The Best '70s Spy Movies
- 1Robert Redford, Faye Dunaway, Cliff Robertson
Featuring Robert Redford, this thrilling film revolves around a CIA analyst who unwittingly uncovers a dangerous conspiracy within the organization. After returning from lunch to find his colleagues murdered, he is forced to go on the run, piecing together the puzzle while evading assassins. The tension builds throughout the movie, culminating in a chilling climax that leaves viewers questioning the nature of trust and loyalty.
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- 2Roger Moore, Barbara Bach, Curd Jürgens
This iconic installment of the James Bond series stars Roger Moore and introduces the world to the menacing steel-toothed henchman, Jaws. As Bond investigates the disappearance of British and Russian submarines, he must form an uneasy alliance with a beautiful Russian counterpart, played by Barbara Bach. Together, they uncover a deadly plot to instigate global nuclear war, led by the sinister shipping tycoon, Karl Stromberg.
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- 3Edward Fox, Michaël Lonsdale, Tony Britton
This gripping political thriller is based on the infamous attempt to assassinate French president Charles de Gaulle by a professional hitman known only as "The Jackal." As the authorities scramble to uncover his identity and thwart the assassination, the Jackal meticulously plans every detail of the hit. The nerve-wracking cat-and-mouse game keeps viewers enthralled, culminating in a shocking conclusion.
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- 4Michael Caine, Donald Sutherland, Robert Duvall
Based on a novel by Jack Higgins, this World War II thriller centers on a group of German paratroopers who infiltrate England under the guise of Polish soldiers. Their mission, orchestrated by a disillusioned Irish Republican Army member, is to kidnap Prime Minister Winston Churchill and hold him hostage. The suspenseful story unfolds, as the plotters come dangerously close to succeeding, leaving audiences on the edge of their seats.
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- 5Roger Moore, Yaphet Kotto, Jane Seymour
In this high-stakes adventure, James Bond, portrayed by Roger Moore, is tasked with investigating the mysterious deaths of several British agents in New York City. As he delves deeper into the case, he comes face-to-face with a powerful Caribbean crime lord named Dr. Kananga, played by Yaphet Kotto. Blending elements of voodoo, drug smuggling, and political machinations, the plot keeps viewers engaged until the action-packed finale.
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- 6Sean Connery, Jill St. John, Charles Gray
Sean Connery makes his final appearance as James Bond in this extravagant adventure involving a global diamond smuggling ring. As Bond traverses exotic locations from Amsterdam to Las Vegas, he uncovers a nefarious plot by the villainous Ernst Stavro Blofeld to construct a space-based laser weapon. With its blend of glamour, action, and memorable villains, it remains a timeless entry in the Bond series.
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- 7Roger Moore, Christopher Lee, Britt Ekland
Christopher Lee stars as the villainous assassin Scaramanga alongside Roger Moore's James Bond in this exciting escapade centered around a solar-powered weapon. Bond must recover the cutting-edge device before Scaramanga can use it for his deadly plans. Along the way, the duo engages in a thrilling game of cat and mouse, culminating in a climactic showdown with numerous twists.
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- 8Charles Bronson, Lee Remick, Donald Pleasence
Starring Charles Bronson, this tense thriller is centered on a rogue KGB agent who activates a series of Soviet "sleeper agents" in the United States. Tasked with stopping the deadly plot before it can spiral out of control, a KGB and CIA agent must work together to hunt down the rogue operative. Filled with unexpected twists and non-stop suspense, the film is a classic example of Cold War-era espionage cinema.
- 9Peter Falk, Alan Arkin, Richard Libertini
In this comedic caper, Alan Arkin stars as an uptight dentist who becomes embroiled in a dangerous adventure when his daughter marries the son of a wacky CIA operative, played by Peter Falk. As the two fathers get drawn into international intrigue, they form an unlikely partnership despite their vastly different personalities. Hilarious hijinks and narrow escapes ensue, making for a riotous mix of laughs and action.
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- 10Bibi Andersson, Richard Boone, Nigel Green
Directed by John Huston, this intricate tale of Cold War espionage follows a team of skilled operatives tasked with recovering a sensitive document stolen from the Soviet Union. As they navigate the treacherous world of spies, double agents, and hidden agendas, they must unravel the truth behind the mysterious letter. With its stellar ensemble cast and gripping plot, the film has cemented its status as a classic in espionage cinema.
