Top 49 Diverse Films from the 50th Academy Awards Era

Saturday Night Fever

1977 • 118 min • Budget $3M • Box office $237M

Music, Drama

Each Saturday, Tony finds freedom in the vibrant energy of an old-school disco, where his dancing earns him the admiration of others. But his life outside the flashing lights is difficult, and things change when he meets Stephanie. As they…

6.7

6.8

17+

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Operation Thunderbolt

1977 • 124 min

In July 1976, an Air France flight traveling from Tel Aviv to Paris, with a stop in Athens, was hijacked and diverted to Entebbe, Uganda. The Jewish passengers were separated and taken hostage, with the hijackers demanding the release of…

5.9

6.5

Equus

1977 • 137 min

Drama, Mystery, Thriller

In Hampshire, England, psychiatrist Martin Dysart is asked to understand why Alan Strang, a young stable hand, committed a violent act: blinding six horses with a metal spike. The town is shocked and demands answers. As Dysart explores Alan's mind,…

7.0

7.1

17+

Star Wars

1977 • 121 min • Budget $11M • Box office $775M

Adventure, Action, Science Fiction

Princess Leia is captured by the evil Imperial forces, who plan to use her to gain control of the galaxy. Luke Skywalker, a young man with potential, joins forces with smuggler Han Solo to plan a risky rescue. With help…

8.2

8.6

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Islands in the Stream

1977 • 104 min

Just before World War II begins, a reclusive sculptor is visited by his three sons.

6.4

6.5

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A Doonesbury Special

1977 • 25 min

Garry Trudeau's iconic characters – including Mike Doonesbury and Zonker – reflect on how their lives, values, and worries have evolved since they left college in the 1960s, full of idealism. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2012.

5.3

6.4

Floating Free

1978 • 11 min

Floating Free, a 1978 short documentary by Jerry Butts, captures scenes from several controversial events at the 1977 World Frisbee Championships. The film received an Oscar nomination for Best Live Action Short Film.

6.3

6.2

Notes on the Popular Arts

1978 • 20 min

The film uses dream sequences to examine how Americans seek to escape reality. Preserved by the Academy Film Archive in 2012.

5.0

6.1

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Spaceborne

1977 • 14 min

Spaceborne is a 1977 short documentary directed by Philip Dauber. It features images captured during space missions in the mid-1970s, including footage of Skylab, astronauts, and views of Earth, followed by scenes from Apollo 17. The film received an Oscar…

6.3

7.0

The Goodbye Girl

1977 • 111 min • Box office $102M

Comedy, Drama, Romance

This drama follows a young woman who is unexpectedly left to rebuild her life when her long-term partner ends their relationship. Already struggling with unemployment as a dancer, she must now become a single parent to her ten-year-old daughter. Seeking…

6.9

7.4

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A Little Night Music

1977 • 125 min

Actress Desirée Armfeldt finds herself caught in a complicated web of relationships with two men who are deeply in love with her: lawyer Fredrik Egerman and Count Carl-Magnus Malcom. When Desirée's theater company visits Fredrik's town, the rekindled passion between…

6.0

5.4

Gravity Is My Enemy

1977 • 26 min

This film explores the life of Mark Hicks, a quadriplegic artist living in Manhattan Beach, California, after a fall from a tree when he was 14. The documentary examines his artwork and his experience as a student at UCLA, leading…

8.0

6.8

Agueda Martinez: Our People, Our Country

1977 • 16 min

This film follows Doña Agueda Martinez, a remarkable woman living a life deeply connected to nature and tradition in Medanales, New Mexico. It portrays her strong bond with the land and her family, showing her farming green chile, gathering herbs,…

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6.9

First Edition

1977 • 30 min

First Edition, a 1977 American short documentary directed by Helen Whitney, profiles the Baltimore Sun newspaper. The film received an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary Short.

5.8

That Obscure Object of Desire

1977 • 103 min • Box office $2K

Comedy, Drama, Romance

The film explores the complexities of passion and connection through the turbulent relationship between Mathieu, a wealthy Frenchman, and Conchita, a fiery 19-year-old flamenco dancer. Mathieu recounts their story to fellow train passengers after teasing Conchita by splashing her with…

7.4

7.8

17+

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Jimmy the C

1977 • 4 min

In a moment captured by the Academy Film Archive in 2009, President Jimmy Carter performs a rendition of Ray Charles' "Georgia on my Mind," reflecting on his native state.

4.9

5.1

Of Time, Tombs and Treasures

1977 • 29 min

"OF TIME, TOMBS, AND TREASURE: The Treasures of Tutankhamun," an Academy Award-nominated documentary short, recounts the discovery of Pharaoh Tutankhamun's famous tomb. J. Carter Brown, Director of the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., hosts, guiding viewers to Egypt to…

5.0

5.5

The Shetland Experience

1977 • 27 min

This film examines the environmental precautions implemented by the oil industry at the Sullom Voe terminal in the Shetland Islands.

