I’m a massive fan of 70s horror movies. There are SO many good classics that are “must watch” for every horror fan. Here are some of my all-time favorite 70s horror movies you need to add to your list!
The Exorcist (1973)
If you haven’t seen The Exorcist, you’re in for a chilling ride. Directed by William Friedkin, this 1973 classic centers on a young girl, possessed by a demonic entity. As her condition worsens, her desperate mother, played by Ellen Burstyn, seeks the aid of two Catholic priests.
The priests perform an exorcism, confronting pure evil. Religion, demons, and the devil play significant roles, creating a suspenseful atmosphere. The movie’s intense scenes and exceptional makeup effects leave a lasting impression. Friedkin’s direction and the cast’s performances make this film unforgettable, drawing you into its nightmarish world. If you loved this movie, try our free The Exorcist trivia to see how much you know or check out these movies like The Exorcist!
RELATED: Shocking True Stories Behind the Scenes Filming of The Exorcist
Halloween (1978)
When you think of classic 70s horror, “Halloween” directed by John Carpenter stands out. This slasher film introduces Michael Myers, who escapes from a mental hospital after murdering his sister years ago.
Jamie Lee Curtis, in her film debut, plays Laurie Strode. The eerie town of Haddonfield serves as the hunting ground for Myers’ reign of terror.
Each scene builds tension as Myers lurks in the shadows, creating unforgettable suspense. Carpenter not only directed but also co-wrote and scored the film, giving it a unique and chilling atmosphere. This movie continues to be a gold standard for horror enthusiasts.
If you loved this movie, try our free Halloween trivia to see how much you know!
Jaws (1975)
Jaws, directed by Steven Spielberg, changed the way we think about the ocean. A massive great white shark terrorizes a small coastal town. Roy Scheider plays the local police chief, while Richard Dreyfuss portrays a marine biologist. Robert Shaw delivers a memorable performance as Quint, the grizzled shark hunter.
The iconic score by John Williams adds to the suspense, making each scene more intense. Spielberg’s direction raises the tension, even though the mechanical shark caused many production headaches. Despite these challenges, Jaws remains a must-watch for any horror fan, blending thrilling action with gripping character moments.
Alien (1979)
In 1979, Ridley Scott brought us “Alien,” a sci-fi horror film that still haunts audiences. You’re thrust aboard the Nostromo, a spaceship with an unsuspecting crew, including Sigourney Weaver’s character, Ripley. The tension builds as they discover a malevolent creature lurking within the ship’s confines, turning their mission into a terrifying fight for survival.
This movie masterfully combines elements of suspense, horror, and science fiction. The creature, often referred to simply as “the alien,” is a relentless and horrifying presence. Its design and the atmosphere of the film contribute to the overall sense of dread and isolation. Ridley Scott’s direction and the compelling performances make “Alien” a standout in the horror genre.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
In 1974, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre shocked audiences with its intense storyline and gritty visuals. This iconic horror film was directed by Tobe Hooper and follows a group of friends who encounter horror while visiting an old homestead.
You can’t forget Leatherface, the chainsaw-wielding antagonist, played by Gunnar Hansen. Marilyn Burns delivered a memorable performance as the main character, fighting for survival amidst the chaos.
The raw and realistic portrayal of mass murder and terror set it apart from typical horror films. It’s a must-watch for any horror enthusiast, reflecting the darker side of the 1970s cinema.
Suspiria (1977)
Suspiria (1977) is a chilling masterpiece by Dario Argento, a maestro of horror. When you watch it, you enter a world where an American ballet student, Suzy, arrives at a prestigious German dance academy. From the moment she steps in, eerie occurrences surround her.
The movie’s haunting score by Goblin pulls you into the tense atmosphere, keeping you on edge. Each scene, drenched in vibrant color, makes the grotesque events even more unsettling. Soon, the sinister truth about the academy emerges, revealing a dark secret involving witches.
You’ll find the combination of striking visuals, compelling music, and a gripping storyline unforgettable.
Dawn Of The Dead (1978)
Directed by George A. Romero, Dawn of the Dead (1978) stands out in the zombie genre. As a sequel to Night of the Living Dead, it explores the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. You follow two SWAT team members, a traffic reporter, and a TV executive as they seek refuge in a shopping mall.
