Top 7 Longest Hollywood Movies Ever Made: A Ranked List of Epic Cinematic Masterpieces

The allure of cinema has always been its ability to transport audiences to new worlds, immerse them in intricate stories, and evoke powerful emotions. In fact, some of the most noteworthy films in history have been those that truly embraced the art of storytelling and took their time to unfold. As a result, these epic tales have become some of the longest Hollywood movies ever made. Here, I present to you the seven longest Hollywood films, ranked by their running time and the indelible impact they've left on the world of cinema.

1. Cleopatra (1963) - 248 minutes

Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison, this historical drama recounts the tumultuous life and reign of Cleopatra VII. While the film's runtime is a staggering 248 minutes, it's worth every minute thanks to the grandiose set designs, powerful performances, and engrossing storytelling.

2. Gone with the Wind (1939) - 238 minutes

Based on Margaret Mitchell's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, this classic epic features iconic performances by Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable. The film's captivating tale of love, loss, and survival during the American Civil War has made it one of the most beloved and enduring films in Hollywood history.

3. The Godfather Part II (1974) - 200 minutes

Francis Ford Coppola's sequel to the critically acclaimed 'The Godfather' masterfully weaves two parallel storylines that delve deeper into the Corleone family's complex dynamics. With memorable performances by Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, and Diane Keaton, this 200-minute masterpiece is widely regarded as one of the greatest films of all time.

4. Once Upon a Time in America (1984) - 229 minutes

Directed by Sergio Leone, this epic crime drama stars Robert De Niro and James Woods as childhood friends whose lives become entwined with the criminal underworld. At 229 minutes long, the film's sprawling narrative and breathtaking cinematography make it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

5. The Ten Commandments (1956) - 220 minutes

This biblical epic, directed by Cecil B. DeMille, chronicles the life of Moses from his birth to the iconic parting of the Red Sea. With a runtime of 220 minutes, 'The Ten Commandments' boasts groundbreaking special effects and magnificent performances, making it a timeless classic.

6. Lawrence of Arabia (1962) - 216 minutes

This sweeping historical drama, directed by David Lean, tells the true story of British officer T.E. Lawrence and his experiences in the Arabian Peninsula during World War I. At 216 minutes, the film's breathtaking cinematography and Peter O'Toole's unforgettable performance as Lawrence make it one of the most celebrated films in history.

7. Doctor Zhivago (1965) - 197 minutes

Another David Lean epic, this film adaptation of Boris Pasternak's novel tells the story of a Russian doctor and poet during the Russian Revolution and subsequent civil war. The film's 197-minute runtime is filled with beautiful cinematography, compelling characters, and a powerful love story, making it a must-see for any fan of classic cinema.

These seven films represent the pinnacle of Hollywood's ability to create immersive, engaging, and emotionally resonant experiences. Their enduring legacies serve as a testament to the power of cinema and the importance of taking the time to fully explore and develop a story, no matter how long it takes.