History's Best Selling Products of 1972

In the colorful era of the 1970s, 1972 saw a swell surge of retro grooves and analog innovation in the world of items! Leading the charge were mighty, top-selling marvels like A Clockwork Orange and Cabaret, capturing the public’s fancy in grand fashion. Distinguished creators from industry leaders like Stanley Kubrick and Bob Fosse proved their mettle with What's Up, Doc?, delivering craftsmanship that defined the laid-back, radical spirit of the seventies. Step right up and inspect our complete, rank-ordered historical archive below!

1. A Clockwork Orange

   Released in 1972 by Stanley Kubrick, Warner Bros.

   On February 2, 1972, Stanley Kubrick's controversial masterpiece, "A Clockwork Orange," began its general theatrical run in the United States, following a limited awards-qualifying release in late 1971. This date marked the moment the wider American public was exposed to one of the most provocative and debated films of the 20th century. Based on Anthony Burgess's 1962 novel, the film's unflinching depiction of "ultra-violence" and its profound questions about free will, crime, and punishment ignited a firestorm of discussion. Its release was not merely a movie premiere; it was a major cultural event that challenged societal norms and the limits of cinematic expression.

2. Cabaret

   Released in 1972 by Bob Fosse, Allied Artists Pictures

   On February 13, 1972, Bob Fosse's dark, dazzling musical drama "Cabaret" premiered in New York City, introducing audiences to a revolutionary take on the movie musical. The film arrived during the height of the New Hollywood era, a period when filmmakers were challenging cinematic conventions and tackling mature, complex themes. Set against the ominous backdrop of 1931 Berlin as the Nazi Party gains momentum, the film uses the seedy Kit Kat Klub as a powerful metaphor for the moral decay and willful ignorance of a society on the brink of collapse. "Cabaret" was a bold departure from the cheerful, escapist musicals of the past, offering instead a sophisticated and disturbing commentary on history and human nature. Its premiere marked the debut of a work that would redefine its genre, earning eight Academy Awards and cementing its place as an enduring masterpiece of American cinema.

3. What's Up, Doc?

   Released in 1972 by Peter Bogdanovich, Warner Bros.

   On March 9, 1972, Peter Bogdanovich's screwball comedy "What's Up, Doc?" premiered, igniting laughter and reviving a cherished cinematic genre. This date marked the launch of a film that would not only become a critical darling but also a massive commercial success, earning over $28 million in rentals and solidifying its place as one of the year's top-grossing pictures. Its premiere was a significant event, showcasing a meticulous homage to Hollywood's Golden Age comedies, perfectly blending physical slapstick, witty dialogue, and romantic chaos, proving that classic comedic formulas could still captivate a modern audience with fresh energy and impeccable timing. The film quickly established itself as a beloved classic, demonstrating Bogdanovich's skill in blending nostalgia with contemporary appeal.

4. My Name is Asher Lev

   Released in 1972 by Chaim Potok, Alfred A. Knopf

   When Chaim Potok's 'My Name is Asher Lev' burst onto the literary scene in 1972, it captivated readers with its unique blend of artistic passion and profound spiritual conflict. This novel quickly ascended the bestseller lists, becoming a cultural phenomenon that transcended its specific setting. It struck a powerful chord with a wide audience, sparking conversations about the nature of art, faith, and personal sacrifice. Its immediate success underscored a collective yearning for stories that dared to explore the deepest tensions within the human soul, making it one of the defining literary works of its era.

5. The Godfather

   Released in 1972 by Francis Ford Coppola, Paramount Pictures

   On March 24, 1972, Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather" expanded into wide release across the United States, forever changing the landscape of cinema. Following a limited premiere in New York ten days earlier, this date marked the moment the American public at large could experience the saga of the Corleone family. It wasn't just another movie release; it was a cultural event that redefined the gangster genre, legitimized the "New Hollywood" movement of director-driven films, and became an instant, universally acclaimed masterpiece. The film's expansion on this day began its journey from a risky studio production to one of the most successful and revered films in history.

