With Ridley Scott’s newest film Robin Hood opening this weekend, I decided to create a personal top five list of his films. I believe that Ridley Scott is a brilliant filmmaker and an impressive world builder. His presence can always be felt in his films through his visual style and iconic imagery. He usually tackles complicated stories with deep themes and meanings. At times his films falter and some could argue that he has had three late decade slumps (1989 – Black Rain, 1996/97 – White Squall and G.I. Jane, 2006 – A Good Year). That said, Ridley Scott is immensely talented and will always execute his films with absolute perfection.

Honorable Mentions

Body of Lies

This Iraq war drama take on the spy genre was panned by most, but I truly feel there is a lot to love about this film.

American Gangster

I don’t care what anyone says, this film boasts two great dual narratives that collide head on. A little bit of trivia, Antoine Fuqua (Training Day) was originally going to direct Denzel Washington and Benicio Del Toro in the leads. His version of the film was called Tru Blu.

Black Hawk Down

Many complained about the lack of character development, but Scott was obviously more interested in dropping this men into the war zone and watching them work. One of the best directed films I have ever had the pleasure of viewing.

Ridley Scott’s Top Five Films

5. The Duellists

Harvey Keitel and Keith Carradine play officers in the French Army who have a life long disdain for each other, due to an insult, that will not fade until one of them is dead. Ridley Scott’s feature debut. One of my favorite endings in film history.

4. Alien

Combined the horror and sci-fi genre and made an instant classic. The tagline says it all. This film is riveting.

3. Gladiator

After a string of mediocre films Scott reinvented the epic genre with this film. Stunning epic visuals, a juicy vengeance story, and even an Ingmar Bergman esque ending. Also notable for being the first collaboration between Scott and go to actor Russell Crowe.

Trailer

2. Kingdom of Heaven (Director’s Cut)

This film is unjustly misunderstood. Audiences and critics were both expecting Gladiator 2, but what they received was a brilliant meditation on redemption, purpose, love, and Middle Eastern relations. Yeah, definitely not Gladiator 2. This film is so much more. This film is a masterpiece. For those that want Gladiator 2… I think it is a safe bet to head to the theater this weekend.

Trailer

1. Blade Runner

The ultimate science fiction film. Scott really puts the audience right in the middle of Deckard’s journey. You are in awe of the world that surrounds him, but also weary of it. Every time I watch this film I grow more appreciation for it. It is so dense you could spend hours talking about it. A beautiful haunting masterpiece.

Final Cut Trailer