10 Best Documentaries Of The 1970s

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Written By Habiba Abdou

Documentaries are an excellent way of communicating people’s stories, evoking emotions, and inspiring social change. The 1970s was a phenomenal decade for the genre, since it was a decade that saw many important events. This era saw the rise of feminism, gay rights, and environmentalism, among other important social movements that would shape the future.

Here are ten of the best documentaries from the 1970s that are a must-watch for every film enthusiast who wants to relive the magic of the golden era of documentary filmmaking.

Gates of Heaven (1978)

First on the list is Gates of Heaven (1978), directed by Errol Morris. This film is one of the most remarkable documentaries ever made, offering a look at the American pet cemetery business with a unique blend of humor and pathos.

The film follows the story of two California pet cemeteries. Morris interviews the owners, pet owners, and employees of the cemeteries, revealing their views on religion, death, and love. This documentary is regarded as a masterpiece, thanks to the poignant and powerful way Morris tells the story.

Gates of Heaven

Land of Silence and Darkness (1971)

Land of Silence and Darkness (1971), directed by Werner Herzog, is one of the most emotionally intense documentaries ever made.

The film depicts the life of Fini Straubinger, a 56-year-old woman who went deaf and blind when she was a teenager. Herzog provides an unflinching close-up of Fini Straubinger's world, portraying the inhumanity of isolation and the power of human connection. The movie is a testament to Herzog's unique ability to find beauty in the darkest of stories.

Land of Silence and Darkness

The Kids Are Alright (1979)

The Kids Are Alright (1979) is a fantastic music documentary directed by Jeff Stein. The film chronicles the history of the band, The Who, using footage from their concerts, interviews, and appearances on television.

The Kids Are Alright features some of the most iconic rock music moments ever captured on film, including Keith Moon's drum solo during "My Generation" and Pete Townshend's guitar-smashing frenzy. This documentary is a must-watch for music fans and enthusiasts alike.

The Kids Are Alright

Harlan County U.S.A. (1976)

Harlan County U.S.A. (1976), directed by Barbara Kopple, is a gritty and powerful look at the injustice of the coal-mining industry in Kentucky. Kopple captures the lives of the residents of Harlan County, sharing their stories and their struggles, as they attempt to unionize and fight for their rights.

This movie is one of the best examples of advocacy storytelling, combining compelling storytelling and a powerful message of social change and worker rights.

Harlan County U.S.A.

21 Up (1977)

21 Up (1977), directed by Michael Apted, is a social experiment in which Apted revisits a group of children, each at different socio-economic levels, at the ages of seven, fourteen, and twenty-one.

The film provides an intimate and affecting portrayal of class differences, the complexities of personalities, and the personal struggles of the subjects. This movie is considered to be one of the most profound works of documentary cinema and a remarkable look at the human experience.

21 Up

The Last Waltz (1978)

Directed by Martin Scorsese, The Last Waltz is a concert film documenting the final performance of The Band on Thanksgiving Day 1976. The movie features performances by some of the biggest names in rock and roll, including Bob Dylan, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell, and showcases The Band's incredible musicianship.

Beyond just being a great concert film, The Last Waltz also captures the end of an era, as The Band bids farewell to touring and reflects on their place in music history.

The Last Waltz

Woodstock (1970)

Perhaps the most iconic concert film of all time, Woodstock documents the famous 1969 music festival that saw over 400,000 people flock to upstate New York.

The film captures the energy and spirit of the counterculture movement of the time, as well as some unforgettable performances by Jimi Hendrix, The Who, and Janis Joplin. Woodstock is also notable for its impact on documentary filmmaking, as it proved that a music festival could be a compelling subject for a feature-length documentary.

Woodstock

Hearts and Minds (1974)

Hearts and Minds is a powerful and controversial anti-war documentary, which explores the causes and consequences of the Vietnam War.

Directed by Peter Davis, the film features interviews with both American soldiers and Vietnamese civilians, as well as prominent politicians and activists. Hearts and Minds is an unflinching indictment of American foreign policy, and its release was met with both critical acclaim and intense controversy.

Hearts and Minds

Beautiful People (1974)

Beautiful People is a fascinating and unconventional documentary, which explores the lives of people living in a London housing project.

Directed by Jamie Uys, the film is equal parts funny and poignant, probing multiple social issues while still celebrating the humanity of its subjects. Beautiful People is a true gem of 70s cinema, showcasing the documentary form at its most innovative and compassionate.

Beautiful People

Grey Gardens (1975)

Grey Gardens is a unique and intimate portrait of two aging socialites, both named Edith Bouvier Beale, who live in a decaying mansion in East Hampton.

Directed by Albert and David Maysles, the film is both poignant and surreal, capturing the eccentricities and complexities of its subjects, Little Edie and Big Edie. Grey Gardens is a haunting meditation on aging, loneliness, and the sometimes tragic consequences of privilege.

Grey Gardens

Conclusion

The 1970s was undoubtedly a landmark decade for documentary filmmaking. The films mentioned above continue to inspire viewers and new generations of filmmakers alike, as they offer a glimpse into the human experience and social issues of the time.

These films provide important lessons that are timeless and encourage people to find their own voice and be advocates for change. Anyone interested in documentary film should include these ten titles on their must-watch list.

#concert footage #cult classic #coal miners documentary

 
Habiba Abdou
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