Must-Watch Films by Ridley Scott – The Visionary Behind 'Alien,' 'Blade Runner,' and 'Gladiator'

Renowned for his versatility, Ridley Scott excels at directing historical dramas, science fiction, and emotionally charged life stories.

1. The Duellists

The Duellists

• UK, 1977
• Drama, War
• Duration: 100 minutes
• IMDb: 7.4

A trivial quarrel between two officers in Napoleon's army ignites a prolonged feud. They engage in a duel, but their rivalry continues for years to come.

In his debut feature, Ridley Scott embraced a genre he would revisit often: intense historical drama. The protagonists’ conflict unfolds against real historical events and stunning period settings.

2. Alien

Alien

• USA, UK, 1979
• Sci-Fi, Thriller, Horror
• Duration: 116 minutes
• IMDb: 8.4

The crew of the spaceship Nostromo responds to a distress signal from the LV-426 planetoid. Believing someone needs help, they land and soon discover a terrifying alien lifeform. Ordinary workers must now confront a deadly xenomorph intent on killing and reproducing.

Following the success of 'The Duellists,' Scott was invited to direct this sci-fi horror based on a promising script by newcomer Dan O’Bannon. Scott personally crafted numerous storyboards inspired by '2001: A Space Odyssey' and 'Star Wars,' impressing the studio.

The result was a groundbreaking film blending sci-fi and intimate horror, with Hans Ruedi Giger’s special effects delivering both beauty and terror. 'Alien' spawned numerous sequels by directors like James Cameron and David Fincher. In 2012, Scott returned with the prequel 'Prometheus.'

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3. Blade Runner

Blade Runner

• USA, 1982
• Sci-Fi, Drama, Thriller
• Duration: 117 minutes
• IMDb: 8.1

In a futuristic world, scientists create replicants indistinguishable from humans to perform the most grueling and degrading tasks. Some escape, prompting the deployment of 'blade runners' to hunt them down. Rick Deckard, a seasoned blade runner, is ready to retire but faces one last mission.

Warner Bros. initially aimed to adapt Philip K. Dick's novel 'Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?' but Scott’s involvement led to a significant shift. The film emphasizes philosophical themes about life and death rather than ecological issues.

Test audiences found it complex and dark, leading producers to add voice-over narration and a happier ending. Though it initially underperformed, Scott later re-edited the film, which became as iconic as 'Alien.'

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4. Thelma & Louise

Thelma & Louise

• USA, UK, France, 1991
• Drama, Crime
• Duration: 130 minutes
• IMDb: 7.5

The monotonous lives of Thelma, a waitress, and Louise, trapped in an abusive marriage, take a turn when they decide to escape their troubles on a road trip. After an incident forces them to commit a crime, they become fugitives, compelled to keep breaking the law to evade capture.

Scott has often portrayed strong female leads early in his career. Ellen Ripley from 'Alien' is a prime example. The tragedy of Thelma and Louise lies in their isolation—they are ignored even by the police, while the only reasonable man, played by Harvey Keitel, cannot change their fate.

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5. Gladiator

Gladiator

• USA, UK, 2000
• Drama, Historical, Action
• Duration: 155 minutes
• IMDb: 8.5

Betrayed by the new emperor Commodus, famed Roman general Maximus loses everything. Stripped of his family and name, he fights as a gladiator, using his military skills and strength to seek justice and confront his enemy.

After a series of box office disappointments in the 1990s, Scott returned with this grand and brutal historical epic. The powerful performances by Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, combined with massive sets, captivated audiences and critics alike. 'Gladiator' won five Oscars from 12 nominations, two Golden Globes, four BAFTAs, and numerous other awards.

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6. Black Hawk Down

Black Hawk Down

• USA, UK, 2001
• Action, War, Drama
• Duration: 144 minutes
• IMDb: 7.7

Set in early October 1993 Somalia, engulfed in civil war, field commanders intercept humanitarian aid, causing widespread famine. The US military attempts to capture a warlord controlling Mogadishu, but underestimates enemy strength. The mission turns into a prolonged, deadly battle.

