10 American TV Series From The 1970s That Are Still Good Today

Fifty years ago, a little TV movie called Duel roared onto screens across North America. That now-iconic truck terrorizing Dennis Weaver kept millions of viewers glued to their seats, and the movie’s success launched the career of a young Steven Spielberg. Not too shabby for a TV debut!

The 1970s was a golden era for TV movies. Networks were experimenting with original productions, often tackling bold stories with big stars. While many of these films earned a reputation as “lesser” than theatrical releases, a closer look reveals some truly unforgettable gems. Here are ten of the best TV movies from the decade that you should definitely track down.

1. Brian’s Song (1971)
Directed by: Buzz Kulik

If you’re ready for an emotional rollercoaster, Brian’s Song is the perfect pick. This heartfelt drama tells the real-life story of NFL teammates Brian Piccolo (James Caan) and Gale Sayers (Billy Dee Williams). Their bond begins on the field but deepens as Brian faces terminal cancer. The movie portrays their friendship with sincerity, showcasing the strength and vulnerability of two men supporting each other through life’s toughest challenges.

What sets Brian’s Song apart is its authenticity—it never feels overly sentimental, focusing instead on the humanity of its characters. James Caan and Billy Dee Williams bring warmth and depth to their roles, and the Emmy-winning script by William Blinn is full of genuine emotion. The movie’s cultural impact was so significant it was remade in 2001, but the original remains the gold standard.

2. See the Man Run (1971)
Directed by: Corey Allen

Imagine receiving a ransom call meant for someone else—and deciding to play along for your own gain. That’s the setup for See the Man Run, where struggling actor Ben Taylor (Robert Culp) and his manipulative wife Joanne (Angie Dickinson) dive headfirst into a kidnapping plot. Predictably, their scheme goes horribly wrong, leading to a series of unexpected and often chaotic twists.

This TV thriller is a masterclass in tension and dark humor. Robert Culp’s portrayal of Ben as a bumbling antihero adds layers of irony, while Angie Dickinson’s villainous turn as his scheming wife steals the show. The story moves at breakneck speed, keeping viewers guessing until the end. With its blend of suspense and wickedly fun performances, See the Man Run epitomizes the unpredictable charm of 1970s TV movies.

3. The Night Stalker (1972)
Directed by: John Llewellyn Moxey

The Night Stalker brings a supernatural twist to the crime genre. Reporter Carl Kolchak (Darren McGavin) finds himself investigating a string of grisly murders in Las Vegas, where the victims are drained of blood. As Kolchak digs deeper, he becomes convinced that the killer is a vampire—though the authorities dismiss his claims as wild speculation.

The movie’s mix of horror, mystery, and sharp humor made it an instant hit, spawning a sequel (The Night Strangler) and even a short-lived TV series. Darren McGavin’s portrayal of the scrappy, relentless Kolchak is magnetic, and the film’s eerie atmosphere captures Las Vegas in a way that’s both glamorous and sinister. Written by Richard Matheson, the mind behind Duel, this is a must-watch for fans of smart, spooky storytelling.

4. That Certain Summer (1972)
Directed by: Lamont Johnson

A quiet yet powerful drama, That Certain Summer broke new ground with its sensitive depiction of a gay relationship. Hal Holbrook stars as Doug, a divorced father who invites his teenage son Nick (Scott Jacoby) to spend the summer with him. Over time, Nick discovers that Doug’s friend Gary (Martin Sheen) is more than just a friend.

Though the film was restricted by network guidelines (no physical affection or romantic gestures were allowed), its heartfelt performances and honest dialogue shine through. Hal Holbrook and Martin Sheen bring incredible depth to their roles, portraying their relationship with warmth and dignity. That Certain Summer was a bold step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media, and its impact still resonates today.

5. Reflections of Murder (1974)
Directed by: John Badham

What happens when two women conspire to kill an abusive man? In Reflections of Murder, a teacher’s wife Claire (Joan Hackett) and his mistress Vicky (Tuesday Weld) plot to murder Michael (Sam Waterston), their cruel mutual partner. But guilt, paranoia, and unforeseen twists threaten to unravel their plan.