Romero isn’t just about scares. The film provides sharp social commentary on consumerism and human nature. Zombies are terrifying, but the real horror often comes from people’s actions and choices. Do you find yourself rooting for the survivors or questioning society’s flaws?
Carrie (1976)
Carrie (1976), directed by Brian De Palma, is a cornerstone of 70s horror. Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, the movie centers on Carrie, a shy teenage girl with telekinetic powers. Sissy Spacek plays Carrie, delivering a haunting performance that stays with you.
Carrie’s life is tough. Constant bullying at school and a strict, religious mother push her to a breaking point. The prom scene, where her powers fully unleash, is iconic.
De Palma’s direction enhances the tension, making each scene gripping. Spacek’s portrayal of Carrie is both vulnerable and powerful. If you’re a fan of horror, this film is a must-watch.
The Omen (1976)
The Omen, directed by Richard Donner, stands as a classic horror film from the 1970s that uniquely blends psychological drama with supernatural elements. You follow the story of Robert Thorn, played by Gregory Peck, and his wife Katherine, portrayed by Lee Remick.
They adopt a boy named Damien, who is revealed to be the Antichrist. As sinister events unfold, the chilling presence of Satan becomes apparent, creating a palpable sense of dread. The film’s eerie atmosphere, combined with strong performances, keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Every twist and turn leaves you questioning the true nature of evil and its impact on ordinary lives.
Don’t Look Now (1973)
Don’t Look Now, directed by Nicolas Roeg, pulls you into a haunting, atmospheric Venice. The story follows John and Laura Baxter, a couple grieving their daughter’s accidental death. Their journey takes a chilling turn when they meet two elderly sisters, one of whom claims to be psychic.
As the tension builds, the film explores themes of grief, fate, and the supernatural. Venice’s eerie canals and crumbling architecture add an unsettling backdrop. John remains skeptical of the psychic’s warnings, which leads to eerie and unexpected events.
Don’t Look Now masterfully blends elements of horror and thriller, leaving you on edge from beginning to end.
The Wicker Man (1973)
In The Wicker Man (1973), you follow Sergeant Neil Howie as he arrives on a secluded Scottish island. He’s there to investigate the disappearance of a young girl, but the pagan locals insist she never existed. The eerie atmosphere builds as you see the bizarre rituals and customs of the island’s inhabitants.
Christopher Lee delivers a compelling performance as the island’s charismatic leader. You find the film blurring the lines between mystery and horror, with themes of religion and belief clashing in unsettling ways. The story keeps you on edge with its unique blend of detective narrative and supernatural elements.
This cult classic remains a fascinating watch.
Black Christmas (1974)
If you enjoy a good scare, Black Christmas will get you in the right mood. Directed by Bob Clark, this 1974 slasher film is a cornerstone of holiday horror. The story follows a group of sorority sisters during their Christmas break. They receive disturbing phone calls from an anonymous stalker.
Featuring Olivia Hussey, Keir Dullea, Margot Kidder, and John Saxon, the film combines suspense with chilling visuals. The sorority house setting makes it even creepier. The director expertly builds tension, keeping you on the edge of your seat throughout.
Last House On The Left (1972)
You can’t talk about 70s horror without mentioning “Last House on the Left.” Directed by Wes Craven, this film follows a brutal narrative of murder and revenge.
Mari and her friend are kidnapped by a gang of psychopathic criminals. They endure horrific violence before the gang heads to an unsuspecting house. Unknown to the criminals, it belongs to Mari’s parents.
When the parents uncover the truth, they exact their own revenge. This movie doesn’t shy away from showing raw and disturbing scenes, making it a standout in the genre.
Phantasm (1979)
Phantasm, directed by Don Coscarelli, is a unique blend of fantasy and horror. The story follows a teenager, Mike Pearson, who discovers a malevolent undertaker known as the Tall Man.
In their seemingly quiet California town, you get introduced to eerie moments when Mike, along with his older brother Jody and their friend Reggie, confronts this sinister figure.
The Tall Man turns the dead into dwarf zombies, sending them to another planet as slaves. You’ll witness some truly bizarre and chilling scenes, like the deadly flying spheres that the Tall Man uses against his enemies.
This film stands out for its imaginative plot and surreal atmosphere, creating an intriguing horror classic.
