The Best '70s Disaster Movies
The 1970s marked a golden era for disaster movies, with filmmakers pushing the boundaries of the genre with thrilling narratives and groundbreaking special effects. It was a decade that celebrated the power of human resilience in the face of life-altering catastrophes. The best 70s disaster movies ignited the imaginations of audiences worldwide, providing heart-stopping moments alongside emotionally charged performances that still resonate today.
The best disaster movies from the 70s exemplified their mastery of the genre through compelling stories and high-stakes action sequences that left audiences breathless. These cinematic masterpieces captured the essence of gripping and intense storytelling with pulse-pounding action, from firestorms consuming towering skyscrapers to airplanes experiencing mid-air emergencies. These films drew viewers into adrenaline-fueled spectacles that explored the limits of human endurance against harrowing odds. It's no wonder that these works have stood the test of time, leaving their indelible mark on the history of cinema.
Several truly exceptional films distinguish themselves within the rich tapestry of 70s disaster movies, each showcasing unforgettable stories and marvelous performances that have stood the test of time. The Poseidon Adventure, for example, took audiences on a suspenseful journey through an overturned ocean liner, with unforgettable performances from ensemble cast members. Meanwhile, The Towering Inferno showcased the terrifying power of an uncontrollable blaze within a state-of-the-art high-rise building, featuring a star-studded cast facing insurmountable obstacles. Another remarkable film, Airport, brought the dangers of aviation to the forefront and spawned a successful franchise that continued into the 80s. These classics represent just a snapshot of the breathtaking films that constitute the best 70s disaster movies.
The lasting influence of the best disaster movies from the 70s is a testament to their expertly crafted narratives, emotional resonance, and unparalleled action sequences that enthralled audiences. The ingenuity, creativity, and daring encompassed by these films continue to inspire and captivate moviegoers today. As audiences bear witness to the tenacity of the human spirit in times of crisis, they are reminded that, in the face of overwhelming adversity, there is always hope. This timeless message is at the heart of the very best 70s disaster movies, ensuring their enduring appeal for generations to come.
- 1Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Shelley Winters
The Poseidon Adventure, a spectacular disaster film from the 1970s, showcases an unforgettable journey of survival against all odds. This sensational movie revolves around the tragic capsizing of a luxury ocean liner due to a monstrous tidal wave, leaving passengers and crew members scrambling for their lives. With its exceptional ensemble cast led by Gene Hackman and Shelley Winters, this film offers a thrilling ride through harrowing challenges faced by the characters as they navigate the upside-down vessel in search of safety. Masterfully directed by Ronald Neame, it boasts innovative special effects that still captivate viewers decades later. The Poseidon Adventure is undeniably a watershed moment in disaster movie history.
- #585 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #49 of 200 onThe 195+ Greatest Adventure Movies
- #29 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- 2Steve McQueen, Paul Newman, William Holden
Towering Inferno stands tall as one of the most riveting disaster films of the 1970s, featuring an all-star cast that includes Paul Newman and Steve McQueen. Set in San Francisco's tallest skyscraper, this classic masterpiece explores the race against time as firefighters battle an out-of-control blaze threatening thousands of trapped occupants. Directed by John Guillermin, it demonstrates expertly crafted suspense sequences and groundbreaking visual effects that set new standards for action-packed cinema at that time. Furthermore, it highlights critical themes such as greed and corporate negligence while showcasing the bravery and resilience of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances.
More The Towering Inferno
- #229 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #96 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #15 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
- 3Burt Lancaster, Dean Martin, Jacqueline Bisset
Airport, released in 1970, is often considered a pioneering film within the disaster movie genre, laying the groundwork for many blockbusters that would follow throughout the decade. Directed by George Seaton and based on Arthur Hailey's novel of the same name, this star-studded production boasts an exceptional ensemble cast featuring Burt Lancaster, Dean Martin, Jean Seberg, and Helen Hayes in her Academy Award-winning role. The plot centers around an airport manager striving to keep his facility operational amidst a catastrophic snowstorm while simultaneously dealing with a suicidal bomber aboard an ill-fated transatlantic flight.
