11+ Best 1970s Comedy Movies (List)

The 1970s was a decade filled with iconic movies that left a lasting impact on the comedy genre.

From slapstick humor to witty dialogue, the films of this era continue to entertain audiences even today.

Best 1970s Comedy Movies

The 1970s was a decade that saw a lot of change in the comedy genre, with filmmakers exploring new forms of humor and storytelling.

Here are some of the best comedy movies from the 1970s:

“MAS*H” (1970)

Director: Robert Altman

A satirical black comedy about a unit of medical personnel during the Korean War, showcasing the absurdity and dark humor of war.

“Harold and Maude” (1971)

Director: Hal Ashby

A dark romantic comedy that explores themes of life, death, and unconventional love, as a young man obsessed with death falls for a lively 79-year-old woman.

“Blazing Saddles” (1974)

Director: Mel Brooks

A satirical Western comedy that lampoons racism and the traditional tropes of the Western genre.

“Young Frankenstein” (1974)

Director: Mel Brooks

A parody of classic horror films, particularly the various film adaptations of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein.”

“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” (1975)

Directors: Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones

A British slapstick comedy that parodies the legend of King Arthur’s quest to find the Holy Grail.

“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” (1975)

Director: Miloš Forman

While primarily a drama, the film offers significant comedic elements in its exploration of institutional life.

“The Pink Panther Strikes Again” (1976)

Director: Blake Edwards

A slapstick comedy featuring the bumbling French detective Jacques Clouseau.

“Annie Hall” (1977)

Director: Woody Allen

A romantic comedy that explores the complexities of modern romance and relationships.

“National Lampoon’s Animal House” (1978)

Director: John Landis

A comedy that explores the raucous and unpredictable world of a college fraternity.

“Being There” (1979)

Director: Hal Ashby

A satirical comedy that explores themes of politics, media, and celebrity culture.

“Life of Brian” (1979)

Director: Terry Jones

A religious satire from Monty Python, telling the story of Brian Cohen, a man who is born on the same day as, and next door to, Jesus and is subsequently mistaken for the Messiah.

Each of these films is celebrated for its humor, originality, and contribution to the comedy genre, making them some of the best comedies of the 1970s.

Below we more deeply look at some of the best comedy movies from the 1970s, highlighting their unique qualities and why they are still beloved by fans.

Table of Contents

The Rise of Comedy in the 1970s

The 1970s marked a significant shift in the comedy genre, with filmmakers experimenting with new styles and pushing boundaries.

This decade saw the emergence of a more irreverent and satirical form of comedy, reflecting the changing social and political landscape of the time.

One of the key factors that contributed to the rise of comedy in the 1970s was the counterculture movement.

As society became more open to unconventional ideas and challenging authority, filmmakers took advantage of this newfound freedom to create movies that were bold, subversive, and often controversial.

Another important aspect was the influence of television. The popularity of sitcoms like “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “All in the Family” paved the way for a new wave of comedy films that embraced a more realistic and relatable approach.

Audiences were hungry for stories that reflected their own lives, and filmmakers delivered by creating characters and situations that felt authentic.

Top 1970s Comedy Movies

1. “Annie Hall” (1977)

Directed by Woody Allen, “Annie Hall” is a romantic comedy that explores the complexities of relationships in a humorous and introspective way.

The film follows the neurotic Alvy Singer (played by Allen) as he navigates love and life in New York City.

“Annie Hall” is known for its clever dialogue, innovative storytelling techniques, and memorable performances, particularly by Diane Keaton in the titular role.

2. “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” (1975)

“Monty Python and the Holy Grail” is a British comedy film that parodies the legend of King Arthur and his knights.

Directed by Terry Gilliam and Terry Jones, the movie is a hilarious blend of absurdity, wit, and slapstick humor.

It has become a cult classic and is often quoted for its memorable lines and iconic scenes, such as the Knights Who Say “Ni!” and the Black Knight.

3. “Airplane!” (1980)

Although technically released in 1980, “Airplane!” deserves a mention as it perfectly captures the spirit of 1970s comedy.

Directed by Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers, the film is a spoof of disaster movies and features a fast-paced, joke-a-minute style of comedy.

With its zany characters, quotable lines, and slapstick gags, “Airplane!” remains one of the funniest movies of all time.

4. “Blazing Saddles” (1974)

Directed by Mel Brooks, “Blazing Saddles” is a satirical Western comedy that tackles issues of racism and prejudice with sharp wit and irreverence.