6. Machine Head

   Released in 1972 by Deep Purple, Purple Records

   On March 25, 1972, the landscape of hard rock was irrevocably altered with the release of Deep Purple's sixth studio album, 'Machine Head'. Arriving at a time when rock music was growing heavier and more ambitious, the album captured the band at their creative and commercial peak. It was the product of a dramatic and chaotic recording session in Montreux, Switzerland, a story that would become almost as famous as the music itself. 'Machine Head' not only solidified Deep Purple's place in the pantheon of rock gods alongside Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath but also delivered a collection of tracks that would become enduring anthems, defining the sound and attitude of a generation of rock musicians.

7. The Word

   Released in 1972 by Irving Wallace, Simon & Schuster

   The Word, Irving Wallace's gripping 1972 novel, exploded onto the literary scene as a major cultural phenomenon, captivating readers with its audacious premise and thrilling narrative. Published by Simon & Schuster, it immediately tapped into the era's fascination with religious mysteries and historical revisionism. At a time when traditional institutions were being re-evaluated, Wallace delivered a story that masterfully blended archaeological intrigue with high-stakes suspense, positioning itself as an essential read for anyone grappling with faith, doubt, and the potential for a world-altering discovery. Its immediate popularity cemented its place as one of the year's most talked-about books, making it a defining bestseller of the early 1970s.

8. Rio Grande Mud

   Released in 1972 by Billy Gibbons, Dusty Hill, Frank Beard, London Records

   On April 4, 1972, the Texas blues-rock trio ZZ Top released their second studio album, "Rio Grande Mud." This release marked a crucial step in the band's evolution, solidifying their signature sound that would make them global superstars. Following their debut, "ZZ Top's First Album," this record saw the band honing their blend of raw blues, hard rock, and Texan swagger. The album's title itself is a nod to their roots, referencing the famous river that borders their home state. Its release on this day cemented the foundation for a long and storied career, further defining the gritty, distorted guitar tones and driving rhythms that would become their trademark.

9. Argus

   Released in 1972 by Wishbone Ash, MCA Records

   Released on April 28, 1972, Wishbone Ash's third album, "Argus," marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of hard rock. Arriving in a fertile period for British music where genres were blending, the album masterfully combined elements of progressive rock, folk, and blues into a cohesive and powerful whole. It was immediately hailed as a masterpiece by critics, with the influential UK music paper Sounds naming it their "Album of the Year." This recognition catapulted the band from a respected touring act to genuine rock stardom, cementing their place in the musical landscape of the 1970s and beyond.

10. Exile on Main St.

    Released in 1972 by The Rolling Stones, Rolling Stones Records

    On May 12, 1972, The Rolling Stones unleashed "Exile on Main St.," a sprawling double album that would cement their reputation as "the greatest rock and roll band in the world." Released at the peak of their creative powers, the album was the culmination of a chaotic and legendary recording process. The band had fled the UK to the south of France as tax exiles, setting up a makeshift studio in the damp, labyrinthine basement of Villa Nellcôte, a mansion Keith Richards was renting. This release date marks the moment this raw, dense, and sonically murky masterpiece was first heard by the public, capping a tumultuous period for the band and delivering one of rock's most enduring statements.

11. Alfa Romeo Alfasud

    Released in 1972 by Alfa Romeo

    On June 1, 1972, the Alfa Romeo Alfasud became available for purchase, a pivotal moment that represented a radical shift for the storied Italian automaker. This date marked the public culmination of 'Progetto Sud', a massive state-funded initiative to build a state-of-the-art factory near Naples and stimulate the economy of Southern Italy. The Alfasud was not just a new model; it was a complete departure from Alfa's rear-wheel-drive, north-Italian tradition. It introduced the brand's first-ever front-wheel-drive platform and its first boxer engine to the mass market. Its public launch signified Alfa Romeo's ambitious entry into the competitive family car segment with a product engineered to deliver its renowned driving pleasure in a practical, affordable package.

12. Deep Throat

    Released in 1972 by Gerard Damiano, Damiano Film Production

    June 12, 1972, marked the theatrical premiere of 'Deep Throat' in New York City, an event that would unexpectedly thrust an adult film into the national spotlight and forever alter the landscape of censorship and mainstream media. Far from a typical release, this date heralded the arrival of a cinematic phenomenon that would shatter box office records for its genre and spark unprecedented legal and cultural debates across America. Its launch wasn't just a film screening; it was the ignition of the 'porn chic' era, making 'Deep Throat' an accidental cultural touchstone and one of the most talked-about, controversial, and financially successful films of its time, despite its humble origins.