Invasion Of The Body Snatchers (1978)
Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1978) is a remarkable sci-fi horror film that really captures the fear of possession and invasion by aliens. Directed by Philip Kaufman, it stars Donald Sutherland, Brooke Adams, Jeff Goldblum, and Veronica Cartwright.
The story revolves around mysterious pods that arrive from space and replicate humans in San Francisco. The creeping tension builds as you witness the eerie transformation of ordinary people into emotionless beings.
Released on December 22, 1978, it’s based on Jack Finney’s 1955 novel, The Body Snatchers. You’ll find its depiction of 1970s America both chilling and thought-provoking.
The Amityville Horror (1979)
In the world of horror, The Amityville Horror holds a special place. Directed by Stuart Rosenberg, this film is based on Jay Anson’s 1977 book. It brings to life the eerie experiences of the Lutz family, who moved into a house with a dark past.
George and Kathy Lutz, played by James Brolin and Margot Kidder, are a typical American couple. They purchase their dream home, unaware of the grisly murders that happened there just a year before.
Once they move in, the house reveals its haunted nature. Supernatural forces begin to torment them, turning their dream into a nightmare. The film’s chilling atmosphere and intense scenes capture your attention, immersing you in their terror.
Deep Red (1975)
If you love 70s horror, you’ve got to check out Deep Red. Directed by Dario Argento, this film pulls you into a web of mystery and suspense.
The story follows a jazz pianist who witnesses a brutal murder. He partners with a journalist to solve the case, unraveling a series of gruesome killings. The killer’s identity, concealed by black leather gloves, keeps you on edge.
This Italian giallo film is known for its striking visuals and haunting music. Argento’s direction and Bernardino Zapponi’s screenplay craft a chilling atmosphere. It’s a standout in the slasher genre.
The Hills Have Eyes (1977)
When you watch The Hills Have Eyes, directed by Wes Craven, you get a real sense of dread. The film focuses on the Carters, a suburban family who find themselves stranded in the Nevada desert. Their car breaks down in an off-limits area, only to be targeted by a group of cannibals.
Murder is a stark presence here, with the family fighting for survival against these violent savages. Wes Craven crafted a blend of suspense and horror that left an indelible mark on the genre. The movie’s unsettling atmosphere has inspired many within the horror community since its release in 1977.
RELATED: 15 Best Movies Like The Hills Have Eyes
The Brood (1979)
“The Brood,” directed by David Cronenberg, is a psychological body horror film that delves into the darker aspects of the human psyche and the manifestations of emotional trauma.
In the movie, you follow a man investigating his ex-wife’s unorthodox psychiatric treatment. Her therapist’s controversial methods lead to a terrifying series of events involving deformed, violent children.
This film features unsettling themes and disturbing imagery. Cronenberg’s unique style brings depth to the horror genre, blending psychological thrills with visceral horror. With memorable performances by Oliver Reed and Samantha Eggar, “The Brood” stands out as a chilling piece of 1970s horror cinema.
Nosferatu The Vampyre (1979)
Directed by Werner Herzog, Nosferatu the Vampyre is a hauntingly atmospheric film. Klaus Kinski stars as Count Dracula, a vampire who moves from Transylvania to Wismar. He spreads fear and the Black Plague wherever he goes.
You follow his dark journey, encountering gothic visuals and eerie scenes. The film features Isabelle Adjani as Lucy, the pure-hearted woman who must face the vampire’s terror.
Set in 19th-century Germany and Transylvania, the movie combines horror with elements of fantasy and murder. Herzog masterfully captures the sinister essence of Bram Stoker’s novel, creating an unforgettable horror experience.
The Legend Of Hell House (1973)
In The Legend of Hell House, you follow a group of researchers investigating the eerie Belasco House. Known for its haunted history, the mansion once belonged to a sadist and murderer.
Paranormal events and unexplained occurrences have plagued this location. A physicist, his wife, and two mediums spend a week in the house attempting to uncover these mysteries.
Starring Pamela Franklin, Roddy McDowall, Clive Revill, and Gayle Hunnicutt, this film delivers chilling atmosphere and moments that keep you on edge. The haunted house becomes an integral part of the story, making it a standout in ’70s horror cinema.
Closing Thoughts
There are so many great 70s horror movies you need to watch. Do you have a favorite? Comments yours below and check out these other horror movie recomendations!