- 4Richard Harris, Omar Sharif, David Hemmings
Juggernaut is a high-stakes disaster thriller from 1974 that plunges viewers right into the suspenseful depths of bomb threat aboard a luxury ocean liner traveling across the Atlantic Ocean. The all-star cast features Richard Harris and Omar Sharif – navigating through nerve-wracking scenarios as they race against time to defuse multiple explosive devices placed on board by a deranged extortionist. Directed by Richard Lester, Juggernaut balances breathtaking action sequences with compelling interpersonal drama, resulting in an exhilarating cinematic experience that captures audiences' imagination even today. This captivating gem underlines how classic 1970s disaster movies continue to leave an indelible mark on global cinema.
- 5Charlton Heston, Karen Black, George Kennedy
Airport 1975 takes off as a nail-biting addition to the popular series of aviation-disaster films from the '70s era. With Charlton Heston leading an incredible cast, this movie revolves around a mid-air collision between two planes over Salt Lake City airport – followed by nonstop suspense as air traffic controllers scramble to guide a damaged aircraft back to safety despite insurmountable obstacles. Directed by Jack Smight, Airport 1975 utilizes state-of-the-art visuals alongside intense storytelling techniques that maintain viewers' adrenaline levels throughout the movie. It remains a defining example of '70s disaster cinema, demonstrating that thrilling action and thought-provoking drama can coexist.
- 6Charlton Heston, Ava Gardner, George Kennedy
1974's Earthquake shook the world by storm with its intense portrayal of widespread destruction caused by a catastrophic seismic event in Los Angeles. Starring Charlton Heston and Ava Gardner, this riveting film masterfully portrays the panic-stricken city as it crumbles under nature's wrath while focusing on the interconnected lives of its inhabitants amid the chaos. Under Mark Robson's direction, Earthquake utilizes groundbreaking visual effects and sound design techniques to create immersive experiences for viewers – transporting them right into the heart of devastation itself. Although decades have passed since its release, this disaster flick continues to impact audiences with its stark depiction of humankind's fragility against natural disasters.
- 7Jack Lemmon, Lee Grant, George Kennedy
Airport '77 soars as an exhilarating disaster flick from the iconic 1970s franchise, featuring an ensemble cast led by Jack Lemmon and James Stewart. This suspenseful tale centers around a luxury private plane that gets hijacked only to crash and submerge into the ocean, leaving its passengers trapped underwater with dwindling oxygen supplies. Directed by Jerry Jameson, this film effectively combines intense action sequences with thought-provoking character development, resulting in a gripping cinematic experience for viewers. Airport '77 serves as a shining example of how 1970s disaster films expertly blended high-stakes storytelling with groundbreaking special effects.
- 8
Rollercoaster
George Segal, Richard Widmark, Timothy BottomsRollercoaster races forward as an adrenaline-fueled disaster film from 1977 centered on a madman threatening roller coasters across America's amusement parks with explosive devices demanding ransom payments. Starring George Segal and Richard Widmark, this thrilling movie takes viewers on a wild ride full of twists and turns as heroes attempt to thwart these diabolical plans while navigating heart-stopping scenarios involving aerial stunts and bomb disposal operations. Directed by James Goldstone, Rollercoaster showcases innovative visual effects along with skillfully orchestrated action set pieces that leave viewers breathless, making it a standout feature in the realm of 1970s disaster cinema.
- 9Sophia Loren, Richard Harris, Ava Gardner
The Cassandra Crossing presents a high-stakes race against time in this gripping 1976 disaster film that follows the desperate attempts to contain a deadly virus outbreak aboard an international train headed for disaster. Helmed by acclaimed director George P. Cosmatos, this edge-of-your-seat movie boasts an all-star cast including Sophia Loren, Richard Harris, and Martin Sheen. With its seamless blend of action-packed sequences and thought-provoking themes surrounding government conspiracies and human resilience, The Cassandra Crossing showcases how 1970s disaster films have left an indelible mark on cinema history.
- 10Charlton Heston, David Carradine, Stacy Keach
Gray Lady Down submerges viewers into the depths of high-tension maritime disaster filmmaking with its captivating 1978 portrayal of a US Navy submarine that sinks to the ocean floor after an unfortunate collision. Starring Charlton Heston and David Carradine, this gripping underwater thriller takes audiences on a perilous adventure as they witness the crew's desperate attempts at survival against insurmountable odds. Directed by David Greene, Gray Lady Down showcases cutting-edge special effects for its time and exceptional storytelling that keeps viewers engaged until the final moments. This film stands tall as an essential entry into the canon of 1970s disaster cinema.
