9 Best Alan Parker Movies: Top Alan Parker Films
Alan Parker was an English film director, producer, and screenwriter, who made a significant contribution to the world of cinema.
He was known for his versatility, working across different genres, including drama, musicals, and crime thrillers.
Throughout his career, Parker was nominated for numerous awards, and his work earned critical acclaim for its technical proficiency and emotional depth.
Alan Parker’s films were marked by their strong narratives, memorable characters, and compelling visual style. His work continues to be influential and celebrated in the world of cinema.
Here are some of Alan Parker’s best films.
Best Alan Parker Films Introduction
Let’s jump right in!
1. Bugsy Malone (1976)
Bugsy Malone is a musical gangster film that was released in 1976. The movie was directed by Alan Parker and starred an all-child cast, including Scott Baio, Jodie Foster, and John Cassisi.
The film is a parody of gangster films, set in the prohibition era of the 1920s, but with a twist – all the characters are played by children.
The plot of the film revolves around two rival gangs in New York City – Fat Sam’s gang and Dandy Dan’s gang – who are fighting over control of the city’s lucrative speakeasies.
Bugsy Malone, a good-hearted boxing promoter who wants to clean up the streets of New York, becomes involved in the conflict and tries to help Fat Sam’s gang by providing them with new weapons.
The film features several musical numbers, all of which are sung by the child actors but dubbed over by adult voices.
The film’s most famous song is “We Could Have Been Anything That We Wanted To Be,” which is sung by Jodie Foster and Scott Baio.
Bugsy Malone was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it has since become a cult classic.
The film’s unique concept and catchy musical numbers continue to attract new fans today, nearly fifty years after its initial release.
![Bugsy Malone [DVD] [1976]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51pEEJYXDZL.jpg)
2. Angel Heart (1987)
“Angel Heart” is a 1987 American horror mystery film directed by Alan Parker and starring Mickey Rourke, Robert De Niro, and Lisa Bonet.
The film is based on the novel “Falling Angel” by William Hjortsberg.
The story follows Harry Angel (Mickey Rourke), a private detective hired by Louis Cyphre (Robert De Niro) to find a missing person named Johnny Favorite.
As Harry delves deeper into the case, he discovers a series of bizarre and terrifying events that lead him to question his own sanity and the nature of reality.
The film was controversial upon its release due to its graphic violence, sexual content, and religious themes. It received mixed reviews from critics but has since gained a cult following.
“Angel Heart” is known for its atmospheric cinematography, haunting score, and strong performances from its lead actors.
It has been praised for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of film noir, horror, and psychological thriller.
3. Birdy (1984)
“Birdy” is a 1984 American drama film directed by Alan Parker and based on the novel of the same name by William Wharton.
The film stars Nicolas Cage and Matthew Modine in the lead roles, and tells the story of two childhood friends who enlist in the Vietnam War and suffer emotional and physical trauma.
The film received critical acclaim for its performances and direction, and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Cinematography. Here are some key elements of the film:
Friendship: The film centers around the friendship between the two main characters, Birdy (Modine) and Al (Cage).
The two are childhood friends who bond over their shared love of birds, and enlist in the military together. Throughout the film, their friendship is tested as they suffer through the horrors of war and struggle to readjust to civilian life.
PTSD: Both Birdy and Al suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of their experiences in Vietnam. Birdy becomes obsessed with birds and believes he can fly like them, while Al struggles with nightmares and flashbacks.
The film explores the psychological toll of war and the challenges faced by veterans returning home.
Cinematography: The film is notable for its stunning cinematography, particularly in the scenes where Birdy imagines himself as a bird and takes flight.
The camera work and visual effects create a dreamlike, surreal atmosphere that contrasts with the harsh reality of the war scenes.
Performance: The performances of Modine and Cage are widely praised, particularly Modine’s portrayal of Birdy. His physical transformation and nuanced performance capture the character’s obsession with birds and detachment from reality.
Cage’s performance as Al, the more grounded and pragmatic of the two, provides a solid counterbalance to Modine’s eccentricity.
Overall, “Birdy” is a moving and powerful film that explores themes of friendship, trauma, and the human psyche. It remains a classic of 1980s cinema and a standout in the filmographies of both Parker and Modine.
4. Pink Floyd: The Wall (1982)
Pink Floyd: The Wall is a musical drama film released in 1982, directed by Alan Parker, and written by Pink Floyd bassist Roger Waters.
The film is an adaptation of Pink Floyd’s concept album of the same name, which tells the story of a rock star named Pink who, in the wake of his fame, struggles with personal demons and eventually builds a metaphorical wall around himself.