- 11Paul Newman, Harry Andrews, Dominique Sanda
Based on the novel by Desmond Bagley, this thrilling film stars Paul Newman as a British intelligence officer sent undercover to infiltrate a notorious criminal organization. Tasked with bringing down its mastermind, he must employ his wits and cunning to survive the treacherous web of deceit surrounding him. Filled with suspense, intrigue, and unexpected twists, the film keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 12Burt Lancaster, Alain Delon, Paul Scofield
Burt Lancaster stars as a seasoned CIA agent who becomes the target of his own protégé, an expert assassin named Scorpio, played by Alain Delon. As the two play a deadly game of cat and mouse, questions of loyalty and deception arise, leaving viewers to ponder who can truly be trusted. With its suspenseful plot and themes of betrayal, this film remains a gripping entry in espionage cinema.
- 13Roger Moore, Lois Chiles, Michaël Lonsdale
In this out-of-this-world James Bond adventure, Roger Moore's 007 is tasked with investigating the theft of a space shuttle from a secretive billionaire, played by Michael Lonsdale. As the plot unravels, Bond uncovers a diabolical scheme to decimate Earth's population and create a new world order in space. With its dazzling special effects and thrilling space-bound action, Moonraker provides an exhilarating ride for viewers.
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- 14
The Groundstar Conspiracy
George Peppard, Michael Sarrazin, Christine BelfordIn this captivating sci-fi thriller, George Peppard stars as a government investigator assigned to uncover the truth behind a mysterious explosion at a top-secret research facility. As he delves deeper into the case, he becomes embroiled in a complex conspiracy involving deception, betrayal, and mind control. The film's labyrinthine plot and thought-provoking themes have made it a standout in espionage cinema.
- 15Bruce Lee, John Saxon, Jim Kelly
Regarded as one of the greatest martial arts films ever made, this Bruce Lee classic follows a skilled fighter who is recruited by an intelligence agency to infiltrate a dangerous martial arts tournament. As he battles his way to the top, he uncovers a sinister plot involving drug smuggling and human trafficking. Blending intense action with espionage elements, Enter the Dragon remains a fan favorite among both martial arts enthusiasts and fans of the genre.
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- 16Michael Caine, Donald Pleasence, Delphine Seyrig
Starring Michael Caine, this fast-paced thriller centers on a British intelligence officer whose son is kidnapped by a criminal demanding a hefty ransom. As he races against time to save his son, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of international intrigue, deception, and betrayal. Combining thrilling action sequences with a nail-biting plot, the film is a riveting addition to espionage cinema.
- 17Robert Shaw, Lee Marvin, Linda Evans
Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, this suspenseful thriller follows a group of international agents who join forces to capture a high-ranking Soviet defector. As they attempt to smuggle him out of Europe aboard a high-speed train, they are pursued by deadly Soviet assassins. Featuring breathtaking stunt work and a tense atmosphere, the film has become a beloved classic in the genre.
- 18Robert Powell, David Warner, Karen Dotrice
Based on the novel by John Buchan, this taut thriller follows a man who becomes ensnared in a web of intrigue after discovering a dead body in his apartment. Pursued by both the police and a ruthless spy ring, he must race against time to clear his name and prevent a devastating act of sabotage. With its suspenseful narrative and thrilling chase sequences, the film remains a masterclass in tension-building.
- 19Elke Sommer, Michael York, Anton Diffring
A thrilling World War I adventure, this film centers on a British intelligence officer tasked with thwarting a diabolical German plot to steal the Magna Carta using a massive zeppelin. As the daring mission unfolds, the officer finds himself battling both enemy spies and the treacherous skies. With its stunning aerial sequences and electrifying action, Zeppelin is a soaring testament to the spirit of espionage cinema.
- 20Julie Andrews, Omar Sharif, Anthony Quayle
In this romantic thriller, Julie Andrews stars as a British civil servant who becomes romantically involved with a Russian military attaché, played by Omar Sharif. As their illicit affair unfolds, they find themselves caught in a dangerous game of international politics and espionage. With its lush settings and captivating plot, the film offers a sophisticated mix of romance and intrigue.
- 21George Segal, Cristina Raines, Bo Brundin
This tense action thriller follows a Canadian police officer, played by George Segal, tasked with protecting a Soviet defector during a high-stakes KGB operation. As the race against time unfolds, the officer must rely on his wits and instincts to keep both himself and the defector alive. With its gripping plot, tension-filled chase sequences, and nail-biting climax, Russian Roulette keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
- 22Mireille Darc, Jean Rochefort, Bernard Blier
In this comedic French caper, a hapless musician is mistakenly identified as a top-secret agent and becomes embroiled in a chaotic world of espionage and intrigue. As competing factions attempt to use him for their own purposes, he must navigate the dangerous world of secret agents and assassinations while maintaining his innocence. Filled with slapstick humor and suspense, the film has become a cult hit among fans of the genre.