- 11Charlton Heston, John Cassavetes, Beau Bridges
Two-Minute Warning is a pulse-pounding thriller from 1976 that delves into the terrifying scenario of a sniper targeting spectators at a professional football game in Los Angeles. Featuring Charlton Heston and John Cassavetes among its impressive cast, this edge-of-your-seat film offers viewers nail-biting suspense through carefully crafted tension-building sequences. Directed by Larry Peerce, it demonstrates a masterful balance between intense action and introspective human drama, making it stand out within the genre of 1970s disaster movies. Two-Minute Warning remains an impactful addition to cinema history that still captivates audiences today.
More Two-Minute Warning- #24 of 48 onScope Out The Best Sniper Movies Ever Made
- #33 of 56 onThe 55+ Best Movies Of 1976
- #7 of 7 onThe Best 1970s Football Movies, Ranked
- 12Joseph Bologna, Stockard Channing, John Beck
Disaster comedy The Big Bus from 1976 offers a delightful twist on the genre with its uproarious satire centered around a nuclear-powered bus traveling non-stop from New York City to Denver amid various catastrophes occurring along the way. Featuring Joseph Bologna and Stockard Channing amongst its talented ensemble, this laugh-out-loud film expertly blends slapstick humor with perilous situations faced by both passengers and crew members trying to keep their state-of-the-art vehicle intact under increasingly absurd circumstances. Directed by James Frawley, The Big Bus serves as a fun-filled ode to '70s disaster movies while demonstrating the versatility and creativity of filmmakers during that era.
- 13Jane Fonda, Jack Lemmon, Michael Douglas
The China Syndrome is a critically acclaimed 1979 thriller that explores the chilling possibility of a nuclear plant meltdown and subsequent cover-up attempt by its corporate stakeholders. Led by powerhouse performances from Jane Fonda, Michael Douglas, and Jack Lemmon, this spellbinding movie raises thought-provoking questions about ethics, journalistic integrity, and the dangers of unchecked power. Under James Bridges' masterful direction, The China Syndrome delivers a nail-biting plot accompanied by top-notch cinematography that captures audiences' attention from start to finish. It stands as an influential milestone in 1970s disaster movies and remains relevant today.
More The China Syndrome- #195 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- #107 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #86 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
- 14Charlton Heston, Anthony Zerbe, Rosalind Cash
The Omega Man delivers a mesmerizing post-apocalyptic vision in this captivating 1971 sci-fi disaster film starring Charlton Heston as a sole survivor immune to a global plague that has left humanity on the brink of extinction. Directed by Boris Sagal, this chilling movie deftly explores themes of isolation, resilience, and hope amidst despair through its masterful blend of gripping action sequences and introspective character development. As one of the essential entries within the realm of '70s disaster cinema, The Omega Man offers a haunting reflection on humankind's vulnerability against devastating calamities.
More The Omega Man- #73 of 165 onThe 150+ Best Futuristic Dystopian Movies
- #28 of 91 onThe 95+ Greatest Dystopian Action Movies
- #61 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- 15George C. Scott, Anne Bancroft, William Atherton
The Hindenburg takes flight as a gripping 1975 disaster film that expertly reimagines the infamous real-life tragedy of the German airship's catastrophic explosion in 1937. Directed by Robert Wise, this dramatic retelling features a top-notch cast led by George C. Scott and Anne Bancroft, who portray passengers and crew members on board the ill-fated vessel. This captivating movie skillfully blends historical accuracy with cinematic flair, employing innovative special effects to recreate the intensity and suspense of the actual event. The Hindenburg remains an essential entry in '70s disaster films, showcasing the power of cinema to bring significant moments in history back to life.
- 16Jackie Earle Haley, George Peppard, Jan-Michael Vincent
Damnation Alley journeys through post-apocalyptic landscapes in this strikingly imaginative 1977 disaster film centered around survivors navigating treacherous terrains in search of safer havens following World War III's devastation. Featuring George Peppard and Jan-Michael Vincent in lead roles, this visually captivating movie combines tense action sequences with thought-provoking themes surrounding humanity's resilience amid desolation. Directed by Jack Smight, Damnation Alley stays true to its title with inventive set designs and groundbreaking visual effects that bring its dystopian world to life – leaving viewers entranced by this classic gem of 1970s disaster cinema.