The film features a combination of live-action footage and animated sequences, and is notable for its stunning visuals and innovative use of music and sound.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OCeUTZQb1a0
The film features some of Pink Floyd’s most iconic songs, including “Another Brick in the Wall”, “Comfortably Numb”, and “Hey You”.
Pink Floyd: The Wall is often praised for its exploration of themes such as isolation, alienation, and the psychological toll of fame.
It has become a cult classic and is widely regarded as one of the greatest musical films ever made. The film’s imagery and message have resonated with audiences for decades, and it continues to be celebrated by fans of Pink Floyd and lovers of music and cinema alike.
5. Midnight Express (1978)
Midnight Express is a 1978 film directed by Alan Parker and written by Oliver Stone. The film is based on the true story of Billy Hayes, an American who was arrested in Turkey in the 1970s for drug smuggling and sentenced to 30 years in prison.
The film follows Hayes’ harrowing experiences in a Turkish prison, where he faces brutal treatment, violence, and corruption.
The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving six Academy Award nominations and winning two for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Score.
It is known for its intense portrayal of the horrors of prison life and the devastating impact that incarceration can have on a person’s mental and physical well-being.
Midnight Express also generated controversy at the time of its release for its portrayal of the Turkish people and its accuracy in depicting the events that occurred.
Nevertheless, the film remains a powerful and unforgettable portrayal of one man’s struggle for survival in a brutal and unforgiving system.
6. Angela’s Ashes (1999)
“Angela’s Ashes” is a drama film directed by Alan Parker, released in 1999. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir by Frank McCourt, which tells the story of his impoverished childhood in Limerick, Ireland, during the 1930s and 1940s.
The film stars Emily Watson, Robert Carlyle, and Joe Breen in the lead roles.
The film follows the struggles of the McCourt family, who are living in extreme poverty in Limerick, Ireland. Frank’s father is an alcoholic, and his mother Angela is struggling to raise her children amidst the harsh economic conditions of the time.
Despite their difficult circumstances, Frank and his siblings find solace in their imagination and dreams of a better life.
Alan Parker’s direction captures the gritty realism of Limerick in the 1930s and 1940s, while also showcasing the hope and resilience of the human spirit.
The film received critical acclaim and was nominated for three Academy Awards, including Best Original Score. Overall, “Angela’s Ashes” is a powerful and moving film that portrays the harsh realities of poverty and the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.
7. The Commitments (1991)
“The Commitments” is a 1991 musical comedy-drama film directed by Alan Parker and based on the novel of the same name by Roddy Doyle.
The film tells the story of a group of working-class youths in Dublin who form a soul band and aspire to make it big in the music industry.
The film is notable for its energetic musical performances, which feature classic soul and R&B hits from the 1960s and 70s.
The performances are performed by the cast themselves, who underwent months of rigorous training to master the songs and dance moves.
The film explores themes of identity, class, and the power of music to bring people together. The central character, Jimmy Rabbitte (played by Robert Arkins), is a young man with a passion for music and a desire to create something meaningful.
He assembles the group of musicians and singers who become The Commitments, and they go on a journey of discovery as they navigate the challenges of the music industry and the personal struggles of their own lives.
The film is also known for its humor, particularly the banter between the members of the band and their often-frustrated manager, played by Andrew Strong. The film’s witty dialogue and colorful characters make it a memorable and entertaining watch.
Overall, “The Commitments” is a joyful celebration of soul music and the human spirit. Its combination of music, humor, and heart has made it a beloved classic and a favorite of audiences around the world.
8. Mississippi Burning (1988)
“Mississippi Burning” is a 1988 American crime drama film directed by Alan Parker and starring Gene Hackman, Willem Dafoe, and Frances McDormand. The film is loosely based on the real-life events surrounding the murders of three civil rights workers in Mississippi in 1964.
The story follows two FBI agents, Rupert Anderson (Gene Hackman) and Alan Ward (Willem Dafoe), who are sent to investigate the disappearance of the three civil rights workers in a small town in Mississippi.
As they investigate, they uncover a web of corruption, racism, and violence that permeates the town and threatens to derail their investigation.
The film was critically acclaimed for its powerful performances, intense subject matter, and gritty realism. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and won Best Cinematography.
“Mississippi Burning” is known for its unflinching portrayal of racism and violence in the American South during the Civil Rights Movement. It has been praised for its historical accuracy and its ability to shed light on a dark chapter in American history.
9. Evita (1996)
“Evita” is a 1996 musical drama film directed by Alan Parker and starring Madonna, Antonio Banderas, and Jonathan Pryce.
