Top Documentaries of 1979
Essential Viewing from a Pivotal Year in Film
The year 1979 marked a significant period in documentary filmmaking, with numerous groundbreaking and influential works released. These documentaries explored a wide range of subjects, from social and political issues to personal stories and cultural phenomena. They captured important moments in history and shed light on various aspects of human experience.
Several documentaries from 1979 continue to resonate with audiences and critics today, showcasing the enduring power of non-fiction storytelling. Many of these films employed innovative techniques and approaches, pushing the boundaries of the documentary form. The documentaries of 1979 not only informed and educated viewers but also sparked important conversations and debates, cementing their place in the annals of cinema history.
1) Apocalypse Now (1979)
Apocalypse Now is an epic war film directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Set during the Vietnam War, it follows Captain Benjamin Willard on a mission to assassinate a renegade Special Forces Colonel.
The film stars Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, and Robert Duvall. It draws inspiration from Joseph Conrad's novella "Heart of Darkness", transposing the story to the Vietnam War era.
Apocalypse Now is known for its intense performances and striking visuals. The film's production was notoriously difficult, with numerous setbacks and challenges during filming in the Philippines.
The movie explores themes of war, madness, and the human capacity for brutality. It features iconic scenes and quotes that have become part of cinematic history.
Apocalypse Now received critical acclaim and several awards, including two Academy Awards. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made and a defining work of 1970s cinema.
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2) The Warriors
The Warriors, released in 1979, is a cult classic action film directed by Walter Hill. Based on Sol Yurick's 1965 novel, the movie follows a Coney Island gang framed for murder as they attempt to return home through hostile New York City.
While not a documentary itself, The Warriors inspired several documentaries about gang culture and street life in 1970s New York. These films explore the real-world context that influenced the movie's portrayal of urban gangs.
One such documentary, made over seven years on a modest budget, features unseen archive footage and examines connections between street culture and hip-hop's origins. It provides insight into the actual gangs and social conditions that shaped the film's fictional world.
The Warriors' use of New York City locations adds authenticity to its depiction of gang territories and urban landscapes. This visual approach influenced later documentaries about the city's subcultures and street life.
Though fictional, The Warriors remains an important cultural touchstone for understanding 1970s New York and continues to inspire documentary filmmakers exploring urban themes. More information
3) Life of Brian
Life of Brian (1979) is a satirical comedy film produced by the British comedy troupe Monty Python. The movie follows Brian Cohen, a man born on the same day as Jesus Christ and mistaken for the Messiah.
Directed by Terry Jones, the film stars Graham Chapman as Brian alongside fellow Python members John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, and Michael Palin. It cleverly parodies religious and political themes of the time.
The movie faced controversy upon release due to its religious subject matter. Some countries banned it, while others gave it an X rating. Despite initial backlash, Life of Brian has since become a cult classic.
Known for its irreverent humor and memorable quotes, the film tackles topics like blind faith, fanaticism, and identity. It culminates in the famous musical number "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life."
Life of Brian remains a significant work in British comedy cinema. Its impact on popular culture and its critical examination of religious dogma continue to resonate with audiences today.
4) Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)
Kramer vs. Kramer is a powerful drama that explores the complex dynamics of divorce and child custody. Directed by Robert Benton, the film stars Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep as Ted and Joanna Kramer.
The story follows Ted, a workaholic advertising executive, who must learn to care for his young son Billy when Joanna suddenly leaves them. As Ted adapts to single fatherhood, he forms a stronger bond with Billy.
Complications arise when Joanna returns and seeks custody of Billy, leading to an emotional legal battle. The film delves into the challenges faced by both parents and the impact on their child.
Kramer vs. Kramer received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of family issues and standout performances. Hoffman and Streep's nuanced acting brings depth to their characters' struggles.
The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Hoffman. It remains a touchstone in cinema for its sensitive handling of divorce and evolving parental roles.
5) Alien (1979)
Ridley Scott's "Alien" revolutionized science fiction and horror cinema upon its release in 1979. The film follows the crew of the commercial space tug Nostromo as they encounter a deadly extraterrestrial creature.
"Alien" masterfully blends suspense, terror, and groundbreaking visual effects. H.R. Giger's iconic creature design and biomechanical aesthetics create a uniquely haunting atmosphere throughout the film.
Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley established her as a pioneering female action hero. The film's intense pacing and claustrophobic setting keep viewers on edge from start to finish.
"Alien" spawned a successful franchise and left an indelible mark on popular culture. Its influence can be seen in countless science fiction and horror films that followed.
Critics praised the film for its innovative storytelling, atmospheric tension, and memorable performances. "Alien" remains a benchmark for sci-fi horror and continues to captivate audiences decades after its release.
More information on Alien (1979)
6) Manhattan
"Manhattan" (1979) is a romantic comedy film directed by Woody Allen. While not a documentary, it offers a striking portrait of New York City in the late 1970s.
The film follows Isaac Davis, a television writer navigating relationships and career challenges in Manhattan. Allen's distinctive black-and-white cinematography captures the city's iconic skyline and landmarks.
"Manhattan" features memorable performances from Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, and Mariel Hemingway. The film's exploration of complex relationships and urban life resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Gordon Willis's cinematography and George Gershwin's music create a romantic vision of New York City. The opening montage, set to "Rhapsody in Blue," has become one of cinema's most recognizable sequences.
Though not strictly a documentary, "Manhattan" provides valuable insights into the cultural landscape of late 1970s New York. Its depiction of intellectuals, artists, and urban professionals reflects the era's social dynamics.
More information on Manhattan (1979)
7) Tess (1979)
"Tess" is a critically acclaimed drama directed by Roman Polanski. The film stars Nastassja Kinski as the titular character, alongside Peter Firth and Leigh Lawson.
Based on Thomas Hardy's novel "Tess of the d'Urbervilles," the movie tells the story of a strong-willed peasant girl navigating complex social and romantic relationships in Victorian England.
Polanski's adaptation received widespread praise for its visual beauty and faithful rendering of Hardy's work. The film's cinematography captures the lush English countryside, creating a rich atmospheric backdrop for the narrative.
"Tess" garnered numerous accolades, including three Academy Awards for Best Cinematography, Best Art Direction, and Best Costume Design. It was also nominated for Best Picture and Best Director.
The film marked a significant moment in Nastassja Kinski's career, establishing her as a talented actress on the international stage.
More information on Tess (1979)
8) Norma Rae (1979)
Norma Rae is a powerful American drama film directed by Martin Ritt. It stars Sally Field in the titular role of Norma Rae Webster, a factory worker who becomes involved in union organizing activities at her textile mill.
The film is based on the true story of Crystal Lee Sutton, a textile worker and labor union activist in North Carolina. It portrays Norma's transformation from a struggling single mother to a passionate advocate for workers' rights.
Sally Field's performance earned her critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Actress. The film also received nominations for Best Picture and Best Original Screenplay.
Norma Rae explores themes of social justice, gender equality, and the power of collective action. It depicts the harsh working conditions in Southern textile mills and the challenges faced by those attempting to unionize.
The movie's most iconic scene shows Norma holding up a sign reading "UNION" in the middle of the factory floor, inspiring her coworkers to shut off their machines in solidarity.
Norma Rae remains a significant work in American cinema, celebrated for its portrayal of labor activism and working-class struggles.
9) The Jerk
"The Jerk" (1979) marks Steve Martin's debut as a leading man in a feature film. Directed by Carl Reiner, this comedy follows the misadventures of Navin R. Johnson, a naive man who leaves his rural upbringing for the big city.
Martin's physical comedy and deadpan delivery shine throughout the film. His portrayal of the well-meaning but clueless Navin resonated with audiences, helping establish him as a major comedic talent in Hollywood.
The movie's plot takes Navin from rags to riches and back again, offering plenty of opportunities for hilarious situations. Bernadette Peters co-stars as Navin's love interest, adding charm and musical talent to the production.
"The Jerk" received generally positive reviews from critics and became a commercial success. It has since gained cult classic status, with many of its lines and scenes remaining quotable decades later.
The film's unique blend of slapstick and absurdist humor set it apart from other comedies of its era. It continues to influence comedic filmmaking and stands as a testament to Steve Martin's comedic genius.
10) The China Syndrome (1979)
"The China Syndrome" is a gripping thriller that blends elements of documentary-style filmmaking with a fictional narrative. Directed by James Bridges, the film stars Jane Fonda, Jack Lemmon, and Michael Douglas.
