Top Documentaries of 1972
A Year of Groundbreaking Non-Fiction Films
The year 1972 saw the release of several groundbreaking documentaries that left a lasting impact on the genre. These films covered a wide range of subjects, from social issues to music and politics, providing viewers with unique insights into the world around them.
Some of the top documentaries from 1972 continue to be celebrated and studied today, influencing filmmakers and audiences alike. Their innovative approaches to storytelling and willingness to tackle controversial topics helped push the boundaries of documentary filmmaking, setting new standards for the genre in the years to come.
1) The Godfather: Behind the Scenes (1972)
"The Godfather: Behind the Scenes" offers an intimate look at the making of Francis Ford Coppola's cinematic masterpiece. This documentary captures the creative process and challenges faced during production.
Viewers gain insight into Coppola's directorial vision and his collaboration with Mario Puzo to adapt the bestselling novel. The film explores casting decisions, including the controversial choice of Al Pacino for Michael Corleone.
On-set footage reveals the meticulous attention to detail in recreating 1940s New York. Interviews with cast members provide personal anecdotes about working with screen legend Marlon Brando.
The documentary highlights the film's innovative cinematography techniques and the creation of its iconic musical score. It also touches on the cultural impact of "The Godfather" and its influence on the gangster film genre.
[External link: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0068646/]
2) The Concert for Bangladesh (1972)
The Concert for Bangladesh documents two historic benefit concerts held at Madison Square Garden in New York City on August 1, 1971. Organized by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar, these performances aimed to raise funds and awareness for refugees of the Bangladesh Liberation War.
Directed by Saul Swimmer, the film captures electrifying performances from a star-studded lineup. George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, and Eric Clapton are among the music legends featured. Ravi Shankar's mesmerizing sitar playing adds a unique cultural dimension to the event.
The documentary showcases not only the musical performances but also the humanitarian spirit behind the concerts. It highlights the plight of millions of East Pakistani refugees who fled to India during the conflict.
Released in 1972, The Concert for Bangladesh stands as a landmark in the history of benefit concerts. It set a precedent for using music as a powerful tool for social change and humanitarian aid.
More information on The Concert for Bangladesh
3) Visions of Eight
Visions of Eight (1973) offers a unique perspective on the 1972 Munich Olympics. Eight renowned filmmakers from different countries each contributed a segment, creating a multifaceted documentary.
The directors included Miloš Forman, Kon Ichikawa, Claude Lelouch, Yuri Ozerov, Arthur Penn, Michael Pfleghar, John Schlesinger, and Mai Zetterling. Each brought their distinct artistic vision to the project.
The film explores various aspects of the Olympic Games, from the thrill of competition to the grace of athletic movement. It captures both the triumphs and challenges faced by athletes during the event.
Produced by David L. Wolper, known for works like Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Visions of Eight showcases the diversity of filmmaking styles. The documentary received recognition at film festivals, including screenings at Cannes.
Visions of Eight stands out among sports documentaries for its artistic approach. It goes beyond typical sports coverage, offering a more stylized and interpretive look at the Olympic Games.
More information on Visions of Eight
4) The Ruling Class
"The Ruling Class" (1972) is a British black comedy film directed by Peter Medak. Based on Peter Barnes' satirical stage play, it tells the story of a paranoid schizophrenic British nobleman who inherits a peerage.
Peter O'Toole stars as Jack Gurney, the 14th Earl of Gurney, who believes he is Jesus Christ. His family, concerned about his mental state, attempts to manipulate him out of his inheritance.
The film blends humor and social commentary, offering a scathing critique of the British class system and aristocracy. It explores themes of madness, religion, and the nature of power.
O'Toole's performance is widely praised for its intensity and range. He portrays Jack's transformation from a self-proclaimed messiah to a darker, more sinister figure with remarkable skill.
"The Ruling Class" features a stellar supporting cast, including Alastair Sim, William Mervyn, and Coral Browne. Their performances add depth to the film's satirical narrative.
While not strictly a documentary, the film's social commentary and unique approach to storytelling make it a significant work of 1972 cinema.
5) Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii (1972)
Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii is a groundbreaking concert film directed by Adrian Maben. The band performed without an audience in the ancient Roman amphitheater of Pompeii, Italy.
The film features Pink Floyd playing their psychedelic rock music amidst the ruins. It includes performances of songs like "Echoes," "Careful with That Axe, Eugene," and "A Saucerful of Secrets."
Shot over four days in October 1971, the film captures the band at a creative peak. The juxtaposition of modern music against the ancient setting creates a unique visual and auditory experience.
Pink Floyd: Live at Pompeii stands out for its innovative approach to concert films. By removing the audience, it focuses solely on the musicians and their interaction with the historic environment.
The film showcases Pink Floyd's experimental sound and visual aesthetics. It provides an intimate look at the band's live performance style during this era of their career.
6) Chato's Land Remembered
Chato's Land (1972) is a gritty Western directed by Michael Winner, starring Charles Bronson and Jack Palance. The film tells the story of Chato, a half-Apache man who kills a racist sheriff in self-defense and becomes the target of a vengeful posse.
Set in 1870s New Mexico, the movie explores themes of racial tension and frontier justice. Bronson delivers a powerful performance as Chato, showcasing his stoic screen presence and physical prowess.
The film's unflinching portrayal of violence and moral ambiguity reflects the changing landscape of Western cinema in the early 1970s. Winner's direction emphasizes the harsh realities of life in the American frontier.
Chato's Land marks the first collaboration between Bronson and Winner, who would go on to work together on several more projects. The film's uncompromising approach and brutal sequences set the tone for their future partnerships.
More information on Chato's Land (1972)
7) Marjoe
Marjoe (1972) offers a revealing look into the world of evangelical preaching. The documentary follows Marjoe Gortner, a former child preacher turned adult evangelist.
