Who is Ridley Scott?
Ridley Scott is a renowned British film director and producer, born on November 30, 1937, in South Shields, England.
He is known for his visually stunning and thematically diverse films, spanning various genres, including science fiction, historical dramas, thrillers, and action movies.
Ridley Scott has received numerous awards and nominations throughout his career, including Academy Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and BAFTA Awards. His influence on cinema is significant, and he remains one of the most influential directors of our time.
In this article, we’ve compiled all (29) of Ridley Scott’s films and ranked them based on their IMDb ratings, starting from the highest to the lowest.
1
IMDb 8.5
Gladiator (2000)
Running Time:
2h 35m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Drama
Release:
2000
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Russell Crowe
Joaquin Phoenix
Connie Nielsen
Oliver Reed
Richard Harris
Storyline of Gladiator (2000):
In ancient Rome, General Maximus (Russell Crowe), loyal to Emperor Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), is betrayed by the emperor’s ambitious son, Commodus (Joaquin Phoenix). Enslaved and forced into gladiatorial combat, Maximus rises through the ranks, seeking revenge and justice. In the Colosseum, he faces not only his enemies but also the corrupt emperor himself. His fight becomes a struggle for the soul of Rome. This is a tale of honor, vengeance, and the resilience of the human spirit.
2
IMDb 8.5
Alien (1979)
Running Time:
1h 57m
Genres:
Sci-Fi, Horror
Release:
1979
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Sigourney Weaver
Tom Skerritt
John Hurt
Veronica Cartwright
Ian Holm
Storyline of Alien (1979):
In the depths of space, the commercial spaceship Nostromo receives a distress signal from an unknown planet. While investigating the source of the signal, the crew encounters a terrifying life form. Isolated and defenseless, the crew members are forced to fight for survival against a relentless and deadly enemy. An atmosphere of fear and claustrophobia haunts them in every corridor of the ship, where danger can lurk behind every corner. This is a story about survival in a hopeless situation against an unknown horror.
3
IMDb 8.1
Blade Runner (1982)
Running Time:
1h 57m
Genres:
Sci-Fi, Action,
Drama, Thriller
Release:
1982
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Harrison Ford
Rutger Hauer
Sean Young
Edward James Olmos
M. Emmet Walsh
Storyline of Blade Runner (1982):
In 2019 Los Angeles, replicants, artificially created humans, return to Earth, breaking the law. Rick Deckard, a “blade runner,” is tasked with tracking down and eliminating them. The investigation leads him to meet the replicant Rachael, which challenges his ideas about artificial life. Complex relationships develop, where questions of identity, memory, and empathy collide. This is a story about a hunter who becomes the hunted himself.
4
IMDb 8.0
The Martian (2015)
Running Time:
2h 24m
Genres:
Sci-Fi, Adventure,
Drama
Release:
2015
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Matt Damon
Jessica Chastain
Kristen Wiig
Kate Mara
Jeff Daniels
Storyline of The Martian (2015):
During a mission to Mars, astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is mistakenly presumed dead after a fierce storm. Stranded alone on a hostile planet with minimal supplies, he must fight for survival using his knowledge and ingenuity. While NASA and his crew back on Earth work tirelessly to bring him home, Watney cultivates food and finds ways to communicate with Earth. This is a story about the incredible power of human will and the desire to live in extreme conditions.
5
IMDb 7.8
American Gangster (2007)
Running Time:
2h 37m
Genres:
Biography, Crime,
Drama
Release:
2007
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Denzel Washington
Russell Crowe
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Josh Brolin
Lymari Nadal
Storyline of American Gangster (2007):
In the 1970s, Frank Lucas, a driver for a Harlem crime boss, builds his own drug empire after his boss’s death. He establishes direct heroin supply lines from Southeast Asia, bypassing the Italian Mafia. Meanwhile, honest detective Richie Roberts investigates drug trafficking, trying to uncover a new criminal network. Their paths inevitably cross, leading to a fierce confrontation. This is a story about the rise and fall of a criminal empire against the backdrop of a corrupt city.
6
IMDb 7.7
Black Hawk Down (2001)
Running Time:
2h 24m
Genres:
Action, Drama,
History
Release:
2002
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Josh Hartnett
Ewan McGregor
Tom Sizemore
Eric Bana
William Fichtner
Storyline of Black Hawk Down (2001):
The film depicts the true story of a combat engagement of American soldiers in Mogadishu, Somalia. A quick operation to capture local militant leaders turns into a bloody battle after the downing of two helicopters. Soldiers find themselves cut off from the main forces and are forced to desperately fight for their lives in urban guerrilla warfare. The film shows the chaos and unpredictability of war, where every decision can be fatal.