The plot revolves around a television reporter and her cameraman who uncover safety hazards at a nuclear power plant. Their investigation leads them into a dangerous web of corporate cover-ups and potential catastrophe.
The film's title refers to a hypothetical nuclear meltdown scenario where reactor components could melt through the Earth's crust. This concept adds an ominous undertone to the story's escalating tension.
"The China Syndrome" received critical acclaim for its performances, particularly Jack Lemmon's portrayal of a conflicted nuclear plant supervisor. The film's release coincided with the Three Mile Island nuclear accident, lending it an eerie prescience.
While not a traditional documentary, the film's realistic approach and topical subject matter sparked public debate about nuclear energy safety. Its impact extended beyond entertainment, influencing discussions on energy policy and corporate accountability.
More information on The China Syndrome
Historical Context of 1979 Documentaries
The year 1979 marked a pivotal moment for documentary filmmaking, reflecting societal changes and technological advancements. Documentaries of this era tackled pressing social issues and pushed creative boundaries.
Cultural Impact
Documentaries in 1979 mirrored the anxieties and concerns of the time. Films like "The China Syndrome" explored fears surrounding nuclear power, resonating with audiences in the wake of the Three Mile Island incident. Environmental and social justice themes gained prominence, reflecting growing public awareness.
The music documentary genre flourished, with "The Kids Are Alright" chronicling The Who's career. These films captured the cultural zeitgeist and preserved important moments in popular music history.
Technological advancements in filmmaking equipment allowed for more intimate and immediate storytelling. This led to an increase in observational documentaries that brought viewers closer to their subjects.
Key Filmmakers of the Era
Ingmar Bergman, renowned for his narrative films, contributed to the documentary landscape with "Fårö Document 1979". This follow-up to his earlier work showcased his versatility and commitment to exploring his adopted home.
David Attenborough emerged as a pivotal figure in nature documentaries. His groundbreaking series "Life on Earth" debuted in 1979, setting new standards for wildlife filmmaking and science communication.
Werner Herzog continued to blur the lines between fiction and non-fiction with his unique approach to documentary. His work challenged conventional storytelling methods and expanded the possibilities of the genre.
Female directors like Barbara Kopple gained recognition, bringing fresh perspectives to documentary filmmaking and paving the way for greater diversity in the field.
Common Themes and Topics
Documentaries from 1979 explored pressing societal issues, human psychology, and emerging filmmaking techniques. Filmmakers tackled complex subjects with innovative approaches, providing insightful perspectives on the world.
Social and Political Issues
The turbulent 1970s influenced many documentaries of 1979. Films examined civil rights, feminism, and environmental concerns. Labor struggles and factory conditions featured prominently, as seen in Krzysztof Kieslowski's work about a factory worker turned documentarian.
Anti-war sentiments lingered from the Vietnam era. Some films critiqued government policies and corporate influence. Censorship emerged as a key theme, with directors pushing boundaries on controversial topics.
Consumer culture and advertising's impact on society gained attention. "Killing Us Softly" analyzed how media portrayals affected women's self-image and societal attitudes.
Exploration of Human Nature
Documentaries in 1979 delved into individual stories to illuminate broader human experiences. Filmmakers sought to capture authentic moments and raw emotions. Personal narratives often reflected larger social trends.
Celebrity profiles offered glimpses into public figures' private lives. "Richard Pryor: Live in Concert" showcased the comedian's frank observations on race, police, and self-reflection. These performances blurred lines between entertainment and social commentary.
Cultural anthropology gained traction, with films examining diverse communities and traditions. "Koryo Celadon" highlighted ancient Korean pottery techniques, preserving cultural heritage through film.
Technological Innovations in Filmmaking
1979 saw advancements in documentary production techniques. Portable cameras and improved sound recording allowed for more intimate and spontaneous footage. Filmmakers experimented with new visual styles and editing techniques.
Archival footage integration became more sophisticated. "The Kids Are Alright" seamlessly blended past and present material to chronicle The Who's career. This approach set new standards for music documentaries.
Animation and graphics enhanced storytelling in some films. These elements helped explain complex concepts or recreate historical events. Improved color film quality produced more visually striking results, especially in nature documentaries.