- 23
Puppet on a Chain
Barbara Parkins, Alexander Knox, Sven-Bertil TaubeBased on the novel by Alistair MacLean, this pulse-pounding adventure follows an American narcotics agent as he uncovers an international drug-smuggling ring in Amsterdam. As he delves deeper into the case, he encounters a mysterious and deadly organization known as "The Puppet Masters." Combining intense action sequences with a labyrinthine plot, the film holds viewers captivated until the explosive finale.
- 24Anna Karina, Udo Kier, Barry Newman
This suspenseful tale of Cold War intrigue follows an American attorney searching for a long-lost World War II treasure hidden in the Austrian Alps. As he becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy involving former Nazis and Soviet agents, he must rely on his wits and resourcefulness to survive. Filled with stunning alpine scenery and hair-raising plot twists, the film is a thrilling addition to espionage cinema.
- 25Jacqueline Bissett, Jean-Paul Belmondo
In this French comedy adventure, Jean-Paul Belmondo stars as a bumbling secret agent who also happens to be the alter ego of a successful spy novelist. As the lines between reality and fiction begin to blur, he finds himself caught up in a dangerous case of international intrigue. Filled with action, humor, and memorable characters, Le Magnifique is a delightful romp through the world of espionage.
- 26James Coburn, Lee Grant, Keenan Wynn
Starring James Coburn, this engaging thriller focuses on a brilliant scientist who devises an elaborate plan to eliminate his criminal associates before accepting a high-ranking government position. As the intricate scheme unfolds, the body count rises, leaving viewers to guess who will survive. Combining intelligence, deception, and betrayal, the film has become a favorite among fans of the genre.
- 27Stanley Baker
This exciting spy thriller stars Stanley Baker as a British operative assigned to track down a Soviet defector with ties to a Nazi war criminal. As the mission takes him from London to Turkey, he must navigate a web of danger, deception, and double-crosses. Combining classic espionage elements with hard-hitting action sequences, Innocent Bystanders is a gripping addition to the genre.
- 28Robert Mitchum, Leslie Nielsen, Bradford Dillman
Starring Robert Mitchum, this thrilling tale revolves around a disgraced former narcotics agent who is enlisted to bring down a notorious Hong Kong drug lord operating out of Amsterdam. As he navigates the seedy underworld of the city, he encounters dangerous adversaries and unexpected allies. With its tension-filled plot and atmospheric European settings, the film is a classic example of high-stakes intrigue.
- 29Lawrence Cook, Paula Kelly, Janet League
In this provocative political thriller based on the novel by Sam Greenlee, a black CIA agent returns to his hometown of Chicago to train a group of black revolutionaries in guerrilla warfare tactics. As tensions rise and the stakes grow higher, the film explores themes of race, power, and resistance in America. With its incisive commentary and gripping plot, The Spook Who Sat by the Door remains an important entry in the genre.
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- 30Nicol Williamson, Richard Attenborough, Derek Jacobi
Based on the novel by Graham Greene, this tense dramatic film follows a low-level British intelligence officer who becomes embroiled in a deadly game of international politics when his wife is mistakenly murdered by terrorists. Starring Nicol Williamson and John Gielgud, the film delves into themes of love, loyalty, and betrayal, making for a sobering and thought-provoking experience.
Based on the best-selling novel by Robert Ludlum, this thrilling miniseries revolves around an ambitious American intelligence officer who becomes involved in a high-stakes WWII operation to exchange industrial diamonds for crucial military technology. As he navigates the dangerous world of war, espionage, and betrayal, he uncovers a sinister conspiracy that threatens both sides. With its superb storytelling, engaging characters, and nail-biting suspense, The Rhinemann Exchange remains a classic example of television espionage at its finest.
- 32Sean Connery, Lance Henriksen, Adolfo Celi
Starring Sean Connery, this political thriller centers on a ruthless Middle Eastern diplomat who becomes entangled in a web of violence and intrigue. As he attempts to broker peace between his country and the West, he finds himself targeted by a deadly assassin. Combining thrilling action sequences with a compelling political backdrop, The Next Man is a taut and engrossing entry in the genre.
