- Photo 1:
- To Kill a Mockingbird
- Universal Pictures
- Photo 2:
- Warner Bros.
- Photo 3:
- Paramount Pictures
Since the earliest days of Hollywood, book adaptations have been one of the most reliant and successful forms of filmmaking, from poignant standalones like The Grapes of Wrath to massive franchises like Harry Potter. Spanning decades and crossing genres - including drama, comedy, horror, and science-fiction - these beloved movies based on books all have one thing in common: they turned their source material into cinema that stands the test of time.
Some authors seem to write novels that are almost handcrafted for the silver screen. Stephen King, for example, has seen his novels made into films on dozens of occasions, and not just in one genre, either. While his horror like Misery and The Shining may come to mind first, his more dramatic works have been equally (if not more) successful on film, such as The Green Mile and Stand by Me. Of course, in some cases you might not even realize that your favorite films are adaptations.Titles like Jaws, Shrek, and Die Hard have become such cultural touchstones all on their own, it's easy to forget that they were on bookshelves before they made it to movie theaters.
With over 100 years of big screen creativity to chose from, it's difficult to narrow down the best films adapted from books. To that end, it's even trickier to decide which ones should rise to the top. As you read ahead, make sure to vote up your favorites to help curate this roundup of all-time great adaptations.
- 1
Based On: Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption (1982) by Stephen King
The Shawshank Redemption, a captivating drama directed by Frank Darabont, hinges on the resilience of the human spirit. The narrative unfolds in the grim confines of Shawshank State Penitentiary, where banker Andy Dufresne (Tim Robbins) lands after being wrongfully convicted for murder. Alongside Ellis 'Red' Redding (Morgan Freeman), a long-term inmate, Andy battles despair and corruption. In this struggle, they form an unshakeable bond that transcends the prison walls. A seven-time Oscar nominee, 'The Shawshank Redemption' is a testament to friendship's power and hope's endurance amid adversity.- Released: 1994
- Directed by: Frank Darabont
- Genres: Drama
- 2
Based On: The Green Mile (1996) by Stephen King
Paul Edgecomb (Tom Hanks) walked the mile with a variety of cons. He had never encountered someone like John Coffey (Michael Clarke Duncan), a massive black man convicted of brutally killing a pair of young sisters. Coffey had the size and strength to kill anyone, but not the demeanor. Beyond his simple, naive nature and a deathly fear of the dark, Coffey seemed to possess a prodigious, supernatural gift. Paul began to question whether Coffey was truly guilty of murdering the two girls.- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Frank Darabont
- Genres: Drama, Fantasy
- 3
Based On: The Silence of the Lambs (1988) by Thomas Harris
Jodie Foster stars as Clarice Starling, a top student at the FBI's training academy. Jack Crawford (Scott Glenn) wants Clarice to interview Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), a brilliant psychiatrist who is also a violent psychopath, serving life behind bars for various acts of murder and cannibalism. Crawford believes that Lecter may have insight into a case and that Starling, as an attractive young woman, may be just the bait to draw him out.- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Jonathan Demme
- Genres: Thriller, Drama
- 4
Based On: The Fellowship of the Ring (1954) by J. R. R. Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings is a film series consisting of three epic fantasy adventure films directed by Peter Jackson. They are based on the novel The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien. The films are subtitled The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers and The Return of the King. They were distributed by New Line Cinema. Considered to be one of the biggest and most ambitious film projects ever undertaken, with an overall budget of $281 million, the entire project took eight years, with the filming for all three films done simultaneously and entirely in New Zealand, Jackson's native country. Each film in the series also had special extended editions released on DVD a year after their respective theatrical releases. While the films follow the book's general storyline, they do omit some of the novel's plot elements and include some additions to and deviations from the source material. Set in the fictional world of Middle-earth, the films follow the hobbit Frodo Baggins as he and a Fellowship embark on a quest to destroy the One Ring, and thus ensure the destruction of its maker, the Dark Lord Sauron.- Released: 2001 - 2003
- Directed by: Peter Jackson
- 5
Based On: Schindler's Ark (1982) by Thomas Keneally
Businessman Oskar Schindler (Liam Neeson) arrives in Krakow in 1939, ready to make his fortune from World War II, which has just started. After joining the Nazi party primarily for political expediency, he staffs his factory with Jewish workers for similarly pragmatic reasons. When the SS begins exterminating Jews in the Krakow ghetto, Schindler arranges to have his workers protected to keep his factory in operation, but soon realizes that in so doing, he is also saving innocent lives.- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- Genres: Drama
