Best Movies About Leadership

From Frank Darabont, starring Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, Bob Gunton, William Sadler
Rated R

The Shawshank Redemption is a 1994 American drama film written and directed by Frank Darabont, and based on the 1982 Stephen King novella Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption. The film stars Tim Robbins as Andy Dufresne, a banker who is sentenced to life in Shawshank State Penitentiary for the murder of his wife and her lover, despite his claims of innocence. Over the course of the film, he befriends a fellow prisoner, Ellis "Red" Redding (Morgan Freeman), and finds himself protected by the guards after the warden begins using him in his money-laundering operation. The movie follows Andy's quest for freedom as he systematically breaks out of the prison and seeks revenge against those who have wronged him. Along the way, the film explores themes of justice, friendship, and hope, with a strong emphasis on the power of redemption.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Ben Kingsley, Caroline Goodall
Rated R

Schindler’s List is a 1993 American historical drama film directed and produced by Steven Spielberg and based on the book Schindler’s Ark by Thomas Keneally. The film, set during World War II, follows the story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of more than a thousand mostly Polish-Jewish refugees from the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. It stars Liam Neeson as Schindler, Ralph Fiennes as SS officer Amon Göth, and Ben Kingsley as Schindler’s Jewish accountant Itzhak Stern. The film was critically acclaimed, winning seven Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score. It also won numerous other awards and nominations, including three Golden Globe Awards, two BAFTA Awards, and a Grammy Award. It has become a classic of world cinema and is considered one of the greatest films ever made.

From Sidney Lumet, starring Henry Fonda, Lee J. Cobb, Martin Balsam, John Fiedler
Rated Approved

12 Angry Men is a courtroom drama set in 1950s New York City, directed by Sidney Lumet. The movie follows the deliberations of the jury in a murder trial, where a young man is accused of killing his father. Initially, the jury votes unanimously for a guilty verdict, but one juror (Henry Fonda) believes the defendant is not guilty and begins to sway the opinions of the other jurors. As the jurors debate, their individual prejudices and preconceptions are revealed, leading to a heated and passionate discussion about the evidence, the defendant's guilt, and their own moral judgments. Ultimately, the jurors come to a unanimous agreement of not guilty, proving that justice and fairness are possible.

From Christopher Nolan, starring Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Mackenzie Foy
Rated PG-13

Interstellar tells the story of a group of explorers who travel through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity. In the future, Earth is in the midst of an environmental crisis, making it uninhabitable. The team, led by Cooper (Matthew McConaughey), a former NASA pilot, and his daughter Murph (Mackenzie Foy), must travel far beyond the reaches of human space exploration. Along the way, they discover a mysterious and dangerous alien world, while their bond is tested by the vastness of space and time. With the fate of humanity in their hands, the crew must battle a powerful force in order to save the future of the human race.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Kirk Douglas, Ralph Meeker, Adolphe Menjou, George Macready
Rated Approved

Paths of Glory is a 1957 anti-war film directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on Humphrey Cobb’s 1935 novel of the same name. The film follows Colonel Dax (Kirk Douglas), a French commander, who is ordered by a general to lead his men on a suicidal mission to capture an impregnable German stronghold. After the mission fails, Dax must defend his men from court-martial and the prospect of a death sentence. Paths of Glory presents a powerful portrait of the tragedy and senselessness of war and its devastating effects on the men who fight it. The film explores the themes of heroism, courage, and the ability of the individual to challenge authority in the face of oppression.

From David Lean, starring Peter O'Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, Jack Hawkins
Rated Approved

Lawrence of Arabia is a 1962 British epic adventure drama directed by David Lean. It tells the story of T. E. Lawrence (Peter O'Toole), a British Army officer during World War I, who successfully united and led the disparate tribes of Arabia against their Ottoman rulers. The film follows Lawrence's journey as he embarks on his quest to aid the Arab people in their fight for independence and reclaim their lands. Through his efforts, he not only helps liberate them but also becomes a symbol of hope and freedom for the region. Along the way, Lawrence is faced with difficult choices, as well as personal and political challenges, as he navigates through a dangerous and unpredictable world. The film also stars Omar Sharif, Anthony Quinn, Jack Hawkins, and Claude Rains.

