John Boorman is an English filmmaker who began his career in the film industry as a critic for a women’s journal and a radio station before joining the BBC in Bristol as an assistant director.
Boorman is best known for directing a wide range of films, including Point Blank (1967), Hell in the Pacific (1968), Deliverance (1972), Zardoz (1974), Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977), Excalibur (1981), The Emerald Forest (1985), Hope and Glory (1987), The General (1998), The Tailor of Panama (2001), and Queen and Country (2014). Many of his films have been critically acclaimed and have received numerous awards and nominations.
Boorman has also made two films about recent Irish history, The General (1998) and The Tiger’s Tail (2006), which reflect his Irish heritage. The General is a biopic about Martin Cahill, a notorious Dublin gangster, while The Tiger’s Tail is an economic drama about a businessman who becomes a victim of identity theft during the Celtic Tiger boom.
Throughout his career, Boorman has been praised for his innovative approach to filmmaking and his ability to tackle complex themes and subject matter.
He has often explored issues of power, identity, and morality in his films, and his work has been noted for its visual style and use of symbolism.
Best John Boorman Movies
John Boorman is a highly respected and influential filmmaker who has had a significant impact on the film industry.
He continues to work in the industry today and is regarded as a true master of his craft.
1. Having a Wild Weekend (1965)
“Having a Wild Weekend” is a 1965 British comedy film directed by John Boorman and starring the British rock band The Dave Clark Five.
The film follows the band as they become embroiled in a series of misadventures over the course of a wild weekend in London.
The plot of the film revolves around the band’s attempts to secure a recording contract, while also dealing with various romantic entanglements and misunderstandings.
Along the way, they encounter a wide array of eccentric characters, including a group of wealthy socialites and a mad scientist who is experimenting with mind control.
“Having a Wild Weekend” is known for its energetic and lively musical performances by The Dave Clark Five, as well as its zany and irreverent sense of humor.
The film also features stylish and inventive cinematography by Denys Coop, which captures the vibrant energy of London in the 1960s.
Overall, “Having a Wild Weekend” is a fun and entertaining film that captures the spirit of the British Invasion and the cultural upheaval of the 1960s. It is a must-see for fans of The Dave Clark Five and anyone who loves classic British comedy.
2. Point Blank (1967)
“Point Blank” is a 1967 American neo-noir crime film directed by John Boorman. The film follows the story of a betrayed criminal, played by Lee Marvin, who seeks revenge against the organization that left him for dead and stole his money.
Here are three characteristics of “Point Blank” and John Boorman’s films in general:
Stylish visuals: John Boorman’s films are known for their striking visual style, and “Point Blank” is no exception.
The film features inventive camera angles, use of color and lighting, and editing techniques that create a sense of visual flair and intensity.
Non-linear narrative: “Point Blank” and many of Boorman’s other films employ a non-linear narrative structure, which can be disorienting at times but ultimately adds to the sense of mystery and intrigue.
The film’s use of flashbacks and dream sequences creates a fragmented, hallucinatory atmosphere that heightens the tension and uncertainty.
Existential themes: Many of Boorman’s films explore existential themes such as identity, mortality, and the search for meaning.
In “Point Blank,” the protagonist’s quest for revenge is ultimately revealed to be a futile attempt to regain a sense of control and agency in a world that is fundamentally indifferent to his suffering. This sense of existential dread and nihilism is a hallmark of Boorman’s work.
3. Hell in the Pacific (1968)
“Hell in the Pacific” is a 1968 war film directed by John Boorman and starring Lee Marvin and Toshirô Mifune.
The film tells the story of two soldiers, an American pilot and a Japanese navy captain, who are stranded together on a deserted island in the Pacific Ocean during World War II.
The film is notable for its exploration of themes of survival, isolation, and the struggle to overcome cultural differences and language barriers.
It is also known for its stunning cinematography, capturing the natural beauty and harshness of the tropical island setting, as well as its intense and realistic portrayal of the psychological toll of war.
“Hell in the Pacific” is a thought-provoking and powerful film that challenges viewers to reflect on the human cost of war and the universal struggles of the human condition.
It remains a classic of its genre and a testament to the enduring power of cinema to provoke reflection and inspire empathy.
![Hell in the Pacific [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/513XYDRGVAL.jpg)
4. Leo the Last (1970)
Leo the Last (1970) is another notable film directed by René Clair. It tells the story of Leo, a wealthy, aimless man who has lost touch with the world around him.
Leo decides to use his wealth to help the people in his community, including a group of immigrant families who are facing eviction.
The film is notable for its exploration of class, race, and social injustice, as well as for its dreamlike visual style and surreal elements.
Leo the Last was well-received by critics at the time of its release and has since become regarded as a classic of 1970s cinema.
It showcases René Clair’s continued ability to tell compelling stories with innovative visuals and thematic depth. If you are interested in exploring Clair’s work, Leo the Last is definitely a film worth checking out.