- 6
Based On: The Body (1982) by Stephen King
After learning that a stranger has been accidentally killed near their rural homes, four Oregon boys decide to go see the body. On the way, Gordie Lachance (Wil Wheaton), Vern Tessio (Jerry O'Connell), Chris Chambers (River Phoenix) and Teddy Duchamp (Corey Feldman) encounter a mean junk man and a marsh full of leeches, as they also learn more about one another and their very different home lives. Just a lark at first, the boys' adventure evolves into a defining event in their lives.- Released: 1986
- Directed by: Rob Reiner
- Genres: Drama
- 7
Based On: Jurassic Park (1990) by Michael Crichton
In Steven Spielberg's massive blockbuster, paleontologists Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) and mathematician Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) are among a select group chosen to tour an island theme park populated by dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA. While the park's mastermind, billionaire John Hammond (Richard Attenborough), assures everyone that the facility is safe, they find out otherwise when various ferocious predators break free and go on the hunt.- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- Genres: Adventure, Action, Science Fiction, Thriller
- 8
Based On: The Godfather (1969) by Mario Puzo
Widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time, this mob drama, based on Mario Puzo's novel of the same name, focuses on the powerful Italian-American crime family of Don Vito Corleone (Marlon Brando). When the don's youngest son, Michael (Al Pacino), reluctantly joins the Mafia, he becomes involved in the inevitable cycle of violence and betrayal. Although Michael tries to maintain a normal relationship with his wife, Kay (Diane Keaton), he is drawn deeper into the family business.- Released: 1972
- Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
- Genres: Drama
- 1Marlon Brando11 Votes
- 2Robert Duvall15 Votes
- 3Al Pacino18 Votes
- 4James Caan28 Votes
- 9
Based On: To Kill a Mockingbird (1960) by Harper Lee
Set in the throes of the Great Depression, To Kill a Mockingbird unfolds in a sleepy Southern town where racial tension simmers beneath the surface. Scout Finch (Mary Badham) and her older brother Jem (Phillip Alford) navigate their childhood under the watchful eyes of their father, Atticus Finch (Gregory Peck). Peck's portrayal earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. This film adaptation of Harper Lee's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel delves into themes of racism, morality, and innocence lost. The story climaxes when Atticus, a principled lawyer, defends Tom Robinson (Brock Peters), a black man unjustly accused of rape, inciting a flurry of societal backlash.- Released: 1962
- Directed by: Robert Mulligan
- Genres: Drama
- 10
Based On: The Princess Bride (1973) by William Goldman
A fairy tale adventure about a beautiful young woman and her one true love. He must find her after a long separation and save her. They must battle the evils of the mythical kingdom of Florin to be reunited with each other. Based on the William Goldman novel "The Princess Bride" which earned its own loyal audience.- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Rob Reiner
- Genres: Kids, Adventure, Comedy
- 11
Based On: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz (1900) by L. Frank Baum
When a tornado rips through Kansas, Dorothy (Judy Garland) and her dog, Toto, are whisked away in their house to the magical land of Oz. They follow the Yellow Brick Road toward the Emerald City to meet the Wizard, and en route they meet a Scarecrow (Ray Bolger) that needs a brain, a Tin Man (Jack Haley) missing a heart, and a Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr) who wants courage. The wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West (Margaret Hamilton) to earn his help.- Released: 1939
- Directed by: Victor Fleming
- Genres: Fantasy, Music
- 12
Based On: One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest (1962) by Ken Kesey
When Randle Patrick McMurphy (Jack Nicholson) gets transferred for evaluation from a prison farm to a mental institution, he assumes it will be a less restrictive environment. But the martinet Nurse Ratched (Louise Fletcher) runs the psychiatric ward with an iron fist, keeping her patients cowed through abuse, medication and sessions of electroconvulsive therapy. The battle of wills between the rebellious McMurphy and the inflexible Ratched soon affects all the ward's patients.- Released: 1975
- Directed by: Milos Forman
- Genres: Drama
- 13
Based On: Marry Poppins (1934) by P.L. Travers
When Jane (Karen Dotrice) and Michael (Matthew Garber), the children of the wealthy and uptight Banks family, are faced with the prospect of a new nanny, they are pleasantly surprised by the arrival of the magical Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews). Embarking on a series of fantastical adventures with Mary and her Cockney performer friend, Bert (Dick Van Dyke), the siblings try to pass on some of their nanny's sunny attitude to their preoccupied parents (David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns).- Released: 1964
