All 23 David Lean Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online
Brace yourself for a cinematic journey through time as we round up the timeless works of David Lean, the legendary British filmmaker known for his epic, Oscar-winning films. From sweeping romantic dramas to grand historical epics, Lean’s movies have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and continue to captivate audiences.
As an Amazon Associate we earn through qualifying purchases at no cost to you.
1. Money for Speed (1933)
“Velocity and Dollars,” a 1933 dramatic film, narrates the story of Big Bill Summers, the renowned motorcycle speedway champion, played by Cyril McLaglen. The action-packed movie takes an unexpected twist when Bill, embodied by McLaglen, faces competition not only on the tracks but also for the affection of the beautiful young Jane, portrayed by Ida Lupino. The thrill intensifies as Mitch, another contender, played by John Loder, enters the scene, stirring feelings in Jane. This leads to a racing accident that severely injures Mitch.
2. Pygmalion (1938)
“Pygmalion” is a delightful 1938 British film based on the renowned play by George Bernard Shaw. The movie, set in the period drama genre, follows a phonetics and diction expert who makes a daring bet that he can transform a Cockney flower girl into a proper English-speaking lady capable of fitting into high society.
3. French Without Tears (1940)
“Experience the delightful chaos of French Without Tears (1940), a delightful British comedy set in the picturesque south of France. Three young Englishmen find themselves entangled in love affairs at a language cramming school. But when Diana, the sister of one of the boys, arrives in town and starts flirting with their schoolmates, things take a hilarious turn.
4. Major Barbara (1941)
Step into the world of Major Barbara, a heartwarming and thought-provoking comedy with a social commentary twist. Set in 1941, this captivating film follows the journey of a young and passionate woman who adopts the Salvation Army, all while struggling with her father’s munition factory. The film explores themes of love, loyalty, and the power of change.
5. One of Our Aircraft Is Missing (1942)
In the midst of war, a British bomber crew finds themselves in an unpredictable mission. During a daring aerial raid on the Nazi-occupied Netherlands, their plane takes a critical hit, forcing the crew to make a hasty exit. As their aircraft plummets to the ground, they land in an unfamiliar territory, desperately relying on the help of the very civilians they were sent to fight against.
6. In Which We Serve (1942)
“In Which We Serve” takes you on a gripping journey with the ship’s crew of the H. M. S. Torrin during the challenging days of World War II.
7. This Happy Breed (1944)
In the heartwarming film “This Happy Breed, “ a family from London ventures out to rebuild their lives in the suburbs amidst the aftermath of World War I. The Gibbons family, led by an optimistic father and a caring mother, settle into their new home with enthusiasm and zest.
8. Great Expectations (1946)
Great Expectations, a classic 1946 film adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless novel, takes us back to the 1810s in the heart of Kent, where a young orphan boy is given the extraordinary chance to grow up and become a gentleman. His mysterious benefactor, a snob turned convict, pours his wealth and expectations onto the innocent child, igniting this stirring tale of ambition, love, and heartache.
9. Oliver Twist (1948)
Discover the world of Charles Dickens in the classic drama “Oliver Twist, “ released in 1951. Set in 19th century London, the film follows the heart-wrenching tale of an orphan struggling to escape a life of cruel apprenticeship and find his place in a criminal gang. As Oliver navigates the dangerous and unforgiving streets of London, he learns the true meaning of family, friendship, and loyalty.
10. Summertime (1955)
“Summertime, “ a poignant and whimsical tale, beautifully set in the romantic backdrop of 1950s Venice, has the air of timeless love and heartache at its core. The story unfolds as an American spinster, disenchanted with romance, embarks on a dreamlike vacation to Venice. Here, she captivates a charming Italian gondolier while gazing at the intricate Murano glass. What follows is a bitter-sweet saga of unexpected love, as what was initially a captivating flirtation spirals into a tale of secret hearts torn apart by the constraints of societal norms.
11. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
“The Bridge on the River Kwai” is a gripping drama-adventure set in 1943 during World War II. Captured British soldiers are ordered to construct a railway bridge across the River Kwai for their Japanese captors in occupied Burma. The soldiers have no idea that the Allied forces are planning a daring commando raid through the jungle to destroy the bridge.
12. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
“Lawrence of Arabia” is a thrilling drama brought to life by the legendary director, David Lean. This masterpiece is set in the heart of the unyielding Middle Eastern desert during World War I, where it unfolds a riveting tale of an English officer named T. E. Lawrence. As he takes on the challenge of uniting the diverse Arab tribes against the Ottoman Empire, this extraordinary film showcases exceptional heroism, endurance, and valour.
13. Doctor Zhivago (1965)
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War I and the October Revolution, Doctor Zhivago is a sweeping romance and drama that tells the poignant story of Russian physician and poet, Yuri Zhivago. Married to one woman, Lara, Yuri falls in love with another, a political activist’s wife, despite the dangers and hardships that surround them. Directed by David Lean and written by Robert Bolt, the film is based on the epic novel of the same name by Russian author Boris Pasternak.
14. The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
Immerse yourself in “The Greatest Story Ever Told, “ a magnificent epic film that traces the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Directed by renowned filmmakers George Stevens, David Lean, and Jean Negulesco, this star-studded production features exceptional talent, including Max von Sydow, Dorothy McGuire, and Charlton Heston. This four-hour-plus biography portrays the significant events, teachings, and miracles of Jesus Christ, making it a powerful exploration of history and faith.
15. Ryan’s Daughter (1970)
“Ryan’s Daughter” is a captivating drama and romance film set in the aftermath of the 1916 Easter Rising in a small Irish village. The story revolves around a married woman whose life takes a dramatic turn as she becomes entangled in an affair with a troubled British officer.
16. A Passage to India (1984)
A Passage to India is a captivating and poignant tale set in India during the early 1920s, directed by the legendary David Lean and based on the acclaimed novel by E. M. Forster. The film masterfully unfolds a complex web of relationships, cultural misunderstandings, and false accusations that threaten to tear apart the lives of three individuals living in a small town in British-ruled India: an Indian doctor, an Englishwoman on the brink of marriage, and an English educator.
17. The Golden Gong (1985)
“The Golden Gong” is a fascinating exploration into the history of Rank Studios, as narrated by the inimitable Michael Caine. The movie boasts an intriguing mix of clips, interviews, and commentary, all working together to create an engaging narrative that offers insight into the workings and evolution of this iconic film studio.
18. The Best of Hollywood (1998)
Step back in time and experience the golden era of Hollywood with Tab Hunter in “The Best of Hollywood” (1998). This incredible documentary takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the iconic films that shaped the world of cinema from the 1950s to the turn of the 21st century.
19. The Making of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’ (2003)
Embark on an unmatched voyage into the creation of an immortal cinematic masterpiece with “The Making of ‘Lawrence of Arabia’”. This extraordinary 2003 documentary takes you on a journey behind the curtain of the 1962 legendary production “Lawrence of Arabia”, documenting the intricate process behind the bringing of this iconic story to life.
20. David Lean in Close-Up (2009)
In 2009, a captivating documentary titled David Lean in Close-Up was released, providing an up-close and personal look into the life and legacy of the illustrious filmmaker, David Lean. This engaging film offers fans and cinephiles an intimate perspective on Lean’s life, presenting rare footage and interviews that have never been seen before.
21. A Little Bit Zombie (2012)
A Little Bit Zombie is a hilarious 2012 film that combines comedy, horror, and sci-fi. The story follows a mild-mannered HR manager whose life takes an unexpected turn after being infected by a virus. As he struggles to fulfill his overwhelming desire for brains, he also tries to keep things under control and avoid angering his soon-to-be-bridezilla.
22. Crossroad (2012)
“Crossroad” is a compelling drama film released in 2012, directed and written by Shervin Youssefian. The movie revolves around a father and husband grappling with the murderer responsible for his family’s death. Seeking forgiveness and closure, he plans to meet with the killer upon his release from prison, only for their encounter to be halted by an unexpected robbery at a nearby diner.
23. Last Film Show (2021)
“Last Film Show, “ a thought-provoking drama, follows the journey of Samay, a young dreamer, as he is in a relentless pursuit of creating films. Hailing from a small village, he grapples with his family’s resistance to his passion. This coming of age film is semi-autobiographical and takes the audience through the life of a young man as he navigates the complexities of chasing his dreams against the backdrop of a conservative village.
