Some cinematic experiences are so memorable that time flies, even if it lasts for hours. When the narrative is strong enough and there is enough to say, it can feel like the film should never end. Countless directors have taken on a project that produces an immense surplus of footage. From political dramas to historical epics, there are many details to cover to tell the full story. But if the audience is emotionally invested enough, they will want to stay with the protagonists as long as possible.
It's worth considering when it comes to runtime that cinemas today are struggling to attract people. For the viewer to want to leave the comfort of their home, with their own snacks and unlimited breaks, the film has to be something special. It needs to feel like an event that people want to spend money on, so they feel like they're getting the most out of it. There was a time when Hollywood produced several short films just for ticket sales; Long-running epics that still break records are all the more impressive and likely successful because they don't feel long.
10
The Wolf of Wall Street (2013)
Running time: 3 hours
Martin Scorsese doesn't shy away from a long film. With so many of his projects lasting at least two hours or more, he pays attention to the details. His characters are rich and developed, and he makes a point of including great dialogue, exciting action, and some wonderful scenes that not only make his films great stories, but also visual delights. However, The Wolf of Wall Street it was a little different for the director. Although he incorporated humor into many of his projects, this was probably one of the funniest films he ever made.
Reuniting with Leonardo DiCaprio and highlighting the talents of Margot Robbie and Jonah Hill, this dark comedy explores the world of finance with nuance, unexpected storytelling and plenty of humor. The chemistry between the actors is brilliant and the writing by Terence Winter and Jordan Belfort is great fun. The film is a wild ride from start to finish, with few moments of respite. When the audience finishes watching, they have to believe that three hours have passed.
9
Hamlet (1996)
Running time: 4 hours and 2 minutes
Kenneth Branagh's passion project truly pays homage to Shakespeare's classic play. It's clear that the director, who also plays the titular prince of Denmark, is involved in many aspects of the film. The play itself lasts almost as long as the film, and Branagh wanted to ensure that each scene was faithful to the original and had a lot of emotional depth. With Kate Winslet as Ophelia and Julie Christie as Gertrude, the Bard's words come to life in the most authentic way.
If viewers have a particular disdain for the tragedies of William Shakespeare, this may not be the best way to spend four hours, but fans of the classics will be delighted by the production, the attention to detail, and the cast's wonderful performances. As a director, Branagh stands out; as an actor, he applies care and consideration to this iconic role; and as co-writer, he makes sure the words have as much meaning as possible. With so many twists and turns, it is impossible to feel anything other than fascinated by the duration.
8
Gandhi (1982)
Duration: 3 hours and 11 minutes
Gandhi is one of the most successful biopics of all time, winning eight Oscars and numerous other awards for the film's director, Richard Attenborough, and star, Ben Kingsley. This true story is fascinating, exploring the impact of one of the most important political figures in world history. With so many achievements and so many different layers to this fascinating man, there is a lot to delve into. However, as the film tells a very complicated story of war, diplomacy and politics, the writing does not disappoint.
Viewers are immersed in these difficult times and guided through Gandhi's complicated life and achievements with skill and dedication, making the film a gripping historical epic. In one of his most revered roles, Kingsley delivers a powerful performance that adds to the quality of the film. From the first scene where he is murdered to the last where he is honored for his contributions, the audience is drawn in and invested.
7
Schindler's List (1993)
Duration: 3 hours and 15 minutes
Steven Spielberg's harrowing Holocaust saga is one of his most important works. The director has created many beloved films and blockbusters, but this World War II drama was possibly the closest to his heart yet. Rendered entirely in black and white, it gives viewers the impression that they are watching a movie as it plays. It also allows for one of the most poignant and moving scenes involving the famous girl in the red coat.
Liam Neeson and Ralph Fiennes produced incredibly moving performances, and the film was celebrated with seven Oscars. The subject matter covered in the film is extremely distressing and very emotionally moving. Like many films about this period, the themes are uncomfortable, but the conversations generated by watching them are extremely important. As viewers witness the atrocities and humanity that grows from feelings of despair, there is not a moment when they do not feel moved and impacted by what they are watching.
6
JFK (1991)
Duration: 3 hours and 9 minutes
As one of the most famous mysteries in history, the assassination of US President John F. Kennedy has spawned many different films, television shows and documentaries. Oliver Stone left no stone unturned with JFKan extremely dedicated and suspenseful thriller. Kevin Costner leads the cast and the investigation as he delves deeper into a world of corruption, secrets and uncertainty.