- Directed by: Robert Stevenson
- Genres: Kids, Music, Animation
- 1Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious171 Votes
- 2Chim Chim Cheree133 Votes
- 3A Spoonful of Sugar146 Votes
- 4Let's Go Fly a Kite114 Votes
- 14
Based On: Harry Potter (1997-2007) by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter is a British-American film series based on the Harry Potter novels by author J. K. Rowling. The series is distributed by Warner Bros. and consists of eight fantasy films. A spin-off prequel series will consist of five films, starting with Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (2016). The Fantastic Beasts films mark the beginning of a media franchise known as J. K. Rowling's Wizarding World.- Released: 2001 - 2011
- Directed by: Chris Columbus, Alfonso Cuarón, Mike Newell, David Yates
- 15
Based On: Shrek! (1990) by William Steig
Shrek, a DreamWorks Animation production, is an engaging blend of comedy and fairy tale adventure. The story centers around Shrek (Mike Myers), a grumpy yet endearing ogre, who finds his solitary swamp life disrupted by numerous fairytale creatures banished by the villainous Lord Farquaad (John Lithgow). To reclaim his home, Shrek embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona (Cameron Diaz) for Farquaad, accompanied by a remarkably chatty Donkey (Eddie Murphy). This Academy Award-winning film cleverly subverts traditional fairy tale tropes while offering viewers a humorous, heartwarming narrative about friendship and acceptance.- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Andrew Adamson, Vicky Jenson
- Genres: Animation, Kids, Comedy, Fantasy
- 1Donkey308 Votes
- 2Puss in Boots315 Votes
- 3Shrek265 Votes
- 4Gingerbread Man129 Votes
- 16
Based On: Jaws (1974) by Peter Benchley
When a young woman is killed by a shark while skinny-dipping near the New England tourist town of Amity Island, police chief Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) wants to close the beaches, but mayor Larry Vaughn (Murray Hamilton) overrules him, fearing that the loss of tourist revenue will cripple the town. Ichthyologist Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) and grizzled ship captain Quint (Robert Shaw) offer to help Brody capture the killer beast, and the trio engage in an epic battle of man vs. nature.- Released: 1975
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- Genres: Thriller, Horror, Adventure, Mystery
- 17
Based On: Forrest Gump (1986) by Winston Groom
Slow-witted Forrest Gump (Tom Hanks) has never thought of himself as disadvantaged, and thanks to his supportive mother (Sally Field), he leads anything but a restricted life. Whether dominating on the gridiron as a college football star, fighting in Vietnam or captaining a shrimp boat, Forrest inspires people with his childlike optimism. But one person Forrest cares about most may be the most difficult to save -- his childhood love, the sweet but troubled Jenny (Robin Wright).- Released: 1994
- Directed by: Robert Zemeckis
- Genres: Drama
- 18
Based On: Misery (1987) by Stephen King
After a serious car crash, novelist Paul Sheldon (James Caan) is rescued by former nurse Annie Wilkes (Kathy Bates), who claims to be his biggest fan. Annie brings him to her remote cabin to recover, where her obsession takes a dark turn when she discovers Sheldon is killing off her favorite character from his novels. As Sheldon devises plans for escape, Annie grows increasingly controlling, even violent, as she forces the author to shape his writing to suit her twisted fantasies.- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Rob Reiner
- Genres: Horror, Thriller
- 19
Based On: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (1964) by Roald Dahl
The last of five coveted "golden tickets" falls into the hands of a sweet but very poor boy. He and his grandpa then get a tour of the strangest chocolate factory in the world. The owner leads five young winners on a thrilling and often dangerous tour of his factory.- Released: 1971
- Directed by: Mel Stuart
- Genres: Kids, Fantasy, Comedy, Music
- 20
Based On: Psycho (1959) by Robert Bloch
In the chilling classic Psycho, Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) absconds with stolen cash, seeking solace at the remote Bates Motel. The proprietor, Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins), is a peculiar young man dominated by his puritanical mother. Marion's disappearance triggers an investigation led by her sister, Lila (Vera Miles), and boyfriend, Sam Loomis (John Gavin). Directed masterfully by Alfred Hitchcock, this iconic horror-thriller won several awards, including an Academy Award nomination for Leigh's performance. Psycho's suspense-filled plot twists and haunting score have left an indelible mark on cinematic history.- Released: 1960
- Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock
- Genres: Horror, Thriller
- 21
Based On: Wiseguy: Life in a Mafia Family (1986) by Nicholas Pileggi