13. The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars

    Released in 1972 by David Bowie, RCA Records

    On June 16, 1972, the music world was forever altered by the release of David Bowie's 'The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars.' Arriving at the height of the glam rock movement, the album was not just a collection of songs but a fully-realized narrative and theatrical concept. Bowie introduced his alien rockstar alter ego, Ziggy Stardust, a messianic figure who comes to a dystopian Earth five years before its end. This release date marks the moment Bowie fully transformed from a talented folk-rock singer into a transcendent, androgynous superstar, cementing a new standard for artistry, performance, and conceptual depth in popular music. The album's arrival was a cultural event, challenging conventions of identity, sexuality, and fame.

14. Honda Civic

    Released in 1972 by Honda

    On July 11, 1972, Honda, then primarily known for its motorcycles, unveiled a car that would redefine the compact segment and propel the company into the global automotive elite. The release of the first-generation Honda Civic in Japan was a seminal moment, arriving just before the 1973 oil crisis. This timing was serendipitous, as the world was about to develop a voracious appetite for small, fuel-efficient vehicles. The Civic was not merely another small car; it was a thoughtfully engineered solution to the growing need for practical, economical, and reliable transportation, setting a new standard for what a compact car could be.

15. The Bob Newhart Show

    Released in 1972 by David Davis and Lorenzo Music, CBS

    On September 16, 1972, television audiences were introduced to the calm, stammering, and utterly relatable world of Dr. Bob Hartley. The premiere of 'The Bob Newhart Show' on this date marked the beginning of a six-season run that would solidify Bob Newhart's status as a comedy legend. The show debuted as part of CBS's powerhouse Saturday night lineup, which is often cited as the greatest in television history, nestled among classics like 'All in the Family' and 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show'. This launch immediately established the series as a high-quality, character-driven comedy, offering a more subtle and observational brand of humor than many of its contemporaries. It was the perfect vehicle for Newhart's signature 'button-down mind' persona, making its premiere a significant moment in 1970s television.

16. M*A*S*H

    Released in 1972 by Larry Gelbart, CBS

    On September 17, 1972, American television audiences were introduced to the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital as 'M*A*S*H' premiered on CBS. Debuting while the Vietnam War was still a deeply contentious and ongoing conflict, the series used the Korean War of the 1950s as a historical backdrop to comment on the futility and absurdity of war in general. This premiere was a significant cultural moment, launching a show that would skillfully blend comedy with drama to explore the human condition under extreme pressure. It was a bold programming choice, offering a unique, character-driven perspective on conflict that stood in stark contrast to the more straightforward sitcoms and dramas of the era.

17. Pontiac Grand Am

    Released in 1972 by Pontiac

    On September 21, 1972, Pontiac dealers officially unveiled the brand-new Grand Am to the American public. This introduction marked a strategic pivot for the brand, launching a car designed to compete with European sports sedans from marques like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The Grand Am was Pontiac's answer to a changing automotive landscape, where buyers sought a sophisticated blend of handling, comfort, and performance. The name itself, a portmanteau of the luxurious 'Grand Prix' and the high-performance 'Trans Am', perfectly encapsulated its mission. This date represents the birth of a vehicle that aimed to deliver a refined, driver-focused experience unlike any other mid-sized American car of its era.

18. Brother of the Wind

    Released in 1972 by Harald Reinl, H.G. Peters, Sascha-Verleih

    The cinematic world was introduced to a captivating tale of the wild on October 05, 1972, with the West German premiere of 'Brother of the Wind' (originally 'Lauf, Kujat, lauf'). This nature drama, far from a typical box office behemoth, carved its own niche, offering audiences a unique blend of narrative storytelling and stunning wildlife photography. While it didn't smash records in the traditional sense, its launch marked the beginning of a quiet success story, particularly within European markets, celebrated for its breathtaking visuals and poignant portrayal of nature's raw beauty and the deep connection between a boy and wild animals. This date signifies the moment a heartfelt, visually rich environmental message began its journey to viewers.

