The 1970s was a pivotal era for horror cinema, a time when filmmakers pushed the boundaries of the genre and tapped into the social and political anxieties of the era. From the emergence of new voices to the exploration of adult and graphic themes, the decade gave rise to some of the most iconic and influential horror movies of all time. As a new generation of filmmakers looks to recapture the grit and grime of that era, the enduring legacy of 1970s horror continues to captivate audiences and inspire a new wave of cinematic terror.

Unleashing the Horrors of a Changing World

The Shifting Landscape of 1970s Horror

The 1970s was a decade of profound social and political change, and this turbulent backdrop provided fertile ground for horror filmmakers to explore the darker corners of the human psyche. The emergence of new voices in movies, television, and literature allowed for the creation of more adult and graphic content, catering to the Baby Boomers who were now in their 20s and 30s. This shift in perspective and subject matter paved the way for some of the most iconic and influential horror movies of the era, including "The Exorcist," "Jaws," "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre," "The Omen," "Carrie," "Halloween," and "Alien."

Revisiting the Classics: The Enduring Appeal of 1970s Horror

The horror movies of the 1970s have left an indelible mark on the genre, with many of them remaining relevant and popular to this day. Filmmakers who grew up watching these classics on VHS tapes or late-night television are now trying to recapture the grime, grit, shock, and awe that defined the era. This has led to a resurgence of interest in the 1970s horror canon, with recent attempts to revive or expand upon some of the most beloved franchises, such as the new "Exorcist" sequel and the "Omen" prequel.

Stephen King's Enduring Influence

One writer who has had continued success since the 1970s is Stephen King, with roughly 100 adaptations of his novels and short stories over the years. Earlier this month, a new adaptation of his sophomore novel, "'Salem's Lot" from 1974, was released directly to HBO Max after being held on the shelf since 2021. While the film has its strengths, such as its world-building and '70s-inspired style choices, it also highlights the challenges of adapting King's rich and complex narratives into a feature-length format.

Embracing the Gimmick: The Rise of 1970s-Inspired Horror

Alongside the efforts to revive classic 1970s horror franchises, there has also been a surge of original horror ideas that pay homage to the era. One such example is "Late Night with the Devil," a found-footage/documentary-style film that immerses viewers in the gritty world of a late-night talk show in 1977 that goes horribly wrong. The film's authenticity in capturing the look and feel of 1970s television is a standout, with the practical effects and set design transporting viewers back in time. However, the film's reliance on CGI during the "behind the scenes" moments can be a bit jarring, disrupting the grounded 1970s setting.

Blending Fact and Fiction: The Chilling Tale of "Woman of the Hour"

Another recent horror-related gem that taps into the 1970s is "Woman of the Hour," actor Anna Kendrick's directorial debut. The film tells the stranger-than-fiction story of an aspiring actor in 1970s Los Angeles and a serial killer in the midst of a years-long murder spree, whose lives intersect when they're cast on an episode of "The Dating Game" in 1978. The film's haunting exploration of the crimes of Rodney Alcala, a real-life serial killer, is seamlessly woven together with a fictional narrative, creating a captivating and unsettling viewing experience. Kendrick's confident directorial debut showcases her ability to navigate the complexities of blending fact and fiction, as well as the shifting tones and genres that define the film.