Goodfellas, an iconic mobster film directed by Martin Scorsese, is a gritty exploration of life within the Mafia. It's based on the true story of Henry Hill (Ray Liotta), a small-time gangster climbing the ranks of organized crime. Joining him in this perilous journey are his partners, volatile Tommy DeVito (Joe Pesci) and cool-headed Jimmy Conway (Robert De Niro). The movie masterfully exposes the allure and harsh realities of mob life, earning six Academy Award nominations. This includes Joe Pesci's win for Best Supporting Actor, marking a significant achievement in cinematic history. Goodfellas is a quintessential crime drama that delves into the intricate dynamics of loyalty, betrayal, and power.- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Martin Scorsese
- Genres: Drama
- 22
Based On: Nothing Lasts Forever (1979) by Roderick Thorpe
Die Hard, a classic action-thriller, revolves around New York cop John McClane (Bruce Willis). He's just trying to reconcile with his estranged wife, Holly (Bonnie Bedelia), at her company's Christmas Eve party. But things spiral out of control when German terrorist Hans Gruber (Alan Rickman) and his henchmen take over the high-rise building. Armed only with his wits and determination, McClane must face down the deadly adversaries, save the hostages, including his wife, and thwart Gruber's grandiose heist plan. A high-stakes game of cat and mouse ensues creating an unforgettable cinematic experience resulting in four Academy Award nominations.- Released: 1988
- Directed by: John McTiernan
- Genres: Action, Thriller
- 23
Based On: Gone with the Wind (1936) by Margaret Mitchell
Presented as originally released in 1939. Includes themes and character depictions which may be offensive and problematic to contemporary audiences. Epic Civil War drama focuses on the life of petulant Southern belle Scarlett O'Hara. Starting with her idyllic life on a sprawling plantation, the film traces her survival through the tragic history of the South during the Civil War and Reconstruction, and her tangled love affairs with Ashley Wilkes and Rhett Butler.- Released: 1939
- Directed by: Victor Fleming
- Genres: Romance, Drama
- 24
Based On: Fight Club (1996) by Chuck Palahniuk
A depressed man (Edward Norton) suffering from insomnia meets a strange soap salesman named Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt) and soon finds himself living in his squalid house after his perfect apartment is destroyed. The two bored men form an underground club with strict rules and fight other men who are fed up with their mundane lives. Their perfect partnership frays when Marla (Helena Bonham Carter), a fellow support group crasher, attracts Tyler's attention.- Released: 1999
- Directed by: David Fincher
- Genres: Thriller, Drama
- 25
Based On: Jumanji (1981) by Chris Van Allsburg
In the heart-thumping adventure film Jumanji, a seemingly harmless board game transforms into a wild jungle escapade. The movie follows young Alan Parrish (Robin Williams), who becomes trapped inside the game for 26 years until siblings Judy (Kirsten Dunst) and Peter (Bradley Pierce) unwittingly release him. Together, they must finish the game to revert its chaotic effects on their town. This fantastical tale, brimming with dangerous beasts and tropical mayhem, intertwines themes of courage, friendship, and redemption. A family-friendly spectacle, Jumanji cleverly blurs lines between reality and fantasy.- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Joe Johnston
- Genres: Kids, Fantasy, Adventure
- 26
Based On: How the Grinch Stole Christmas! (1959) by Dr. Seuss
A curmudgeon tries to end merrymaking.- Released: 1966
- Directed by: Chuck Jones, Ben Washam
- Genres: Animation, Short Film, Christmas movie
- 27
Based On: The Godfather (1969) by Mario Puzo
The compelling sequel to "The Godfather," contrasting the life of Corleone father and son. Traces the problems of Michael Corleone (Al Pacino) in 1958 and that of a young immigrant Vito Corleone (Robert De Niro) in 1917's Hell's Kitchen. Michael survives many misfortunes and Vito is introduced to a life of crime.- Released: 1974
- Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
- Genres: Drama
- 28
Based On: Catch Me if You Can (1980) by Frank Abagnale
Frank Abagnale, Jr. (Leonardo DiCaprio) worked as a doctor, a lawyer, and as a co-pilot for a major airline -- all before his 18th birthday. A master of deception, he was also a brilliant forger, whose skill gave him his first real claim to fame: At the age of 17, Frank Abagnale, Jr. became the most successful bank robber in the history of the U.S. FBI Agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks) makes it his prime mission to capture Frank and bring him to justice, but Frank is always one step ahead of him.- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- Genres: Drama, Drama
- 29
Based On: The Shining (1977) by Stephen King
Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) becomes winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel in Colorado, hoping to cure his writer's block. He settles in along with his wife, Wendy (Shelley Duvall), and his son, Danny (Danny Lloyd), who is plagued by psychic premonitions. As Jack's writing goes nowhere and Danny's visions become more disturbing, Jack discovers the hotel's dark secrets and begins to unravel into a homicidal maniac hell-bent on terrorizing his family.- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