- 33Julie Andrews, Rock Hudson, Jeremy Kemp
Starring Julie Andrews and Rock Hudson, this romantic musical comedy takes place during World War I and follows a beautiful German spy sent to England to obtain military secrets. As she falls for an enemy pilot, the lines between love, duty, and deception become blurred. Combining catchy musical numbers with elements of espionage, Darling Lili offers a unique and entertaining spin on the genre.
- 34Joseph Cotten, Orson Welles, Dolores del Río
In this suspenseful adaptation of the Eric Ambler novel, Sam Waterston stars as an American engineer caught in a dangerous game of international espionage when he witnesses the assassination of a Turkish official. Pursued by enemy agents, he must rely on his wits and resourcefulness to survive. Featuring a star-studded supporting cast and a tense, atmospheric plot, Journey into Fear is a classic tale of intrigue and suspense.
- 35Peter Ustinov, Helen Hayes, Clive Revill
In this lighthearted Disney caper, a group of British nannies becomes embroiled in an international espionage plot involving a top-secret formula hidden inside a dinosaur bone. With the help of a resourceful Chinese cook, they must outwit enemy agents and recover the priceless artifact. Mixing zany humor and family-friendly action, One of Our Dinosaurs Is Missing is a delightful entry in the genre.
- 36Mireille Darc, Jean Rochefort, Pierre Richard
In this slapstick French sequel, the hapless musician once again finds himself caught up in a web of international intrigue after being mistaken for a top-secret agent. As he navigates the treacherous world of spies, assassinations, and espionage, he must maintain his innocence amid the chaos. Filled with humorous antics and thrilling escapades, the film is a worthy follow-up to its cult classic predecessor.
- 37Donald Sutherland, Elliott Gould, Nigel Hawthorne
In this comedic adventure, Elliott Gould and Donald Sutherland star as two bumbling CIA agents caught up in a deadly international conspiracy after accidentally ruining a top-secret operation. Pursued by enemy spies and their own agency, they must rely on their wits and sheer luck to survive. Featuring wacky antics, madcap chases, and a tongue-in-cheek approach to the genre, S*P*Y*S offers a fun-filled romp through the world of espionage.
- 38Rosalind Russell, Darren McGavin, Nehemiah Persoff
Based on the popular novel series by Dorothy Gilman, this whimsical caper stars Rosalind Russell as a resourceful senior citizen who becomes an unlikely CIA operative. As she embarks on a series of daring missions, she proves that age is no hindrance when it comes to outwitting enemy spies. Filled with humor, charm, and unexpected twists, Mrs. Pollifax-Spy is a delightful and heartwarming entry in the genre.
- 39Jim McMullan, Regis Cordic, Katherine Woodville
This tense thriller centers on a documentary filmmaker who becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy after uncovering an international smuggling operation. With his life and career at risk, he must navigate the hazards of the criminal underworld while staying one step ahead of the law. Filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists, Extreme Close-Up is a compelling entry in espionage cinema.
- 40Richard Pryor, Joe Louis, Dorothy Lamour
In this offbeat comedy-adventure, a group of unlikely heroes is brought together by a secret government agency to infiltrate a hostile nation and rescue a group of kidnapped American cultural icons. As they navigate the wild world of espionage, they learn the true meaning of teamwork and camaraderie. Featuring a star-studded cast and an eclectic mix of action, music, and humor, The Phynx is a truly unique entry in the genre.
- 41Ursula Andress, Woody Strode, Lino Banfi
In this Italian action-comedy, Ursula Andress stars as a flight attendant who unwittingly finds herself caught up in a high-stakes smuggling operation. As she navigates the dangers of the criminal underworld, she must rely on her charm and resourcefulness to survive. Combining stylish European settings, thrilling action sequences, and a lighthearted touch, Loaded Guns is a fun and engaging romp through the genre.
- 42Tura Satana, Michael Ansara, Anthony Eisley
Starring Michael Ansara and Francine York, this campy cult classic follows a group of deadly female assassins who must stop a madman from initiating World War III. Armed with an array of skills and weapons, they must infiltrate the villain's lair and put an end to his diabolical scheme. With its over-the-top action and colorful characters, The Doll Squad remains a beloved entry in the world of espionage cinema.
- 43
The Amazing Dobermans
Fred Astaire, James Franciscus, Barbara EdenIn this family-friendly adventure, a retired police officer enlists the help of a group of highly trained Doberman pinschers to thwart a dangerous gang of criminals. As the crime-fighting canine team springs into action, they demonstrate that even man's best friend can play a heroic role in the world of espionage. Filled with action, humor, and heartwarming moments, The Amazing Dobermans is a beloved classic that showcases the lighter side of the genre.
