Big Screen Small Screen

The year 1979 was marked by the release of several notable films spanning various genres. Here are some of the best films from that year:

• Apocalypse Now

• Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, this war epic is a loose adaptation of Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness” and is widely regarded as a cinematic masterpiece.

• Alien

• Directed by Ridley Scott, “Alien” is a groundbreaking science fiction horror film that introduced the iconic character Ellen Ripley and the terrifying Xenomorph.

• Kramer vs. Kramer

• Directed by Robert Benton, this drama explores the complexities of divorce and parenthood, starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep in award-winning performances.

• Manhattan

• Directed by Woody Allen, “Manhattan” is a romantic comedy-drama that showcases Allen’s unique style and features stunning cinematography of New York City.

• The Deer Hunter

• Directed by Michael Cimino, this intense war drama explores the effects of the Vietnam War on a group of friends. It won several Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

• Being There

• Directed by Hal Ashby, this satirical comedy-drama features Peter Sellers in a standout performance as a simple-minded gardener thrust into the world of politics.

• The Muppet Movie

• Directed by James Frawley, this musical comedy follows the Muppets on a cross-country journey to Hollywood and became a beloved classic.

• Mad Max

• Directed by George Miller, “Mad Max” is an Australian dystopian action film that introduced audiences to the post-apocalyptic world and the character Max Rockatansky.

• Breaking Away

• Directed by Peter Yates, this coming-of-age comedy-drama follows a group of friends in a small town as they navigate life after high school.

• Escape from Alcatraz
  • Directed by Don Siegel and starring Clint Eastwood, this prison drama is based on the true story of the 1962 Alcatraz escape.

These films represent a diverse range of genres and styles, and many of them have left a lasting impact on cinema. Whether for their storytelling, performances, or technical achievements, the movies of 1979 continue to be appreciated by audiences and critics alike.