The 25 Best Films of Italian Director Sergio Leone

The Best Sergio Leone Films Are Defined by Their Uniqueness and Imagination

Italian director Sergio Leone is notorious for his unique style of cinematography, characterized by creative music, stark landscapes, and unconventional storylines.

His films have influenced many filmmakers and have garnered a strong following.

Leone's body of work is relatively small, but each film showcases a dedication to artistic innovation.

Here's a list of his top films, with something for every cinephile.

Top Picks from the Maestro of Spaghetti Westerns

• “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” (1966)

Top picks had to include this classic Western movie.

Ennio Morricone's haunting score sets the tone for this film, which follows a rivalry between a bounty hunter (Clint Eastwood) and a villain (Lee Van Cleef) as they search for $20,000 hidden by an outlaw.

Leone's masterful storytelling and brilliant cinematography make this film a must-watch.

This film is widely regarded as one of the best Western movies ever made.

• “Once Upon a Time in the West” (1969)

While also a Western, this movie stands out for its extraordinary scene transitions and realistic actors.

Leone worked with Morricone again to create a soundtrack that enhances each moment, capturing the drama as it unfolds in a unique way.

This movie is a spectacular tale of revenge, featuring charismatic performances from Charles Bronson and Henry Fonda.

• “A Fistful of Dollars” (1964)

Leone's first movie introduced audiences to his innovative style and changed the Western genre dramatically.

This film follows a mysterious stranger (Eastwood) who arrives in a Mexican border town and is drawn into a feud between two families.

The movie is a watershed moment in cinema, serving as a major cultural exchange between Italy and Hollywood.

Explore His Trailblazing Work in Other Genres

• “Days of Heaven” (1978)

This film illustrates Leone's versatility as a filmmaker, depicting a different setting and narrative style than his previous works.

This movie tells the story of a young man (Richard Gere) who flees the Great Depression with his sister (Linda Manz) and depicts the struggles of the homeless during this period.

The cinematography and visual style of this film are breathtaking.

• “Before the Revolution” (1964)

Leone's comedy debut showcases his ability to master different genres.

This movie is a satire about Italian life and politics in the early 1960s.

The film offers a satirical lens on various topics, including communism, capitalism, and love.

• “1900” (1976)

This epic romance film explores a diverse range of human experiences in 1900 Italy, backed by a sweeping soundtrack.

The movie follows the struggles of a young man (Giancarlo Giannini) whose life is intertwined with that of his peers.

This film highlights the beauty and pain of the human condition, exploring themes of love, betrayal, and sacrifice.

• “The Untouchables” (1987)

This film showcases Leone's skill in telling a compelling story with a screenplay that grabs your attention from the start.

The movie is about a lawman (Kevin Costner) tasked with taking down a powerful crime boss (Andy Garcia) in 1930s Chicago.

This electrifying narrative is a great example of Leone's ability to craft intricate stories.

• “Kill Bill: Volume 1” (2003)

Quentin Tarantino acknowledges the influence of Leone, and this film is a great example of how the Italian director has inspired a new generation of filmmakers.

The movie follows an assassin (Uma Thurman) on a mission to kill her former mentor (David Carradine).

This electrifying, action-packed film is a terrific showcase for Thurman's talents.

• “Django Unchained” (2012)

This film is a classic Western revenge tale, but with a unique twist.

The movie stars Jamie Foxx as a slave whose wife (Kerry Washington) has been sold off.

This film is a stark portrayal of American history, featuring a captivating performance by Christoph Waltz.

• “The Mission” (1986)

Leone's film about a group of nuns and their struggles to maintain their Brazilian mission is a visual delight.

The dramatic visuals and captivating music make this film a must-watch.

It also features a brilliant performance by Robert De Niro.

• “The Thing” (1982)

This science fiction film is a visual spectacle, showcasing Leone's dedication to technical mastery and imagination.

The film is about a group of scientists in Antarctica who encounter a parasitic alien.

Leone's innovative direction and attention to detail make this film a standout in the science fiction genre.

• “Fists in the Pocket” (1965)

This film is a bittersweet comedy with a touch of drama, rounding out Leone's impressive portfolio.

The movie is about a young man (Toni Servillo) who struggles to come to terms with his emotions and his relationships with his family.

Though not a widely seen film, it showcases Leone's ability to delve into the complexities of the human experience.

• “The Battle of Algiers” (1966)

This film is a stunning re-creation of the Algerian struggle for independence from France in the 1960s.

The movie is a landmark in political cinema and is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.

• “The Bird With the Crystal Plumage” (1970)

This film is a masterpiece of suspense and thriller genres, showcasing Leone's skill in this style of cinema.

The movie is about a pianist (Samantha Eggar) who witnesses a murder and becomes the target of the killer.

This thriller will keep you guessing until the very end.

• “Bugsy” (1991)

This film showcases a different style of Leone's work, telling the story of the notorious mobster Bugsy Siegel (played by Warren Beatty) and his life in Los Angeles.

The movie is a stellar period piece, featuring fantastic costumes and captivating sets.

• “Bulworth” (1998)

This satirical film explores American politics and the perceptions of race and class.

The movie stars Warren Beatty as an incumbent senator who decides to tell the truth for one day.

This thought-provoking film is a brilliant dramatic commentary on political integrity.

• “Tie Me Up! Tie Me Down!” (1969)

This film is a bizarre, hilarious tale of kidnapping, mental instability, and sexual obsession.

The movie is a bizarre mix of comedy and thriller, leaving viewers questioning what they just watched.

Leone's more eccentric films illustrate his willingness to experiment with genres and ideas.

These top picks from the Italian master showcase his versatility, imagination, and profound influence on world cinema.

From Westerns to comedies, science fiction to dramas, Leone's films continue to captivate audiences worldwide.