Lights, camera, action! Welcome to the ultimate countdown of the top 20 drama movies ever made. These are the films that have made us laugh, cry, and question our very existence. They’ve kept us on the edge of our seats, gripped by compelling narratives and unforgettable performances. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, these are the movies that have left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape and in the hearts of audiences worldwide. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be transported into the world of high stakes, emotional rollercoasters, and powerful storytelling. Whether you’re a seasoned cinephile or a casual movie-goer, this list is sure to stir up memories, ignite debates, and maybe even introduce you to a few hidden gems. So, without further ado, let’s roll out the red carpet and reveal your all-time favorite drama movies!
The Godfather
“The Godfather” is a classic drama movie that takes us into the world of the fictional Corleone crime family, spanning the years 1945 to 1955. After surviving an assassination attempt, the family’s youngest son, Michael, steps up to seek revenge on the would-be killers, leading to a bloody campaign. Starring iconic actors like Marlon Brando, Al Pacino, and Diane Keaton, this film was released on March 14, 1972, and is considered one of the best drama movies of all time.
Cast: Marlon Brando (Don Vito Corleone) , Al Pacino (Michael Corleone) , James Caan (Sonny Corleone) , Robert Duvall (Tom Hagen) , Richard S. Castellano (Clemenza) , Diane Keaton (Kay Adams) , Talia Shire (Connie Corleone Rizzi) , Gianni Russo (Carlo Rizzi) , Sterling Hayden (Captain McCluskey) , John Marley (Jack Woltz) , Richard Conte (Barzini) , Al Lettieri (Sollozzo) , Abe Vigoda (Sal Tessio) , John Cazale (Fredo Corleone) , Rudy Bond (Cuneo) , Al Martino (Johnny Fontane) , Morgana King (Mama Corleone) , Lenny Montana (Luca Brasi) , John Martino (Paulie Gatto) , Salvatore Corsitto (Bonasera) , Richard Bright (Neri) , Alex Rocco (Moe Greene) , Tony Giorgio (Bruno Tattaglia) , Vito Scotti (Nazorine) , Tere Livrano (Theresa Hagen)
Directors: Francis Ford Coppola
Writers: Francis Ford Coppola, Mario Puzo
Tags: italy, loss of loved one, love at first sight, based on novel or book, europe, symbolism, patriarch, organized crime, mafia, lawyer, religion, revenge motive, crime family, sicilian mafia, religious hypocrisy, gun violence, rise to power, dead horse, gang violence, 1940s, 1950s, mafia war
The Shawshank Redemption
“The Shawshank Redemption” is a gripping drama released in 1994 that tells the story of Andy Dufresne, a banker wrongly convicted of a double murder. Set in the 1940s, the movie follows Andy’s journey as he adapts to life in Shawshank prison, using his accounting skills to gain favor with the corrupt warden. Throughout his time behind bars, Andy’s unwavering integrity and indomitable hope inspire his fellow inmates, particularly an older prisoner named Red. With a stellar cast including Tim Robbins, Morgan Freeman, and Bob Gunton, this film has earned its place among the 20 best voted drama movies of all time.
The Godfather Part II
“The Godfather Part II” is a highly acclaimed drama movie that takes us deeper into the gripping world of the Corleone crime family. Set in both Sicily and 1910s New York, we witness the rise of a young Vito Corleone. Fast forward to the 1950s, and we follow Michael Corleone’s ambitious attempts to expand the family business into Las Vegas, Hollywood, and Cuba. With an incredible cast including Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Diane Keaton, this 1974 masterpiece is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.
Schindler’s List
“Schindler’s List” is a powerful drama movie released on December 15, 1993. Starring Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, and Ralph Fiennes, it tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during World War II by employing them in his factory and protecting them from the Nazis. This emotionally gripping film sheds light on the incredible acts of heroism and compassion amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.
