12 Brilliant '90s Films with a '70s Setting

      These 12 films from the '90s that are set in the '70s combine two iconic movie eras.

      The '70s represented possibly the peak of cinematic excellence, although the films of the '90s came close to matching that brilliance. A '90s film set in the '70s creates a delightful blend of nostalgia that’s hard to surpass.

      Both the films from the '90s and those from the '70s were occasionally recognized for their more somber tones and skepticism. Yet, looking back, both decades have a certain charm — at least when viewed on screen.

      **Goodfellas (1990)**

      Considered by many to be Martin Scorsese’s pinnacle work, *Goodfellas* traverses the decades from the 1950s through the early '80s, culminating in the arrest of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta) on serious drug charges, which signifies the end of his glory days.

      Until then, *Goodfellas* is a wildly entertaining ride, showcasing Hill and his associates executing the Lufthansa heist and other major mafia offenses of the '70s. Robert De Niro delivers a measured performance as James Conway, while Joe Pesci is captivatingly unpredictable as Tommy DeVito.

      One of the standout features of *Goodfellas* is its blend of '70s aesthetics with the frenetic energy of early '90s trash television, especially evident in the 1980 sequence when Henry is finally apprehended.

      **Dazed and Confused (1993)**

      Richard Linklater’s iconic film is the quintessential '90s portrayal of the '70s — or at least the idealized version of that era — centered on camaraderie, cruising, and casual parties. Drawing from Linklater’s memories of the decade, it evokes nostalgia for that period, regardless of whether you experienced it firsthand.

      However, it unmistakably retains its '90s roots, helping to launch the careers of future Gen X stars like Ben Affleck, Matthew McConaughey, Parker Posey, and more.

      Quentin Tarantino, a notable admirer, remarked that it's one of the rare films viewed by three different generations of college students.

      **Carlito’s Way (1993)**

      Al Pacino stars in his first of two appearances on this list, taking on the role of Carlito Brigante, a newly released convict, in his reunion with *Scarface* director Brian De Palma.

      Pacino's performance is notably subdued next to Sean Penn’s irresistibly engaging depiction of his cunning attorney, Dave Kleinfeld.

      *Carlito’s Way* revels in the grittiness of 1970s New York, utilizing the rich backdrop to strikingly impactful effect.

      **Casino (1995)**

      Scorsese’s *Casino* is closely tied to *Goodfellas*, sharing much of the same cast and creative team, yet it possesses its own unique dark energy.

      The narrative begins in 1973, with sports bettor Sam "Ace" Rothstein (Robert De Niro, this time portraying a more sympathetic character) being sent by the Chicago mob to oversee the Tangiers Casino.

      He flourishes until complications arise from his chaotic old friend Nicky Santoro (Joe Pesci again, radiating havoc) and his wife Ginger (Sharon Stone, possibly at her finest), who is unable to overcome her vices.

      *Casino* offers a thrilling experience akin to gambling; once you’re in the game, it’s difficult to walk away from the table.

      **Apollo 13 (1995)**

      One of the more wholesome entries 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.

      Although the mission did not succeed, *Apollo 13* highlights the astronauts' incredible bravery and ingenuity — portrayed by Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise, and Bill Paxton.

      The film is also known for delivering one of cinema’s most memorable quotes: “Houston… we have a problem.”

      **Boogie Nights (1997)**

      Paul Thomas Anderson’s second feature serves as a pro-’70s, anti-’80s commentary. Following the ascent of Dirk Diggler (Mark Wahlberg), a busboy turned adult film star, it depicts the '70s as a joyous, liberated, disco-loving haven. The inclusion of '70s icon Burt Reynolds enhances this ambiance.

      However, with the arrival of the '80s, Dirk swiftly encounters tumultuous challenges, showcasing one of the most striking tonal shifts in cinema.

      This film captures the essence of the '70s and '80s while reflecting Anderson's remarkably mature perspective, as he crafted it at just 27 years old — making it one of the standout films of the '90s, and a great film overall.

      **Donnie Brasco (1997)**

      *Donnie