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Ready to try naming the IMDB Most Popular Movies By Year – Choose Letter or IMDB Most Popular Votes By Year – Choose Year for a year in the 1970’s? You’ll need to know these films, the top 10 of the 1970’s in terms of total IMDB votes.
The Godfather (1972) – 1,998,720 votes
*The Godfather* (1972), directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is often hailed as one of the greatest films of all time. This cinematic masterpiece follows the powerful Corleone family in postwar America, centering on Michael Corleone’s (Al Pacino) reluctant rise to power. With unforgettable performances from Marlon Brando and Al Pacino, intricate storytelling, and deep themes of loyalty and power, *The Godfather* has become iconic. Its influence on the crime genre and broader cinema is unparalleled.
Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope (1977) – 1,442,137 votes
George Lucas’s *Star Wars: A New Hope* (1977) revolutionized cinema with its groundbreaking effects and storytelling. Following young Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill), who embarks on a journey to become a Jedi and save the galaxy from the Empire, the film created a universe that captivated audiences. With memorable characters like Darth Vader, Princess Leia, and Han Solo, *A New Hope* became a cultural phenomenon that launched one of the biggest franchises in film history.
The Godfather Part II (1974) – 1,355,988 votes
*The Godfather Part II* (1974) is an equally lauded sequel to *The Godfather*, directed again by Francis Ford Coppola. The film intertwines the story of young Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro) with the challenges faced by his son, Michael (Al Pacino), as he expands the family’s empire. Known for its complex narrative and layered performances, the film is widely considered one of the best sequels ever made, deepening the saga’s exploration of power and corruption.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975) – 1,066,999 votes
*One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest* (1975), directed by Milos Forman, stars Jack Nicholson as Randle McMurphy, a rebellious patient in a mental institution. His clash with the authoritarian Nurse Ratched (Louise Fletcher) symbolizes the fight against oppression. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and is celebrated for its powerful performances and social commentary on conformity and individuality, resonating with audiences long after its release.
Alien (1979) – 943,817 votes
Ridley Scott’s *Alien* (1979) redefined the sci-fi horror genre with its intense atmosphere and revolutionary creature design by H.R. Giger. Starring Sigourney Weaver as the resilient Ellen Ripley, the film follows a spaceship crew who encounter a deadly alien lifeform. Known for its suspense, stunning visuals, and psychological horror, *Alien* remains a landmark in both sci-fi and horror, inspiring countless sequels and spin-offs while building a legacy of its own.
Taxi Driver (1976) – 914,059 votes
Directed by Martin Scorsese, *Taxi Driver* (1976) is a gripping psychological drama that explores isolation and urban decay. Robert De Niro stars as Travis Bickle, a mentally unstable taxi driver in New York City who becomes increasingly disillusioned. The film’s haunting portrayal of loneliness, combined with De Niro’s iconic line, “You talkin’ to me?” has made *Taxi Driver* a cornerstone of American cinema, influencing film narratives and character studies for generations.
A Clockwork Orange (1971) – 877,123 votes
Stanley Kubrick’s *A Clockwork Orange* (1971) is a provocative exploration of free will and social control. Set in a dystopian future, it follows Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell), a delinquent who undergoes psychological conditioning. Known for its unsettling themes, visual style, and satirical elements, the film’s commentary on violence and conformity stirred both acclaim and controversy. Kubrick’s unique approach cemented its place as one of the most daring films of the 1970s.
Apocalypse Now (1979) – 706,042 votes
Francis Ford Coppola’s *Apocalypse Now* (1979) is a visceral war epic set during the Vietnam War. Loosely based on Joseph Conrad’s *Heart of Darkness*, it follows Captain Willard (Martin Sheen) on a mission to confront the rogue Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando). The film’s surreal visuals and intense performances capture the horrors of war and its psychological toll, making it one of the most powerful anti-war films ever made, acclaimed for its ambition and haunting impact.
Jaws (1975) – 655,565 votes
Directed by Steven Spielberg, *Jaws* (1975) is a suspenseful thriller that defined the summer blockbuster. The story of a great white shark terrorizing a small coastal town kept audiences on edge and changed Hollywood forever. Known for its iconic score by John Williams and memorable line “You’re gonna need a bigger boat,” *Jaws* became a cultural phenomenon, making Spielberg a household name and creating one of the most thrilling films of all time.
Rocky (1976) – 624,796 votes
*Rocky* (1976), written by and starring Sylvester Stallone, tells the story of a small-time boxer given a shot at the heavyweight title. Directed by John G. Avildsen, the film is a heartwarming underdog story that won the Academy Award for Best Picture. Rocky Balboa’s journey of perseverance and resilience resonates with audiences worldwide, and the film’s training montage and “Gonna Fly Now” theme have become iconic. *Rocky* inspired a franchise and became a symbol of hope and determination.