- 17Michael Caine, Katharine Ross, Richard Widmark
The Swarm unleashes a deadly force of nature in the form of killer bees invading Texas, offering a thrilling entry into the 1970s disaster movie genre. Prolific director Irwin Allen assembles an all-star cast, including Michael Caine and Katharine Ross, to portray various characters struggling for survival against this terrifying insect invasion. Released in 1978, The Swarm features innovative special effects alongside dramatic storytelling that merges high-stakes action with compelling human drama. This film exemplifies how '70s disaster films continue to captivate viewers through their unique blend of suspense and thought-provoking narratives.
- 18Tommy Lee Jones, Vera Miles, Robert Conrad
Smash-Up on Interstate 5 crashes into viewers' consciousness with its heart-pounding portrayal of a massive multi-vehicle collision along a California freeway that erupts into chaos and destruction. This intense 1976 disaster film follows various interconnected characters as they navigate through perilous situations amidst the carnage unfolding around them. Directed by John Llewellyn Moxey, Smash-Up on Interstate 5 boasts compelling performances from its ensemble cast, including Robert Conrad and Sian Barbara Allen, while also offering an insightful examination of human behavior under extreme conditions. This riveting movie solidifies its place among memorable '70s disaster films that still resonate today.
- 19Ben Johnson, Ben Murphy, Ed Nelson
Runaway! charges full steam ahead as an engrossing 1973 disaster film centered around a runaway train barreling down mountain tracks without any brakes or means of control—leaving passengers trapped on board at the mercy of their fate. Starring Ben Johnson and Ben Murphy, this pulse-pounding movie showcases edge-of-your-seat action sequences combined with emotional character arcs as it explores themes of courage and resourcefulness against all odds. Under David Lowell Rich's adept direction, Runaway! stands out among numerous '70s disaster films with its unique premise and high-stakes storytelling that continues to capture audiences' imaginations.
- 20Billy Crystal, Burgess Meredith, Tina Louise
SST: Death Flight soars high as a thrilling 1977 disaster film focused on the maiden voyage of a supersonic transport airplane, which quickly turns disastrous due to mechanical failures and human error. Featuring an all-star ensemble cast led by Lorne Greene and Barbara Anderson, this gripping movie takes viewers on a nail-biting journey through the sky filled with suspenseful twists and turns. Directed by David Lowell Rich, SST: Death Flight showcases impressive aerial stunt work alongside thought-provoking narratives centered around technology's potential perils. This mesmerizing film is a testament to the captivating nature of '70s disaster cinema.
- 21Charlton Heston, Susan Dey, James Brolin
Skyjacked elevates the stakes in this action-packed 1972 disaster film revolving around a commercial airliner hijacked by an unstable war veteran who threatens to blow up the plane unless his demands are met. Starring Charlton Heston and James Brolin, this taut thriller immerses viewers in heart-racing scenarios as they follow the pilots, crew members, and passengers navigating their way through life-and-death situations at 30,000 feet above ground level. Under John Guillermin's expert direction, Skyjacked emerges as an electrifying addition to '70s disaster movie history—demonstrating how filmmakers from this era continue to influence contemporary cinema.
- 22Mia Farrow, Rock Hudson, Robert Forster
Avalanche bursts onto the scene as a chilling 1978 disaster film depicting a luxurious ski resort engulfed by massive snow slides triggered by unscrupulous development practices. With Rock Hudson and Mia Farrow leading the cast, this harrowing movie immerses viewers in edge-of-your-seat action sequences amidst breathtaking snowy landscapes that complement its intense narrative beautifully. Directed by Corey Allen, Avalanche serves as both an engaging thriller and a cautionary tale about the consequences of human greed and environmental neglect. This film's legacy adds to the rich tapestry of '70s disaster movies that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
- 23Barbara Hershey, Leif Garrett, Gloria Stuart
Flood! engulfs viewers in a torrential wave of high-stakes action as they witness a small town struggling against the devastating onslaught of a dam malfunction that unleashes cataclysmic floods upon its unsuspecting residents. This gripping 1976 disaster film features Robert Culp and Martin Milner, who deliver compelling performances while navigating through perilous situations caused by unstoppable forces of nature. Directed by Earl Bellamy, Flood! showcases an impressive blend of practical effects and storytelling prowess that leaves viewers gasping for breath until the very end—a fitting tribute to the enduring appeal of '70s disaster cinema.
- 24
Fire!
