10 movies about the '70s that make you feel like you were there

When I heard of the new Tarantino movie coming out, I honestly felt excited. It doesn’t often happen that Hollywood blesses us with a film set in the ’70s. Especially coming from someone like Tarantino, I expected to be wowed by everything, especially the costumes and the set design (hello $96 million budget). But I left the cinema a bit unsatisfied. Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed it, but something was missing. At times I could almost forget that the movie was set in 1969. It just seemed so contemporary?

This made me naturally think of my favourite movies set in the ’60s and ’70s. Some are just good, some have a great aesthetic, and some are just classics. So here’s a list of what every 1970’s fan should tick off their watchlist.

And what are your favourite movies set in 1970’s?

Saturday Night Fever (a classic)

It can be easily said that Saturday Night Fever is the movie that heavily popularised disco music and culture around the world. Most notably, John Travolta’s moves on the iconic illuminated dance floor in the white suit helped in making the movie a must-watch classic. Aside from the iconic scenes, Saturday Night Fever is a drama. It tells the story of a working-class young man who escapes to his local discotheque during the weekends. The discotheque helps him in coping with the harsh realities of his own life.

The Runaways (a good story)

The movie is based on the real story of the band, as told by the lead singer Cherie Currie. The Runaways follows the story of young Cherie who had a desperate ambition to become a rock star. In addition to the excellent story plot, the movie has been perfectly cast with Kristen Stewart as Joan Jett and Dakota Fanning as Cherie. I guarantee that the film will make you want to start a girl band and leave your shitty day job the same day.

The Boat That Rocked (a good story)

Surprisingly a lesser-known movie but amazingly good (and also funny). Set in 1966, a story of pirate DJ’s (yes those existed) who were forced to anchor their boats outside the British waters to be able to play rock and pop music.

ps. Back in the times playing rock or pop was against national regulations and thus would never be played on radio stations such as the BBC.

Factory Girl (a good aesthetic)

While the movie received negative reviews for the inaccuracy of events and portrayal of main characters, it is still definitely a must-watch for anyone who has ever been interested in the Andy Warhol circles. The movie is based on the story of Edie Sedgwick, a rising underground socialite who is known for her association with The Factory. Within the movie, you’ll find characters like Lou Reed, Nico, Diane Vreeland or Bob Dylan.

Almost Famous ( a classic)

Almost Famous is the ultimate movie for those who always dreamt of experiencing the groupie lifestyle of the ’70s. While the story follows a teen journalist who follows the band Stillwater on the road, what everyone always will remember most clearly about the movie, is Penny Lane. The character named after The Beatles song has been inspired by the original rock n roll groupie Pamela Des Barres. The film, apart from being a must-watch, has a great story and all the outfits are to die for.

The Doors (a good story/aesthetic)

As the title suggests, The Doors is a biographical film that focuses on the band’s frontman Jim Morrison. Everything about this movie is just amazing, starting from Val Kilmer’s portrayal of Jim (as well as the fact that he’s insanely attractive) to the story itself. It’s one of the movies that makes you wish you lived through the ’60s and ’70s.

Lovelace (a good story/aesthetic)

Lovelace is based on the true story of the porn icon, Linda Lovelace. The film shows her journey from a small-town girl into the star of the porn movie Deep Throat. For those not familiar with 70’s porn, Deep Throat tells the story of a girl who found out her clitoris is in her throat, rather than where it’s supposed to be.

ps. You’ll also spot James Franco as Hugh Hefner (if that isn’t enough to convince you I don’t know what is).

Dazed and Confused (a classic)

This coming of age movie exactly portrays the high school experience we all dreamt of: bell bottoms, guys with long hair and pool parties. While the movie is cool and all, most of us can find something in common with at least one of the characters, all slightly confused and anxious about their futures. For those who are past their high school and college experience, Dazed and Confused serves as a good reminder of who we were as teens. On top of that the soundtrack is 10/10!

Taking Woodstock (a good story)

We all associate Woodstock with hippies and key artists of the late 60’s, however the story behind the festival is not as widely recognised. Taking Woodstock is based on the real story of Elliot Tiber who plays a key role in securing the location for the festival after the initial one falls through. According to many who attended the festival, some scenes from the movie are extremely accurate, for us this is a definite must watch.

Boogie Nights (a good aesthetic/a good story)

Boogie Nights is a bit of a hidden gem. The 1970’s were the Golden Age of Porn. While it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, it is definitely something you should be into if you’re into kitchy 70’s aesthetics .The film set in Los Angeles follows teen Eddie Adams who gets discovered by a porn director. He quickly becomes an adult film sensation that goes by Dirk Diggler, of course the fame does not come without consequences.We also need to mention the amazing costumes, not to be missed!