- Genres: Horror, Thriller
- 30
Based On: Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe (1987) by Fannie Flagg
On one of trapped housewife Evelyn Couch's (Kathy Bates) Wednesday nursing home visits, she encounters Ninny Threadgoode (Jessica Tandy), a colorful old woman who brightens Evelyn's outlook by sharing tales from her past. As Ninny recounts the exploits of her free-spirited sister-in-law Idgie (Mary Stuart Masterson), owner of a small Alabama café in the 1920s, and the bond Idgie shared with her friend Ruth (Mary-Louise Parker), Evelyn gains the confidence to change her own life for the better.- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Jon Avnet
- Genres: Drama
- 31
Based On: Snow White (1812) by The Brothers Grimm
The Grimm fairy tale gets a Technicolor treatment in Disney's first animated feature. Jealous of Snow White's beauty, the wicked queen orders the murder of her innocent stepdaughter, but later discovers that Snow White is still alive and hiding in a cottage with seven friendly little miners. Disguising herself as a hag, the queen brings a poisoned apple to Snow White, who falls into a death-like sleep that can be broken only by a kiss from the prince.- Released: 1937
- Directed by: David Hand
- Genres: Animation, Kids, Fantasy
- 32
Based On: One Thousand and One Nights AKA Arabian Nights (c. 1706-1721)
When street rat Aladdin frees a genie from a lamp, he finds his wishes granted. However, he soon finds that the evil has other plans for the lamp -- and for Princess Jasmine. But can Aladdin save Princess Jasmine and his love for her after she sees that he isn't quite what he appears to be?- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Ron Clements, John Musker
- Genres: Animation, Kids, Comedy, Adventure, Fantasy
- 33
Based On: The Exorcist (1971) by William Peter Blatty
In the heart-stopping horror classic The Exorcist, Regan MacNeil (Linda Blair), a young girl, becomes inexplicably ill. After all medical explanations are exhausted, her mother Chris (Ellen Burstyn) seeks help from two priests. Father Karras (Jason Miller), a troubled cleric wrestling with his faith, and veteran exorcist Father Merrin (Max von Sydow) step in to confront an evil beyond their understanding. The film, directed by William Friedkin, is recognized for its chilling portrayal of possession and exorcism. It won two Academy Awards and remains one of the most influential horror films to this day.- Released: 1973
- Directed by: William Friedkin
- Genres: Horror
- 34
Based On: Who Censored Roger Rabbit? (1981) by Gary K. Wolf
Down-on-his-luck private eye Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins) gets hired by cartoon producer R.K. Maroon (Alan Tilvern) to investigate an adultery scandal involving Jessica Rabbit (Kathleen Turner), the sultry wife of Maroon's biggest star, Roger Rabbit (Charles Fleischer). But when Marvin Acme (Stubby Kaye), Jessica's alleged paramour and the owner of Toontown, is found murdered, the villainous Judge Doom (Christopher Lloyd) vows to catch and destroy Roger.- Released: 1988
- Directed by: Robert Zemeckis
- Genres: Comedy, Animation
- 35
Based On: The Neverending Story (1979) by Michael Ende
On his way to school, Bastian (Barret Oliver) ducks into a bookstore to avoid bullies. Sneaking away with a book called "The Neverending Story," Bastian begins reading it in the school attic. The novel is about Fantasia, a fantasy land threatened by "The Nothing," a darkness that destroys everything it touches. The kingdom needs the help of a human child to survive. When Bastian reads a description of himself in the book, he begins to wonder if Fantasia is real and needs him to survive.- Released: 1984
- Directed by: Wolfgang Petersen
- Genres: Kids, Fantasy, Adventure
- 36
Based On: The Hunger Games (2008) by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games film series consists of four science fiction dystopian adventure films based on The Hunger Games trilogy of novels, by the American author Suzanne Collins. Distributed by Lionsgate and produced by Nina Jacobson and Jon Kilik, it stars Jennifer Lawrence as Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as Peeta Mellark, and Liam Hemsworth as Gale Hawthorne. Gary Ross directed the first film, while Francis Lawrence directed the next three films.- Released: 2012 - 2015
- Directed by: Gary Ross, Francis Lawrence
- 37
Based On: The Hunt for Red October (1984) by Tom Clancy
Based on the popular Tom Clancy novel, this suspenseful movie tracks Soviet submarine captain Marko Ramius (Sean Connery) as he abandons his orders and heads for the east coast of the United States. Equipped with innovative stealth technology, Ramius' submarine, "Red October," is virtually invisible. However, when an American sub briefly detects the Russians' presence, CIA agent Jack Ryan (Alec Baldwin) sets out to determine Ramius' motives, fearing he may launch an attack on the U.S.- Released: 1990