Cast: Liam Neeson (Oskar Schindler) , Ben Kingsley (Itzhak Stern) , Ralph Fiennes (Amon Goeth) , Caroline Goodall (Emilie Schindler) , Jonathan Sagall (Poldek Pfefferberg) , Embeth Davidtz (Helen Hirsch) , Malgorzata Gebel (Viktoria Klonowska) , Shmuel Levy (Wilek Chilowicz) , Mark Ivanir (Marcel Goldberg) , Béatrice Macola (Ingrid) , Andrzej Seweryn (Julian Scherner) , Friedrich von Thun (Rolf Czurda) , Krzysztof Luft (Herman Toffel) , Harry Nehring (Leo John) , Norbert Weisser (Albert Hujar) , Adi Nitzan (Mila Pfefferberg) , Michael Schneider (Juda Dresner) , Miri Fabian (Chaja Dresner) , Anna Mucha (Danka Dresner) , Albert Misak (Mordecai Wulkan) , Michael Gordon (Mr. Nussbaum) , Aldona Grochal (Mrs. Nussbaum) , Jacek Wójcicki (Henry Rosner) , Beata Paluch (Manci Rosner) , Piotr Polk (Leo Rosner)
Directors: Steven Spielberg
Writers: Steven Zaillian, Thomas Keneally
Tags: based on novel or book, factory, concentration camp, hero, holocaust (shoah), ss (nazi schutzstaffel), world war ii, ghetto, jew persecution, kraków, poland, auschwitz-birkenau concentration camp, industrialist, nazi, defense industry, biography, based on true story, historical fiction, black and white, train, poland, weapons manufacturer
12 Angry Men
“12 Angry Men” is a gripping drama that takes place entirely in a jury room. After a young Spanish-American is accused of murdering his father, the jurors must decide his fate. As they deliberate, their own biases and preconceptions about the trial and each other come to light, making for a thought-provoking and intense film. Starring a talented cast including Martin Balsam, John Fiedler, Lee J. Cobb, and Henry Fonda, this classic movie was released on April 10, 1957.
Parasite
“Parasite” is a gripping drama that made it to the list of the 20 best voted drama movies of all time. Released on May 30, 2019, the film follows the story of Ki-taek’s unemployed family, who become fascinated by the wealthy Parks and their glamorous lifestyle. However, their lives take an unexpected turn when they become entangled in a shocking incident. With a talented cast including Song Kang-ho, Lee Sun-kyun, and Cho Yeo-jeong, this movie is a must-watch for its intriguing plot and stellar performances.
Cast: Song Kang-ho (Kim Ki-taek) , Lee Sun-kyun (Park Dong-ik) , Cho Yeo-jeong (Yeon-kyo) , Choi Woo-shik (Ki-woo) , Park So-dam (Ki-jung) , Lee Jung-eun (Moon-gwang) , Jang Hye-jin (Chung-sook) , Park Myung-hoon (Geun-se) , Jung Ji-so (Da-hye) , Jung Hyeon-jun (Da-song) , Park Keun-rok (Driver Yoon) , Jung Yi-seo (Pizza manager) , Cho Jae-myung (Pizza man) , Jeong Ik-han (Neighbor) , Kim Gyu-baek (Drunk 1) , Ahn Seong-bong (Street man) , Yoon Young-woo (Benz Dealer) , Park Jae-wook (VR Specialist) , Lee Dong-yong (Drunk 2) , Jeon Eun-mi (Mart cashier) , Kim Geon (Party man) , Lee Joo-hyung (Party man) , Lee Ji-hye (A Singer) , Kim Bo-ryeong (Cellist) , Park Hye-sook (Party woman)
Directors: Bong Joon-ho
Writers: Bong Joon-ho, Kim Dae-hwan, Han Jin-won
Tags: birthday party, private lessons, basement, dark comedy, con artist, working class, psychological thriller, class differences, housekeeper, tutor, family, crime family, unemployed, wealthy family, south korea, seoul, south korea
The Dark Knight
“The Dark Knight” is a gripping drama that follows Batman as he teams up with Lt. Jim Gordon and District Attorney Harvey Dent to eradicate the criminal organizations plaguing Gotham City. With an all-star cast including Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, and Gary Oldman, this 2008 release takes a thrilling turn when the city falls into chaos due to the Joker’s reign of terror. Prepare to be captivated by the intense performances and the battle between good and evil in this highly acclaimed film.