This remake of the French classic Les Diaboliques relocates the story to the misty, atmospheric Pacific Northwest, giving the film a haunting, rainy backdrop. The tension builds slowly but relentlessly, leading to a shocking climax that’s just as spine-tingling as the original. Joan Hackett’s performance as the fragile yet determined Claire is a standout, adding layers of complexity to this gripping thriller.

6. Hustling (1975)
Directed by: Joseph Sargent

Based on journalist Gail Sheehy’s groundbreaking reporting, Hustling dives into the gritty world of prostitution in 1970s New York. Lee Remick stars as Fran Morrison, a journalist who builds relationships with the women she’s profiling, particularly Wanda (Jill Clayburgh) and Dee Dee (Melanie Mayron). As Fran uncovers the systemic exploitation these women face, she becomes deeply invested in their stories.

Director Joseph Sargent brings the same gritty realism he displayed in The Taking of Pelham One Two Three, immersing viewers in the raw energy of New York’s streets. The movie is elevated by its phenomenal cast, with Clayburgh’s nuanced portrayal of Wanda earning an Emmy nomination. Hustling is an unflinching yet empathetic look at marginalized lives, making it both provocative and deeply human.

7. Griffin and Phoenix (1976)
Directed by: Daryl Duke

Griffin and Phoenix explores love in the face of death. Geoffrey Griffin (Peter Falk) and Sarah Phoenix (Jill Clayburgh) meet and fall in love, both hiding the fact that they’re terminally ill. They spend their remaining time together embracing life, from silly adventures to quiet moments of connection.

This touching romance avoids melodrama, focusing instead on the genuine chemistry between its leads. Peter Falk and Jill Clayburgh bring warmth and humor to their roles, making their characters’ journey feel real and relatable. Despite its heartbreaking premise, Griffin and Phoenix is a celebration of life and love, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

8. Sherlock Holmes in New York (1976)
Directed by: Boris Sagal

What happens when Sherlock Holmes trades London’s fog for New York’s bustling streets? Roger Moore steps into the iconic role, bringing his signature charm to this playful adaptation. Holmes and Watson (Patrick Macnee) travel to the Big Apple to thwart Moriarty (John Huston) and unravel a new mystery.

While it doesn’t rival the best Holmes adaptations, this movie is pure fun. Roger Moore’s dapper Holmes feels perfectly at home in the city, and John Huston’s sinister Moriarty steals every scene he’s in. Fans of Holmes—and Roger Moore—will find plenty to enjoy in this lighthearted detective romp.

9. Someone’s Watching Me! (1978)
Directed by: John Carpenter

Someone’s Watching Me! delivers Hitchcockian thrills with a modern edge. Lauren Hutton stars as Leigh, a TV producer who becomes the target of a relentless stalker shortly after moving into a luxurious apartment. Determined to fight back, Leigh teams up with friends Sophie (Adrienne Barbeau) and Paul (David Birney) to uncover the stalker’s identity.

Carpenter’s signature style shines through, blending suspense, clever twists, and strong character work. Lauren Hutton’s performance as the resourceful, courageous Leigh is a highlight, proving she can hold her own in a genre dominated by final girls. This underrated thriller is a testament to Carpenter’s ability to craft tension in any medium.

10. Hollow Image (1979)
Directed by: Marvin J. Chomsky

In Hollow Image, Harriet (S. Pearl Sharp) tries to bridge the gap between her old life in Harlem and her new success as a buyer for a high-end Manhattan boutique. After reconnecting with her ex-boyfriend Danny (Dick Anthony Williams), she decides to use her newfound wealth to help her former neighborhood. However, her efforts are met with resistance, forcing her to confront the complexities of social mobility and identity.

The film’s thoughtful screenplay addresses issues of race, class, and community with grace and honesty. A standout performance by Morgan Freeman as an ill-fated addict adds emotional weight to this already compelling story. Hollow Image is both a time capsule of its era and a still-relevant exploration of personal and societal struggles.

Still Worth Watching

The TV movies of the 1970s may have been made for the small screen, but their impact was anything but small. From thrillers to heartfelt dramas, these films are full of surprises—and they’re just waiting to be rediscovered.