From David Lean, starring William Holden, Alec Guinness, Jack Hawkins, Sessue Hayakawa
Rated PG

The Bridge on the River Kwai tells the story of Colonel Nicholson (Alec Guinness), a British Army officer tasked to build a bridge for the Japanese in World War II Burma. The bridge is built as a symbol of British prestige, as Nicholson refuses to surrender to the enemy and insists that his men work on the bridge as a way of upholding their military pride. Along the way, Nicholson develops an unlikely friendship with a Japanese commander, Saito (Sessue Hayakawa). As the bridge nears completion, an Allied force led by Shears (William Holden) launch an attack to destroy it. In the ensuing chaos, Nicholson is forced to decide between his loyalty to the British cause and his newfound respect for the Japanese. Ultimately, Nicholson chooses not to destroy the bridge, sacrificing his own life in the process. The film is a riveting tale of sacrifice and honour, showcasing the best and worst of human nature.

From John G. Avildsen, starring Sylvester Stallone, Talia Shire, Burt Young, Carl Weathers
Rated PG

"Rocky" (1976) is an American sports drama film directed by John G. Avildsen. The film follows Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone), a small-time boxing contender from the slums of Philadelphia, who gets a once-in-a-lifetime chance to fight heavyweight champion Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers). Despite the odds, Rocky takes on the challenge and trains hard for the fight, with the help of his trainer Mickey (Burgess Meredith) and friend Adrian (Talia Shire). Through hard work and determination, Rocky learns the value of self-respect and eventually wins over the crowd and his self-respect. Along the way he finds love and friendship, as he works to make a name for himself in the boxing world.

From Rob Reiner, starring Wil Wheaton, River Phoenix, Corey Feldman, Jerry O'Connell
Rated R

Stand by Me is a classic coming-of-age film directed by Rob Reiner and based on the novella The Body by Stephen King. The film follows four teenage boys as they embark on a journey to find the body of a missing boy. Along the way, the boys bond over their shared experiences, face danger, and confront their own mortality. Through their adventures, each character learns something about themselves and about friendship. The story ultimately shows that friendship is a powerful force in life.

From Clint Eastwood, starring Clint Eastwood, Bee Vang, Christopher Carley, Ahney Her
Rated R

Gran Torino is a 2008 American drama film directed and produced by Clint Eastwood, who also starred in the film. The film follows Walt Kowalski, an elderly and recently widowed Korean War veteran living in a changing, predominantly Hmong-American neighborhood. Walt's values and beliefs are challenged when he must come to the aid of his Hmong neighbors when a gang attempts to intimidate them. As Walt develops a relationship with his neighbors, he begins to confront the realities of his past, ultimately leading him to an unexpected redemption.

From Ron Howard, starring Daniel Brühl, Chris Hemsworth, Olivia Wilde, Alexandra Maria Lara
Rated R

Rush is a biographical sports drama directed by Ron Howard and released in 2013. The film is based on the rivalry between two Formula One race car drivers, James Hunt and Niki Lauda, during the 1976 Formula One motor-racing season. The story follows the two drivers as they battle each other on the track and off, culminating in a dramatic climactic race in Japan. Along the way, their rivalry brings out the best in both men, pushing each other to their limits as they strive to become the best in the world. Along with intense racing action, Rush also examines the personal lives of the two drivers, showing how their rivalry affects their relationships with family and friends. The film stars Chris Hemsworth as Hunt and Daniel Brühl as Lauda, and features a supporting performance from Olivia Wilde as Suzy Miller, Hunt's wife.

From Tom Hooper, starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, Helena Bonham Carter, Derek Jacobi
Rated R

The King's Speech is a 2010 British historical drama film starring Colin Firth, Geoffrey Rush, and Helena Bonham Carter. The film follows the story of Prince Albert, later King George VI, and his struggle with a stutter as he takes the throne of England. With the help of his wife and an Australian speech therapist, he eventually overcomes his challenges to deliver a powerful and historic speech that rallies his people in the face of war. Along the way, he develops a deep friendship with his tutor, which helps him overcome his fears and insecurities. The King's Speech is a touching and inspiring story of resilience and determination, and ultimately triumph.

From Billy Wilder, starring William Holden, Don Taylor, Otto Preminger, Robert Strauss
Rated Not Rated

Stalag 17 is a 1953 American war comedy-drama film directed by Billy Wilder, based on two plays by Donald Bevan and Edmund Trzcinski. It is set in a German prisoner-of-war camp during World War II. The film stars William Holden, Don Taylor, Otto Preminger and Peter Graves. The story follows a group of American prisoners of war who suspect that there is a German spy among them. The film follows their attempts to ferret out the informant and escape from the camp. Along the way, the characters learn valuable lessons about loyalty and friendship. In the end, the spy is revealed and the prisoners are able to escape successfully.

