The 20 Best ’70s Musical Movies
The 1970s brought a vibrant mix of music and storytelling to the big screen, with musicals that captured the era’s rebellious spirit and nostalgic charm. From rock-infused operas to nostalgic teen romances, these films blended catchy songs with bold visuals, leaving a lasting mark on cinema.
This decade saw directors push boundaries, weaving social commentary into dance numbers and creating cult classics that we still sing along to today. Let’s dive into the 20 best musical movies from the ’70s, counting down from the last to the first, each with its own unique flair.
20. The Muppet Movie (1979)
Kermit the Frog hops from a swamp to Hollywood, chasing dreams of stardom. Along the way, he meets a lovable crew of Muppets, each adding heart and humor to this road-trip adventure.
The film’s charm lies in its mix of silly gags and heartfelt songs like ‘Rainbow Connection.’ It’s a family-friendly gem that celebrates friendship and ambition with a playful spirit.
19. The Rose (1979)
Bette Midler shines as a troubled rock star spiraling under fame’s pressure. Her raw performance carries this emotional tale of a singer battling personal demons.
The music, inspired by Janis Joplin, pulses with energy and heartbreak. Midler’s powerful vocals and the gritty story make this a standout drama.
18. Hair (1979)
A young man from Oklahoma gets swept into New York’s hippie scene just before his Vietnam draft. The film captures the free-spirited vibe of the late ’60s with vibrant energy.
Songs like ‘Aquarius’ and ‘Let the Sunshine In’ drive the anti-war message. Milos Forman’s direction keeps the story bold and unapologetic.
17. Oh! Calcutta! (1972)
This provocative musical revue explores love and desire through cheeky skits. It’s a daring take on human relationships, blending humor with boundary-pushing themes.
The stage-to-screen adaptation keeps its bold edge, with songs that amplify the playful and risqué tone. It’s a quirky piece of ’70s experimentation.
16. Jesus Christ Superstar (1973)
This rock opera tells the story of Christ’s final days through Judas’ eyes. Ted Neeley and Carl Anderson deliver powerful performances in a desert-set spectacle.
The music, penned by Andrew Lloyd Webber, mixes rock with spiritual depth. Norman Jewison’s direction adds a raw, timeless feel to the biblical tale.
15. Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band (1978)
A small-town band rises to fame but faces dark forces in the music industry. The Bee Gees and Peter Frampton lead a star-studded cast in this wild ride.
Packed with Beatles covers, the film’s psychedelic visuals and catchy tunes create a surreal experience. It’s a bold, if chaotic, love letter to the Fab Four.
14. The Wiz (1978)
Dorothy, played by Diana Ross, navigates a funky, urban Oz in this reimagined Wizard of Oz. The all-Black cast brings fresh energy to the classic tale.
Motown-infused songs like ‘Ease on Down the Road’ pair with Sidney Lumet’s gritty direction. It’s a vibrant, soulful take on a familiar story.
13. Tommy (1975)
The Who’s rock opera follows a deaf, mute, and blind boy who becomes a pinball wizard. Roger Daltrey and a wild cast, including Elton John, bring the story to life.
Ken Russell’s trippy visuals match the bold soundtrack. It’s a sensory overload that captures the ’70s rock rebellion.
12. Phantom of the Paradise (1974)
A composer sells his soul to save his music from a shady producer. Brian De Palma’s horror-comedy blends campy flair with a dark edge.
The rock score and over-the-top performances make it a cult favorite. Its satirical take on the music industry still resonates.
11. On a Clear Day You Can See Forever (1970)
Barbra Streisand plays a woman whose past lives unfold under hypnosis. Her shrink falls for her past self, creating a quirky romantic tale.
The lush visuals and Streisand’s stunning vocals elevate the story. Vincente Minnelli’s direction adds a dreamy, colorful touch.
10. Bugsy Malone (1976)
Kids play gangsters and molls in this whimsical take on 1920s crime. Jodie Foster and Scott Baio lead a young cast in a world of splurge guns and songs.
The playful tone and catchy tunes make it a unique family musical. Alan Parker’s debut is both charming and inventive.
9. The Boy Friend (1971)
A shy stage manager steps into the spotlight when a star gets injured. Twiggy’s charm carries this nostalgic nod to 1920s musicals.
Ken Russell’s vibrant direction and retro songs create a lighthearted vibe. It’s a love letter to classic showbiz with a ’70s twist.
8. Donkey Skin (1970)
A princess flees a forced marriage with help from a fairy godmother. Catherine Deneuve stars in this whimsical French fairy tale.
Jacques Demy’s colorful visuals and Michel Legrand’s score create a magical vibe. It’s a charming, quirky gem with a surreal edge.
7. Saturday Night Fever (1977)
John Travolta struts as a Brooklyn kid who rules the disco floor. The story digs into his struggles with family and identity.
The Bee Gees’ iconic soundtrack fuels the dance scenes. It’s a gritty yet glamorous look at youth and ambition.
6. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)
Gene Wilder’s eccentric candy maker leads kids through a wild factory tour. The film’s mix of whimsy and dark humor is unforgettable.
Songs like ‘Pure Imagination’ and ‘Candy Man’ add sweetness to the quirky tale. It’s a timeless classic for all ages.
5. All That Jazz (1979)
Roy Scheider plays a choreographer juggling art and personal chaos. Bob Fosse’s semi-autobiographical film is a bold look at showbiz.
The dazzling dance numbers and raw emotion make it a standout. Fosse’s vision blends glamour with gritty reality.
4. The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
A couple stumbles into a bizarre mansion hosted by Tim Curry’s eccentric scientist. The film’s campy vibe made it a cult phenomenon.
Songs like ‘Time Warp’ and ‘Sweet Transvestite’ drive the wild energy. It’s a rebellious, unforgettable ride.
3. Fiddler on the Roof (1971)
A Jewish milkman faces tradition and change in pre-revolutionary Russia. Topol’s heartfelt performance anchors this emotional epic.
The songs, like ‘Tradition’ and ‘If I Were a Rich Man,’ are iconic. Norman Jewison’s direction brings warmth and depth.
2. Grease (1978)
John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John spark as teen lovers in this ’50s-set romance. Their chemistry drives the high-energy story.
Hits like ‘Summer Nights’ and ‘You’re the One That I Want’ define the era. It’s a feel-good classic with staying power.
1. Cabaret (1972)
Liza Minnelli dazzles as a singer in 1930s Berlin amid rising tensions. Bob Fosse’s dark, vibrant film blends glamour with grim reality.
Songs like ‘Cabaret’ and ‘Maybe This Time’ pack an emotional punch. It’s a masterful mix of spectacle and storytelling.
Which ’70s musical movie gets you singing or dancing, or did we miss a hidden gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