19. Lady Sings the Blues

    Released in 1972 by Sidney J. Furie, Paramount Pictures

    The cinematic world was captivated on October 18, 1972, as 'Lady Sings the Blues' made its grand premiere in New York City. This pivotal date marked the arrival of a powerful biographical drama and, more significantly, the breathtaking dramatic debut of music icon Diana Ross. The film quickly became a cultural touchstone, drawing audiences into the poignant and tumultuous life of jazz legend Billie Holiday. Far from a mere film release, this event was a declaration of Ross's versatile talent and a significant moment for Motown Productions entering the feature film arena. Its impressive box office performance solidified its place as a critical and commercial success, setting the stage for its enduring legacy, resonating deeply with a generation hungry for compelling storytelling.

20. Pong

    Released in 1972 by Atari, Inc., Al Alcorn, Nolan Bushnell, Ted Dabney

    Pong burst onto the scene in 1972, igniting a revolution in entertainment. Initially appearing as a coin-operated arcade machine, its simple yet addictive gameplay quickly captivated players, transforming arcades and setting the stage for the nascent video game industry. Its immediate success at its first public installation in a Sunnyvale bar signaled a seismic shift in how people would interact with electronic media. Pong wasn't just a game; it was an experience that demonstrated the immense commercial potential of interactive digital entertainment, paving the way for future generations of consoles and computer games. It became an instant cultural phenomenon, a ubiquitous presence in public spaces, and a harbinger of the digital age.

21. The Getaway

    Released in 1972 by Sam Peckinpah, National General Pictures

    The thrilling action crime film "The Getaway," starring real-life couple Steve McQueen and Ali MacGraw, burst onto the silver screen with its Los Angeles premiere on December 13, 1972. This date marked the beginning of a highly successful commercial run for the Sam Peckinpah-directed feature, quickly establishing itself as a major box office hit of the era. Its visceral action, compelling performances, and Peckinpah's signature style captivated audiences, making this premiere a significant moment for both the genre and the careers of its stars. The film cemented McQueen's status as a top action draw and proved to be a profitable venture for its studio, affirming the enduring appeal of the outlaw couple narrative.

22. The Poseidon Adventure

    Released in 1972 by Ronald Neame, 20th Century Fox

    On December 13, 1972, moviegoers in North America were plunged into an unforgettable disaster with the release of 'The Poseidon Adventure.' This date marked the beginning of a cinematic phenomenon that would redefine the disaster film genre, setting new standards for suspense, spectacle, and emotional storytelling. As audiences flocked to theaters, they were not only treated to groundbreaking special effects but also a compelling human drama that resonated deeply. The film quickly became a colossal box office success, establishing itself as one of the highest-grossing movies of its era and cementing its place in popular culture as a benchmark for thrilling, large-scale entertainment. This release date launched a movie that remains a beloved classic.

23. Blythe (doll)

    Released in 1972 by Kenner Products, Allison Katzman

    Blythe dolls made their debut in 1972, launching with a distinct and somewhat unconventional aesthetic that unfortunately proved to be ahead of its time for the mainstream American toy market. Manufactured by Kenner Products, these fashion dolls, with their notably large heads and unique eye mechanism, struggled to find commercial success upon their initial release. Despite their brief original production run, Blythe dolls would later experience an extraordinary renaissance decades later, transforming from a forgotten toy into a global cultural phenomenon, particularly in Japan, becoming a cherished item for adult collectors and customizers worldwide. This unexpected resurgence cemented their legacy as one of the most intriguing and unique figures in toy history.

24. Captains and the Kings

    Released in 1972 by Taylor Caldwell, Doubleday

    In 1972, Taylor Caldwell's epic saga 'Captains and the Kings' burst onto the literary scene, capturing the imagination of millions and quickly ascending the bestseller lists. This sweeping historical novel became a cultural phenomenon, offering readers a sprawling narrative of ambition, power, and the American dream. Its timely exploration of political dynasties and social stratifications resonated deeply with a public grappling with the shifting landscape of American society. The book's grand scale and compelling character development cemented its place as one of the year's most talked-about and widely read novels, solidifying Caldwell's reputation as a master storyteller of historical fiction.

