12 Stunning '90s Films Set in the '70s

      These remarkable ’90s films set in the ’70s unite two iconic movie decades, resulting in fantastic outcomes.

      The 1970s are often regarded as the peak decade for film — yet the ’90s offered strong competition. Combining a ’90s movie with a ’70s setting creates a mix of cinematic delight that is hard to rival.

      Both ’90s and ’70s films are sometimes recognized for their somber tones and cynicism. However, both eras hold up favorably in hindsight — at least from a viewing perspective.

      Goodfellas (1990)

      Considered by many to be Martin Scorsese’s magnum opus, Goodfellas traverses the timeline from the 1950s to the early ’80s — culminating in Henry Hill's (Ray Liotta) arrest on serious drug charges, signaling the end of his prime.

      Prior to that, Goodfellas is an exhilarating watch, depicting Hill's involvement in the Lufthansa heist and other significant mafia activities of the 1970s. Robert De Niro delivers a subtle performance as James Conway, while Joe Pesci is captivatingly unhinged as Tommy DeVito.

      One of the standout features of Goodfellas is its blend of 1970s aesthetics with the frenetic energy of early ’90s trash TV, particularly noticeable in the sequence where Henry is finally apprehended.

      Dazed and Confused (1993)

      Credit: Gramercy Pictures

      Richard Linklater’s classic is the quintessential ’90s film that embodies the essence of the ’70s — or at least the idealized version of it — as it centers around hanging out, cruising, and spontaneous partying. Drawing from Linklater’s own memories, it evokes nostalgia for that time, even for those who didn’t experience it firsthand.

      It's undeniably a product of the ’90s, which introduced audiences to future Gen X stars like Ben Affleck, Matthew McConaughey, Parker Posey, and others.

      Quentin Tarantino has noted that it’s one of the few films enjoyed by three different generations of college students.

      Carlito’s Way (1993)

      Credit: Universal Pictures

      In the first of his two entries here, Al Pacino gives an electric performance reuniting with Scarface director Brian De Palma as Carlito Brigante, a criminal just released from prison.

      Pacino’s portrayal is restrained compared to Sean Penn’s incredibly engaging turn as his cunning and brilliant attorney, Dave Kleinfeld.

      Carlito’s Way revels in the grittiness of 1970s New York, fully capitalizing on its richly evocative backdrop.

      Casino (1995)

      Credit: Universal Studios

      Scorsese’s Casino closely relates to Goodfellas, sharing much of the same cast and creative team, yet it has its distinct dark vibe.

      Beginning in 1973, it follows sports handicapper Sam “Ace” Rothstein (Robert De Niro, exhibiting a sympathetic side) who is sent by the Chicago mob to oversee the Tangiers Casino.

      He prospers, and everything seems perfect—until his old friend Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci, again radiating pure chaos) and his wife Ginger (Sharon Stone, arguably in her finest role), who struggles with addiction, complicate matters.

      Casino provides a thrilling experience akin to gambling; once you’re in the game, it's challenging to walk away.

      Apollo 13 (1995)

      Credit: Universal Studios

      One of the more uplifting films on this list, Apollo 13 recounts the true story of astronauts navigating the United States’ fifth manned lunar mission in 1970. It’s a gripping tale.

      Though the mission encountered failure, Apollo 13 showcases the remarkable bravery and ingenuity of its astronauts — portrayed by Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, and Bill Paxton.

      The film also delivers one of cinema's most iconic lines: “Houston… we have a problem.”

      Boogie Nights (1997)

      Credit: New Line Cinema

      Paul Thomas Anderson’s sophomore film feels like a pro-’70s, anti-’80s statement. Following Dirk Diggler’s (Mark Wahlberg) journey from busboy to adult film star, it paints the ’70s as a joyous, carefree, disco-infused utopia. The presence of ’70s star Burt Reynolds enhances this atmosphere.

      However, with the arrival of the ’80s, Dirk swiftly descends into turmoil, delivering one of the most striking tonal shifts in cinema.

      This film is deeply connected to both the ’70s and ’80s, yet Anderson's precocious perspective — crafted when he was just 27 — makes it one of the standout films of the ’90s and one of the all-time greats.

      Donnie Brasco (1997)

      Credit: Sony Pictures

      Donnie Brasco derives significant strength from its ability to follow in the tradition of earlier mob films while cleverly subverting audience