It's 2023, and I’m rewinding 50 years to 1973 to watch seven films from that year that I’ve never seen before. Alongside these, I revisited what I consider the greatest film of that year: Don’t Look Now. Did any of the new discoveries manage to unseat it as my top film of 1973? Let’s find out!
The Seven Films:
The Spirit of the Beehive (1973, Víctor Erice)
After watching 1931’s Frankenstein at a travelling cinema, two young girls pretend the "monster" lives nearby. The younger, more impressionable Ana becomes obsessed with finding and befriending him. A poetic, wistful exploration of childhood imagination and isolation.
The Legend of Hell House (1973, John Hough)
A team consisting of a physicist (Clive Revill), his wife (Gayle Hunnicutt), a psychic (Pamela Franklin), and a survivor of the house’s horrors (Roddy McDowall) investigate its infamous evil reputation. Gothic and gruesome, this adaptation of Richard Matheson’s novel is steeped in atmospheric chills.
The Slightly Pregnant Man (1973, Jacques Demy)
Marco (Marcello Mastroianni) begins experiencing strange symptoms that lead an eminent doctor to theorise male pregnancy is possible due to dietary changes. Catherine Deneuve co-stars as his wife in this bonkers, irresistibly charming French comedy.
Mean Streets (1973, Martin Scorsese)
This urban gangster drama follows Charlie (Harvey Keitel) and Johnny Boy (Robert De Niro), low-level criminals navigating a world of debts and danger. Scorsese’s raw energy, striking visuals, and pulsating soundtrack make this a genre-defining masterpiece.
F for Fake (1973, Orson Welles)
Welles’ mischievous final film examines forgery, focusing on infamous forgers Elmyr de Hory and Clifford Irving. A playful mix of documentary, parody, and illusion, it’s a cheeky exploration of the very nature of authenticity and art.
Nothing But the Night (1973, Peter Sasdy)
When trustees of a children’s home die under mysterious circumstances, a young girl (Gwyneth Strong) becomes a key figure. Doctors (Keith Barron, Peter Cushing) and police (Christopher Lee) uncover chilling secrets. A slow burn, but its eerie tension pays off.
The Letters (1973, Gene Nelson/Paul Krasny) This anthology TV movie follows life-changing letters delayed for a year before reaching their recipients, with poignant consequences. Featuring legends Barbara Stanwyck and Ida Lupino, it delivers heartfelt drama with a touch of sentimentality.
Revisiting a Classic:
Don’t Look Now (1973, Nicolas Roeg)
In Venice, a grieving couple (Donald Sutherland, Julie Christie) grapple with the loss of their daughter. Roeg's innovative visual style and Pino Donaggio's hauntingly moving score bring Daphne Du Maurier's tale of death and grief vividly to life.
The Verdict: #7From73Movies Ranked
The Slightly Pregnant Man
Mean Streets
The Spirit of the Beehive
The Legend of Hell House
F for Fake
The Letters
Nothing But the Night
A delightful and varied set of films. While The Slightly Pregnant Man (Jacques Demy) charmed its way to the top spot, my revisit of Don’t Look Now (Nicolas Roeg) confirmed its place as my ultimate favourite from 1973. Its haunting beauty, gripping narrative, and emotional resonance remain unparalleled. However, the Demy discovery was pure joy wrapped in absurdity, offering the perfect balance of whimsy and subversion.
Additional 1974 Discoveries:
I Wish You Love (1973, Clark Jones) Marlene Dietrich shines in this live concert recorded in a London theatre, performing songs from her legendary career. Her magnetic presence and exquisite storytelling make it a mesmerising watch, a true showcase of timeless star power.
Aquarius: Hello Dalí!
Russell Harty visits the Museo del Prado in Madrid to interview Salvador Dalí in this chaotic arts programme. Harty gamely attempts to manage the unpredictable Dalí, who is at his flamboyant best. Fabulous chaos and an unforgettable ride.
Aloha from Hawaii via Satellite
(1973, Marty Pasetta)
Elvis Presley’s landmark concert broadcast live to an estimated 1.3 billion viewers worldwide. Presley never toured internationally, and this dazzling spectacle remains a must-watch for fans and a cultural milestone.
Idaho Transfer (1973, Peter Fonda)
Young researchers time-travel to 2044 to escape ecological collapse, only to find Earth seemingly deserted after a catastrophic event. A bleak, minimalist take on dystopia with a distinctive hippy-era vibe.
The Long Goodbye (1973, Robert Altman) A quirky reimagining of Philip Marlowe, with Elliott Gould delivering a laid-back yet captivating performance. Altman’s stylish direction, John Williams’ jazz-infused score, and a strong supporting cast make this a unique and compelling adaptation.
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