Discovering 7 action movies from the golden decade of the genre
Delving into the history of action cinema is like uncovering a chest full of forgotten gems, each with its own unique charm, waiting to be rediscovered. Especially in the year The 1970s gave us a showcase of films that, despite their quality and sensibility, remained in disrepute, perhaps overshadowed by big names or language barriers. Today, I invite you to take a trip back in time to rediscover titles that have made their mark in the action genre before and after, but never got the recognition they deserve.
True Fun on Wheels: “Le Mans” (1971)
We start our tour with the film “Le Mans”, although it is labeled as sports, thanks to the intensity of motorsports. Starring the charismatic Steve McQueen, this game captures the essence of a 24-hour endurance race with familiar precision. Although it doesn’t have the fame of other McQueen titles, its dedication to showcasing the thrill of motorsports makes it a must-see for fans of the genre.
Martial Arts at its Best: “The Black Tavern” (1972)
“The Black Tavern” takes us into the world of martial arts, reminiscent of the tension and violence of Tarantino’s “The Hateful Eight,” but in the key of kung fu. Produced by Shaw Brothers Studios, this film stands out for its immersive narrative and stylish action sequences, delivering a timeless cinematic experience.
Cross-Cultural Action: “The Hong Kong Man” (1975)
Continuing our exploration, we came across “The Man from Hong Kong”, a collaboration between Australia and Hong Kong that brings the best action and martial arts shows to the Australian stage. This film stands out not only for its unrelenting energy and amazing cast, but also for its ability to keep the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Reimagined Samurai Classic: “Zatoichi Goes to the Fire Festival” (1970)
“Zatoichi Goes to the Fire Festival” elevates the samurai genre to new heights, as part of a larger series chronicling the adventures of the blind Zatoichi. This chapter is particularly notable for its brilliant action and a plot that, despite its familiarity, never fails to captivate and entertain, establishing itself as a masterpiece in the saga.
Explosive Mission: “The Amazing Bastards” (1978)
Not to be confused with Tarantino’s work, “The Amazing Bastards” takes us through a World War II mission full of non-stop action and humor that captures the essence of war cinema without definition. The focus on pure entertainment and explosive sequences makes this film a unique cinematic experience.
La primera gema de John Woo: “Last Hurray for Chivalry” (1979)
John Woo gave us the brutal fighting sequences of the martial arts film “Last Hurray for Chivalry” before he became known around the world. This title is notable not only for its striking newsreels, but also for providing the first glimpses of the writing style that would become popular with Woo in later decades.
Creativity and Suspense: “The Man Who Stole the Sun” (1979)
We end our tour with a mix of science fiction, action and dark comedy that tells the story of a professor who threatens the Japanese government with nuclear weapons. This film stands out for its originality and ability to connect with its unique blend of genres.
From “Le Mans” to “The Man Who Stole The Sun,” these films are a testament not only to the artistry and creativity of their creators, but to the golden house of action cinema that deserves to be seen again. Through this journey, I hope to inspire curiosity and appreciation for these underrated masterpieces by inviting fans to explore beyond the usual titles and discover the true artistry hidden in 70s action cinema.