- Directed by: John McTiernan
- Genres: Thriller, Action, Adventure
- 38
Based On: Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? (1968) by Philip K. Dick
Deckard (Harrison Ford) is forced by the police Boss (M. Emmet Walsh) to continue his old job as Replicant Hunter. His assignment: eliminate four escaped Replicants from the colonies who have returned to Earth. Before starting the job, Deckard goes to the Tyrell Corporation and he meets Rachel (Sean Young), a Replicant girl he falls in love with.- Released: 1982
- Directed by: Ridley Scott
- Genres: Science Fiction, Thriller
- 39
Based On: Of Mice and Men (1937) by John Steinbeck
Itinerant worker George (Gary Sinise) reflects on the time he spent traveling with Lennie (John Malkovich), a huge childlike man. The two men drift through California during the Great Depression, looking for work. After they find jobs on a ranch, Lennie develops an infatuation with the owner's daughter-in-law (Sherilyn Fenn). However, when George and Lennie are handed an opportunity to own part of the ranch, Lennie's fascination with the beautiful woman threatens to destroy their dreams.- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Gary Sinise
- Genres: Drama
- 40
Based On: The Bourne Identity (1980) by Robert Ludlum
The story of a man (Matt Damon), salvaged, near death, from the ocean by an Italian fishing boat. When he recuperates, the man suffers from total amnesia, without identity or background... except for a range of extraordinary talents in fighting, linguistic skills and self-defense that speak of a dangerous past. He sets out on a desperate search-assisted by the initially rebellious Marie (Franka Potente) - to discover who he really is, and why he's being lethally pursued by assassins.- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Doug Liman
- Genres: Action, Thriller
- 41
Based On: The Short-Timers (1979) by Gustav Hasford
Stanley Kubrick's take on the Vietnam War follows smart-aleck Private Davis (Matthew Modine), quickly christened "Joker" by his foul-mouthed drill sergeant (R. Lee Ermey), and pudgy Private Lawrence (Vincent D'Onofrio), nicknamed "Gomer Pyle," as they endure the rigors of basic training. Though Pyle takes a frightening detour, Joker graduates to the Marine Corps and is sent to Vietnam as a journalist, covering -- and eventually participating in -- the bloody Battle of Hué.- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
- Genres: War & Politics, Drama
- 42
Based On: The Last of the Mohicans: A Narrative of 1757 (1826) by James Fenimore Cooper
In the stirring historical drama, The Last of the Mohicans, protagonist Hawkeye (Daniel Day-Lewis) navigates the perilous landscape of 1757 colonial America. Amidst the chaos of the French and Indian War, he embarks on a mission to rescue two daughters of a British colonel. The film intricately weaves an entrancing tale of love, honor, and survival against a backdrop of all-consuming war. Directed by Michael Mann, it received an Academy Award for Best Sound. Its poignant narrative and striking cinematography make it a cinematic masterpiece that immerses viewers in a tumultuous era long past.- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Michael Mann
- Genres: Drama, Adventure, War & Politics, Romance
- 43
Based On: Dracula (1897) by Bram Stoker
Bram Stoker's Dracula is a chilling journey into the heart of darkness, masterfully directed by Francis Ford Coppola. The tale unfolds with Count Dracula (Gary Oldman), an ageless vampire haunted by a tragic love story. He leaves his castle in Transylvania and ventures to Victorian England, lured by a photograph of Mina Murray (Winona Ryder), who bears an uncanny resemblance to his long-lost beloved. In this grim world, Professor Abraham Van Helsing (Anthony Hopkins) emerges as a beacon of light. A scholar with profound knowledge about vampires, he becomes the chief adversary to the Count's unholy plans. The movie cascades through a series of hauntingly beautiful scenes that paint a vivid picture of love, loss, and horror. Winner of three Academy Awards, this Gothic horror film reinterprets Bram Stoker's classic novel, offering viewers an intricate tapestry of passion and terror. It stands as a testament to Coppola's cinematic genius and the enduring allure of the Dracula legend.- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Francis Ford Coppola
- Genres: Horror
- 44
Based On: Pride and Prejudice (1813) by Jane Austen
In this adaptation of Jane Austen's beloved novel, Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) lives with her mother, father and sisters in the English countryside. As the eldest, she faces mounting pressure from her parents to marry. When the outspoken Elizabeth is introduced to the handsome and upper-class Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen), sparks fly. Although there is obvious chemistry between the two, Darcy's overly reserved nature threatens the fledgling relationship.- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Joe Wright
- Genres: Drama, Romance
- 45
Based On: No Country for Old Men (2005) by Cormac McCarthy
