The 1970s produced some of the most iconic films in cinematic history, with groundbreaking storytelling, unforgettable performances, and bold artistic choices. However, not every hit from the decade has stood the test of time. Some of the most popular movies of the era now feel outdated, whether due to shifting cultural values, problematic themes, or stylistic choices that no longer resonate with modern audiences. Let’s take a look at 12 beloved ’70s movies that may have been celebrated back then but haven’t aged quite as gracefully.
1. “Love Story” (1970)
“Love Story” was the quintessential romantic tearjerker of the early ’70s, telling the tragic tale of Oliver and Jenny, two star-crossed lovers played by Ryan O’Neal and Ali MacGraw. Its tagline, “Love means never having to say you’re sorry,” became an instant cultural catchphrase, and the film earned multiple Oscar nominations.
However, its overly melodramatic tone and simplistic portrayal of love and loss feel dated today. Critics now point out that the characters lack depth, and the story’s emotional manipulation feels heavy-handed. While it remains a nostalgic favorite for some, “Love Story” struggles to connect with newer generations looking for more nuanced portrayals of relationships.
2. “Saturday Night Fever” (1977)
“Saturday Night Fever” defined the disco era, with John Travolta’s electrifying performance as Tony Manero and a legendary soundtrack by the Bee Gees. It captured the cultural moment perfectly and became a box office sensation.
But rewatching the film today reveals a darker side, with its casual misogyny, problematic treatment of female characters, and scenes of sexual assault that feel deeply uncomfortable. While the dance sequences and music still shine, the film’s tone and themes make it harder to appreciate in the same way audiences did in the ’70s.
3. “Animal House” (1978)
Considered one of the greatest comedies of all time, “Animal House” brought fraternity hijinks to the big screen in a way that felt fresh and rebellious. The antics of John Belushi’s Bluto Blutarsky and his Delta Tau Chi brothers became legendary, and the film helped establish the raunchy college comedy genre.
However, the humor that felt edgy and irreverent in the ’70s now comes across as offensive and outdated. Scenes involving predatory behavior and the treatment of women as props have drawn criticism, making it harder to laugh at the antics without cringing. While it’s still a classic in comedy history, “Animal House” hasn’t aged well in the era of more thoughtful comedy.
4. “The Towering Inferno” (1974)
Disaster movies were all the rage in the ’70s, and “The Towering Inferno” was one of the most successful. Starring Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, and Faye Dunaway, the film followed the dramatic rescue efforts during a massive skyscraper fire. It was a technical marvel for its time, earning Oscars for cinematography and special effects.
Today, the film feels overly long and overly serious, with melodramatic performances and a slow pace that doesn’t hold up to modern action standards. While it’s still an impressive feat of filmmaking for its era, its impact has been dulled by decades of more dynamic disaster films.
5. “Billy Jack” (1971)
“Billy Jack” became a cultural phenomenon with its blend of counterculture themes, martial arts action, and social commentary. Tom Laughlin’s titular character, a half-Native American Vietnam veteran fighting for justice, was a hero to audiences who resonated with his anti-establishment message.
However, the film’s heavy-handed storytelling and preachy tone make it feel dated today. Its portrayal of Native American culture has also been criticized for being inauthentic and reductive. While “Billy Jack” captured the spirit of its time, its flaws are more apparent when revisited decades later.
6. “Grease” (1978)
“Grease” is one of the most beloved musicals of all time, with its infectious songs and larger-than-life performances by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. The story of bad-boy Danny and good-girl Sandy remains iconic, and the film is still celebrated for its charm and energy.
However, its message about changing yourself to fit in—particularly Sandy’s transformation at the end—has been criticized as problematic. Some of the humor and gender dynamics also feel outdated, making it harder to embrace the film wholeheartedly without acknowledging its flaws.
7. “Death Wish” (1974)
“Death Wish” struck a nerve in the ’70s with its tale of a mild-mannered man, played by Charles Bronson, turning into a vigilante after his family is attacked. The film resonated with audiences during a time of rising crime rates, becoming a cultural touchstone for its exploration of justice and revenge.
In today’s context, the film’s glorification of vigilantism and its graphic depiction of violence feel unsettling. Its simplistic approach to complex issues like crime and justice has also drawn criticism, making it more controversial than compelling for modern viewers.
8. “Cabaret” (1972)
“Cabaret” is often hailed as one of the best musicals ever made, with Liza Minnelli’s dazzling performance as Sally Bowles and its exploration of life in pre-WWII Berlin. The film’s music, style, and dark themes captivated audiences and earned multiple Academy Awards.
However, its portrayal of certain characters and relationships can feel outdated to modern audiences, particularly in its handling of LGBTQ+ themes. While still a masterpiece, “Cabaret” requires a more critical lens when revisiting its social and cultural context.
9. “Deliverance” (1972)
“Deliverance” was a gritty, intense thriller that shocked audiences with its brutal depiction of a canoe trip gone wrong. The performances, particularly by Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds, were widely praised, and the film became a cultural phenomenon.
Despite its critical acclaim, the film’s more infamous scenes have made it increasingly difficult to watch. Its exploration of masculinity and survival feels dated, and the film’s legacy is now more tied to its shock value than its storytelling.
10. “The Exorcist” (1973)
“The Exorcist” is still considered one of the greatest horror films of all time, and its impact on the genre is undeniable. The story of a young girl possessed by a demon terrified audiences and became a box office smash.
While its horror elements still hold up, some of the film’s themes and characterizations feel dated. Its portrayal of mental illness and religious overtones have drawn criticism, and its slower pacing can be a challenge for modern audiences used to more dynamic storytelling.
11. “Airport” (1970)
“Airport” kicked off the disaster movie craze, with its star-studded cast and high-stakes drama set aboard a troubled flight. It was a massive hit, earning multiple Oscar nominations and inspiring several sequels.
But its overly melodramatic tone and dated special effects make it feel more like a parody than a thriller today. While it set the stage for countless disaster films, “Airport” has aged into something closer to camp than classic.
12. “The Goodbye Girl” (1977)
“The Goodbye Girl” was a romantic comedy-drama that won Richard Dreyfuss an Oscar and charmed audiences with its witty dialogue and heartfelt performances. Its story of an unlikely romance between a struggling actor and a single mom felt fresh and engaging in the ’70s.
However, some of the gender dynamics and character interactions feel outdated today. The film’s charm hasn’t completely faded, but its cultural relevance has diminished, leaving it as more of a nostalgic relic than a timeless rom-com.
The 1970s gave us incredible films that shaped cinema, but not every hit from the decade can hold up to the scrutiny of modern audiences. These 12 movies remind us that even the biggest cultural phenomena can feel out of step with changing values and expectations. Which of these films do you remember seeing for the first time?