Cast: Christian Bale (Bruce Wayne / Batman) , Heath Ledger (Joker) , Michael Caine (Alfred Pennyworth) , Gary Oldman (James Gordon) , Aaron Eckhart (Harvey Dent / Two-Face) , Maggie Gyllenhaal (Rachel Dawes) , Morgan Freeman (Lucius Fox) , Nestor Carbonell (Anthony Garcia) , Monique Gabriela Curnen (Anna Ramirez) , Ron Dean (Michael Wuertz) , Chin Han (Lau) , Eric Roberts (Sal Maroni) , Ritchie Coster (Chechen) , Anthony Michael Hall (Mike Engel) , Keith Szarabajka (Gerard Stephens) , Joshua Harto (Coleman Reese) , Melinda McGraw (Barbara Gordon) , Nathan Gamble (James Gordon Jr.) , Michael Jai White (Gambol) , Colin McFarlane (Gillian Loeb) , Nydia Rodriguez Terracina (Janet Surrillo) , Tommy Lister Jr. (Tattooed Prisoner) , William Fichtner (Bank Manager) , Cillian Murphy (Jonathan Crane / Scarecrow) , Patrick Leahy (Gentleman at Party)
Directors: Christopher Nolan
Writers: Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, David S. Goyer, Bob Kane
Tags: crime fighter, secret identity, anti hero, scarecrow, sadism, chaos, vigilante, joker, superhero, based on comic, tragic hero, organized crime, anti villain, criminal mastermind, district attorney, super power, super villain, neo-noir
The Green Mile
“The Green Mile” is a captivating drama movie released on December 10, 1999. Starring Tom Hanks, Michael Clarke Duncan, and a talented ensemble cast, the film tells the supernatural story of John Coffey, a gentle giant with the extraordinary ability to heal people’s ailments. Set in a Southern prison’s death row, the movie follows the head guard, Paul Edgecomb, as he becomes determined to save Coffey from his impending execution after witnessing his miraculous powers.
Forrest Gump
“Forrest Gump” is a heartwarming drama that tells the extraordinary story of a man with a low IQ who manages to achieve incredible things in his life. Set against the backdrop of significant historic events, the movie follows Forrest as he exceeds everyone’s expectations. Despite his accomplishments, he continues to search for his one true love. Starring Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, and a talented ensemble cast, this beloved film was released on June 23, 1994.
Cast: Tom Hanks (Forrest Gump) , Robin Wright (Jenny Curran) , Gary Sinise (Lieutenant Dan Taylor) , Sally Field (Mrs. Gump) , Mykelti Williamson (Benjamin Buford ‘Bubba’ Blue) , Michael Conner Humphreys (Young Forrest Gump) , Hanna Hall (Young Jenny Curran) , Haley Joel Osment (Forrest Junior) , Siobhan Fallon Hogan (School Bus Driver) , Rebecca Williams (Nurse at Park Bench) , Bob Penny (Crony) , Harold G. Herthum (Doctor) , George Kelly (Barber) , John Randall (Crony) , Sam Anderson (Principal Hancock) , Margo Moorer (Louise) , Ione M. Telech (Elderly Woman) , Christine Seabrook (Elderly Woman’s Daughter) , John Worsham (Southern Gentleman / Landowner) , Peter Dobson (Young Elvis Presley) , Alexander Zemeckis (School Bus Boy) , Logan Livingston Gomez (School Bus Boy) , Ben Waddel (School Bus Boy) , Elizabeth Hanks (School Bus Girl) , Tyler Long (Red Headed Boy)
Directors: Robert Zemeckis
Writers: Winston Groom, Eric Roth
Tags: vietnam veteran, post-traumatic stress disorder, hippie, china, washington dc, usa, single parent, mentally disabled, based on novel or book, waitress, usa president, optimism, parent child relationship, 1970s, autism, drug addiction, alabama, vietnam war, black panther party, bus stop, friendship, family relationships, single mother, military, anti war protest, 1960s, college american football, mother son relationship
GoodFellas
“GoodFellas” is a gripping drama based on the true story of Henry Hill, a young Brooklyn boy who finds himself taken under the wing of local gangsters and rises through the ranks of a Mafia family. With an all-star cast including Ray Liotta, Robert De Niro, and Joe Pesci, this 1990 release takes you on a thrilling journey through the criminal underworld, guided by the charismatic Jimmy Conway. It’s no wonder this film made it onto the list of the 20 best voted drama movies of all time.
Cast: Ray Liotta (Henry Hill) , Robert De Niro (James Conway) , Joe Pesci (Tommy DeVito) , Lorraine Bracco (Karen Hill) , Paul Sorvino (Paul Cicero) , Frank Sivero (Frankie Carbone) , Tony Darrow (Sonny Bunz) , Mike Starr (Frenchy) , Frank Vincent (Billy Batts) , Chuck Low (Morris Kessler) , Frank DiLeo (Tuddy Cicero) , Henny Youngman (Himself) , Gina Mastrogiacomo (Janice Rossi) , Catherine Scorsese (Tommy’s Mother) , Charles Scorsese (Vinnie) , Suzanne Shepherd (Karen’s Mother) , Debi Mazar (Sandy) , Margo Winkler (Belle Kessler) , Welker White (Lois Byrd) , Jerry Vale (Himself) , Julie Garfield (Mickey Conway) , Christopher Serrone (Young Henry) , Elaine Kagan (Henry’s Mother) , Beau Starr (Henry’s Father) , Kevin Corrigan (Michael Hill)
Directors: Martin Scorsese
Writers: Martin Scorsese, Nicholas Pileggi
Tags: new york city, prison, based on novel or book, florida, 1970s, mass murder, irish-american, drug trafficking, gangster, biography, based on true story, murder, organized crime, gore, mafia, brooklyn, new york city, crime epic, tampa, florida
Cinema Paradiso
“Cinema Paradiso” is a heartwarming drama that takes us back to a filmmaker’s childhood in a small village. Set in 1988, the movie beautifully captures his love for movies and the special bond he forms with the theater’s projectionist. With a stellar cast including Philippe Noiret, Jacques Perrin, and Marco Leonardi, this film is a nostalgic journey that will leave you feeling touched and inspired.
