10 Underrated Horror Classics from the 70s You Might Have Overlooked

      Vanessa Maki offers a curated list of horror treasures from the 1970s for your viewing pleasure...

      The ’70s was a remarkable era for cinema, particularly for horror films. Exploitation horror emerged, leading to the creation of many timeless classics, making it a vibrant period for horror enthusiasts. As we reflect on that decade, there’s still a lot to uncover beyond the well-known titles. Most of us are familiar with films like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, The Hills Have Eyes, and Halloween. But what about those horror movies that some may have overlooked, whether due to controversies or simply not being on their radar?

      Diving back into previous decades to discover hidden gems, or even revisiting films that once scared you, can be an exhilarating experience. It’s something that many horror aficionados might suggest doing from time to time. There are numerous ’70s horror films that often go unnoticed in discussions, so let’s journey back in time with our bell bottoms, disco balls, and vibrant energy by examining some ’70s horror films you may have missed…

      **The Vampire Lovers (1970)**

      Vampires aren't always portrayed as alluring, but in this case, they definitely are. Hammer’s The Vampire Lovers follows an 18th-century vampire who indulges in her queer desires. While the film offers a minimal plot, it is rich in atmosphere and boldly showcases queerness for its era. If you’re interested in a film set in Europe with oblivious villagers coexisting alongside a vampire, you'll appreciate this unique queer vampire classic.

      **Let’s Scare Jessica to Death (1971)**

      What would you do if an unfamiliar woman appeared in your countryside home? Let’s Scare Jessica to Death tells the story of Jessica (Zohra Lamper), a married woman struggling to maintain her sanity while confronting the possibility of a vampire lurking about. The film has a surreal quality and features unsettling gaslighting elements. This serves to heighten the experience, as we view the story entirely from Jessica's perspective as she grapples with reality versus delusion. Overall, this is definitely a film worth watching at least once.

      **The Crazies (1973)**

      George A. Romero's The Crazies depicts a small town descending into turmoil and violence due to a bioweapon leak. As people start to go wild, a group tries to escape the chaos. The remake may handle the story more effectively, but the original is also worth a watch if you enjoy horror films that unfold gradually. The ending will leave you questioning the purpose of the struggle.

      **Phantom of the Paradise (1974)**

      An unexpectedly captivating horror musical that’s not The Rocky Horror Picture Show may surprise some, yet it exists. Phantom of the Paradise follows a singer-songwriter whose life is upended, and he must rescue a woman he comes to care for from further despair. Much transpires in this film, and that brief summary hardly captures all of it, but it’s definitely one you'll want to experience for yourself. The music may resonate with you or not, and Brian De Palma's unique stylistic choices may be striking, but it’s an entertaining film that merits your attention.

      **Sugar Hill (1974)**

      Blaxploitation horror is significant, and this film deserves more acknowledgment in that context. Sugar Hill centers on a woman who seeks vengeance through voodoo against the mobsters who murdered her lover. While the premise might come off as “silly,” the protagonist's determination will have you rooting for her. The film explores the justice system, the reclaiming of power by Black individuals, and the intensity of revenge. Sugar Hill is a ’70s horror film worth watching if it’s been on your mind.

      **The Town that Dreaded Sundown (1976)**

      Horror grounded in true stories tends to resonate more deeply. The Town that Dreaded Sundown is based on a 1940s Texas town terrorized by an unidentified killer who was never apprehended. The actual murders in Texarkana during that time provide a chilling backdrop, and while the film is only loosely inspired by those events, it still tells a haunting story with some memorable moments. It might not be the top choice for everyone, but it effectively captures the fears of small-town life.

      **Damien: Omen II (1978)**

      The first film in the series is far more suspenseful, while this sequel amplifies the violence and shocking moments. Damien: Omen II follows a now older Damien Thorn (Jonathan Scott-Taylor) as he comes to terms with his destiny as the Antichrist. This sequel has significantly more bloodshed than the original; whether that appeals to everyone is subjective. Some scenes will likely leave you in disbelief, but there’s potential for enjoyment. Furthermore, Damien's rise to power is depicted in an intriguing manner, showcasing a different level of confidence