The Best Black Movies Of The 1970s
- 1
Uptown Saturday Night
Bill Cosby, Richard Pryor, Sidney PoitierBill Cosby and Sidney Poitier team up once again in this comedy about two friends who embark on a wild adventure after their wallets are stolen during a robbery at an illegal nightclub. As they track down the thieves, they become entangled in a web of intrigue, encountering a variety of eccentric characters along the way. Uptown Saturday Night is a lighthearted romp that highlights the comedic talents of its legendary stars.
- 2Diahann Carroll, James Earl Jones, Lawrence-Hilton Jacobs
In this heartwarming romantic comedy, Diahann Carroll stars as a single mother of six children who falls in love with a charming garbage collector, played by James Earl Jones. The film explores the complexities of love and family dynamics while shedding light on the struggles faced by African-American families in the 1970s. With its witty humor and touching moments, Claudine remains a classic comedy that showcases the importance of love and resilience in the face of adversity.
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- 3Sidney Poitier, Bill Cosby, Jimmie Walker
Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby star in this hilarious comedy about two friends who attempt a get-rich-quick scheme by rigging a boxing match. As they navigate the underworld of gambling and crime, the duo encounters a colorful cast of characters and finds themselves in increasingly absurd situations. Let's Do It Again is a laugh-out-loud comedy that showcases the undeniable chemistry between its two leading stars.
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- 4Richard Roundtree, Moses Gunn, Christopher St. John
This iconic action-comedy film follows the adventures of private detective John Shaft, portrayed by Richard Roundtree, as he navigates the dangerous streets of New York City to solve a kidnapping case. The film's blend of humor, action, and memorable one-liners make it a standout comedy from the 1970s. Shaft's stylish demeanor and unapologetic attitude have made him a lasting symbol of cool and an unforgettable comedic character.
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- 5Pam Grier, Antonio Fargas, Peter Brown
Pam Grier shines as the titular character in this action-packed comedy about a woman seeking revenge on the drug syndicate responsible for her boyfriend's death. With her fierce determination and no-nonsense attitude, Foxy Brown takes on the criminal underworld with equal parts humor and grit. The film's blend of comedy and action make it an entertaining and empowering watch.
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- 6Pam Grier, Booker Bradshaw, Robert Do 'Qui
In this action-comedy film, Pam Grier stars as a nurse-turned-vigilante who seeks revenge on the drug dealers responsible for her sister's addiction. With her fierce determination and resourcefulness, Coffy takes on the criminal underworld with a combination of humor and action. Coffy is a standout film from the 1970s that showcases Grier's talent for blending comedy and drama.
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- 7Ron O'Neal, Carl Lee, Julius W. Harris
This crime-comedy film follows the story of Youngblood Priest, a stylish drug dealer who wants to make one last big score before leaving the dangerous life behind. With its sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and iconic soundtrack by Curtis Mayfield, Super Fly is a classic comedy that explores the complexities of ambition and the pursuit of the American Dream.
- 8Shelley Winters, Esther Rolle, Don Cornelius
Tamara Dobson stars as the eponymous character in this action-comedy film about a government agent who takes on a drug kingpin in an effort to protect her community. Cleopatra Jones combines humor, action, and a strong female lead to create a memorable and entertaining comedy that remains relevant today.
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- 9Richard Pryor, Lonette McKee, Margaret Avery
Richard Pryor stars in this hilarious comedy about a man who becomes involved in a labor strike at his workplace, leading him to question his priorities and values. With its witty dialogue and memorable performances, Which Way Is Up? is a classic comedy that showcases Pryor's immense talent and comedic genius.
- 10Max Julien, Don Gordon, Richard Pryor
This crime-comedy film centers on the life of Goldie, a small-time hustler who becomes a powerful pimp after a stint in prison. The Mack offers a humorous look at the world of crime and the pursuit of power, featuring a standout performance by Max Julien in the lead role.
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- 11Anthony Quinn, Yaphet Kotto, Anthony Franciosa
This crime-comedy film follows the story of two New York City police officers, one Black and one white, as they attempt to solve a robbery-homicide case in Harlem. With its blend of humor, action, and social commentary, Across 110th Street offers a unique and entertaining look at race relations and police work in the 1970s.
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- 12Sidney Poitier, Martin Landau, Barbara McNair
Sidney Poitier reprises his role as Virgil Tibbs in this crime-comedy sequel to the classic film In the Heat of the Night. As Tibbs investigates a murder case, he finds himself navigating a world of corruption and deceit while maintaining his signature wit and charm. They Call Me Mister Tibbs is a captivating comedy that showcases Poitier's undeniable talent and charisma.
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- 13Fred Williamson, Art Lund, Gloria Hendry
Fred Williamson stars as Tommy Gibbs, a small-time hood who rises through the ranks of organized crime to become the kingpin of Harlem in this crime-comedy film. With its blend of humor, action, and social commentary, Black Caesar is an entertaining and thought-provoking look at the pursuit of power and the consequences that come with it.
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- 14Jim Brown, Fred Williamson, Jim Kelly
Jim Brown, Fred Williamson, and Jim Kelly star in this action-comedy about three friends who join forces to take down a white supremacist group plotting to poison the water supply in major cities. With its blend of humor, action, and camaraderie, Three the Hard Way remains an entertaining and enjoyable comedy from the 1970s.