7.2

6.4

I'll Find a Way

1977 • 26 min

When nine-year-old Nadia starts regular school, she anticipates teasing but is determined to handle it. Nadia has spina bifida, a condition that affects sensation in her legs, requiring her to use crutches to walk. She openly states she doesn't want…

7.3

6.6

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The Sand Castle

1977 • 13 min

This animated short follows the Sandman and the creatures he brings to life from sand. The lively creatures build a castle and celebrate its completion, but their celebration is interrupted by a visitor. The film is subtly crafted, allowing for…

6.4

7.0

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I Never Promised You a Rose Garden

1977 • 96 min • Budget $3M

Drama

This story follows a troubled sixteen-year-old girl as she struggles with mental health issues during adolescence. Institutionalized for her increasingly unusual behavior, she seeks comfort within the institution's walls. The film explores self-discovery, trauma, and resilience as she battles inner…

5.8

6.4

17+

The Slipper and the Rose

1976 • 146 min • Budget $4M

Fantasy, Romance, Music

In the magical kingdom of Euphrania, Prince Edward feels stifled by a tradition of arranged marriages that prioritize duty over love. At a royal ball, he meets Cinderella and is instantly drawn to her beauty. But she vanishes as quickly…

6.8

6.9

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The Spy Who Loved Me

1977 • 125 min • Budget $13M • Box office $185M

Adventure, Action, Thriller

Two nuclear submarines disappear without a trace from the ocean, heightening tensions between England and Russia. Both countries suspect each other, and James Bond is sent to investigate. He's not the only one searching – the KGB has also sent…

6.8

7.0

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The Rescuers

1977 • 78 min • Budget $7M • Box office $169M

Fantasy, Family, Animation

Two resourceful mice, agents for the International Rescue Aid Society, are on an urgent mission. They must find and rescue a young orphan girl captured by dangerous treasure hunters. Navigating a world of peril, the brave mice use their skills…

6.8

6.9

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Airport '77

1977 • 114 min • Budget $6M • Box office $91M

Action, Adventure, Drama

Flight 23 experiences a disastrous hijacking and crashes into the Bermuda Triangle. Stranded underwater in their sinking plane, the passengers are trapped at a depth of 200 feet. As time runs out, they must work together to execute a risky…

5.6

5.8

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Annie Hall

1977 • 93 min • Budget $4M • Box office $43M

Comedy, Drama, Romance

Alvy Singer, a witty but anxious stand-up comedian in New York, falls for Annie Hall, a charming and intelligent woman. Their relationship develops through funny and thoughtful moments as they explore their differences and dreams. Alvy and Annie both have…

7.7

7.9

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The Deep

1977 • 123 min • Budget $9M • Box office $100M

Mystery, Thriller, Adventure

Two adventurous vacationers exploring the beautiful islands of Bermuda discover a dangerous route to a sunken shipwreck filled with valuable treasure. They soon find themselves in a dangerous competition with ruthless treasure hunters determined to seize the riches. The vacationers…

6.0

6.3

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Iphigenia

1977 • 127 min

Action, Drama

As the Greek army assembles on the coast, awaiting favorable winds for their voyage, their progress is stalled by calm seas. King Agamemnon, eager to ensure the expedition's success, focuses on securing provisions for his troops and the gods. His…

6.9

7.6

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Close Encounters of the Third Kind

1977 • 137 min • Budget $20M • Box office $306M

Science Fiction, Drama

A lineman's workday takes a turn when he witnesses UFOs. He feels an odd compulsion to travel to a remote wilderness area, where he discovers something extraordinary is about to happen. The film explores alien encounters, our connection to the…

7.4

7.6

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Sorcerer

1977 • 122 min • Budget $22M • Box office $9M

Thriller, Adventure, Drama

Four people with difficult pasts, each wanting to disappear, unexpectedly meet in a remote town in South America. They are drawn together by a chance opportunity that could offer a new beginning – or bring disaster. They are tasked with…

7.4

7.7

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The Other Side of Midnight

1977 • 165 min

French actress Noelle Page believes American pilot Larry Douglas will marry her. He returns to the U.S. And instead marries Catherine, a kind and innocent woman. Though Noelle begins a relationship with Constantin, a wealthy Greek, and enjoys a successful…

5.9

6.0

17+

Homage to Chagall: The Colours of Love

1977 • 88 min

For over 75 years, Russian-born Marc Chagall revolutionized modern art with his vibrant, emotionally resonant paintings, murals, and stained glass. Rare archival footage and glimpses into his work reveal Chagall’s deep connection to his Jewish roots and his profound affection…

5.0

6.7

Union Maids

1976 • 51 min

This film features three women who were labor activists in America during the 1930s, sharing their experiences with organizing.

