1. The Muppet Movie 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.6, IMDB Votes: 39687, ID: 0079588 Photo by allthetropes.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Muppet Movie is a beloved cult classic that combines action and comedy, revolving around a fictional war between New York City street gangs, making it an uncomplicated yet thrilling cinematic experience. Its pacing and style are exceptional, with the film’s music, particularly Paul Williams’ catchy songs, adding an extra layer of enjoyment.
2. Rocky II 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 233421, ID: 0079817 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Rocky II, featuring Clint Eastwood, is a renowned film that takes a classic prison-break scenario and masterfully brings it to life, creating a gripping and tension-filled journey of escape from one of the 20th century’s most notorious prisons. Eastwood shines in the lead role, embodying the type of resilient character he’s always excelled at portraying on-screen.
3. The Black Hole 1979，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 28293, ID: 0078869 Photo by skiffyandfanty.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Black Hole is a beautiful looking film with a great score but is also a bit dull, longer than it should be, and with some naked toy figures masquerading as characters that raise the cute factor to slightly comical levels. The film doesn’t really confront the challenge of being a fiction about a black hole. The black hole is there, all right, but we don’t feel a sense of wonder.
4. Moonraker 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 109671, ID: 0079574 Photo by Medium, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Moonraker is the thrilling 11th installment in the James Bond series, inviting audiences to rally behind the ultimate underdog as it culminates in an exhilarating and powerful climax. With its breathtaking exotic locations and imaginative sci-fi special effects, Bond races through the film, barely keeping up with the dizzying pace of its adventures.
5. Star Trek: The Motion Picture 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 97336, ID: 0079945 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Star Trek: The Motion Picture, directed by Robert Wise, marks the exciting launch of the Star Trek franchise, showcasing the crew of the USS Enterprise as they confront a colossal alien spacecraft on a collision course with Earth. Although some find the storyline predictable, it is celebrated for its stunning special effects and the iconic portrayal of beloved Star Trek characters, while critics note that the familiarity may detract from the sense of awe that is essential to good science fiction.
6. The Rose 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.9, IMDB Votes: 9327, ID: 0079826 Photo by flickr.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Rose, directed by Mark Rydell, is a drama loosely based on the life of Janis Joplin. The film follows the life of a passionate rock star, Rose, portrayed by Bette Midler, who struggles with the pressures of fame and substance abuse. Critics have praised Midler’s performance, stating that she may be a better actress than singer. However, some critics found the plot to be repetitive. Despite this, the film is considered a solid piece of work that provides a glimpse into the life of a rock star.
7. Norma Rae 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 12961, ID: 0079638 Photo by brasildefato.com.br, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Norma Rae, directed by Martin Ritt, is a powerful drama about a factory worker who becomes a union activist after witnessing the poor working conditions at her workplace. The film is praised for its strong themes and the outstanding performance by Sally Field in the lead role. Critics have noted that the film is as timely and effective now as when it was made. However, some critics felt that the film was too blunt or simplistic. Despite these criticisms, Norma Rae remains a heartening and politically powerful drama.
8. Meatballs 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 24210, ID: 0079540 Photo by cinematicrandomness.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Meatballs, a delightful Canadian comedy directed by Ivan Reitman, features Bill Murray in his first leading role and chronicles the humorous escapades of camp counselors at a budget summer camp. Though it follows the familiar format of summer camp comedies, Murray’s standout performance injects a unique spark, setting it apart from its contemporaries and earning praise for its humor and vibrant cast.
9. The Electric Horseman 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 10367, ID: 0079100 Photo by oldaintdead.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Electric Horseman, directed by Sydney Pollack, is a drama about a former champion rodeo rider who steals a $12 million horse that is being doped to remain docile. The film is noted for the performances of its lead actors, Robert Redford and Jane Fonda. Critics have praised the film for its engaging storyline and the chemistry between Redford and Fonda. However, some critics felt that the film was overlong and talky. Despite these criticisms, The Electric Horseman remains a heartening drama about an ordinary man taking an extraordinary stand.
10. Time After Time 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 20845, ID: 0080025 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Time After Time presents an enchanting reimagining of a real-life figure, blending elements of fantasy and romance with a light-hearted touch. The film is a charming adventure that captivates the audience with its engaging performances, ensuring it is a delightful experience filled with unexpected thrills and plenty of laughter.
11. Quadrophenia 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.2, IMDB Votes: 21060, ID: 0079766 Photo by halabedi.eus, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Quadrophenia is every bit as fun, occasionally ugly, and upsetting as the heady days of discovering early independence and finding a direction in life can be. It manages to be both quintessentially British and irrefutably universal. It’s a reasonably shocking film when you consider that my friend says it was accurate having been there.
12. Manhattan 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.8, IMDB Votes: 148295, ID: 0079522 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Manhattan is a joyous stream of celebration. It’s a magnificent film, subtle both in expression and in feeling. It’s about the cynicism and superficiality of the modern mating dance. It’s about love in the past.
13. Mad Max 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.8, IMDB Votes: 231344, ID: 0079501 Photo by justadandak.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Mad Max, a dystopian action film, is a testament to the raw power of cinema. The film’s gritty setting and high-octane vehicular mayhem set a new standard for the genre. The film’s protagonist, Max Rockatansky, played by a young Mel Gibson, is a compelling character whose personal vendetta drives the narrative. Despite its technical brilliance, the film’s true strength lies in its ability to evoke a sense of desperation and survival.
14. The Amityville Horror 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 45031, ID: 0078767 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Amityville Horror, despite its chilling premise, fails to deliver a compelling narrative. The film’s reliance on familiar horror tropes and lack of a tangible antagonist leaves much to be desired. However, the performances of James Brolin and Margot Kidder add a layer of authenticity to the film. While it may not be the best in its genre, The Amityville Horror offers a unique take on the haunted house narrative.
15. The Jerk 1979，IMDB Rating: 7.1, IMDB Votes: 64753, ID: 0079367 Photo by ibls.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Jerk, starring the incomparable Steve Martin, has earned its place as a cult classic by seamlessly blending action and comedy in a story that humorously navigates a fictional war among New York City street gangs. Its engaging narrative and memorable moments, combined with a unique style and skillful pacing, have left a significant mark on the action genre, making it a timeless favorite.
Blast from the Past: Explore 15 Memorable Movies from 1979!