While out hunting, Llewelyn Moss (Josh Brolin) finds the grisly aftermath of a drug deal. Though he knows better, he cannot resist the cash left behind and takes it with him. The hunter becomes the hunted when a merciless killer named Chigurh (Javier Bardem) picks up his trail. Also looking for Moss is Sheriff Bell (Tommy Lee Jones), an aging lawman who reflects on a changing world and a dark secret of his own, as he tries to find and protect Moss.- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen
- Genres: Drama, Thriller
- 1Javier Bardem21 Votes
- 2Josh Brolin18 Votes
- 3Tommy Lee Jones12 Votes
- 4Kelly Macdonald16 Votes
- 46
Based On: The Bridge over the River Kwai (1952) by Pierre Boulle
Set against the backdrop of World War II, The Bridge on the River Kwai is an epic war film. It narrates the tale of British POWs, commanded by Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness), who are forced by their Japanese captors to construct a strategic railway bridge. Under extreme conditions, they must grapple with questions of duty and honor. The film's climax unfolds around an American commando mission led by Major Shears (William Holden) to destroy the bridge. Noteworthy for its memorable performances and gripping narrative, the film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.- Released: 1957
- Directed by: David Lean
- Genres: War & Politics, Drama
- 47
Based On: Dances with Wolves (1988) by Michael Blake
A Civil War soldier develops a relationship with a band of Lakota Indians. Attracted by the simplicity of their lifestyle, he chooses to leave his former life behind to be with them. Having observed him, they give the name Dances With Wolves. Soon he is a welcomed member of the tribe and falls in love with a white woman who has been raised in the tribe. Tragedy results when Union soldiers arrive with designs on the land.- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Kevin Costner
- Genres: Drama
- 48
Based On: The Untouchables (1957) by Oscar Fraley, as told by Eliot Ness
After building an empire with bootleg alcohol, legendary crime boss Al Capone (Robert De Niro) rules Chicago with an iron fist. Though Prohibition agent Eliot Ness (Kevin Costner) attempts to take Capone down, even his best efforts fail due to widespread corruption within the Windy City's police force. Recruiting an elite group of lawmen who won't be swayed by bribes or fear, including Irish-American cop Jimmy Malone (Sean Connery), Ness renews his determination to bring Capone to justice.- Released: 1987
- Directed by: Brian De Palma
- Genres: Drama
- 49
Based On: The Grapes of Wrath (1939) by John Steinbeck
The Joad clan, introduced to the world in John Steinbeck's iconic novel, is looking for a better life in California. After their drought-ridden farm is seized by the bank, the family -- led by just-paroled son Tom (Henry Fonda) -- loads up a truck and heads West. On the road, beset by hardships, the Joads meet dozens of other families making the same trek and holding onto the same dream. Once in California, however, the Joads soon realize that the promised land isn't quite what they hoped.- Released: 1940
- Directed by: John Ford
- Genres: Drama
- 50
Based On: The Color Purple (1982) by Alice Walker
The Color Purple is a period drama, steeped in the southern atmosphere of rural Georgia. It follows the life of Celie (Whoopi Goldberg), a young African-American woman, from her childhood to adulthood. Born into poverty and subjected to severe abuse, Celie's journey is one of resilience and survival. The film is directed by Steven Spielberg and features an exceptional cast including Danny Glover and Oprah Winfrey. This poignant narrative swept the 1986 Academy Awards with eleven nominations, testifying to its cinematic brilliance. Its vivid portrayal of racial and gender issues remains relevant even today.- Released: 1985
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- Genres: Drama
- 51
Based On: The Count of Monte Cristo (1844) by Alexandre Dumas
Edmond Dantes becomes the target of a sinister plot and is arrested on his wedding day for a crime he did not commit. After 14 years in the island prison of Château d'If, he manages a daring escape. Now rich beyond his dreams, he assumes the identity of the Count of Monte-Cristo and exacts his revenge on the three men who betrayed him.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Matthieu Delaporte, Alexandre de La Patellière
- Genres: Adventure, Drama
- 52
Based On: Small Things Like These (2021) by Claire Keegan
In 1985 coal merchant Bill Furlong uncovers disturbing secrets in a small Irish town that's controlled by the Roman Catholic Church.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Tim Mielants
- Genres: Drama
- 53
Based On: Salem’s Lot (1975) by Stephen Kin
A writer returns to his hometown and discovers that the residents are being turned into vampires.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Gary Dauberman
- Genres: Horror, Thriller
- 54
Based On: Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West (1995) by Gregory Maguire
Misunderstood because of her green skin, a young woman named Elphaba forges an unlikely but profound friendship with Glinda, a student with an unflinching desire for popularity. Following an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, their relationship soon reaches a crossroad as their lives begin to take very different paths.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Jon M. Chu
