The 1970s witnessed an extraordinary proliferation of cinematic fantasies. Although Star Wars might have ruled over the science fiction genre by the end of this period, a captivating assortment of fantasy films, some even unnoticed, provided distinct and at times, strikingly unusual excursions into different realms. These movies, rooted in traditional medieval settings popular during the ’60s revival, or daringly combining science fiction and fantasy, offered a diverse range of experiences that transported viewers to uncharted territories.
1970s fantasy films you may not have seen yet range from grandiose animations to modest dinosaur flicks and avant-garde adaptations of Arthurian tales. Each movie carries a unique charm and peculiarity, a trait that defines its era and makes it an excellent choice for fans of the genre.
The Phantom Tollbooth (1970)
Directed By Abe Levitow, Dave Monahan, & Chuck Jones
The movie “The Phantom Tollbooth,” also known as “The Adventures of Milo in the Phantom Tollbooth,” is a fantastic film adaptation of an exceptional book by Norton Juster. In this whimsical children’s adventure, we meet Milo, a bored boy residing in a San Francisco apartment. Feeling that his life lacks purpose or meaning, he expresses this to his friend. Unexpectedly, a large package materializes at his doorstep – inside is a tollbooth that serves as a portal to an extraordinary alternate reality. Milo’s objective in this world is to save the Princesses of Sweet Rhyme and Pure Reason.
The peculiar personalities within “The Phantom Tollbooth” bear resemblance to those found in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland,” while the film’s philosophical aspects are surprisingly deep for a children’s film. Regrettably, “The Phantom Tollbooth” was a commercial failure, yet it left an indelible impression on countless kids during the ’70s, and its popularity has grown steadily since its premiere, as reported by “Variety.
Jabberwocky (1977)
Directed By Terry Gilliam
In a similar style to Carroll’s works, the 1977 film “Jabberwocky” was crafted from Lewis Carroll’s nonsense poem of the same name found in “Through the Looking-Glass,” the sequel to “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” This captivating production was a collaborative effort between the gifted director Terry Gilliam, who had shared directing duties with Terry Jones on the timeless classic “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” only two years earlier. Despite receiving mixed feedback, this less-discussed film is a must-see for fans of fantasy.
In Gilliam’s body of work, the movie “Jabberwocky” is frequently underestimated, earning a rotten certification, but it surpasses typical fairytale satire by delivering a sharp, albeit whimsical critique of societal flaws. The film portrays a kingdom struggling against a monstrous menace, while its ineffective leadership becomes preoccupied with insignificant matters and unscrupulous merchants take advantage of the resulting turmoil. This makes “Jabberwocky“‘s commentary on ineptitude and self-interest complex and insightful, all while being laugh-out-loud funny.
Bedknobs And Broomsticks (1971)
Directed By Robert Stevenson
The movie “Bedknobs and Broomsticks,” originally released in 1971, could be a nostalgic trip down memory lane if you’re from the ’90s. This is due to the significant restoration it underwent in 1996, making it relevant for newer audiences as well. It is a unique blend of live-action and animation set in a fantasy world, inspired by two books written by Mary Norton. In essence, it bears a spiritual resemblance to “Mary Poppins,” as the film’s production took a considerable amount of time due to its similarities with the 1964 classic.
In 1940, amidst the Blitz, three orphans from London are sent to a village in Dorset under the care of a woman who initially appears unwilling. The children, in their attempt to flee, discover an extraordinary truth: their guardian is studying witchcraft! To keep them quiet about this, she provides them with a magical artifact – a bedknob imbued with charm. However, her learning is abruptly halted, causing the group to embark on a journey to London in search of her teacher and the secrets of a powerful final spell. Their odyssey leads them to unusual locations, unfolds a story about a sorcerer, features enchanted creatures, and uncovers a secret island.
The Lord of the Rings (1978)
Directed By Ralph Bakshi
Although Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy is generally seen as the ultimate cinematic interpretation of Tolkien’s epic, Ralph Bakshi’s 1978 animated film played a vital role that is often underestimated. It’s quite possible that Jackson’s later films benefited significantly from Bakshi’s earlier endeavor. Even though the animated movie didn’t cover the entire trilogy, it brought the world of Middle-earth to life on the big screen in a unique and impactful manner for many viewers. This early introduction might have prepared the ground for the wider acceptance and excitement that greeted Jackson’s more extensive adaptation years later.
It can be safely argued that Bakshi’s groundbreaking work might have made the road to mainstream popularity more difficult for Jackson’s trilogy, if not for his pioneering efforts. Bakshi’s movie, despite its flaws and deviations from the original storyline, showed the cinematic potential of Tolkien’s works, captivating audiences’ imaginations in the process. Consequently, the 1978 animated version of Lord of the Rings is not just a curious note in film history, but a crucial foundation upon which the success of Jackson’s live-action films likely relied heavily.
The Man Who Fell To Earth (1976)
Directed By Nicolas Roeg
1976’s film “The Man Who Fell to Earth,” directed by Nicolas Roeg, showcases one of David Bowie’s most memorable performances. This movie left a profound mark on the cinematic world during the 1970s, particularly resonating with audiences who were in tune with the emerging counter-culture and avant-garde filmmaking. For these viewers, the movie provided an unusual and frequently perplexing journey. The film’s psychedelic aesthetics, unorthodox editing techniques, and David Bowie’s otherworldly portrayal of an alien adapting to human society left a deep and lasting impact.
