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The Best Black Movies Of The 1970s
- 1Diahann 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.
More Claudine
- #180 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- 2
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.
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NEW#68The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman- NEW#60Lady Sings the Blues
- 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.
More Let's Do It Again- #214 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #85 of 125 onThe Funniest Black Movies Ever Made
- #65 of 203 onThe 200 Best PG Indie Movies
- 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.
More Shaft- #145 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #297 of 308 onThe 295+ Best Movies For Guys
- #210 of 228 onThe Best Movie Scores Of All Time, Ranked
- 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.
More Foxy Brown- #202 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #42 of 48 onGreat Movies About Furious Women Out for Revenge
- #56 of 137 onThe 100+ Best Movies With Black Female Leads
- 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.
More Coffy- #257 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #54 of 137 onThe 100+ Best Movies With Black Female Leads
- #6 of 15 onThings You Didn't Know About Women In Action Movies
- 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.
More Cleopatra Jones- #268 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #61 of 75 onMovies With The Most Hardcore Women
- #19 of 118 on110+ Movies And Shows With Jones In The Title
- 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.
More The Mack- #225 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #58 of 147 onThe 145+ Best Hood Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #111 of 143 onThe Very Best Movies About Life in the Ghetto
- 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.
More Across 110th Street- #181 of 191 onThe Best Movies For Men
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- #110 of 147 onThe 145+ Best Hood Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- 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.
- #235 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #25 of 26 on26 Spin-Offs And Sequels To Hollywood Films You Probably Never Knew Existed
- #23 of 40 onThe Best Cop Movies of the 1970s
- 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.
More Black Caesar- #316 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #61 of 86 onThe Best Juneteenth Movies
- #75 of 92 onThe Best '70s Action Movies
- 14Billy 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.
- #166 of 209 onThe Best Sports Movies Ever Made
- #44 of 93 onThe All-Time Best Baseball Films
- #59 of 81 onThe Best Black Sports Movies Ever Made
- 15Bill 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.
- 16Jim 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.
More Three the Hard Way- #369 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #64 of 148 on140+ Movies And Shows With Hard In The Title
- #22 of 39 onThe Best Kung Fu Movies Of The 1970s
- 17Glynn 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.
More Cooley High- #70 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #23 of 81 on80+ Great Movies About Black Teens
- #41 of 147 onThe 145+ Best Hood Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- 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.
More Sparkle- #133 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #30 of 46 onThe 45+ Best PG Musicial Movies
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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.
- 26Diana 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.
More The Wiz- #62 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
- #12 of 16 onThe Best Musical Movies To Watch On Halloween
- #22 of 137 onThe 100+ Best Movies With Black Female Leads
- 27Sidney 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.
- 28Jim 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.
- 29Sidney 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.
- 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.
This documentary-style comedy-drama chronicles the life and work of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., using a combination of archival footage, interviews, and reenactments. The film provides a unique and engaging look at the struggles and triumphs of the civil rights movement, infused with moments of humor and warmth.
- 32Calvin Lockhart, Peter Cushing, Charles Gray
In this horror-comedy film, a wealthy man invites a group of guests to his remote mansion, where he reveals that one of them is a werewolf and challenges them to uncover the beast's identity before it kills them all. With its blend of humor, suspense, and horror, The Beast Must Die is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.
- 33Jim Brown, Stella Stevens, Rip Torn
Jim Brown stars as an ex-Green Beret who seeks revenge on a crime syndicate for the murder of his parents in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, action, and suspense, Slaughter is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
- 34Jim Brown, Judy Pace
Jim Brown stars as a former football player who is framed for a crime he didn't commit and must navigate the dangerous world of prison life in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, The Slams is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 35Louis Gossett Jr., Glynn Turman, Joan Pringle
In this supernatural comedy, a law student becomes possessed by the vengeful spirit of a deceased gangster, leading him on a dangerous quest for revenge against those who wronged him in his past life. With its blend of humor, suspense, and supernatural elements, J.D.'s Revenge is an entertaining and unique comedy that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
- 36
The Black Gestapo
Charles Robinson, Lee Frost, Wes Bishop - 37Pam Grier, Margaret Markov, Sid Haig
Pam Grier and Margaret Markov star as two women who find themselves chained together while being transported to a prison in this action-comedy film. As they attempt to escape and evade capture, they form an unlikely bond and learn to rely on each other for survival. Black Mama White Mama is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that showcases the talents of its leading ladies.
- 38
Bucktown
Fred Williamson, Pam Grier, Thalmus RasulalaFred Williamson stars as a man who returns to his hometown to bury his brother and discovers a corrupt police force that he must take down in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, Bucktown is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 39Jim Kelly, Gloria Hendry, Scatman Crothers
Jim Kelly stars as a martial arts expert who teams up with a group of friends to take down a crime syndicate in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, action, and impressive fight scenes, Black Belt Jones is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that showcases the talents of its leading star.