Life Is Beautiful
“Life Is Beautiful” is a heartwarming drama that tells the story of an Italian book seller with Jewish roots. Set during World War II, his idyllic life takes a tragic turn when his family is sent to a concentration camp. Determined to protect his young son from the horrors around them, he creates an imaginative game to shield him from the harsh reality. Starring Roberto Benigni and Nicoletta Braschi, this touching film, released on December 20, 1997, beautifully captures the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.
Cast: Roberto Benigni (Guido Orefice) , Nicoletta Braschi (Dora) , Giorgio Cantarini (Giosué Orefice) , Giustino Durano (Eliseo Orefice) , Sergio Bini Bustric (Ferruccio) , Lidia Alfonsi (Signora Guicciardini) , Giuliana Lojodice (Direttrice) , Amerigo Fontani (Rodolfo) , Pietro De Silva (Bartolomeo) , Francesco Guzzo (Vittorino) , Raffaella Lebboroni (Elena) , Marisa Paredes (Madre di Dora) , Horst Buchholz (Dottore Lessing) , Adelaide Alaïs (German Auxilliary) , Verena Buratti (German Auxilliary) , Hannes Hellmann (German Corporal) , Wolfgang Hillinger (German Major at Party) , Antonio Prester (Bruno) , Gina Rovere (Dora’s Maid) , Laura Susanne Ruedeberg (German Auxilliary) , Richard Sammel (German Lieutenant at Station) , Andrea Tidona (Grand Hotel Doorman) , Dirk K. van den Berg (German Soldier) , Omero Antonutti (Narrator (voice) (uncredited)) , Daniela Fedtke (German Auxiliary)
Directors: Roberto Benigni
Writers: Roberto Benigni, Vincenzo Cerami
Tags: italy, riddle, loss of loved one, bookshop, self sacrifice, mass murder, concentration camp, fascism, world war ii, love of one’s life, deportation, jew persecution, nazi, national socialism, charade, riding a bicycle, story teller, concentration camp prisoner, dying and death
Gabriel’s Inferno
“Gabriel’s Inferno” is a captivating drama movie that explores the themes of seduction, forbidden love, and redemption. Released on May 29, 2020, it tells the passionate tale of a man’s journey to escape his personal hell and seek forgiveness and love. Starring Melanie Zanetti, Giulio Berruti, Kurt McKinney, Agnes Albright, Margaux Brooke, and Ned Van Zandt, this film promises to take you on an intriguing and sinful ride.
Seven Samurai
“Seven Samurai” is a classic drama movie released on April 26, 1954. It tells the story of a samurai who comes to the aid of a village in need of protection from bandits. He recruits six other samurais to help him train the villagers in self-defense, while the villagers provide them with food. With a talented cast including Toshirō Mifune and Takashi Shimura, this film is hailed as one of the best drama movies of all time.
Psycho
“Psycho” is a classic drama movie released on June 22, 1960. Starring Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles, and other talented actors, the film follows the story of Marion Crane, a real estate clerk who steals money and seeks refuge at the infamous Bates Motel. There, she encounters the peculiar manager, Norman Bates, and his mysterious housebound mother. This thrilling and suspenseful film is a must-watch for any drama movie enthusiast.
