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Damn, there are some really amazing films not in the cut, gonna be backing quite a few here I think....
Eraserhead: Most accessible and mainstream surrealist horror out there. Quality directing from Lynch who really manages to create a legitimate 'dream state' type of movie. Beautifully paranoid feel to the whole movie that just keeps the viewer in that awkward place that makes these types of movies so much fun. One of the few movies I go out of my way to show to friends who haven't seen it. Pretty much essential inclusion in the top 20 for me....
Salem's Lot : Not much to say about this movie other than it is probably one of my favourite movies of any genre in any era. There are a few 70s flicks that fall into this category (like Jaws) where the movie is just too simple and too pure not to love. Tobe Hooper really delivers a 'perfect' horror movie, sure the TV movie style looks a little dated but there are so many iconic moments and scenes that its hard not to love this movie. James Mason puts in a truly amazing performance, the atmosphere is perfect and certain scenes stand amongst the best the genre has to offer.
The Sentinel: For a very ordinary director, Michael Winner managed to deliver some moments of real directing genius. The Sentinel is one of those movies that just oozes atmosphere. Unsettling atmosphere, genuinely creepy and uncomfortable horror with a really fine ensemble of supporting actors. Beautifully insidious undertone to the whole movie, underappreciated classic of the genre.
A Warning to the Curious: M.R James Ghost story from the BBC.... On first look you might think this out of place in a 70s list stocked full of real classics of modern horror, but its exactly why it made my list. It is such a simple but effective ghost story and a beautiful adaptation with a strong lead performance from Peter Vaughn. This adaptation is all about atmosphere and storytelling, which is what horror is all about. Really worth a watch for those that haven't seen it, the sort of horror that should be watched on a dark, stormy night with the lights low. :cool:
The Tenant: Not in the masters list, maybe not even a horror, but it is such a perfect thriller that it made my final cut.... Its another one of those uncomfortable psychological movies that the 70s is just filled with. Why it made my list, despite being a thriller was the claustrophobic nature of the movie. Really amazing direction and execution throughout.
Deliverance : Is it horror? No, I don't think so.... I'll be honest, the cinematography is so fuckin awesome I just couldn't bring myself not to include it in my list. I don't expect it to get any backers and I don't think it should really find its way into the final list anyway, but what an amazing movie!
I notice Rabid only has one vote, it was probably sat around 25th on my list before it got cut. Huge fan of Cronenberg and Rabid is a genuine classic, so would be happy to back/ second it. Same goes for the Frankenstein TVM which I didn't even consider when writing up my list, if I'm honest, but watched for the first time recently and thought it was quality.
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