7
IMDb 7.6
Thelma & Louise (1991)
Running Time:
2h 10m
Genres:
Adventure, Drama,
Crime
Release:
1991
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Susan Sarandon
Geena Davis
Harvey Keitel
Michael Madsen
Brad Pitt
Storyline of Thelma & Louise (1991):
Two friends, Thelma, a housewife, and Louise, a waitress, decide to escape their routine and embark on a weekend road trip. However, a simple trip turns into unexpected events and a crime that forces them to flee from the law. Their journey becomes a symbol of liberation from social constraints and the search for their own identity. The film tells a story of friendship, desperation, and the pursuit of freedom.
8
IMDb 7.4
The Duellists (1977)
Running Time:
1h 40m
Genres:
Drama
Release:
1977
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Keith Carradine
Harvey Keitel
Albert Finney
Edward Fox
Cristina Raines
Storyline of The Duellists (1977):
During the Napoleonic Wars, a minor incident ignites a bitter feud between two French officers, Gabriel Feraud and Armand d’Hubert. This initial disagreement escalates into a series of duels spanning years, interrupting their military service and shaping their lives. Driven by obsession and a rigid sense of honor, they repeatedly clash in deadly encounters. The film explores themes of honor, obsession, and the absurdity of prolonged conflict.
9
IMDb 7.3
Kingdom of Heaven (2005)
Running Time:
2h 24m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Drama, History
Release:
2005
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Orlando Bloom
Eva Green
Liam Neeson
Martin Hancock
Michael Sheen
Storyline of Kingdom of Heaven (2005):
12th-century Jerusalem is on the brink of war between Crusaders and Muslims. Balian, a young blacksmith turned knight, finds himself at the epicenter of these events. He is forced to take responsibility for the defense of the city and its inhabitants, seeking paths to understanding between two cultures. The film shows the complexity of political and religious conflicts and the importance of leadership in times of crisis.
10
IMDb 7.3
Matchstick Men (2003)
Running Time:
1h 56m
Genres:
Comedy, Crime,
Drama, Thriller
Release:
2003
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Nicolas Cage
Alison Lohman
Sam Rockwell
Bruce Altman
Bruce McGill
Storyline of Matchstick Men (2003):
Roy Waller, a professional con artist with obsessive-compulsive disorder, runs small-time scams with his partner Frank. His life changes when his teenage daughter Angela, whose existence he didn’t know about, suddenly appears. With her arrival, Roy tries to build a personal life while also teaching her the intricacies of the con artist’s trade. The film explores the complex relationship between father and daughter against the backdrop of the criminal world.
11
IMDb 7.3
The Last Duel (2021)
Running Time:
2h 32m
Genres:
Drama, History,
Thriller
Release:
2021
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Matt Damon
Adam Driver
Jodie Comer
Harriet Walter
Ben Affleck
Storyline of The Last Duel (2021):
In 14th-century medieval France, knight Jean de Carrouges accuses his former friend Jacques Le Gris of raping his wife, Marguerite de Carrouges. When legal proceedings fail to provide a resolution, King Charles VI decrees a trial by combat between the two men as a final means of settling the dispute. The film tells this story from three distinct perspectives: Jean’s, Jacques’s, and Marguerite’s, showing how subjective perception influences the truth. This is a story about honor, betrayal, and the fight for justice in a brutal world.
12
IMDb 7.0
Prometheus (2012)
Running Time:
2h 4m
Genres:
Adventure, Mystery,
Sci-Fi
Release:
2012
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Noomi Rapace
Logan Marshall-Green
Michael Fassbender
Charlize Theron
Idris Elba
Storyline of Prometheus (2012):
In the distant future, the crew of the spaceship Prometheus embarks on a journey to a distant planet, following ancient archaeological finds that point to the possible origin of humanity. Upon arrival, they find traces of an advanced civilization but also encounter dangerous secrets. Their expedition turns into a struggle for survival and a search for answers to fundamental questions about existence. The film explores themes of origin, creation, and the dangers of the unknown.
13
IMDb 7.0
Body of Lies (2008)
Running Time:
2h 8m
Genres:
Action, Drama,
Thriller
Release:
2008
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Leonardo DiCaprio
Russell Crowe
Mark Strong
Golshifteh Farahani
Oscar Isaac
Storyline of Body of Lies (2008):
CIA agent Roger Ferris finds himself at the epicenter of a dangerous operation in the Middle East, where he has to rely on unreliable sources and play a double game. His relationship with his superiors becomes increasingly strained, and his personal life is threatened. Ferris is forced to fight not only terrorists but also internal conflicts and betrayal. The film tells about the price one has to pay for working in intelligence.
