Long movies often get a bad rap for their extended runtimes, but some truly excel in storytelling, character development, and overall impact. Here’s a look at some extremely long movies that are also extremely good, providing an engaging experience worth every minute. Are these films the perfect way to spend a few hours?
Lawrence of Arabia
Epic landscapes and a compelling narrative define Lawrence of Arabia. Sweeping deserts and T.E. Lawrence’s tumultuous journey transport you to a world of adventure and conflict. With every minute, the depth of character exploration and breathtaking cinematography unfold, making it an unforgettable experience.
The Godfather
Rich storytelling and complex characters create a masterpiece in The Godfather. The Corleone family saga immerses you, and the extended runtime is crucial for appreciating every intricate detail. Engaging from start to finish, this film is a cornerstone of cinematic history.
Schindler’s List
Steven Spielberg’s harrowing tale of Oskar Schindler’s efforts during the Holocaust is a powerful, emotional journey. Time allows you to connect deeply with the characters and understand the gravity of the historical events depicted. Could a shorter runtime capture the same impact? We think not.
Gone with the Wind
Gone with the Wind delves into the complexities of the American South during the Civil War and Reconstruction. With a run time of 238 minutes, audiences are given space to explore the characters’ lives and the sweeping historical context. What makes a classic timeless? This film might have the answer.
Once Upon a Time in America
Spanning several decades, Once Upon a Time in America captures the lives of Jewish ghetto youths who rise to prominence in New York’s criminal underworld. This extended narrative helps develop a rich, multi-layered story that keeps us engaged throughout and discusses the plot long after the credits roll.
Ben-Hur
Grand action sequences and a profound story define Ben-Hur. The lengthy runtime provides space for elaborate set pieces, especially the famous chariot race, and deepens the emotional impact of the personal and historical drama. How does a film achieve monumental status?
Doctor Zhivago
Set against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution, Doctor Zhivago explores the life and loves of a poet-physician. The expansive runtime paints a detailed picture of the era’s turbulence and the protagonist’s inner conflicts. This film captures the essence of an era with elegance and depth.
The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Peter Jackson’s finale to The Lord of the Rings trilogy is a perfect example of an epic conclusion. With several storylines in need of wrapping up, the 251-minute length is needed to deliver a satisfying end to a beloved saga.
Spartacus
Thrilling and thought-provoking, Spartacus tells the story of a slave revolt leader in ancient Rome. With detailed character development and intricate storytelling, we can forgive Spartacus for being a time-consuming viewing experience.
The Irishman
Martin Scorsese’s exploration of organized crime through the eyes of Frank Sheeran is a compelling journey. The film’s length allows for a thorough exploration of characters and their complex relationships, ensuring you stay invested. Modern epics can draw us in like never before.
Seven Samurai
Iconic for a reason, Akira Kurosawa’s epic tale of seven samurai defending a village from bandits is a masterclass in storytelling. Capturing heroism in this way can only be achieved through a longer run time, and the film’s length proves essential for building tension, developing characters, and delivering a deeply satisfying story.
Heat
Heat pits a meticulous thief against a dedicated cop in a gripping narrative. A longer run time is needed for such a detailed examination of their cat-and-mouse game, the men’s personal lives, and the high-stakes heists that drive the plot.
Malcolm X
Spike Lee’s film about Malcolm X is a comprehensive portrayal that captivates with its detailed exploration of historical activism. When representing a beloved figure, a long run time is needed to truly capture their essence and achieve a thorough depiction, and this is something Malcolm X achieves, making it a powerful biographical epic.
JFK
Oliver Stone’s examination of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination is both exhaustive and compelling. The film’s length allows for a detailed presentation of conspiracy theories and the characters involved, keeping you hooked. Historical dramas resonate deeply with such immersive storytelling.
Apocalypse Now
Apocalypse Now takes us on a journey into the heart of darkness during the Vietnam War. It is a story that is impossible to rush. All 147 minutes are put to good use, building an intense atmosphere essential for its psychological depth and epic scale.
Barry Lyndon
Stanley Kubrick’s Barry Lyndon is a visually stunning and emotionally rich period drama. Only the lengthiest runtime allows for a deep dive into the character’s journey and the intricate details of 18th-century England.
Titanic
An extremely long film with extremely good reviews, James Cameron’s Titanic blends historical drama with personal stories set against the infamous maritime disaster. The film’s length is essential for developing the romance and capturing the scale of the tragedy. What makes a disaster film unforgettable? This film might have the answer.
The Green Mile
The Green Mile explores the lives of inmates and guards with a deeply emotional narrative. Part of its success is its long run time. Can a death row drama be both poignant and supernatural? This film proves it can.
Once Upon a Time in the West
Sergio Leone’s western masterpiece is known for its meticulous attention to detail. Its lengthy runtime allows for the development of richly textured characters and an operatic storyline. Sometimes, a slower pace perfectly suits a story; this film is a prime example.
Braveheart
Mel Gibson’s Braveheart tells the story of William Wallace’s fight for Scottish independence. The film’s extended runtime captures the scale of battles and the depth of Wallace’s personal journey, making it an epic. Historical epics balance thrill and emotion beautifully.
The Great Escape
This classic movie follows Allied prisoners planning a mass escape. Its extended runtime builds tension and develops characters, making it a gripping and unforgettable story. The suspense is in spades, keeping us teetering on the edge of our seats.
