10 Breathtaking Movies Where the Landscape Steals the Show

Release Date: October 20, 2022
Rating: 4.1

Set against the backdrop of the idyllic yet isolating Irish landscape, The Banshees of Inisherin follows two lifelong friends, Colm and Pádraic, whose friendship takes a dark turn when Colm unexpectedly decides to end their relationship. The stunning vistas of the island of Inisherin reflect the characters' emotional turmoil, with every sweeping shot encapsulating their profound sense of loss. Read more.

Release Date: December 11, 1962
Rating: 4.3

In this epic tale of adventure and conflict, Lawrence of Arabia portrays the dramatic and vast deserts of the Middle East during World War I. T.E. Lawrence, a British officer, becomes an unlikely hero, navigating the rugged beauty and harsh realities of the desert. The majestic cinematography captures the sweeping dunes, making the landscape as much a character as the man himself. Read more.

Release Date: December 25, 2015
Rating: 3.8

Set in the harsh terrains of the American wilderness in the 1820s, The Revenant follows frontiersman Hugh Glass as he seeks vengeance against those who left him for dead. The breathtaking cinematography showcases the stark beauty of unspoiled nature—from vast plains to rugged mountains—creating a visceral and immersive experience that mirrors Glass's struggle for survival. Read more.

Release Date: January 3, 2008
Rating: 4.0

The Fall weaves a tale of imagination as a stuntman, telling a young girl a fantastical story of mythical heroes, amidst stunning backdrops that blur the lines between reality and fantasy. The film showcases exotic locations that enhance the surreal quality of the narrative, blending the pain of the protagonist with enchanting landscapes. Read more.

Release Date: December 18, 1975
Rating: 4.0

Stanley Kubrick's adaptation, Barry Lyndon, is a visual feast that transports viewers to the opulent 18th century with its lush cinematography and lavish set pieces. The picturesque landscapes of Ireland and France serve as a stunning backdrop to the rise and fall of an Irish rogue, as the film captures both the beauty and the decay of aristocratic life. Read more.

Release Date: July 6, 2000
Rating: 4.0

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon masterfully combines breathtaking martial arts with breathtaking scenery. The film threads through the beautiful landscapes of China, showcasing lush forests and misty mountains that reflect the characters' inner journeys. The stunning visuals enhance the film’s themes of love, honor, and the pursuit of the unattainable. Read more.

Release Date: December 18, 2013
Rating: 3.9

In The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, viewers are taken on a globe-trotting adventure that sees the timid titular character embark on thrilling experiences across scenic landscapes. From Iceland’s breathtaking waterfalls to the towering Himalayas, the film makes every location feel like a fresh start in Walter's transformative journey. Read more.

Release Date: July 22, 2002
Rating: 3.9

Hero is a visual masterpiece that showcases the beauty of ancient China. Set during the Warring States period, the film features lush landscapes, vibrant colors, and elegant choreography that enhance its gripping narrative. Each scene is artfully crafted, making the landscapes an integral part of the storytelling. Read more.

Release Date: August 26, 1992
Rating: 3.8

In The Last of the Mohicans, the captivating beauty of the American frontier serves as the backdrop to a tale of survival and passion during the French and Indian War. The film features lush forests and sweeping rivers, highlighting the struggle and resilience of its characters as they navigate through treacherous terrain. Read more.

Release Date: April 27, 1983
Rating: 4.3

Koyaanisqatsi presents a visual tone poem that showcases stunning imagery from across the United States, contrasting nature’s beauty with the chaos of modernity. Without dialogues or narration, the film uses powerful visuals and Philip Glass’s haunting score to deliver a commentary on the human condition and the relationship with our environment. Read more.