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- 15Glynn Turman, Lawrence-Hilton Jacobs, Garrett Morris
This coming-of-age comedy follows the story of a group of high school friends in 1960s Chicago as they navigate the challenges of adolescence, love, and friendship. With its memorable characters, witty dialogue, and heartfelt moments, Cooley High remains a beloved comedy that captures the spirit and struggles of the era.
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- 16Billy Dee Williams, James Earl Jones, Richard Pryor
This sports comedy follows the story of a group of talented baseball players who form their own barnstorming team in the 1930s after being fed up with the racism and exploitation they face in the Negro Leagues. Starring Billy Dee Williams, James Earl Jones, and Richard Pryor, the film is filled with humor and heart, showcasing the importance of friendship and perseverance in the face of adversity.
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- 17Bill Cosby, James Earl Jones, Sidney Poitier
Sidney Poitier and Bill Cosby team up once again in this comedy about two con men who are blackmailed into helping a group of inner-city youths find employment. As they navigate the challenges of their new roles, the duo encounters a variety of hilarious situations and colorful characters. A Piece of the Action is a heartwarming comedy that showcases the comedic chemistry between its two legendary stars.
- 18Sidney Poitier, Will Geer, Beverly Todd
Sidney Poitier stars in this thought-provoking drama with comedic elements as a mysterious man who returns to his hometown after a long absence, only to find it plagued by racial tensions and violence. As he tries to help the community navigate these challenges, he is forced to confront his own past and identity. Brother John is a compelling exploration of the complexities of race, family, and personal responsibility, infused with moments of humor and warmth.
- 19Godfrey Cambridge, Raymond St. Jacques, Calvin Lockhart
This action-comedy film follows the story of two Harlem detectives who investigate a scam involving a supposed African treasure and a local preacher. With its sharp dialogue, memorable characters, and humorous situations, Cotton Comes to Harlem is a standout comedy from the 1970s that offers a unique and entertaining look at life in Harlem during that time.
- 20Roger E. Mosley, Stan Shaw, Trina Parks
In this satirical comedy, a group of female bikers investigates the disappearance of their friends in a racially divided city. As they uncover a sinister plot involving a fast-food chain and mind control, they must use their wit and resourcefulness to save the day. Darktown Strutters is a unique and entertaining comedy that blends social commentary with humor and action.
- 21Sidney Poitier, Barbara McNair, Gerald S. O'Loughlin
This crime-comedy film follows the story of a group of vigilantes who team up with a police lieutenant, played by Sidney Poitier, to take down a powerful drug syndicate. With its blend of humor, action, and suspense, The Organization is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
- 22Fred Williamson
Fred Williamson stars as a private detective who becomes entangled in a dangerous plot involving blackmail, murder, and a mysterious briefcase in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, Black Eye is a thrilling and entertaining comedy that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 23Moses Gunn, Bernie Casey, Rosalind Cash
In this poignant comedy-drama, a young boy and his friends must come to terms with the tragic death of their friend Cornbread, a local basketball star who is mistakenly killed by police officers. As they navigate their grief and search for justice, they learn valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the power of community. Cornbread, Earl and Me is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of the complexities of growing up in an urban environment.
- 24Philip Michael Thomas, Irene Cara, Lonette McKee
This musical comedy-drama follows the story of three sisters who form a singing group in 1950s Harlem and struggle to find success in the face of personal and professional challenges. Featuring a memorable soundtrack by Curtis Mayfield and performances by Irene Cara, Lonette McKee, and Dwan Smith, Sparkle is a heartfelt and entertaining look at the power of music and the importance of family.
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- 25Pam Grier, Yaphet Kotto, Godfrey Cambridge
Pam Grier stars as the titular character in this action-comedy about a magazine photographer who becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving political assassination and international intrigue. With its blend of humor, action, and suspense, Friday Foster is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that showcases Grier's talent for blending comedy and drama.
- 26Sidney Poitier, Harry Belafonte, Ruby Dee
Sidney Poitier directs and stars in this comedy about a former slave who teams up with a con man preacher to help freed slaves find a safe haven in the post-Civil War West. The film's blend of humor, adventure, and social commentary make it an entertaining and thought-provoking watch.
- 27Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Richard Pryor
This musical comedy adaptation of the classic The Wizard of Oz features an all-star African-American cast, including Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, and Richard Pryor. Set in a fantastical version of New York City, the film follows Dorothy as she navigates her way through a magical land filled with memorable characters and catchy songs. The Wiz is a beloved and entertaining comedy that showcases the talents of its legendary cast.
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- 28Sidney Poitier, George Baker, Rudolph Walker
Sidney Poitier directs and stars in this romantic comedy about a widowed doctor who falls in love with a mysterious woman while on vacation in London. As their relationship deepens, the couple faces a series of challenges that test their love and commitment. A Warm December is a touching and humorous exploration of love, loss, and the power of human connection.
- 29Jim Brown, Martin Landau, Brenda Sykes
Jim Brown stars as the titular character in this action-comedy about a nightclub owner who becomes entangled in a dangerous plot involving the mob and a militant black organization. Black Gunn combines humor, action, and a strong sense of social commentary to create a memorable and thought-provoking comedy film.
- 30
Hit Man
Pam Grier, Bernie Casey, Sam LawsBernie Casey stars as a professional hitman who becomes embroiled in a dangerous plot involving blackmail, murder, and a mysterious briefcase in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, Hit Man is a thrilling and entertaining comedy that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
