What 70s-80s must-see films and movements should I study after The Godfather?

[EricR]

I've been on a mission to watch all the classic films I missed growing up, and I just finished "The Godfather" for the first time last night, which has left me completely in awe of its storytelling and craftsmanship but also wondering what other foundational movies from the 70s and 80s I should prioritize next. I'm particularly drawn to character-driven dramas and clever thrillers from that era, but I'm open to any genre if the film is considered essential viewing for understanding cinema history. For movie buffs who've undertaken a similar cinematic education, what are the absolute must-see films from that period that still hold up powerfully today, and are there specific directors or movements from that time I should focus on to appreciate the evolution of modern filmmaking?