Like any decade, the 1970s was a mixed bag of good and bad, exciting and boring. But following the collapse of the Hollywood studio system and the rise of edgier, more independent cinema, it was a decade that offered some great films. These movies offered fresh takes on stale genres, and some were helmed by younger directors who weren't averse to getting moody or dark, while still delivering quality entertainment.

From Thu., Aug. 10, through Sun., Aug. 13, Pittsburgh Filmmakers is presenting "Can You Dig It?," a program of four classic 1970s films, alternately screening at its Harris and Melwood theaters. Check out:

Mean Streets (1973). Martin Scorsese's gritty, profane and influential gangster tale, set in New York City's Little Italy. The work made stars of actors Robert DeNiro and Harvey Keitel.

Saturday Night Fever (1977). John Badham's film was unfairly maligned for its association with the often-frivolous disco craze, but it is a true 1970s gem: a downbeat tale of a yearner whose dreams of something else besides what's expected of him are unlikely to be realized.

The Wiz (1978). Sidney Lumet's adaptation of the stage musical that re-imagined The Wizard of Oz as a contemporary African-American tale. Some folks loved it; others hated it — judge for yourself. Starring Diana Ross as Dorothy, with Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow.

Alien (1979). Ridley Scott's super-tense sci-fi horror film in which a freaky alien is causing havoc on a spaceship. Starring Sigourney Weaver and featuring an indelible creature designed by H.R. Giger. "In space, no one can hear you scream."

See here for complete schedule, including two midnight screenings of Saturday Night Fever.