More Black Belt Jones- #21 of 39 onThe Best Kung Fu Movies Of The 1970s
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- 40Duane Jones, Leonard Jackson, Mabel King
In this horror-comedy film, a renowned anthropologist becomes a vampire after being stabbed with an ancient dagger, leading him on a dangerous journey of addiction and desire. As he navigates his new existence, he encounters a series of humorous and dramatic situations. Ganja & Hess is a unique and entertaining comedy that blends horror, humor, and social commentary.
More Ganja & Hess- #429 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- 41Melvin Van Peebles, Simon Chuckster, Hubert Scales
This groundbreaking independent film follows the story of a male prostitute who becomes a revolutionary hero after being framed for murder. With its blend of humor, action, and social commentary, Sweet Sweetback's Baad***sss Song is an entertaining and thought-provoking comedy that remains influential today.
- #335 of 472 onThe Best Black Movies Ever Made, Ranked
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- 42Tanya Boyd, Anne Gaybis, John Daniels
In this action-comedy film, a hair salon owner must defend his business and his clients from a dangerous group of criminals. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, Black Shampoo is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
- 43Fred Williamson, Bernie Hamilton, Vonetta McGee
Fred Williamson stars as a professional boxer who becomes involved in a dangerous plot involving organized crime in this action-comedy film. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, Hammer is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
- 44Godfrey Cambridge, Estelle Parsons, Howard Caine
This satirical comedy explores the life of a white insurance salesman who wakes up one morning to find that he has become black. As he navigates his newfound identity, he encounters a series of humorous and dramatic situations that force him to confront his own prejudices. Watermelon Man is a thought-provoking and entertaining comedy that offers a unique exploration of race relations in America.
- 45Jean Bell, Stan Shaw, Leo Martinez
This action-comedy film follows the adventures of two female martial artists who team up to take down a dangerous criminal organization. With its blend of humor, action, and impressive fight scenes, Dynamite Wong and TNT Jackson is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that showcases the talents of its leading ladies.
- 46Jim Brown, George Kennedy, Fredric March
This comedy-drama explores the tensions that arise in a small Southern town when an African-American man, played by Jim Brown, is elected sheriff. As he tries to maintain law and order, he faces opposition from both white and black residents, leading to a series of humorous and dramatic situations. ...tick...tick...tick... is a thought-provoking exploration of race relations in the 1970s, infused with moments of humor and warmth.
- 47Scatman Crothers, Alex Rocco, Vonetta McGee
In this crime-comedy film, a white detective and a black detective must work together to solve a high-profile robbery case in Detroit. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, Detroit 9000 is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
More Detroit 9000- #21 of 25 onThe Best Disco Movies Of The 1970s
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- 48
Brotherhood of Death
Roy Jefferson, Mike Thomas, Larry JonesThis action-comedy film follows the story of three Vietnam War veterans who return to their small Southern town and form a vigilante group to combat the racism and corruption they encounter. With its blend of humor, action, and social commentary, Brotherhood of Death is an entertaining and thought-provoking comedy that remains relevant today.
- 49Glynn Turman, Godfrey Cambridge, Carl Franklin
In this comedic family drama, a strict patriarch must contend with his rebellious children and wife as they challenge his authority and question traditional gender roles. With its blend of humor, warmth, and social commentary, Five on the Black Hand Side is an entertaining and thought-provoking comedy that explores the complexities of family dynamics and societal expectations.
- 50
Man and Boy
Bill Cosby, Yaphet Kotto, Henry SilvaIn this heartwarming comedy-drama, a former slave and his young son embark on a journey to establish a new life in the post-Civil War West. Along the way, they encounter a series of humorous and dramatic situations that test their resilience and bond. Man and Boy is a touching and entertaining exploration of the complexities of fatherhood and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.
- 51
The Bad Bunch
Aldo Ray, Jock Mahoney, Greydon ClarkIn this action-comedy film, a group of Vietnam War veterans must navigate the dangerous world of organized crime as they attempt to rescue a friend who has been kidnapped by a ruthless gang. With its blend of humor, suspense, and action, The Bad Bunch is an entertaining and thrilling comedy that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
- 52Esther Rolle, Theresa Merritt, Mabel King
- 53William Smith, Rockne Tarkington, Connie Strickland
- 54Andrea King, John Hart, Liz Renay
- 55
Lady Cocoa
Lola Falana - 56
Top of the Heap
Paula Kelly, Allen Garfield, Patrick McVeyWatch for Free with Amazon Prime Free Trial - 57
I Escaped from Devil's Island
Jim Brown, Christopher George, James Luisi - 58Richard Roundtree, Patrick Mower, David Lodge
- 59Sidney Poitier, Michael Caine, Nicol Williamson
- 60Diana Ross, Billy Dee Williams, Richard PryorMore Lady Sings the Blues
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- #24 of 89 onThe Greatest African American Biopics Of All Time, Ranked
