Relive the Magic: 5 Box Office Titans That Defined 1979’s Cinematic Landscape

1979 was a blockbuster year for Hollywood, filled with unforgettable movies that not only captured the hearts of audiences but also raked in some serious cash at the box office. From sci-fi spectacles to gripping dramas, the films of this year were nothing short of legendary.

As we dive into the biggest box office hits of 1979, you’ll see why this year was a crucial moment in cinematic history. These movies not only entertained but also set new standards in storytelling, special effects, and cultural impact.

So, grab your popcorn and let’s travel back in time to revisit these iconic films that ruled the box office.

Highlights

• check out the top-grossing movies of 1979
• Discover fascinating behind-the-scenes facts
• Understand the cultural impact of these films

Star Trek: The Motion Picture

Boldly going where no movie had gone before, Star Trek: The Motion Picture hit the big screens in 1979 and quickly became a box office sensation. Directed by Robert Wise, this sci-fi epic was the first feature film based on the beloved Star Trek TV series. Fans were eager to see their favorite characters, including Captain Kirk and Mr. Spock, in a new adventure.

The film’s stunning visual effects and elaborate sets were groundbreaking for the time. The story revolves around the crew of the USS Enterprise as they confront a mysterious and powerful alien entity known as V’Ger. Despite mixed reviews from critics, the movie’s massive fanbase propelled it to box office success.

With a production budget of around $46 million, Star Trek: The Motion Picture grossed over $139 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 1979. The film’s success ensured the continuation of the Star Trek franchise, leading to numerous sequels, spin-offs, and reboots.

• Budget: $46 million
• Worldwide Gross: $139 million
• Director: Robert Wise
• Notable Cast: William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley

Alien

In space, no one can hear you scream. But at the box office, everyone could hear the resounding success of Alien. Directed by Ridley Scott, this sci-fi horror masterpiece introduced audiences to the terrifying Xenomorph and the fierce heroine, Ellen Ripley, played by Sigourney Weaver.

The film’s claustrophobic atmosphere, combined with H.R. Giger’s nightmarish creature design, created a chilling experience that left audiences on the edge of their seats. The story follows the crew of the spaceship Nostromo as they encounter a deadly alien life form that begins to pick them off one by one.

Alien’s blend of horror and science fiction was a winning formula, earning it critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase. The film grossed over $104 million worldwide on an estimated budget of $11 million, making it a major financial success. Its impact on the genre is still felt today, with numerous sequels, prequels, and spin-offs expanding the Alien universe.

• Budget: $11 million
• Worldwide Gross: $104 million
• Director: Ridley Scott
• Notable Cast: Sigourney Weaver, Tom Skerritt, John Hurt

Apocalypse Now

Francis Ford Coppola’s Apocalypse Now is a cinematic tour de force that delves into the horrors of the Vietnam War. This epic war film, inspired by Joseph Conrad’s novella “Heart of Darkness,” follows Captain Willard, played by Martin Sheen, on a mission to assassinate the renegade Colonel Kurtz, portrayed by Marlon Brando.

The film’s production was notoriously troubled, with delays, budget overruns, and on-set challenges. Despite these issues, Coppola delivered a visually stunning and emotionally powerful film that left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike. The movie’s haunting portrayal of war and its psychological effects resonated deeply, making it a significant cultural and artistic achievement.

Apocalypse Now grossed over $150 million worldwide, solidifying its place as one of the biggest box office hits of 1979. The film’s success was further cemented by its numerous awards and accolades, including the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

• Budget: $31 million
• Worldwide Gross: $150 million
• Director: Francis Ford Coppola
• Notable Cast: Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, Robert Duvall

The Amityville Horror

Get ready for some spine-tingling chills with The Amityville Horror. Based on the true story of the Lutz family, who claimed their house was haunted by malevolent spirits, this horror film captivated audiences and became a massive box office hit.

Directed by Stuart Rosenberg, the film stars James Brolin and Margot Kidder as the ill-fated couple who move into a seemingly perfect home, only to discover its dark and terrifying secrets. The movie’s eerie atmosphere and suspenseful storytelling kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

The Amityville Horror grossed over $86 million worldwide on a modest budget of $4.7 million, making it one of the most profitable films of 1979. Its success spawned numerous sequels, prequels, and remakes, cementing its place in horror movie history.

• Budget: $4.7 million
• Worldwide Gross: $86 million
• Director: Stuart Rosenberg
• Notable Cast: James Brolin, Margot Kidder, Rod Steiger

Rocky II

The Italian Stallion returned to the ring in Rocky II, and audiences couldn’t get enough. Written and directed by Sylvester Stallone, this sequel to the 1976 hit film Rocky continues the story of boxer Rocky Balboa as he faces a rematch with Apollo Creed.

The film’s heartwarming and inspirational narrative struck a chord with viewers, who were eager to see Rocky’s trip from underdog to champion. Stallone’s portrayal of Rocky, combined with the film’s memorable training montages and thrilling fight scenes, made Rocky II a crowd-pleaser.

Rocky II grossed over $200 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing films of 1979. Its success cemented Rocky as a beloved cinematic character and paved the way for more sequels in the franchise.

• Budget: $7 million
• Worldwide Gross: $200 million
• Director: Sylvester Stallone
• Notable Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young

The box office hits of 1979 were a diverse mix of genres, from sci-fi and horror to war dramas and sports films. These movies not only entertained audiences but also left a lasting impact on popular culture. Their success at the box office is a proof to their enduring appeal and the talent of the filmmakers and actors involved.

As we look back on these iconic films, it’s clear that 1979 was a year of cinematic milestones. These movies continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by new generations of film lovers, proving that great storytelling and unforgettable characters never go out of style.

References

1. Box Office Mojo – 1979 Yearly Box Office
2. 1979 in film – Wikipedia
3. 1979 Worldwide Box Office – Box Office Mojo