From Franklin J. Schaffner, starring George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Stephen Young, Michael Strong
Rated GP

Patton is a 1970 American epic biographical war film about U.S. General George S. Patton during World War II. It stars George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Michael Bates and Karl Michael Vogler. The film tells the story of Patton's career in North Africa and Europe during the war, from his leadership of the U.S. II Corps in North Africa, through the invasion of Sicily and the Battle of the Bulge, and culminating in the fall of Nazi Germany. The film focuses on Patton's controversial career, particularly his role in the Battle of the Bulge, which resulted in a decisive Allied victory. The film also portrays Patton as a complex and intense man, who was often at odds with his superiors, his own staff and even his own soldiers. The film was a critical and commercial success, winning seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, as well as two Golden Globe Awards and numerous other awards.

From Boaz Yakin, starring Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Wood Harris, Ryan Hurst
Rated PG

Remember the Titans is a 2000 American biographical sports film directed by Boaz Yakin and produced by Jerry Bruckheimer. The movie stars Denzel Washington as Herman Boone, a high school football coach hired to lead a newly desegregated school's team. In 1971, Coach Boone and his team of African-American and white players must overcome their differences and work together to become a successful team. Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about life, respect, and the power of friendship. The film also stars Will Patton, Wood Harris, and Ryan Hurst. The film was a box office success and was nominated for numerous awards.

From Christopher Nolan, starring Fionn Whitehead, Barry Keoghan, Mark Rylance, Tom Hardy
Rated PG-13

Dunkirk is a 2017 war film directed, co-produced, and co-written by Christopher Nolan. The film tells the story of the British military evacuation of Allied soldiers from the beaches of Dunkirk, France during World War II. It follows three storylines that intertwine: the land evacuation from the beach, a sea evacuation by the British Navy, and an aerial defense mission by the Royal Air Force against the German Luftwaffe. The film stars Fionn Whitehead, Tom Glynn-Carney, Jack Lowden, Harry Styles, Aneurin Barnard, and One Direction's singer-songwriter, Harry Styles. The film received rave reviews from critics and audiences, and received eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director.

From Christophe Barratier, starring Gérard Jugnot, François Berléand, Jean-Baptiste Maunier, Kad Merad
Rated PG-13

The Chorus (Les Choristes in French) is a 2004 French drama film directed by Christophe Barratier. Set in 1949, the film tells the story of Clément Mathieu, an elderly ex-teacher who takes a job at a disciplinary boarding school for boys who have been labeled "troublemakers". Although Mathieu is initially met with resistance from the boys, he eventually wins them over with his kindness and creative teaching methods. He forms a choir, which unlocks the boys' hidden talents and brings joy and hope to their lives. The Chorus is based on the 1945 film La Cage aux Rossignols, and is a warm-hearted and uplifting tale of the power of music to transform lives.

From John Frankenheimer, starring Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas, Fredric March, Ava Gardner
Rated Approved

Seven Days in May is a 1964 political thriller directed by John Frankenheimer, starring Burt Lancaster, Kirk Douglas, and Fredric March. The film follows the story of US Army Air Force General James Mattoon Scott (Lancaster) and his discovery of a plot by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General James Mattoon Shannon (Douglas), to overthrow the US government. With the help of his loyal aide, Colonel Martin "Jiggs" Casey (March), General Scott must uncover the truth and prevent the coup from occurring in just seven days. Along the way, he must also confront his own inner demons, as well as a possible cover-up by the government. With a suspenseful story and great acting performances, Seven Days in May is an entertaining classic of the political thriller genre.

From Ron Howard, starring Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon, Gary Sinise
Rated PG

Apollo 13 is a 1995 American historical drama film directed by Ron Howard. The film follows the lives of astronauts Jim Lovell, Jack Swigert and Fred Haise on Apollo 13 during the aborted 1970 mission to the moon. After a malfunction causes their spacecraft to suffer a loss of oxygen and power, the astronauts must find a way to return to Earth before they run out of resources. With the help of mission control, they devise a daring plan to survive their ordeal, relying on their courage and resourcefulness. The film stars Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton, Gary Sinise, and Ed Harris as the astronauts, while Kathleen Quinlan, Mary Kate Schellhardt and Emily Ann Lloyd portray the wives of the astronauts at home. The film was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning two awards for Best Editing and Best Sound Effects.