The film follows the story of a black sheriff (played by Cleavon Little) in a racist town, and it uses humor to expose the absurdity of bigotry.

“Blazing Saddles” is known for its outrageous humor, memorable characters, and iconic scenes, such as the famous farting scene around the campfire.

5. “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975)

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a musical comedy horror film that has gained a massive cult following over the years.

Directed by Jim Sharman, the movie combines elements of science fiction, horror, and campy humor to create a unique and unforgettable experience.

With its catchy songs, outrageous costumes, and audience participation, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” has become a cultural phenomenon and continues to be screened at midnight showings around the world.

Why These Movies Stand the Test of Time

The best comedy movies from the 1970s have stood the test of time for several reasons:

Timeless Humor: These films rely on humor that transcends generations. Whether it’s clever wordplay, physical comedy, or satirical commentary, the jokes still resonate with audiences today.
Memorable Characters: The characters in these movies have become iconic, with their quirks and catchphrases ingrained in popular culture. From Alvy Singer’s neuroticism in “Annie Hall” to the Black Knight’s stubbornness in “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” these characters have become beloved figures in comedy history.
Social Relevance: Many of these films tackled social issues of the time, such as racism in “Blazing Saddles” or gender roles in “Annie Hall.” By addressing these topics through comedy, the movies were able to spark conversations and challenge societal norms.
Innovative Storytelling: The best comedy movies of the 1970s pushed the boundaries of traditional storytelling. From the non-linear structure of “Annie Hall” to the meta-humor of “Airplane!,” these films experimented with narrative techniques that were ahead of their time.

FAQs – Best 1970s Comedy Movies

1. What are some other notable comedy movies from the 1970s?

Aside from the ones mentioned in this article, there are several other notable comedy movies from the 1970s, including “Animal House” (1978), “Caddyshack” (1980), “The Sting” (1973), “Young Frankenstein” (1974), and “M*A*S*H” (1970).

2. Are these movies suitable for all ages?

While some of these movies may contain mature themes or humor, they are generally considered suitable for a wide range of audiences.

However, it’s always a good idea to check the content rating or parental guidance recommendations before watching.

3. Why do these movies continue to be popular today?

These movies continue to be popular today because they have timeless humor, memorable characters, and address social issues that are still relevant.

Additionally, their innovative storytelling techniques and unique style set them apart from other films of their time.

4. Can I watch these movies online?

Yes, many of these movies are available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu.

Some may also be available for rental or purchase on digital platforms like iTunes or Google Play.

5. Are there any modern comedy movies that are influenced by these 1970s classics?

Absolutely! Many modern comedy movies draw inspiration from the 1970s classics.

Filmmakers continue to pay homage to these films by incorporating similar humor, storytelling techniques, and social commentary in their own work.

6. Do these movies have any awards or accolades?

Yes, several of these movies have received critical acclaim and won awards.

For example, “Annie Hall” won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, while “Blazing Saddles” received three Academy Award nominations.

Some other comedy movies from the 1970s worth checking out include “The Graduate” (1967), “Harold and Maude” (1971), “Sleeper” (1973), “The Bad News Bears” (1976), and “Being There” (1979).

8. Are there any hidden gems from the 1970s comedy genre?

Yes, there are several hidden gems from the 1970s comedy genre that may not be as well-known but are still worth watching.

Some examples include “The In-Laws” (1979), “Silver Streak” (1976), “The Groove Tube” (1974), “Where’s Poppa?” (1970), and “The Cheap Detective” (1978).

9. Did these movies have any impact on future comedy films?

Yes, these movies had a significant impact on future comedy films.

They influenced filmmakers and comedians, shaping the direction of the genre and inspiring new generations of comedy creators.

Woody Allen has directed numerous comedy movies throughout his career.

Some other notable ones include “Manhattan” (1979), “Sleeper” (1973), “Hannah and Her Sisters” (1986), “Midnight in Paris” (2011), and “Annie Hall” (1977).

Summary – Best 1970s Comedy Movies

The 1970s was a transformative decade for comedy movies, with filmmakers pushing boundaries and experimenting with new styles.

Movies like “Annie Hall,” “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “Airplane!,” “Blazing Saddles,” and “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” continue to entertain audiences with their timeless humor, memorable characters, and social relevance.

These films have left a lasting impact on the comedy genre and remain beloved classics that can be enjoyed by both new and old generations.

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