It is based on the musical of the same name by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, which tells the story of Eva Perón, a prominent figure in Argentine politics and the wife of President Juan Perón.
The film follows Eva (Madonna) as she rises from a poverty-stricken childhood to become a beloved and powerful figure in Argentine politics.
Along the way, she faces opposition from the wealthy and conservative elements of Argentine society, as well as criticism from those who see her as a political opportunist.
The film is known for its lavish musical numbers, which showcase Madonna’s vocal talents and the colorful, stylized visuals of director Alan Parker. The film’s score includes such hits as “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina” and “Buenos Aires.”
“Evita” was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Original Song and Best Cinematography, and won the award for Best Original Song for “You Must Love Me.” Madonna’s performance as Eva was widely praised, and the film is considered a high point in her acting career.
The film explores themes of power, ambition, and the relationship between politics and celebrity.
It also delves into the complex legacy of Eva Perón, who is seen by some as a champion of the poor and by others as a divisive figure with a questionable past. Overall, “Evita” is a visually stunning and musically vibrant film that captures the spirit of one of the most iconic figures in Latin American history.
3 Characteristics of Alan Parker Films
Social commentary: Alan Parker’s films often explore social and political issues, and offer commentary on contemporary society.
For example, films like Mississippi Burning and The Commitments deal with issues of race and class, while Pink Floyd: The Wall explores themes of alienation and the psychological toll of fame.
Realistic portrayal of characters: Parker’s films often feature realistic and complex characters, whose struggles and conflicts are portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
He is known for his ability to draw out strong performances from his actors, and for his attention to detail in developing his characters’ backstories and motivations.
Use of music: Music plays an important role in many of Parker’s films, and he often uses it to underscore the emotional impact of a scene.
For example, in films like Fame and The Commitments, music is central to the narrative, while in Pink Floyd: The Wall, the music is an integral part of the film’s surreal and psychedelic imagery.
Parker is also known for his collaborations with prominent musicians, such as Pink Floyd, who provided the soundtrack for The Wall.
3 Reasons Why You Should Watch Alan Parker Films
Alan Parker was a highly acclaimed British film director who was known for his ability to tell gripping and emotionally powerful stories. Here are three reasons why you should watch Alan Parker films:
Masterful storytelling: Alan Parker was a masterful storyteller who had a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the human condition.
His films are known for their rich characters, intricate plots, and ability to captivate audiences from beginning to end.
Diverse range of genres: Alan Parker was a versatile director who tackled a diverse range of genres throughout his career.
He directed everything from musicals like “Fame” and “The Commitments” to dramas like “Mississippi Burning” and “Midnight Express”. His ability to work across different genres is a testament to his versatility and skill as a director.
Impactful themes: Alan Parker’s films often dealt with important social and political issues. His films tackled topics like racism, poverty, addiction, and the struggle for justice.
Parker was known for his ability to handle difficult themes with sensitivity and nuance, making his films not only entertaining but also thought-provoking and impactful.
Overall, Alan Parker’s films are known for their powerful storytelling, diverse range of genres, and impactful themes. Whether you are a fan of musicals, dramas, or thrillers, there is something for everyone in Parker’s filmography.
Best Alan Parker Films – Wrapping Up
Alan Parker was a talented filmmaker who made a significant contribution to the world of cinema.
He was known for his versatility, working across different genres, including drama, musicals, and crime thrillers. His films were marked by their strong narratives, memorable characters, and compelling visual style. Here is a summary of some of Alan Parker’s best films:
“Midnight Express” (1978) – A gripping prison drama based on the true story of a young American who is caught smuggling drugs in Turkey and sent to a brutal prison.
“Fame” (1980) – A musical drama that follows a group of students at the High School of Performing Arts in New York City as they pursue their dreams of stardom.
“Pink Floyd – The Wall” (1982) – A surrealistic musical film based on the rock band Pink Floyd’s concept album “The Wall.”
“Birdy” (1984) – A psychological drama based on the novel by William Wharton, about two friends who served in the Vietnam War and are struggling to readjust to civilian life.
“Mississippi Burning” (1988) – A crime drama based on the real-life investigation into the murders of three civil rights activists in Mississippi in 1964.
“The Commitments” (1991) – A musical comedy-drama about a group of working-class Dubliners who form a soul band.
“Evita” (1996) – A musical biopic about the life of Eva Perón, the First Lady of Argentina.
“Angela’s Ashes” (1999) – A drama film based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning memoir by Frank McCourt, which tells the story of his impoverished childhood in Limerick, Ireland.
Overall, Alan Parker’s films continue to be influential and celebrated in the world of cinema, and his legacy will continue to inspire filmmakers for years to come.
