The 1970s marked a significant shift in the horror genre, with a newfound fascination with the supernatural and the occult. During this period, horror films explored themes of demonic possession, witchcraft, and other supernatural phenomena. There are several theories as to why this happened, and in this blog post, we will delve into the factors that contributed to the rise of supernatural horror in the 1970s.
Cultural Shift and Disillusionment
One theory suggests that the interest in the supernatural and occult during the 1970s was a result of a general disillusionment with traditional institutions and mainstream religion. This cultural shift created fertile ground for horror films to delve into the darker aspects of spirituality and explore themes that challenged established beliefs. As people questioned the failures of mainstream religion and institutions, they sought alternative explanations and found solace in the supernatural.
Influence of "Rosemary's Baby"
Another theory points to the influence of "Rosemary's Baby," a film released in 1968. Directed by Roman Polanski, the film explored the occult and pregnancy, captivating audiences with its chilling storyline. "Rosemary's Baby" was highly influential and set the stage for other horror films to delve into similar themes. Filmmakers sought to replicate the success of "Rosemary's Baby" by delving into the supernatural and occult, leading to a surge in films exploring these subjects in the 1970s.
Memorable Horror Films of the 1970s
The 1970s produced some of the most memorable horror films in history, with American, Italian, and British filmmakers contributing significantly to the genre. Here are a few standout films from the decade:
"The Texas Chain Saw Massacre" (1974) - Directed by Tobe Hooper, this American film tells the story of a group of teenagers who stumble upon a family of cannibals in rural Texas. Known for its gritty, documentary-like style and unflinching violence, this film left a lasting impact on the horror genre.
"The Exorcist" (1973) - Directed by William Friedkin, this American classic follows the story of a young girl who becomes possessed by a demon. Renowned for its groundbreaking special effects and intense performances, "The Exorcist" is considered a timeless masterpiece.
"Suspiria" (1977) - Directed by Dario Argento, this Italian film revolves around a young ballet student who uncovers a coven of witches operating within her dance school. Noted for its vibrant colors and use of supernatural imagery, "Suspiria" is a visually stunning and haunting experience.
"Don't Look Now" (1973) - Directed by Nicolas Roeg, this British film follows a grieving couple who travel to Venice and encounter supernatural occurrences after the death of their daughter. With its nonlinear editing and exploration of grief, "Don't Look Now" remains a thought-provoking film.
"The Wicker Man" (1973) - Directed by Robin Hardy, this British film focuses on a police officer investigating a disappearance on a remote island. It delves into the realms of paganism and offers a shocking finale that has become iconic in the horror genre.
"The Last House on the Left" (1972) - Directed by Wes Craven, this American film explores the boundaries of horror as a group of teenage girls fall victim to a group of escaped convicts. Notable for its unflinching violence, the film pushes the envelope of what horror can portray.
"Deep Red" (1975) - Directed by Dario Argento, this Italian film tells the story of a pianist who witnesses a murder and becomes the target of the killer. Known for its stylish direction and use of music as a key element of horror, "Deep Red" is a suspenseful and visually stunning film.
These films, among others from the 1970s, continue to be studied and admired by horror fans and film scholars alike for their impact and contribution to the genre.
Manson Murders and Their Influence
It is worth mentioning that there have been theories suggesting the influence of the Charles Manson murders on two notorious horror films of the 1970s: "The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" and "The Last House on the Left." The Manson Family's infamous murder spree in 1969 sent shockwaves throughout American society and had a profound impact on popular culture. Filmmakers, influenced by the Manson case, sought to explore themes of violence, madness, and the breakdown of social order.
"The Texas Chainsaw Massacre" is often interpreted as a metaphor for the violence and chaos of the late 1960s and early 1970s. The film portrays a family of cannibals preying on unsuspecting victims in rural Texas, reflecting the social anxieties of the era and commenting on the dehumanizing effects of industrialization and modernity.
Likewise, "The Last House on the Left" is seen as a response to the Manson case, featuring violent criminals terrorizing and murdering innocent victims. The film's graphic depictions of rape, murder, and revenge are considered reflections of the helplessness and fear experienced by many Americans in the aftermath of the Manson murders.
While these interpretations remain theories, it is undeniable that the Manson murders had a profound impact on American culture and the horror genre. Their influence likely extended to a wide range of films during this era.
Impact of Horror on the Mainstream Film Industry of the 1970s
Two films from the 1970s, "Jaws" and "The Exorcist," are notable for their impact on the film industry, albeit in different ways. Released in 1975, "Jaws" is often credited as the first modern blockbuster film. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the movie tells the story of a giant great white shark terrorizing a beach town. "Jaws" became a critical and commercial success, grossing over $470 million worldwide, and establishing Spielberg as a leading director in Hollywood. The film popularized the concept of the summer blockbuster, where big-budget films were released during the summer months to capitalize on vacationing audiences.
"The Exorcist," released in 1973, is regarded as one of the greatest horror films of all time. Directed by William Friedkin, the movie depicts a young girl's possession by a demon and the efforts of priests to exorcise her. Like "Jaws," "The Exorcist" was both a critical and commercial success, grossing over $441 million worldwide. It received ten Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, further cementing its impact on the film industry.
Both "Jaws" and "The Exorcist" contributed to the rise of the horror genre as a profitable and respected genre in Hollywood. Their success paved the way for future horror films and influenced the way movies were marketed and released.
In terms of box office grosses, "Jaws" earned over $260 million in the United States during its initial release and has grossed over $470 million worldwide across all releases. "The Exorcist" grossed over $193 million in the United States during its initial release and has grossed over $441 million worldwide across all releases. Both films were subsequently re-released in theaters and on home video, generating additional revenue and becoming cultural touchstones for generations of horror fans.
Both "Jaws" and "The Exorcist" are both directed by legends of the industry, which helped make the1970s horror mainstream and profiatble for Hollywood. "Jaws" pioneered the concept of the summer blockbuster, while "The Exorcist" further elevated the genre's prestige with its critical acclaim and commercial success.
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