25. Paddington Bear

    Released in 1972 by Gabrielle Designs

    The year 1972 began with the official launch of a toy that would become a British icon. While not tied to a specific event on January 1st, this date marks the start of the year when Shirley Clarkson's Gabrielle Designs secured the license and began production of the very first commercially available Paddington Bear plush toy. Following a homemade prototype created for her children the previous Christmas, Clarkson turned her cottage industry into a manufacturing success story. This transformation brought Michael Bond's beloved literary character from the page into the arms of children, starting a global phenomenon and establishing the definitive three-dimensional look for the bear from darkest Peru.

26. Pippa (doll)

    Released in 1972 by Palitoy

    The Pippa doll, launched in 1972 by British toy manufacturer Palitoy, quickly became a beloved staple in many UK households. Introduced as a charming 6.5-inch fashion doll, Pippa offered a fresh, more affordable, and portable alternative to the larger, established fashion dolls like Barbie and Sindy. Her compact size and extensive line of trendy outfits and accessories made her an instant hit with children and parents alike, carving out a significant niche in the competitive doll market. Pippa's arrival marked a notable moment for British toy manufacturing, demonstrating its ability to create a compelling, locally-produced fashion doll that resonated deeply with its target audience and achieved considerable commercial success.

27. The Best and the Brightest

    Released in 1972 by David Halberstam, Random House

    Released in 1972, amidst the final stages of American military involvement in Vietnam and widespread disillusionment, 'The Best and the Brightest' instantly became a historically significant work. It offered a profound, if devastating, explanation for how the United States became entangled in such a costly and protracted conflict. Halberstam meticulously dissected the decision-making processes of the highly educated, seemingly brilliant minds who shaped American foreign policy during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. The book's impact was immediate, shaping public understanding and academic discourse on the war by highlighting the perils of intellectual arrogance and a lack of empathy for local realities, ultimately arguing that the war was a tragic consequence of America's elite trying to apply conventional solutions to an unconventional problem.

28. The Odessa File

    Released in 1972 by Frederick Forsyth, Viking Press

    The Odessa File burst onto the literary scene in 1972, solidifying Frederick Forsyth's reputation as a master of the meticulously researched thriller. Following the immense success of The Day of the Jackal, this new novel was eagerly anticipated and quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating readers with its gripping tale of post-war Nazi hunting. Its intricate plot, rooted in historical events and genuine geopolitical anxieties, struck a chord with a public fascinated by the lingering shadows of World War II. It was more than just a book; it was an immersive experience that transported readers into a dangerous world where justice for past atrocities was still fiercely pursued, making it one of the year's undisputed bestsellers.

29. Two from Galilee

    Released in 1972 by Marjorie Holmes, Fleming H. Revell Company

    When 'Two from Galilee' by Marjorie Holmes launched in 1972, it instantly captured the hearts of millions, becoming a significant cultural phenomenon, particularly within Christian circles. Breaking new ground in biblical fiction, the novel soared to the #8 spot on Publishers Weekly's Bestseller list for the year. Its accessible and emotionally resonant retelling of Mary and Joseph's courtship and early struggles offered a fresh perspective on a sacred story, making it relatable to a broad readership and cementing its place as a beloved classic that defied typical genre boundaries for its time.

30. Watership Down

    Released in 1972 by Richard Adams, Macmillan

    In 1972, the literary world was taken by surprise by the overwhelming success of Richard Adams's Watership Down. Originally published in the UK in 1972, its arrival in the United States two years later propelled it to unprecedented heights, becoming a genuine cultural phenomenon. Far from a typical children's story, this epic tale of a rabbit warren captivated adult and young adult readers alike, defying conventional genre classifications. Its immediate popularity stemmed from its powerful narrative, profound themes, and surprisingly brutal realism, quickly establishing it as one of the year's top-selling novels and cementing its place in the literary consciousness of the 1970s. It wasn't just a book; it was an immersive journey into a world both familiar and alien, forcing readers to reconsider their perceptions of nature and society.