The 1970s was a decade that gave birth to some of the most iconic horror movies of all time. These movies were terrifying, shocking, and left an indelible mark on the audiences. In this article, we will take a look at what made a scary movie in the 70s and why they continue to be popular even today.
The Elements of a Scary Movie in the 70s
The horror movies of the 70s were different from the ones we see today. They relied more on atmosphere and tension rather than cheap jump scares and gore. Here are some of the elements that made a scary movie in the 70s.
Slow Pacing
Unlike modern horror movies that jump straight into action, 70s horror movies took their time to build up tension. They would spend a considerable amount of time introducing the characters and setting up the story before getting to any scares.
Suspenseful Soundtracks
Music played a crucial role in creating tension in these movies. The soundtracks were haunting and eerie, with screeching violins and ominous tones that would leave you on edge.
Psychological Horror
Many 70s horror movies dealt with psychological horror rather than physical terror. They explored themes like mental illness, paranoia, and fear of the unknown, which made them more relatable to audiences.
Realistic Settings
Most horror movies of this era were set in real locations rather than fictional ones. This added an element of realism to the films that made them even scarier.
Iconic Scary Movies of the 70s
Now let’s take a look at some of the most iconic scary movies from this era.
- The Exorcist (1973)
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
- Halloween (1978)
- Jaws (1975)
The Exorcist is a movie that needs no introduction. It tells the story of a young girl who becomes possessed by a demon, and the attempts of two priests to exorcise her. The movie is a masterclass in slow-burn horror, building up tension until it reaches a terrifying climax.
One of the most brutal and terrifying movies of its time, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre tells the story of a group of friends who fall prey to a family of cannibals in rural Texas. The movie’s realistic setting and gritty atmosphere made it all the more terrifying.
Halloween is often credited with popularizing the slasher genre. It tells the story of Michael Myers, a young boy who murders his sister on Halloween night and then escapes from an asylum 15 years later to continue his killing spree. The movie’s suspenseful soundtrack and iconic villain made it an instant classic.
While technically not a horror movie, Jaws deserves a mention on this list for its ability to terrify audiences around the world. The movie tells the story of a man-eating great white shark that terrorizes a small beach town. Its iconic theme music and tense atmosphere make it one of the scariest movies ever made.
The Legacy of 70s Horror Movies
The horror movies of the 70s have left an indelible mark on popular culture. They have inspired countless filmmakers and continue to be referenced in movies today. Their influence can be seen in modern horror movies like Hereditary and The Witch, which rely on atmosphere and tension rather than jump scares.
In Conclusion
The 70s was a decade that gave birth to some of the most iconic horror movies of all time. These movies were terrifying, shocking, and left an indelible mark on audiences. Their influence can still be felt today, and they continue to be popular with horror fans around the world.