6.5

6.8

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Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids?

1977 • 72 min

"Who Are the DeBolts? And Where Did They Get Nineteen Kids?" Is a 1977 documentary film about Dorothy and Bob DeBolt, an American couple who adopted 14 children (12 at the beginning of filming). These include some severely disabled war…

5.9

7.2

The Message

1976 • 178 min • Budget $10M • Box office $15M

Adventure, Drama, Action

This historically accurate epic explores the origins of Islam in ancient Arabia. The film follows the life of Prophet Muhammad and the key events that formed his legacy. It reveals the complexities of religious and cultural change, and the spiritual…

7.2

8.1

The Bead Game

1977 • 6 min

Set to a rhythmic score, the film depicts a series of creatures made from beads, each evolving and being devoured by the next. The sequence culminates with the emergence of humanity, who then progresses towards increasingly advanced methods of warfare.

6.6

7.1

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The Turning Point

1977 • 119 min

Drama, Romance

The story follows two childhood friends who became rivals in the dance world. Deedee chose marriage and motherhood over her dancing career, while Emma pursued international ballet stardom. Years later, Deedee's teenage daughter gets a chance to join Emma's company…

6.5

6.8

Oh, God!

1977 • 98 min • Box office $41M

Fantasy, Comedy

A quiet grocery store assistant unexpectedly meets God, appearing as a gentle old man. Instead of being frightened, he finds comfort in this divine encounter, and is then chosen to be a messenger for today's world. The film explores faith,…

6.5

6.6

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The Children of Theatre Street

1977 • 90 min

This documentary explores the rigorous world of the Kirov School of Ballet in Russia, narrated by Princess Grace of Monaco.

6.2

6.9

High Grass Circus

1976 • 57 min

This documentary provides a behind-the-scenes look at a traveling circus. Filmed in 1976, directors Tony Ianzelo and Torben Schioler followed the Royal Brothers' Circus during their preparations and performances. The film offers a fascinating glimpse into the constant activity and…

5.5

6.1

Pete's Dragon

1977 • 128 min • Budget $10M

Fantasy, Animation, Comedy

In a charming Maine fishing town, Pete, a young orphan, shares a close friendship with Elliott, a friendly dragon no one else can see. Their peaceful lives change when they meet Nora, a lighthouse keeper, and her father. The three…

6.3

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Julia

1977 • 117 min • Budget $7M • Box office $20M

Drama, Romance, Thriller

This true story follows acclaimed playwright Lillian Hellman as her close friend asks her to undertake a dangerous mission. Amidst the growing horrors of Nazi Germany, Hellman is tasked with smuggling vital money into the country to help those suffering.…

6.4

7.0

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Madame Rosa

1977 • 105 min

Drama, Comedy

"Madame Rosa's Home" tells the story of a retired prostitute and foster mother, Madame Rosa, and her Algerian ward, Momo, in the lively, rough Pigalle district. Haunted by her experiences as an Auschwitz survivor, Madame Rosa cares for children born…

6.8

7.1

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The Absent-Minded Waiter

1977 • 7 min

Bernie Cates hires a remarkably forgetful waiter. The waiter consistently mixes up orders, forgets basic table settings, and generally disrupts the entire dining experience – except for the bill.

6.5

7.3

The Late Show

1977 • 93 min

Mystery, Crime, Comedy

In Los Angeles, a veteran private investigator struggles with his fading career when he takes on a complicated case seeking justice. Still affected by the death of a colleague, he becomes involved in a tangled network of lies and crime.…

6.2

6.8

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A Special Day

1977 • 106 min

Drama, Romance

In 1938 Rome, under Nazi occupation, two women from different lives forge a strong bond. A journalist facing danger for her honest reporting finds support in a struggling housewife. On the day Hitler meets with Mussolini, these two women –…

8.0

8.1

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Looking for Mr. Goodbar

1977 • 136 min • Box office $22M

Drama, Crime

The film explores the life of a high school teacher who struggles to balance her work and personal life. During the day, she's a caring educator helping students through difficult times. But at night, she becomes someone else. Motivated by…

6.3

6.7

17+

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You Light Up My Life

1977 • 90 min

Laurie has pursued a career in show business since childhood, aspiring to be a singer, songwriter, and actress. Her father pushes her towards comedy, and she tries to please him, though she's not naturally funny. While constantly auditioning for roles,…

5.3

4.8

Smokey and the Bandit

1977 • 96 min • Budget $4M • Box office $126M

Action, Adventure, Comedy

A talented race car driver gets caught in a dangerous mission: deliver a shipment of illegal beer from Texas to Atlanta within 28 hours. He faces perilous roads and unexpected problems, and picks up a reluctant bride-to-be as a partner.…

7.0

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