Saturday Night Fever (1977)

Some movies capture a historical moment so perfectly that in retrospect it is impossible to unravel which came first: wisecracking club Lotharios or Saturday Night Fever (1977). Based on the New York magazine article “Tribal Rites of the New Saturday Night” (1976), the drama is set in a Brooklyn neighborhood where the furthest horizon is limited by the tenement across the street. This paean to unrealized, unarticulated ambition presents John Travolta in his legacy-ensuring role as Tony Maneroa, a rhythmically-blessed Italian-American hunk. By day, he works at a hardware store. By night, Tony wins dance contests at his local discothèque. Outside of the venue, you’ll find Tony’s pal Double J. (Paul Pape) baring his buns while banging an unnamed babe in a parked car. Extra points go to viewers who can spot Fran Drescher as well as John’s real-life mom Helen Travolta and sis Ann Travolta in cameos. Whether twirling with adoring Annette (Donna Pescow) or sophisticated Stephanie (Karen Lynn Gorney) to Bee Gees tunes, Travolta pleased fans and impressed critics with his agile moves. According to Gene Siskel, “Travolta on the dance floor is like a peacock on amphetamines.” Indeed, we’re even addicted to the bedroom scene wherein J.T. shows off his awesome abs and bulging briefs! No wonder the skintastic actor nabbed Oscar and Golden Globe nominations for his performance. John probably would have won had he exposed his disco balls! Nevertheless, the screen icon is still hot enough to give Mr. Man a fever any night of the week!