Instead of hurting its appeal, the film’s peculiarity played a significant role in establishing its cult following and its recognition as a classic 1970s movie. In an era marked by artistic daring and boundary-breaking art, The Man Who Fell to Earth made a striking impact with its boldness and unwillingness to conform. It served as a focal point for debates about art cinema, science fiction, and the merging of reality and perception. Although the storyline might seem fragmented, you’re sure to be captivated by the film’s intense atmosphere and David Bowie’s mesmerizing performance.
Lancelot Du Lac (1974)
Directed By Robert Bresson
Lancelot du Lac, made in 1974 by Robert Bresson, might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s certainly intriguing as an unusual fantasy film that earned critical praise. Instead of following the usual fantasy trends of the 1970s, this movie presented a strikingly distinct interpretation of Arthurian legend, resonating more with art-house audiences. Bresson intentionally delved into the psychological and spiritual repercussions of the characters’ deeds. This innovative approach, evocative of French New Wave styles, brought to light the profound sadness inherent in the Arthurian mythos.
The unorthodox portrayal of a well-known epic left viewers feeling uneasy due to intentionally poor performances from actors who rarely appeared in films afterwards. However, this strange reinterpretation of the tale struck a chord with audiences and critics alike. It’s an engaging choice for spectators yearning for something beyond typical swashbuckling tales. In a time marked by more extravagant fantasy productions, Lancelot du Lac distinguished itself as a stark deconstruction of the traditional legend’s structure.
When Dinosaurs Ruled The Earth (1970)
Directed By Val Guest
In the realm of ’70s fantasy filmmaking, the movie “When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth” (1970) presented a uniquely creative, though scientifically flawed, perspective that ignited a primal sense of curiosity. Instead of constructing intricate fantasy landscapes, the film opted for a more folkloric narrative, blending primitive humans with dinosaurs in a world that appeared freshly born mere moments before the story unfolded. This uncomplicated concept exudes an endearing innocence, resonating with viewers prepared to overlook inconsistencies for a simple, enjoyable adventure – quite characteristic of Hammer’s style.
One compelling reason that “When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth” attracted audiences in the 1970s was certainly its visual grandeur, with the stop-motion dinosaur animation being a standout feature. Although limited by the technology of the era, these claymation beasts sparked the imagination and would appeal to viewers who are tired of CGI overload. Scenes such as the plesiosaur attack demonstrated genuine creative flair. In essence, this somewhat dated but sincere and non-ironic film fills a craving for pure, untainted fantasy.
Wizards (1977)
Directed By Ralph Bakshi
Ralph Bakshi’s 1977 animated film, “Wizards,” daringly combines post-apocalyptic science fiction with classic magic. In a time when fascination with both fantasy realms and bleak futures was on the rise, Bakshi’s work presented an unique perspective of a world shattered by a devastating war, where the survivors are split between those who practice arcane arts and those who rely on technological might.
The movie established itself as an unusual yet significant addition to the ’70s fantasy genre, thanks to its devoted fanbase. Bakshi’s unique animation technique, blending live-action book sequences, storybook illustrations, and rotoscoping, gives the film a rough, unpredictable aesthetic. The seemingly odd 1970s disco soundtrack also adds to its quirky charm.
Zardoz (1974)
Directed By John Boorman
In the 1970s, filmmakers began to explore the realm of sci-fi in more daring ways, and I wholeheartedly support that John Boorman’s “Zardoz” (1974) was a pioneer in this movement. Unlike traditional space odysseys, this movie plunges you into an intriguing future filled with enigmas. Sean Connery’s character embarks on a journey to unravel the peculiarities of his world, uncovering a baffling truth about a fabricated deity and some incredibly long-lived beings who exhibit strange behaviors. “Zardoz” isn’t shy about embracing insanity; it seamlessly blends its science fiction aspects with fantastical elements that are far from ordinary.
The science fiction adventure, uniquely produced in the 1970s, follows a storyline as unconventional as its production process. Director John Boorman crafted this film after his plans for an adaptation of The Lord of the Rings were abandoned. The peculiarities of Zardoz even extended to its soundtrack, where surprisingly, early music expert David Munrow was recruited by Boorman. Diverging from typical sci-fi standards, Munrow incorporated medieval instruments such as flutes and bells into the score. This unusual yet distinct musical backdrop, for fantasy enthusiasts, added another layer of the movie’s thought-provoking eccentricity, combining timeless melodies with a futuristic landscape.
The Land That Time Forgot (1974)
Directed By Kevin Connor
In simpler terms, “Kevin Connor’s 1974 film ‘The Land That Time Forgot’ is an enjoyable, low-budget adventure fantasy that was remade in 2009. The updated version is set in the present day and follows a couple who discover the dinosaur-filled island of Caprona. Unlike the original, which combined sincere adventure with debatable special effects, the remake embraced its B-movie essence, frequently favoring CGI creatures over practical ones like the hand-controlled dinosaur puppets used in the 1974 movie.
1974’s “The Land That Time Forgot” is a 1970s fantasy film that maintains an enjoyable charm, balancing on the edge between a budget-friendly spectacle and a truly captivating journey. Although its special effects might prompt laughter rather than awe in today’s audience, the production carries a genuine sincerity and a storyline that overshadows these aspects. This intriguing blend, where an engaging plot and good acting are paired with laughably poor creature effects, adds to the movie’s distinctive and eerie allure. As a result, it stands out as a memorable, if imperfect, fantasy production from the 1970s.
Source: Variety
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2025-04-30 19:27