During the 1970s, studios typically had limited budgets for big-budget productions, so they filled out their annual slates with a variety of other types of films to diversify their offerings and maximize profits. Here are some common types of films that studios would produce to complement their limited number of big-budget pictures:
1. **Genre Films:** Studios often produced a range of genre films, including comedies, dramas, thrillers, and horror movies. These films could cater to different audience tastes and often had lower production costs than big-budget blockbusters.
2. **B-Movies:** B-movies were lower-budget films that often featured lesser-known actors and simple, straightforward plots. These films could be produced relatively quickly and at a lower cost, making them a cost-effective way for studios to fill out their schedules.
3. **Mid-Budget Films:** These films had higher production values than B-movies but were not as expensive as big-budget blockbusters. They often featured a mix of established and up-and-coming talent and covered a wide range of genres.
4. **Sequels and Franchise Installments:** If a studio had successful franchises or films that performed well in the past, they would often produce sequels or additional installments to capitalize on existing fan bases and proven concepts.
5. **Art House Films:** Some studios invested in art house or independent films, which were often smaller in scale and targeted at niche audiences. These films might not have been big box office hits but could win critical acclaim and awards, enhancing the studio's prestige.
6. **Children's and Family Films:** Studios also produced family-friendly films to cater to younger audiences. These movies often had lower budgets but could generate steady income through merchandise and repeat viewings.
7. **Television Movies and Series:** Some studios expanded into television production during the 1970s, creating made-for-TV movies and series. These projects could be a source of additional revenue for the studio.
8. **International Co-Productions:** Studios sometimes partnered with international production companies to share costs and risks on certain projects, allowing them to produce more films without bearing the full financial burden.
9. **Re-Releases and Double Features:** Studios occasionally re-released older films or paired them up as double features in theaters to generate additional revenue from existing content.
By diversifying their film slates in this way, studios could maintain a steady stream of content throughout the year, appeal to a broader range of audiences, and manage their budgets more effectively, even if they could only afford a limited number of big-budget productions.