The 1970s was a revolutionary decade for horror cinema, giving audiences some of the most iconic and enduring films in the genre. Here’s a look at what many consider to be the best horror movie from each year of that thrilling decade:

1970: “The Bird with the Crystal Plumage” directed by Dario Argento. This Italian giallo film sparked a new wave of stylistic horror-thrillers with its blend of mystery and vivid aesthetics.

1971: “The Abominable Dr. Phibes” by Robert Fuest. The movie introduced a unique blend of dark humor and grotesque murders committed by Vincent Price’s character, Doctor Phibes.

1972: “Last House on the Left” directed by Wes Craven. A horrifying tale of two teenage girls who encounter sadistic criminals, it is still remembered for its unflinching portrayal of violence.

1973: “The Exorcist” by William Friedkin. The terrifying story of demonic possession became one of the highest-grossing films of all time and remains a benchmark in horror filmmaking.

1974: “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” directed by Tobe Hooper. With its gritty realism and shocking imagery, this movie redefined horror with its tale of a cannibalistic family preying on unsuspecting visitors.

1975: “Jaws” directed by Steven Spielberg. The story of a giant man-eating great white shark set the standard for monsters in movies and launched the summer blockbuster trend.

1976: “Carrie” by Brian De Palma. Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, this eerie tale of a bullied high school girl with telekinetic powers culminated in one of the most unforgettable prom scenes in cinema history.

1977: “Suspiria” directed by Dario Argento. Another Argento classic, this supernatural thriller is famed for its stylistic cinematography and chilling score.

1978: “Halloween” by John Carpenter. A film that not only launched Michael Myers into pop culture fame but also served as an inspiration for countless slasher movies that followed.

1979: “Alien” directed by Ridley Scott. Combining science fiction with horror, this suspenseful film about an extraterrestrial being terrorizing a spaceship crew set new standards for both genres.

These films each reflect the evolving fears and societal concerns of their times while continuing to inspire filmmakers and scare audiences respectively decades later.