From Directors: Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, Gerd Oswald, Bernhard Wicki, Darryl F. Zanuck, starring John Wayne, Robert Ryan, Richard Burton, Henry Fonda
Rated G

The Longest Day is a 1962 World War II epic film about the D-Day landings at Normandy on June 6, 1944. It follows on a large scale the actions of American, British, Canadian and Free French forces as they battle to establish a beachhead on the French coast. It is based on the 1959 book of the same name by Cornelius Ryan. The film was directed by Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, Gerd Oswald and Bernhard Wicki, and produced by Darryl F. Zanuck. It stars an all-star cast of actors, including John Wayne, Henry Fonda, Robert Mitchum, Richard Burton, Sean Connery, and Robert Ryan. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, Best Original Score and Best Cinematography. It is considered a classic of the war genre and is widely praised for its vivid depiction of the Normandy landings.

From Hannes Holm, starring Rolf Lassgård, Bahar Pars, Filip Berg, Ida Engvoll
Rated PG-13

"A Man Called Ove" is a 2015 Swedish comedy-drama film based on the Fredrik Backman novel of the same name. Directed by Hannes Holm, it stars Rolf Lassgård as Ove, an isolated widower who has given up on life until a new family moves in next door and a young girl befriends him. Together they help Ove find joy in life again. Throughout the film, the audience experiences Ove's story in flashbacks as he moves through his difficult life, including his past career and the death of his wife. The film is a heartwarming look at the power of friendship and how it can bring joy and purpose to an otherwise difficult life.

From Bennett Miller, starring Brad Pitt, Robin Wright, Jonah Hill, Philip Seymour Hoffman
Rated PG-13

Moneyball tells the story of Oakland A’s general manager Billy Beane (Brad Pitt), and his assistant Peter Brand (Jonah Hill). With limited resources, Beane must put together a competitive team with the help of Brand, who uses a unique sabermetric system to analyze and fit players to the team. Beane and Brand employ this system to assemble a team on a shoestring budget that goes on to have an impressive season, upsetting the conventional wisdom of the sports world and re-shaping the game of baseball. Along the way, Beane discovers the importance of teamwork and camaraderie in achieving success, ultimately making an unlikely run at a division title.

From Brian G. Hutton, starring Clint Eastwood, Telly Savalas, Don Rickles, Carroll O'Connor
Rated GP

Kelly's Heroes is a 1970 World War II-set movie directed by Brian G. Hutton. The film follows Army Sergeant Kelly (Clint Eastwood), who learns about a secret stash of Nazi gold hidden behind enemy lines. He devises a plan to take the gold from an occupied French village. To do so, he assembles a motley crew of soldiers from his own platoon, another platoon, and a tank unit—including Big Joe (Telly Savalas), Oddball (Donald Sutherland), Crapgame (Don Rickles), and Little Joe (Strother Martin). Together, the team engages in a daring and dangerous mission to steal Nazi gold, fight off enemy forces, and make it out alive. Along the way, they encounter fierce opposition and must battle their way through numerous obstacles. In the end, Kelly's Heroes is a classic story of greed, loyalty, and bravery.

From Ken Loach, starring Cillian Murphy, Pádraic Delaney, Liam Cunningham, Orla Fitzgerald
Rated Not Rated

The Wind that Shakes the Barley is a 2006 drama film directed by Ken Loach and set during the Irish War of Independence of 1920-21. The film tells the story of Damien O'Donovan, a young Irish medical student who joins the Irish Republican Army to fight for Irish independence from the British. Along the way, he battles the brutality of the Black and Tans and his own brother who has joined the British forces. The film follows Damien's struggle as he is forced to choose between his family, his conscience, and his love of his country, while ultimately exploring the consequences of the choices he makes.

From John Madden, starring Jessica Chastain, Mark Strong, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Michael Stuhlbarg
Rated R

Miss Sloane is a 2016 political thriller directed by John Madden and starring Jessica Chastain. Elizabeth Sloane (Chastain) is a powerful and ambitious Washington, D.C., lobbyist who is hired by a gun rights group to take part in a congressional hearing on gun control legislation. As she works on their case, she discovers a powerful, opposing force in the form of a rival lobbyist. Determined to win, Sloane will stop at nothing to outwit her opponents, even if it means sacrificing her own moral code. The film follows Sloane's journey as she outsmarts her opponents and navigates the political landscape in a thrilling and suspenseful story of power and manipulation.