Cast: Anthony Perkins (Norman Bates) , Janet Leigh (Marion Crane) , Vera Miles (Lila Crane) , John Gavin (Sam Loomis) , Martin Balsam (Private Det. Milton Arbogast) , John McIntire (Sheriff Al Chambers) , Simon Oakland (Dr. Fred Richman) , Frank Albertson (Tom Cassidy) , Patricia Hitchcock (Caroline) , Vaughn Taylor (George Lowery) , Lurene Tuttle (Mrs. Chambers) , John Anderson (California Charlie) , Mort Mills (Highway Patrol Officer) , Fletcher Allen (Policeman on Steps (uncredited)) , Walter Bacon (Church Member (uncredited)) , Kit Carson (Extra (uncredited)) , Francis De Sales (Deputy District Attorney Alan Deats (uncredited)) , George Dockstader (Extra (uncredited)) , George Eldredge (Police Chief James Mitchell (uncredited)) , Harper Flaherty (Extra (uncredited)) , Sam Flint (County Sheriff (uncredited)) , Virginia Gregg (Norma Bates (voice) (uncredited)) , Alfred Hitchcock (Man Outside Office (uncredited)) , Paul Jasmin (Norma Bates (voice) (uncredited)) , Lee Kass (Extra (uncredited))
Directors: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Robert Bloch, Joseph Stefano
Tags: hotel, clerk, arizona, shower, motel, taxidermy, money, secretary, black and white, corpse, murderer, theft, mental illness, private detective, missing person, proto-slasher
Fight Club
“Fight Club” is a gripping drama released on October 15, 1999, starring Edward Norton, Brad Pitt, Helena Bonham Carter, and more. The movie follows an insomniac and a soap salesman who create an unconventional therapy by unleashing their primal male aggression through underground “fight clubs.” As their concept gains popularity, an eccentric character disrupts their world, leading to a chaotic and destructive spiral towards oblivion. It’s a thought-provoking film that explores the darker side of human nature and the consequences of unchecked aggression.
Once Upon a Time in America
“Once Upon a Time in America” is a captivating drama that takes us back to the Prohibition era in New York City. Starring Robert De Niro and James Woods, the movie follows a former Jewish gangster who returns to his old neighborhood after thirty years. As he confronts the ghosts of his past, the film delves into themes of regret and redemption, making it a must-watch for any fan of gripping dramas. Released in 1984, this movie has stood the test of time and is considered one of the best in its genre.
Cast: Robert De Niro (David ‘Noodles’ Aaronson) , James Woods (Maximilian ‘Max’ Bercovicz) , Elizabeth McGovern (Deborah Gelly) , Treat Williams (James Conway O’Donnell) , Tuesday Weld (Carol) , Joe Pesci (Frankie Monaldi) , Burt Young (Joe) , James Hayden (Patrick ‘Patsy’ Goldberg) , William Forsythe (Philip ‘Cockeye’ Stein) , Larry Rapp (‘Fat’ Moe Gelly) , Amy Ryder (Peggy) , Scott Schutzman Tiler (Young Noodles) , Rusty Jacobs (Young Max / David Bailey) , Jennifer Connelly (Young Deborah) , Brian Bloom (Young Patsy) , Adrian Curran (Young Cockeye) , Mike Monetti (Young ‘Fat’ Moe Gelly) , Noah Moazezi (Dominic) , James Russo (Bugsy) , Darlanne Fluegel (Eve) , Danny Aiello (Police Chief Vincent Aiello) , Richard Bright (Chicken Joe) , Frank Gio (Beefy) , Ray Dittrich (Trigger) , Mario Brega (Mandy)
Directors: Sergio Leone
Writers: Sergio Leone, Franco Ferrini, Leonardo Benvenuti, Franco Arcalli, Enrico Medioli, Piero De Bernardi, Harry Grey
Tags: new york city, life and death, corruption, street gang, rape, sadistic, lovesickness, sexual abuse, regret, based on novel or book, prohibition era, money laundering, opium, gangster, mafia boss, murder, memory, jewish american, torture, brooklyn bridge, childhood friends, 1920s, 1960s, 1930s
City of God
“City of God” is a gripping drama set in the slums of Rio de Janeiro. It follows the diverging paths of two kids, one aspiring to be a photographer and the other getting involved in the dangerous world of crime. With a talented cast and released in 2002, this movie is considered one of the best dramas of all time.
Gabriel’s Inferno: Part II
“Gabriel’s Inferno: Part II” is a captivating drama movie that continues the story of Professor Gabriel Emerson and Julia Mitchell. As Gabriel finally discovers Julia’s true identity, it might be too late to win her back. With a talented cast including Melanie Zanetti, Giulio Berruti, and James Andrew Fraser, this film explores the complexities of love and redemption. Released on July 31, 2020, it’s a must-watch for drama movie enthusiasts.
One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” is a gripping drama that tells the story of a small-time criminal who pretends to be insane to avoid prison. Set in a mental ward, he becomes a source of inspiration for fellow patients, but also a thorn in the side of the strict nurse who runs the place. Starring Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher, this critically acclaimed film was released on November 19, 1975, and is considered one of the best drama movies of all time.
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