From Guy Richie (The Gentleman) gangster films to Hugh Grant (Two Weeks Notice) rom-coms, London is a backdrop for a wide range of fantastic films. Dig into this list of London-based treasures spanning the 1960s to modern cinema.
Mary Poppins (1964)
Mary Poppins (1964) is a musical fantasy about the arrival of a magical nanny, Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews), at the Banks household. The film is set in Edwardian London. Using her unique abilities, charm, and a touch of whimsy, Poppins brings joy and adventure into the lives of the Banks children while teaching the family important lessons about love and understanding.
A Clockwork Orange (1971)
A Clockwork Orange (1971) is a dystopian crime film directed by Stanley Kubrick (The Shining), which delves into the life of Alex DeLarge (Malcolm McDowell). DeLarge is a young delinquent immersed in a world of ultra-violence and Beethoven. After being arrested, Alex undergoes a controversial rehabilitation technique by the government, leading to a profound exploration of free will, societal control, and the nature of evil.
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)
Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998) is a British crime comedy directed by Guy Ritchie (Snatch). When four friends find themselves deep in debt to a local crime lord after a high-stakes card game goes awry, things get chaotic. The group hatches a plan to repay the debt, their lives intertwine with drug dealers, thieves, and a pair of antique shotguns, leading to a chaotic and comedic web of events.
Notting Hill (1999)
Notting Hill (1999) follows a famous film star named Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) and a London bookstore owner named William Thacker (Hugh Grant). The two met while Scott is filming in London and formed an unlikely friendship and romantic bond. With many obstacles in the way, including Scott’s boyfriend, the two must decide if a relationship is possible.
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001)
Bridget Jones’s Diary (2001) follows the life of a single woman in 1990’s London. Bridget Jones (Renée Zellweger) works for a publishing company. After an unfortunate fling with her boss, Daniel Cleaver (Hugh Grant), Jones quits and begins with a morning television program. This quirky rom-com celebrates being loved just the way you are. It’s based on a novel of the same name by Helen Fielding and is loosely based on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The film even has a love interest named Mark Darcy (Colin Firth).
28 Days Later (2002)
28 Days Later (2002) is a post-apocalyptic horror film directed by Danny Boyle (127 Hours). The apocalypse is initiated when a highly contagious virus is unleashed, turning most of the population of Britain into aggressive and bloodthirsty zombies. Jim (Cillian Murphy), a survivor who awakens from a coma in London 28 days after the outbreak, bands together with other survivors in a harrowing quest for safety amidst the desolation.
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Bend It Like Beckham (2002) follows teenaged Jess (Parminder Nagra), a soccer lover from a traditional Indian family. As her older sister gets ready for marriage, Jess joins an all-girls soccer team in London with her new friend Jules (Keira Knightley). The two get into trouble when they fall for the same guy, their coach (Jonathan Rhys Meyers), and Jess’ family doesn’t approve of her playing. This is a tale of friendship, family ties, and a pure love of the game.
Love Actually (2003)
Love Actually (2003) features a star-studded cast, including Hugh Grant (Four Weddings and a Funeral), Alan Rickman (Die Hard), Emma Thompson (Sense and Sensibility), and Keira Knightley (Pirates of the Caribbean). The ensemble Christmas film follows multiple storylines during the London holidays. Tales of loss, healing, love, comedy, and an almost scandalous affair make this a great watch year-round despite the holiday theme.
V for Vendetta (2005)
In a totalitarian future version of London, a masked revolutionary known simply as ‘V’ (Hugo Weaving) plots to overthrow the oppressive government regime. He mentors a young woman named Evey Hammond (Natalie Portman) with extreme methods. He slowly draws her into his mission of rebellion and vengeance. The dystopian political thriller is based on the graphic novel by Alan Moore and David Lloyd.
Sherlock Holmes (2009)
Sherlock Holmes (2009) is an action-mystery film about the renowned detective Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downy Jr.) and his partner Dr. John Watson (Jude Law). In a reimagined Victorian London, the duo pits their wits against the nefarious Lord Blackwood (Mark Strong). Blackwood is a villain with a dark scheme that threatens all of England.
The 20 Best Romance Movies of All Time: Love Stories That Captivated Our Hearts
Ready for a dose of romance? Check out our ultimate list of the 20 most unforgettable love stories ever told! As a self-proclaimed cinema enthusiast, I’ve watched countless heart-melting movies, and trust me; these films will stir up all the emotions within you. Whether you’re an old romantic or new to the world of love, this collection caters to every romantic soul. So, grab your popcorn, tissues, and prepare to fall head over heels for these iconic films.
The 20 Best Comedy Movies of All Time: Laugh Your Way Through the Ultimate List
Looking for a good laugh? Look no further! Our list of the top 20 comedy movies is here to brighten your day and leave you in stitches. This list will have you doubled over with laughter, from hilarious characters to unforgettable punchlines. Don’t miss out on the comedic gold waiting to be discovered. Click and prepare for a joyride through the best of the best in the world of comedy films.
The 20 Best Music Movies of All Time: Lights, Camera, Rock’ n’ Roll!
Get ready to be swept away by the mesmerizing blend of storytelling and music in our selection of the top 20 music movies ever made. From jazz beats to timeless rock anthems, these films deliver a symphony for your senses. Prepare to be moved, entertained, and immersed in the captivating world of music. Popcorn in hand, volume turned up, let the journey begin!