14
IMDb 6.9
Gladiator 2 (2024)
Running Time:
2h 28m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Drama,
Release:
2024
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Paul Mescal
Denzel Washington
Pedro Pascal
Connie Nielsen
Joseph Quinn
Storyline of Gladiator 2 (2024):
Years after Maximus’s death, his legacy continues to live on in the hearts of the Romans. Lucius, Lucilla’s son, remembers the general’s heroism and strives to follow his example. He finds himself drawn into political intrigues and power struggles within the empire. The film explores themes of legacy, honor, and the fight for justice in a changed world.
15
IMDb 6.9
A Good Year (2006)
Running Time:
1h 57m
Genres:
Comedy, Romance,
Drama,
Release:
2006
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Russell Crowe
Abbie Cornish
Albert Finney
Marion Cotillard
Freddie Highmore
Storyline of A Good Year (2006):
Max Skinner, a successful but cynical London stockbroker, learns of his uncle’s death and inherits his vineyard in Provence. Arriving in France, he plans to quickly sell the estate but unexpectedly falls in love with the area, winemaking, and a charming woman. His life changes drastically, forcing him to rethink his values and priorities. The film tells about the search for happiness, returning to one’s roots, and the importance of simple things.
16
IMDb 6.8
All the Money in the World (2017)
Running Time:
2h 12m
Genres:
Crime, Drama, History,
Mystery, Thriller
Release:
2017
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Michelle Williams
Christopher Plummer
Mark Wahlberg
Romain Duris
Timothy Hutton
Storyline of All the Money in the World (2017):
The film tells the true story of the kidnapping of oil tycoon J. Paul Getty’s grandson in 1973. When the kidnappers demand a huge ransom, Getty, known for his stinginess, refuses to pay. The kidnapped boy’s mother, Gail Harris, is forced to fight for her son’s life, teaming up with a former CIA agent. The film explores themes of greed, family relationships, and the fight for justice.
17
IMDb 6.8
Hannibal (2001)
Running Time:
2h 11m
Genres:
Crime, Drama,
Thriller
Release:
2001
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Anthony Hopkins
Julianne Moore
Gary Oldman
Ray Liotta
Frankie Faison
Storyline of Hannibal (2001):
Hannibal Lecter, the brilliant cannibalistic killer, reappears on the horizon, this time in Florence. Clarice Starling, an FBI agent, is once again forced to enter into a complex psychological game with him. Their relationship, full of tension and mutual fascination, becomes the central theme of the film. The film explores the boundaries of morality and the nature of evil.
18
IMDb 6.6
House of Gucci (2021)
Running Time:
2h 38m
Genres:
Biography, Crime,
Drama
Release:
2021
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Lady Gaga
Adam Driver
Al Pacino
Jeremy Irons
Jared Leto
Storyline of House of Gucci (2021):
The film tells the story of the Gucci dynasty, starting from the moment Patrizia Reggiani marries Maurizio Gucci, the heir to the fashion empire. Their marriage leads to complex family conflicts and a struggle for control of the brand. The film immerses the viewer in a world of luxury, fashion, and intrigue unfolding behind the scenes of the famous fashion house. This is a story about ambition, betrayal, and the consequences of greed.
19
IMDb 6.6
Robin Hood (2010)
Running Time:
2h 20m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Drama, History
Release:
2010
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Russell Crowe
Cate Blanchett
Matthew Macfadyen
Max von Sydow
William Hurt
Storyline of Robin Hood (2010):
This version of “Robin Hood” tells the story of archer Robin Longstride before he became the famous outlaw. After returning from the Crusades, he finds himself embroiled in political intrigue and a power struggle in England. Robin assumes the identity of a fallen knight and fights against corruption and tyranny. The film explores the background of the Robin Hood legend.
20
IMDb 6.6
White Squall (1996)
Running Time:
2h 9m
Genres:
Adventure, Drama
Release:
1996
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Jeff Bridges
Caroline Goodall
Scott Wolf
Jeremy Sisto
Storyline of White Squall (1996):
A training voyage on the sailing ship Albatross becomes an unforgettable but dangerous adventure for a group of young men. During the voyage, they face various trials, culminating in an encounter with a devastating white squall. This storm tests their courage, friendship, and ability to survive in extreme conditions. The film shows the power of nature and the importance of unity in the face of danger.
21
IMDb 6.6
Black Rain (1989)
Running Time:
2h 5m
Genres:
Action, Crime,
Drama, Thriller
Release:
1989
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Michael Douglas
Andy Garcia
Ken Takakura
Kate Capshaw
Yûsaku Matsuda
Storyline of Black Rain (1989):
Two New York City cops, Nick Conklin and Charlie Vincent, escort a Japanese criminal to Osaka. Upon arrival, the criminal escapes, and the cops are forced to begin a search for him in an unfamiliar and complex Japanese environment. They encounter culture shock, local customs, and the brutal world of the Japanese mafia – the Yakuza. The film explores the clash of cultures, corruption, and the fight for justice in a foreign land.