It may seem like a dense topic to cover, but the story is really moving. As Jim Garrison navigates the layers of the popular politician's murder, viewers learn increasingly fascinating details about the intricacies of the scandal and political intrigue. With tense music, very succinct writing and a very deep bench of famous and talented actors, JFK doesn't give up at any point.
5
Gone with the Wind (1939)
Duration: 3 hours and 58 minutes
Based on Margaret Mitchell's novel of the same name, this epic melodrama is one of the most famous plays in cinema history. Very much a product of its time as regards subject matter and execution, Gone with the Wind tells a story of war, peace, love and struggle, led by the incomparable Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O'Hara. This strong, resilient woman navigates her place in society after the American Civil War turns the only world she has ever known upside down. The film covers so many different events and time periods that it feels like a miniseries all in one.
Each section is filled with drama, extraordinary costumes, and compelling lines. Leigh's chemistry with Clark Gable as Rhett Butler is timeless, making a 1939 film sizzle with sensuality. Each difficulty Scarlett faces makes her more difficult but more bitter, and the audience wants to know what happens next. From the seemingly idyllic first picnic to the burning of Charleston, the audience is invested in what happens with the romantic complications and what happens to Tara.
4
Titanic (1997)
Duration: 3 hours and 14 minutes
James Cameron has spent countless hours visiting history's most famous wrecks, and his fascination with the subject is visible in this 1997 blockbuster. Covering themes of love, class struggle and showing more than ever what really happened on that fateful night, there's plenty to be enchanted. Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio tell a beautiful love story that the audience cheers on throughout the tragedy, with many memorable moments. Whether they're kissing on the bow, running through the engine room, or trying to survive the sinking, these two characters have viewers hooked.
Meanwhile, groundbreaking special effects bring audiences aboard this ill-fated ship, and it's a wonder how they've aged, even after all these years. Billy Zane is a formidable villain, and trying to identify the real people who sailed the ship is a great detail. With 11 Academy Awards, a record box office and a fascinating historical setting, Titanic it could arguably be even longer.
3
Oppenheimer (2023)
Duration: 3 hours
Christopher Nolan made a point of delving deeply into the life of this fascinating scientist. With a topic as complex as the invention of the atomic bomb and its impact on society, it is logical that there is a lot to investigate in Oppenheimer. This modern classic blends multiple film styles to tell as many sides of the story as possible. There's a political aspect to it, an almost sci-fi feel, and hints of legal drama that flow throughout this Best Picture-winning film.
Cillian Murphy plays the titular scientist with so much emotion, regret, and arrogance that it's hard to tell what each new timeline shown will have in store. The supporting cast reads like a who's who of Hollywood, with Emily Blunt, Matt Damon and Florence Pugh all in supporting roles. The film is also extremely immersive, taking the audience on a visual and auditory journey that leaves an impression for a long time. To say that the film ends when the credits roll would be false. So many emotions, fears and feelings remain for much longer.
2
The Godfather Part II (1974)
Duration: 3 hours and 22 minutes
Considered one of the best film sequences in history and Francis Ford Coppola's masterpiece The Godfather Part II proves that it is possible for the second part to live up to the first. While the original Godfather the film was a commercial and critical success, many consider that his second film surpassed it. Of course, this is all up for debate, but it's no secret that young Vito Corleone's life is a fascinating saga to watch. Robert De Niro gives a strong performance, and the juxtaposition of his life and that of his son is a very clever device.
Both stories feel like full-length films, so the fact that they have enough screen time to convey what needs to be said is a blessing. Al Pacino's Michael's arc is full of betrayal and power struggles, and seeing how the empire he now leads was built creates extra depth to his family's story. With each part of the trilogy lasting a long time, it still seems like more versions could exist as well.
1
Avengers: Endgame (2019)
Duration: 3 hours 1 minute
The MCU setup was a stroke of storytelling genius. Bringing different characters together in a way that feels cohesive and organic has made these first waves of Marvel films always unmissable. When Iron Man showed its first post-credits scene, little did viewers know what was coming. Independent films varied in quality, but with highlights such as Captain America: Winter Soldier, Black Panther, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 1there was a lot to work with. The Avengers the films themselves are magical, as seeing the cast together was truly very special.
The rising tension between the team, teasing certain things like Cap wielding Mjölnir and pairing up unexpected heroes all lead to a final resolution for this specific roster of Avengers. Every fight is epic, the humor never disappoints and the stakes are higher than ever. After going through the pain of seeing Spider-Man and Bucky turn to dust, the audience doesn't feel very confident at any point, keeping them on the edge of their seats the entire time. With fan service thrown in, some deeply moving moments, and finally hearing Chris Evans say “Avengers montage”, there is not a moment of this film wasted.