- Genres: Music, Fantasy, Adventure
- 55
Based On: The Wild Robot (2016) by Peter Brown
Shipwrecked on a deserted island, a robot named Roz must learn to adapt to its new surroundings. Building relationships with the native animals, Roz soon develops a parental bond with an orphaned gosling.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Christopher Sanders
- Genres: Animation, Kids, Adventure
- 1Pedro Pascal As Fink34 Votes
- 2Lupita Nyong'o As Roz20 Votes
- 3Catherine O'Hara As Pinktail17 Votes
- 4Matt Berry As Paddler16 Votes
- 56
Based On: Uglies (2005) by Scott Westerfeld
In a futuristic dystopia with enforced beauty standards, a teen awaiting mandatory cosmetic surgery embarks on a journey to find her missing friend.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: McG
- Genres: Science Fiction, Adventure
- 1Kevin Miles As Auryn12 Votes
- 2Brianne Tju As Shay22 Votes
- 3Laverne Cox As Dr. Cable17 Votes
- 4Joey King As Tally Youngblood15 Votes
- 57
Based On: Conclave (2016) by Robert Harris
Cardinal Lawrence has one of the world's most secretive and ancient events, participating in the selection of a new pope. Surrounded by powerful religious leaders in the halls of the Vatican, he soon uncovers a trail of deep secrets that could shake the very foundation of the Roman Catholic Church.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Edward Berger
- Genres: Thriller, Drama
- 58
Based On: The Outrun (2015) by Amy Liptrot
After a turbulent life in London, Rona returns to her childhood home in Scotland's Orkney Islands. Amid wild, rugged beauty, she confronts her troubled past and seeks healing.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Nora Fingscheidt
- Genres: Drama
- 59A writer (Benedict Cumberbatch) documents the life of a homeless alcoholic (Tom Hardy) who has a violent past.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: David Attwood
- Genres: Drama
- 60
Based On: What Are You Going Through (2020) by Sigrid Nunez
Ingrid and Martha became close friends while working together at the same magazine. After years of being out of touch, they meet again in an extreme but strangely sweet situation.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Pedro Almodóvar
- Genres: Drama
- 61New York City writer Iris finds her comfortable, solitary life thrown into disarray after her closest friend and mentor bequeaths her a Great Dane named Apollo. The huge dog immediately creates practical problems for Iris, from furniture destruction to eviction notices, as well as more existential ones. Yet as Iris finds herself unexpectedly bonding with Apollo, she begins to come to terms with her past, and her own creative inner life.
- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Scott McGehee, David Siegel
- Genres: Drama
- 62
Based On: Foregone (2021) by Russell Banks
Choosing to reveal the truth and lies of his life and career, an ailing filmmaker sits down for an extended, candid interview with a former student.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Paul Schrader
- Genres: Drama
- 63
Based On: The Thicket (2013) by Joe R. Lansdal
When a bounty hunter and a band of unlikely heroes pursue a brutal killer, they find themselves in a deadly no-man's-land known as the Thicket.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Elliott Lester
- 64
Based On: Apocalypse Z: The Beginning of the End (2012) by Manel Loureiro
A strange disease has spread across the planet, turning people into violent creatures. Manel, who lives in isolation after the death of his wife, will have to manage to survive in this apocalyptic scenario with his cat.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Carles Torrens
- Genres: Drama, Horror
- 65
Based On: Queer (1985) by William S. Burroughs
Lee, a solitary American in Mexico City, falls for a beautiful, elusive former soldier. Journeying together into the jungle, Lee sees, for the first time, the possibility of an intimate and infinite love.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Luca Guadagnino
- Genres: Romance, Drama
- 66
Based On: The Supremes at Earl's All-You-Can-Eat (2013) by Edward Kelsey Moore
Lifelong best friends Odette, Clarice and Barbara Jean share an unbreakable bond from decades of weathering life's storms. Through new shades of heartbreak, the trio are put to test as they face challenging times.- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Tina Mabry
- Genres: Drama
- 67
Based On: Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1886) by Robert Louis Stevenson
Dr. Nina Jekyll makes a fortune in the pharmaceutical industry and becomes a household name, but her success comes at a cost. A scandal forces her out of the spotlight and into seclusion. In need of an assistant, Jekyll hires Rob - an ex-con straight out of rehab, trying to get back on his feet. It soon becomes clear that there are evil forces at play, and Rob's wits are tested in a game of cat-and-mouse with a manipulative entity.- Released: 2023
- Directed by: Joe Stephenson
- Genres: Drama, Horror, Mystery
