The 1970s saw the release of many iconic and successful films, but what were the highest grossing films of 70s ?
Before you ask Star Wars was a 70s film, still baffles me to this day too!
When you look down the list I bet you would watch them right now in a heartbeat?
Ok, maybe not Grease, which has come under some scrutiny in recent times.
It was a bad decade for fashion, but not film!
Highest grossing films of 70s
While box office figures can vary based on inflation adjustments and different sources, we have put together the films that defined the 70s.
Here are some of the highest-grossing films of the 1970s, listed in no particular order:
Star Wars (1977) – Directed by George Lucas, “Star Wars” (later retitled “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope”) became a massive cultural phenomenon and one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
Jaws (1975) – Directed by Steven Spielberg, “Jaws” was a groundbreaking thriller that became a major hit, setting the standard for summer blockbusters.
The Exorcist (1973) – Directed by William Friedkin, this horror film about demonic possession was a box office sensation and a cultural phenomenon.
The Godfather (1972) – Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, “The Godfather” is considered one of the greatest films ever made and was a commercial success, leading to sequels in the following years.
Rocky (1976) – Written by and starring Sylvester Stallone, “Rocky” was a surprise hit and went on to spawn a successful franchise.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest (1975) – Directed by Milos Forman, this adaptation of Ken Kesey’s novel won multiple Academy Awards and was a critical and commercial success.
Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) – Another Spielberg classic, this science fiction film about first contact with aliens performed well at the box office.
The Towering Inferno (1974) – A disaster film directed by John Guillermin and Irwin Allen, featuring an ensemble cast, including Steve McQueen and Paul Newman, it was a major success.
Grease (1978) – The musical film starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John was a cultural phenomenon and a box office hit.
Superman (1978) – Directed by Richard Donner, this superhero film starring Christopher Reeve was a major success and helped pave the way for future superhero movies.
Related: HIGHEST GROSSING FILMS OF 80s