Scott’s gritty war film is based on true events from October 3-4, 1993. However, he faced criticism for depicting US troops fighting almost alone, omitting Malaysian and Pakistani forces’ assistance. Despite inaccuracies, 'Black Hawk Down' remains a gripping cinematic experience.

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7. Matchstick Men

Matchstick Men

• USA, UK, 2003
• Drama, Comedy, Crime
• Duration: 116 minutes
• IMDb: 7.3

Con artist Roy and his partner run small-time scams. His personal life is in disarray until he discovers he has a 14-year-old daughter, Angela. Roy soon realizes he must care for her, and Angela demands to learn the art of deception from her father.

After numerous large-scale action films, Scott crafted this touching tragicomedy, relying on strong performances, unexpected plot twists, and emotional depth. Nicholas Cage shines in a standout role.

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8. Kingdom of Heaven

Kingdom of Heaven

• USA, Spain, 2005
• War, Drama
• Duration: 145 minutes
• IMDb: 7.2

Blacksmith Balian flees his homeland to join his father on the Crusades. After his father’s death, Balian is knighted and becomes a baron, journeying to Jerusalem.

Following the success of 'Gladiator,' Scott was entrusted with another historical epic. Producers expected a brutal, fast-paced action film, but Scott created a sweeping portrayal of the Crusades era. Due to creative differences, the studio released a shortened version that cut characters and storylines.

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9. A Good Year

A Good Year

• USA, UK, 2006
• Drama, Romance, Comedy
• Duration: 117 minutes
• IMDb: 7.0

After his uncle’s death, successful stockbroker Max plans to sell his vineyard in Provence. Returning to the place of his childhood vacations, he gradually finds himself drawn to a peaceful life, far from the business world’s chaos.

The story originated from Scott’s ideas, later adapted into a novel by Peter Mayle. Dissatisfied with the literary version, Scott incorporated his own vision into the film.

Russell Crowe stars again, with a subtle nod to 'Gladiator' in a memorable scene. Unlike Scott’s typical intense films, 'A Good Year' is a gentle and heartfelt dramedy.

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10. American Gangster

American Gangster

• USA, UK, 2007
• Biography, Drama, Crime
• Duration: 157 minutes
• IMDb: 7.8

Following the death of a crime boss, his driver Frank Lucas uses his intelligence and connections to build his own empire. He imports heroin from Vietnam and becomes a crime kingpin. Frank has allies within law enforcement, but honest cop Richie Roberts is determined to bring him down.

Scott’s crime drama highlights the intense rivalry between Frank Lucas, portrayed by Denzel Washington, and Roberts, played by Russell Crowe. The film presents both characters with moral complexity, avoiding a simple good-versus-evil narrative.

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11. Body of Lies

Body of Lies

• USA, UK, 2008
• Action, Drama, Thriller
• Duration: 128 minutes
• IMDb: 7.1

US intelligence officer Roger Ferris tracks terrorists worldwide to prevent attacks, monitored by CIA veteran Ed Hoffman via satellite. To catch a dangerous militant, Ferris devises a risky plan, but soon discovers his superiors are playing a more complex game.

Featuring Russell Crowe and Leonardo DiCaprio, Scott blends a globe-trotting action thriller with a detective story full of twists. Although filmed only in the US and Morocco, the film convincingly recreates various international settings.

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Available on Google Play →

12. The Martian

The Martian

• UK, USA, Hungary, 2015
• Sci-Fi, Adventure
• Duration: 144 minutes
• IMDb: 8.0

In the near future, a scientific team studying Mars must evacuate due to a severe storm. During the escape, astronaut Watney is swept away and injured, losing contact with his crew who presume him dead. Alone on the distant planet, Watney must survive against all odds.

While Scott’s recent years were mostly associated with his return to the 'Alien' franchise—often met with criticism—'The Martian' was widely praised for its blend of science fiction and humor.

The film earned seven Oscar nominations, though it faced stiff competition and did not win.

Available on iTunes →

Available on Google Play →

Which Ridley Scott films resonate with you the most? Do you prefer his sci-fi experiments, historical epics, or dramatic tales? Perhaps your favorite isn’t listed here—share your thoughts in the comments!

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