Top 10 Adventure Movies That Won Best Picture at the Oscars

The adventure genre in cinema is a captivating realm, where stories can seamlessly blend with various other genres, creating a diverse cinematic experience. These adventures can be action-packed, fantastical, tragic, scary, or funny, as long as they emphasize exciting narratives or journeys to unfamiliar lands. Surprisingly, the Academy Awards have recognized the allure of adventure, with 10 adventure movies clinching the prestigious Best Picture trophy. In this ranking, we’ll delve into these winners, from those that are decent but flawed to the classics that stand among the best in Oscar history, irrespective of genre.

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10. Tom Jones (1963)

Director: Tony Richardson

Tom Jones might not be a cinematic masterpiece, but it distinguishes itself among Best Picture winners from the ’50s and ’60s. This breezy, small-scale adventure follows its titular character through various misadventures, infusing a comedic and somewhat romantic tone. While addressing class division, the film maintains a light-hearted approach, making it a unique entry in the Best Picture roster.

Release Date: August 24, 1963 Runtime: 129 minutes Watch on Max

9. Around the World in Eighty Days (1956)

Director: Michael Anderson, John Farrow

Around the World in Eighty Days may feel a tad lengthy at 182 minutes, but its adventure/fantasy/comedy elements take viewers on a journey inspired by Jules Verne’s story. The film, set in the 1870s, follows a scientist attempting the seemingly impossible task of circumnavigating the globe in 80 days. While the scope may have been groundbreaking in 1956, the film’s duration makes it less impactful today.

Release Date: October 17, 1956 Runtime: 175 minutes

8. Mutiny on the Bounty (1935)

Director: Frank Lloyd

The 1935 version of Mutiny on the Bounty stands as a darker and more drama-focused adventure. Depicting a crew’s rebellion against their captain, the film explores themes of revenge, turmoil, and conflict. While later adaptations surfaced, the 1935 rendition remains a compelling adventure, offering a glimpse into the challenges faced during a sea-bound mutiny.

Release Date: November 22, 1935 Runtime: 132 minutes

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7. Dances with Wolves (1990)

Director: Kevin Costner

Dances with Wolves showcases Kevin Costner’s directorial debut, providing a unique take on adventure. Following a U.S. Civil War soldier finding purpose among a Native American Sioux tribe, the film explores self-discovery and cultural appreciation. While sentimental and arguably overlong, its compelling narrative makes it a noteworthy adventure.

Release Date: Not specified Runtime: Not specified

6. Ben-Hur (1959)

Director: William Wyler

Ben-Hur stands as the ultimate epic of its decade, boasting a colossal runtime close to four hours. Set in biblical times, the film narrates a revenge quest after the protagonist’s family is sold into slavery. While extensive, the film justifies its length with countless extras, monumental sets, and a legendary climax, solidifying its place among the grandiose Best Picture winners.

Release Date: November 18, 1959 Runtime: 212 minutes

5. Gladiator (2000)

Director: Ridley Scott

Gladiator doesn’t redefine the action/adventure genre but successfully updates classic elements for the 21st century. Ridley Scott’s masterpiece tells a riveting tale of revenge, featuring Russell Crowe’s exceptional performance. The film’s impressive spectacle, rousing action, and enduring visual effects contribute to its standing as a top-tier adventure movie.

Release Date: May 5, 2000 Runtime: 155 minutes

4. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

Director: David Lean

David Lean’s The Bridge on the River Kwai exemplifies a war/drama adventure with survival elements. Set in a prison camp during World War II, the film intertwines tragedy, anti-war sentiments, and spectacular entertainment. Balancing tones adeptly, it delivers a poignant narrative while providing a grand cinematic experience.

Release Date: October 11, 1957 Runtime: 161 minutes

3. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

Directors: Daniel Scheinert and Daniel Kwan

Everything Everywhere All at Once injects a breath of fresh air into adventure cinema with its sci-fi premise. Navigating the multiverse, the film explores themes of fate, existence, and the quirky interconnectedness of alternate realities. Despite its modest budget, the movie’s emotional depth, humor, and engrossing storytelling establish it as a modern classic Best Picture winner.

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2. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

Director: Peter Jackson

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King marks the pinnacle of live-action fantasy cinema. A grand conclusion to the trilogy, the film combines character moments, epic battles, and emotional pay-offs seamlessly. While the entire trilogy deserves acclaim, the Oscar win for The Return of the King recognizes its role as the crowning achievement of the fantasy/adventure genre.

Release Date: Not specified Runtime: Not specified

1. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Director: David Lean

Topping the list is Lawrence of Arabia, not just a Best Picture winner but also the gold standard of epic adventure movies. David Lean’s masterpiece showcases the life of T.E. Lawrence, delivering breathtaking spectacle and adventure. With a runtime of almost four hours, the film unfolds on an epic scale, featuring impeccable acting, stunning visuals, and a narrative that transcends time.

Release Date: December 11, 1962 Runtime: 227 minutes

In exploring these 10 adventure movies that secured the coveted Best Picture at the Oscars, we witness the evolution of the genre, from classic epics to modern, multiverse-spanning tales. Each film, flawed or timeless, contributes to the rich tapestry of cinematic adventures that continue to captivate audiences across generations.

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