ford Coppola crafts a surreal journey into war’s darkness.

The film’s intense visuals and psychological depth capture the era’s chaos. Its exploration of morality and madness remains a cinematic milestone.

2. ‘Chinatown’ (1974)

This neo-noir thriller, set in 1930s Los Angeles, follows private eye Jake Gittes, played by Jack Nicholson, as he uncovers corruption tied to the city’s water supply. The story spirals into dark territory.

Roman Polanski’s taut direction and sharp script create a gripping mystery. The film’s historical setting and stellar performances make it a classic.

1. ‘A Bridge Too Far’ (1977)

This war epic depicts the failed Allied attempt to capture key bridges during World War II’s Operation Market Garden. With a star-studded cast, including Sean Connery and Anthony Hopkins, it’s a sweeping tale of ambition and loss.

The film’s massive battle scenes and focus on strategy bring history to life. Its unflinching look at war’s cost makes it a powerful historical drama.

Which historical film from the 1970s is your favorite, or did we miss one you love? Share your thoughts in the comments!