Introduction
As we take a nostalgic journey back to the year 1972, we uncover a treasure trove of cinematic gems that graced the silver screen. From gripping dramas to captivating comedies, these movies not only enthralled audiences but also left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. In this article, we'll delve into the top 10 movies that grossed the most in 1972, highlighting their financial success alongside their artistic merits.
1. The Godfather (1972)
Grossing Amount: $245 million
Description: Directed by Francis Ford Coppola, "The Godfather" is a crime epic based on Mario Puzo's novel. The film chronicles the Corleone crime family's rise to power in post-war America, led by patriarch Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando) and his reluctant son Michael (Al Pacino). With its masterful storytelling and iconic performances, "The Godfather" remains a cornerstone of American cinema.
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Cast: Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, James Caan
Producer: Albert S. Ruddy
2. The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
Grossing Amount: $93.3 million
Description: Directed by Ronald Neame, "The Poseidon Adventure" is a disaster film that follows the passengers of the SS Poseidon, a luxury liner overturned by a tidal wave on New Year's Eve. As a group of survivors navigates the upside-down ship in a desperate bid for escape, they encounter perilous obstacles and inner turmoil. With its suspenseful plot and ensemble cast, "The Poseidon Adventure" became a box office hit.
Director: Ronald Neame
Cast: Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Shelley Winters
Producer: Irwin Allen
3. What's Up, Doc? (1972)
Grossing Amount: $66.1 million
Description: Directed by Peter Bogdanovich, "What's Up, Doc?" is a screwball comedy that pays homage to classic Hollywood comedies. The film follows the misadventures of eccentric characters who converge at a San Francisco hotel, leading to a series of comedic misunderstandings and madcap chases. With its witty dialogue and slapstick humor, "What's Up, Doc?" delivers laughs aplenty.
Director: Peter Bogdanovich
Cast: Barbra Streisand, Ryan O'Neal, Madeline Kahn
Producer: Peter Bogdanovich
4. Jeremiah Johnson (1972)
Grossing Amount: $44.7 million
Description: Directed by Sydney Pollack, "Jeremiah Johnson" is a Western adventure film starring Robert Redford as the titular character. Set in the mid-19th century, the movie follows Johnson's journey of self-discovery as he seeks solace in the rugged wilderness of the Rocky Mountains. With its breathtaking scenery and meditative tone, "Jeremiah Johnson" offers a compelling portrait of survival and redemption.
Director: Sydney Pollack
Cast: Robert Redford, Will Geer, Stefan Gierasch
Producer: Joe Wizan
5. Cabaret (1972)
Grossing Amount: $42.8 million
Description: Directed by Bob Fosse, "Cabaret" is a musical drama set in 1930s Berlin during the rise of the Nazi regime. The film centers on the tumultuous romance between cabaret performer Sally Bowles (Liza Minnelli) and American writer Brian Roberts (Michael York) against the backdrop of political upheaval. With its dazzling musical numbers and poignant storytelling, "Cabaret" received critical acclaim and multiple Academy Awards.
Director: Bob Fosse
Cast: Liza Minnelli, Michael York, Joel Grey
Producer: Cy Feuer
6. Deliverance (1972)
Grossing Amount: $46.1 million
Description: Directed by John Boorman, "Deliverance" is a gripping survival thriller based on James Dickey's novel. The film follows four suburban businessmen who embark on a canoeing trip down a remote Georgia river, only to encounter unforeseen dangers and violent locals. With its harrowing suspense and powerful performances, "Deliverance" remains a visceral cinematic experience.
Director: John Boorman
Cast: Jon Voight, Burt Reynolds, Ned Beatty
Producer: John Boorman
7. The Getaway (1972)
Grossing Amount: $36.7 million
Description: Directed by Sam Peckinpah, "The Getaway" is a neo-noir crime film based on Jim Thompson's novel. The movie follows recently released convict Doc McCoy (Steve McQueen) and his wife Carol (Ali MacGraw) as they embark on a crime spree across Texas. With its stylish direction and intense action sequences, "The Getaway" showcases Peckinpah's flair for gritty storytelling.
Director: Sam Peckinpah
Cast: Steve McQueen, Ali MacGraw, Ben Johnson
Producer: David Foster
8. Sleuth (1972)
Grossing Amount: $5.5 million
Description: Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, "Sleuth" is a psychological thriller adapted from Anthony Shaffer's play. The film centers on a tense cat-and-mouse game between Andrew Wyke (Laurence Olivier), a wealthy mystery writer, and Milo Tindle (Michael Caine), a young actor with whom Wyke's wife is having an affair. With its clever twists and stellar performances, "Sleuth" keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Director: Joseph L. Mankiewicz
Cast: Laurence Olivier, Michael Caine
Producer: Morton Gottlieb
9. Lady Sings the Blues (1972)
Grossing Amount: $16.2 million
Description: Directed by Sidney J. Furie, "Lady Sings the Blues" is a biographical drama based on the life of jazz singer Billie Holiday. The film traces Holiday's tumultuous rise to fame, chronicling her struggles with addiction, racism, and heartbreak. With Diana Ross delivering a powerhouse performance as Holiday, "Lady Sings the Blues" offers a poignant glimpse into the life of a musical icon.
Director: Sidney J. Furie
Cast: Diana Ross, Billy Dee Williams, Richard Pryor
Producer: Berry Gordy, Jr.
10. The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
Grossing Amount: $93.3 million
Description: Directed by Ronald Neame, "The Poseidon Adventure" is a disaster film that follows the passengers of the SS Poseidon, a luxury liner overturned by a tidal wave on New Year's Eve. As a group of survivors navigates the upside-down ship in a desperate bid for escape, they encounter perilous obstacles and inner turmoil. With its suspenseful plot and ensemble cast, "The Poseidon Adventure" became a box office hit.
Director: Ronald Neame
Cast: Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, Shelley Winters
Producer: Irwin Allen
Conclusion
The year 1972 witnessed the release of several cinematic masterpieces that continue to captivate audiences to this day. From epic crime dramas to heart-pounding thrillers, these films exemplify the artistry and storytelling prowess of the era.
FAQs About the Movie Industry in 1972
What were some notable trends in the film industry in 1972?
Who were some of the prominent actors and actresses of 1972?