22
IMDb 6.4
Alien: Covenant (2017)
Running Time:
2h 2m
Genres:
Sci-Fi, Horror,
Thriller
Release:
2017
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Michael Fassbender
Katherine Waterston
Billy Crudup
Danny McBride
Demián Bichir
Storyline of Alien: Covenant (2017):
The spaceship Covenant, carrying colonists to a distant planet, receives a signal from an unknown source. The crew decides to investigate the planet, hoping to find a habitable world. However, they stumble upon a dangerous place where terrible discoveries await them. The film tells about the struggle for survival against an unknown threat in an alien world.
23
IMDb 6.4
1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992)
Running Time:
2h 34m
Genres:
Adventure, Biography
Drama, History
Release:
1992
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Gérard Depardieu
Armand Assante
Sigourney Weaver
Loren Dean
Ángela Molina
Storyline of 1492: Conquest of Paradise (1992):
The film tells the story of Christopher Columbus and his expedition across the Atlantic Ocean in 1492. Having received the support of Queen Isabella of Spain, Columbus sets out in search of a western route to India. His journey leads to the discovery of a new continent, drastically changing the course of history. The film explores ambition, courage, and the consequences of great discoveries.
24
IMDb 6.3
Napoleon (2023)
Running Time:
2h 34m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Biography
Release:
2023
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Joaquin Phoenix
Vanessa Kirby
Tahar Rahim
Rupert Everett
Mark Bonnar
Storyline of Napoleon (2023):
The film chronicles Napoleon Bonaparte’s rapid rise to power and his subsequent downfall. From military genius to Emperor of France, his ambitions and strategic talents change the course of European history. The film explores his personal life, his relationship with Josephine, and the impact of his decisions on millions of people. This is an epic story about power, ambition, and their cost.
25
IMDb 6.3
Legend (1985)
Running Time:
1h 34m
Genres:
Adventure, Fantasy,
Romance
Release:
1985
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Tom Cruise
Mia Sara
Tim Curry
David Bennent
Alice Playten
Storyline of Legend (1985):
In a magical forest inhabited by mythical creatures, the sinister Lord of Darkness seeks to plunge the world into eternal night. A young forest dweller named Jack must confront him to save the light and his beloved Lili. The film tells a classic story of the struggle between good and evil in a fantastical world.
26
IMDb 6.1
Someone to Watch Over Me (1987)
Running Time:
1h 46m
Genres:
Crime, Drama,
Romance, Thriller
Release:
1987
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Tom Berenger
Mimi Rogers
Lorraine Bracco
Jerry Orbach
John Rubinstein
Storyline of Someone to Watch Over Me (1987):
A Queens cop, Mike Keegan, is assigned to protect socialite Claire Gregory, who has witnessed a murder. Spending time with her around the clock, Mike develops strong feelings for Claire, complicating his professional duty. The film explores the conflict between duty and personal emotions in a dangerous situation.
27
IMDb 6.0
Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014)
Running Time:
2h 30m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Drama, Fantasy
Release:
2014
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Christian Bale
Joel Edgerton
Ben Kingsley
Sigourney Weaver
John Turturro
Storyline of Exodus: Gods and Kings (2014):
The film tells the biblical story of Moses, who rose up against the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses to lead the Hebrew people out of slavery. From prince of Egypt to leader of the rebellion, Moses travels a difficult path filled with trials and miracles. The film depicts an epic struggle for freedom and faith.
28
IMDb 6.0
G.I. Jane (1997)
Running Time:
2h 5m
Genres:
Action, Drama
Release:
1997
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Demi Moore
Viggo Mortensen
Anne Bancroft
Jason Beghe
Daniel von Bargen
Storyline of G.I. Jane (1997):
Lieutenant Jordan O’Neil becomes the first woman to undergo rigorous training in a U.S. Navy SEAL unit. Under the command of a strict instructor, Sergeant Urgayle, she is forced to overcome not only physical and psychological difficulties, but also prejudice from male soldiers. The film demonstrates her strength of spirit and determination to prove her ability to be a soldier on par with men.
29
IMDb 5.4
The Counselor (2013)
Running Time:
1h 57m
Genres:
Action, Adventure,
Crime, Drama,
Fantasy, Thriller
Release:
2013
Director:
Ridley Scott
Starring:
Michael Fassbender
Penélope Cruz
Cameron Diaz
Javier Bardem
Brad Pitt
Storyline of The Counselor (2013):
A successful lawyer decides to delve into the world of drug trafficking, tempted by easy money. This fateful choice sets off a chain of tragic events that quickly spiral out of his control. The film explores themes of greed, moral decline, and the inevitable consequences of rash actions.
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