Directed by Howard Smith and Sarah Kernochan, the film exposes the manipulative tactics used in revival meetings. Gortner, who began preaching at age four, shares insider knowledge of the industry.
The documentary captures Gortner's charismatic performances on stage and his candid admissions off stage. It shows how he uses his charm and showmanship to captivate audiences and elicit donations.
Marjoe provides a rare glimpse into the personal life of an evangelist living a double life. It contrasts Gortner's public persona with his private skepticism about organized religion.
The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 1972. It stirred controversy by pulling back the curtain on religious manipulation and exploitation.
Marjoe remains a significant work in documentary filmmaking. It continues to provoke discussion about faith, showmanship, and the power of charismatic personalities.
More information on Marjoe (1972)
8) Middle of the Night
Middle of the Night is a compelling documentary released in 1972. It offers a raw and intimate look at life in New York City during the late-night hours.
The film captures the vibrant energy and unique characters that emerge after dark in the bustling metropolis. Viewers are taken on a journey through dimly lit streets, all-night diners, and underground clubs.
Director John Smith employs a cinema verité style, allowing the city and its nocturnal inhabitants to speak for themselves. The camera observes without judgment, revealing both the beauty and grit of urban nightlife.
Middle of the Night showcases a diverse cast of real New Yorkers, from taxi drivers and street performers to nightclub patrons and homeless individuals. Their unscripted interactions and candid moments provide an authentic slice of 1970s city life.
The documentary's haunting jazz score perfectly complements the moody visuals, enhancing the atmosphere of mystery and possibility that permeates the night.
More information on Middle of the Night (1972)
9) Angels Hard as They Come (1971)
Angels Hard as They Come is a biker film directed by Joe Viola. It features a cast including Scott Glenn, Charles Dierkop, and Gary Busey in early roles.
The movie follows a group of bikers who clash with hippies in a small town. Chaos erupts as tensions rise between the two factions. The film explores themes of counterculture and social unrest common in early 1970s cinema.
Jonathan Demme co-wrote and produced the film, marking an early credit in his illustrious career. The movie was made on a modest budget, reportedly between $125,000 and $180,000.
While categorized as a biker film, Angels Hard as They Come incorporates elements of action and drama. Its raw portrayal of biker culture and conflicts reflects the gritty filmmaking style of its era.
The film has gained a cult following over the years. It offers viewers a glimpse into the biker subculture of the early 1970s through its unvarnished lens.
10) The Million Dollar Duck (1971)
The Million Dollar Duck is a comedy film produced by Walt Disney Productions. Directed by Vincent McEveety, it stars Dean Jones, Sandy Duncan, and Joe Flynn.
The plot revolves around Professor Albert Dooley, who brings home a duck from his research laboratory as a pet for his son. Unexpectedly, the duck begins to lay golden eggs.
This family-friendly movie explores the humorous consequences of suddenly having access to wealth. It plays on the classic "goose that laid the golden eggs" fable, reimagined for a modern audience.
Despite its lighthearted premise, The Million Dollar Duck received negative reviews from critics upon its release. The film's slapstick humor and far-fetched storyline may not have resonated with all viewers.
More information on The Million Dollar Duck
Historical Context of 1972
1972 was a pivotal year marked by significant global events and cultural shifts that shaped the documentary landscape. Filmmakers captured the zeitgeist through their lenses, reflecting the era's complexities.
Significant Events of the Year
The Vietnam War continued to dominate headlines, influencing public opinion and sparking protests. President Nixon's historic visit to China in February thawed Cold War tensions. The Watergate scandal unfolded, leading to a constitutional crisis.
The Munich Olympics were marred by a terrorist attack on Israeli athletes. In Northern Ireland, Bloody Sunday heightened tensions between Catholics and Protestants.
Space exploration advanced with the launch of Pioneer 10, while environmental concerns grew with the publication of "The Limits to Growth" report.
Cultural Shifts and Influences
The counterculture movement of the 1960s evolved, with rock music and fashion reflecting changing social norms. David Bowie released "The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust," pushing boundaries in music and gender expression.
Second-wave feminism gained momentum, advocating for women's rights and equality. The Equal Rights Amendment passed Congress but failed to be ratified by enough states.
Television's influence grew, with "All in the Family" addressing social issues through comedy. "The Godfather" redefined cinema, while "Deep Throat" sparked debates on censorship and sexual liberation.
Environmental awareness increased following the first Earth Day in 1970, influencing politics and consumer behavior.
Impact of Documentaries on Society
Documentaries have profoundly shaped public discourse and influenced the art of filmmaking since their inception. These non-fiction films have the power to inform, persuade, and inspire audiences on important social issues.
Shaping Public Opinion
Documentaries play a crucial role in raising awareness about critical topics. Films like "An Inconvenient Truth" sparked widespread discussions on climate change, prompting viewers to reconsider their environmental impact.
"Blackfish" exposed controversial practices in marine theme parks, leading to policy changes and shifts in public attitudes towards animal captivity. Many documentaries have inspired grassroots movements and policy reforms.
By presenting compelling narratives and evidence, these films can challenge existing beliefs and motivate viewers to take action on social, political, and environmental issues.
Influence on Filmmaking
The documentary genre has significantly impacted cinematic techniques and storytelling methods. Filmmakers have innovated with new approaches to capture real-life events and personal stories.
Documentaries like "Gates of Heaven" (1978) pioneered unique interviewing styles and narrative structures, influencing both non-fiction and fiction filmmaking. The genre's emphasis on authenticity has led to the development of observational and participatory filming techniques.
Many documentary conventions, such as handheld camerawork and direct-to-camera interviews, have been adopted in fictional films to create a sense of realism and immediacy.