Fire! ignites the screen as a fiery 1977 disaster film centered around a small town battling a rapidly spreading wildfire that threatens to consume everything in its path. Featuring Ernest Borgnine and Vera Miles among its talented cast, this thrilling movie showcases tense action sequences interspersed with heartfelt human drama—a winning combination that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Directed by Earl Bellamy, Fire! exemplifies the captivating spirit of '70s disaster films through its expert blending of suspenseful storytelling and innovative filmmaking techniques.
- 25
Orca
Bo Derek, Richard Harris, Charlotte RamplingOrca dives deep into thrilling territory with its terrifying portrayal of a vengeful killer whale hunting down those responsible for killing its mate—an adrenaline-fueled rollercoaster ride that will leave viewers breathless. Starring Richard Harris and Charlotte Rampling, this 1977 disaster film expertly weaves together elements of suspense, horror, and character-driven drama under Michael Anderson's confident direction. With its edge-of-your-seat action sequences and thought-provoking exploration of humanity's complex relationship with nature, Orca stands as a testament to the engaging power of '70s disaster cinema.
More Orca - 26Michael Caine, Sally Field, Telly Savalas
Beyond the Poseidon Adventure continues the harrowing journey begun in The Poseidon Adventure with another nail-biting installment that follows survivors from the capsized luxury liner as they navigate perilous situations while attempting to reach safety amidst treacherous waters. Released in 1979, this exciting disaster film features a rugged ensemble cast led by Michael Caine and Sally Field, who deliver compelling performances as characters caught in the grip of life-and-death struggles. Under Irwin Allen's skillful direction, Beyond the Poseidon Adventure offers viewers a suspenseful cinematic experience that captures the essence of '70s disaster movie history.
- 27Sean Connery, Natalie Wood, Karl Malden
Meteor hurtles through Earth's atmosphere with its heart-stopping depiction of a deadly asteroid on a collision course toward our planet—leaving humanity scrambling to devise a desperate last-ditch effort to prevent global annihilation. Released in 1979, this riveting disaster film boasts an all-star cast featuring Sean Connery and Natalie Wood among others, who bring depth and complexity to their characters as they face seemingly insurmountable obstacles with courage and determination. Under Ronald Neame's skillful direction, Meteor blends cutting-edge visual effects with thought-provoking themes that underscore the fragility of human existence—ensuring its enduring impact on '70s disaster movie history.
More Meteor- #107 of 138 onThe 100+ Best Disaster Movies Of All Time
- #318 of 404 onThe 300+ Best Sci-Fi Movies Of All Time
- #52 of 78 onThe Best Movies About UFOs
- 28Alain Delon, Susan Blakely, Robert Wagner
The Concorde... Airport '79 takes flight as another high-octane addition to the popular aviation-disaster film series during the 1970s era—a pulse-pounding adventure featuring an all-star cast led by Alain Delon and Susan Blakely. This exhilarating movie follows passengers and crew members aboard a supersonic Concorde jetliner targeted for destruction by unscrupulous business interests—resulting in a thrilling race against time to thwart these deadly plans. Directed by David Lowell Rich, The Concorde... Airport '79 showcases nonstop action and suspenseful storytelling that will leave viewers glued to their seats until the very end—a fitting tribute to the unforgettable legacy of '70s disaster cinema.
- 29David Janssen, Cloris Leachman, Susan Saint James
S.O.S Titanic sets sail as an enthralling 1979 made-for-television disaster film that offers fresh insights into one of history's most infamous maritime tragedies—the sinking of the RMS Titanic after colliding with an iceberg in 1912. Starring David Janssen and Cloris Leachman, this compelling drama skillfully combines historical accuracy with cinematic storytelling to bring this poignant tale back to life for contemporary audiences. Under William Hale's masterful direction, S.O.S Titanic charts a course in unforgettable '70s disaster cinema history—leaving viewers captivated by its powerful portrayal of human resilience in the face of devastating loss.
- 30
Heatwave!
Heatwave! scorches onto screens as a sizzling 1974 disaster film centered around a city grappling with the devastating impact of an unrelenting heatwave that ignites chaos and destruction throughout its sun-baked streets. Featuring Ben Murphy and Bonnie Bedelia among its talented ensemble cast, this gripping movie takes viewers on a rollercoaster ride through high-stakes scenarios involving looting, arson, and even murder—all while exploring themes of survival and resilience under extreme conditions. Directed by Jerry Jameson, Heatwave! exemplifies the explosive appeal of '70s disaster cinema through its skillful blend of tense action sequences and thoughtful character development.