5. Deliverance (1972)
Deliverance is a 1972 American thriller film directed by John Boorman, based on the novel of the same name by James Dickey.
The movie tells the story of four friends, Ed (Jon Voight), Bobby (Ned Beatty), Lewis (Burt Reynolds), and Drew (Ronny Cox), who decide to embark on a canoeing trip down a river in the remote wilderness of Georgia.
As they make their way down the river, the group encounters various obstacles and challenges, including dangerous rapids and hostile locals.
However, things take a dark turn when they are ambushed by two violent locals, who sexually assault Bobby.
The rest of the movie follows the group as they try to survive in the wilderness and evade the attackers, who are now hunting them down.
The movie explores themes of masculinity, violence, and the human instinct for survival.
Deliverance was a critical and commercial success upon its release and is widely regarded as a classic of American cinema.
It was nominated for three Academy Awards and is particularly remembered for its famous dueling banjos scene, which has become an iconic moment in film history.
6. Zardoz (1974)
“Zardoz” is a 1974 science fiction film directed by John Boorman and starring Sean Connery.
The film is set in a dystopian future where a small group of immortal humans, known as the Eternals, live in a utopian society that is maintained by a giant stone head called Zardoz.
The plot of the film follows the character of Zed, played by Connery, who is a savage from outside the utopian society.
Zed is brought into the society by the Eternals, who use him as a pawn in their own political and social games.
“Zardoz” is known for its psychedelic visuals, unconventional storytelling, and its philosophical exploration of the nature of humanity and the meaning of life.
The film features striking cinematography by Geoffrey Unsworth and a haunting musical score by David Munrow.
While “Zardoz” was not a commercial success upon its initial release, it has since developed a cult following among fans of science fiction and avant-garde cinema.
It is a unique and thought-provoking film that challenges conventional notions of storytelling and genre.
7. Exorcist II: The Heretic (1977)
“Exorcist II: The Heretic” is a 1977 American horror film directed by John Boorman, and a sequel to the highly successful 1973 film, “The Exorcist.”
The film follows the story of a psychiatrist who investigates the death of a priest involved in an exorcism, and becomes entangled in a web of supernatural forces and psychic energy.
Despite being a highly anticipated sequel to a beloved horror classic, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” was a critical and commercial failure.
However, here are three characteristics of John Boorman’s films that can be found in this movie:
Ambitious storytelling: John Boorman is known for taking risks with his films and tackling challenging subject matter, and “Exorcist II: The Heretic” is no exception.
The film attempts to expand upon the mythology of the original film by exploring the psychological and metaphysical implications of demonic possession, and by introducing new supernatural elements such as psychic powers and astral projection.
Surreal visuals: Like many of Boorman’s films, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” features striking and surreal visuals that create a sense of otherworldly atmosphere.
The film’s use of dream sequences, psychedelic imagery, and vivid color schemes all contribute to the sense of disorientation and unease that permeates the film.
Exploration of complex themes: Despite being a horror film, “Exorcist II: The Heretic” also explores complex themes such as the nature of evil, the role of faith in modern society, and the conflict between science and mysticism.
These themes are common in Boorman’s films, which often tackle weighty philosophical and existential questions.
8. Excalibur (1981)
“Excalibur” is a 1981 epic fantasy film directed by John Boorman, based on the Arthurian legend. The film tells the story of King Arthur’s rise to power, his love affair with Guinevere, the betrayal of his best friend Lancelot, and his eventual downfall.
The film is notable for its stunning visuals, including its epic battle scenes and breathtaking landscapes, as well as its strong performances from actors such as Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, and Patrick Stewart.
It is also known for its powerful depiction of the themes of destiny, honor, and the struggle between good and evil.
“Excalibur” is a classic of the fantasy genre and is widely regarded as one of the greatest cinematic interpretations of the Arthurian legend. Its blend of action, romance, and mythology has made it a beloved favorite among audiences of all ages.
9. The Emerald Forest (1985)
“The Emerald Forest” is a 1985 adventure drama film directed by John Boorman. The film is based on a true story and follows the journey of a young boy named Tommy, who is abducted by a tribe of indigenous people in the Amazon rainforest.
Tommy’s father, Bill, spends years searching for him and eventually finds him living among the tribe as a member.
The film explores the clash of cultures between the modern world and the traditional way of life of the indigenous people.
It also highlights the destruction of the rainforest and the impact it has on the environment and the people who call it home.
“The Emerald Forest” received mixed reviews from critics, but it has since gained a cult following for its stunning visuals and powerful message.
The film features performances by Powers Boothe, Meg Foster, and Charley Boorman, the director’s son. It was also nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 1985 Cannes Film Festival.
![The Emerald Forest [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51w8flHjcJL.jpg)
10. Hope and Glory (1987)
Hope and Glory (1987) is a film directed by John Boorman, not René Clair. The film tells the story of a young boy’s experiences growing up in London during World War II.
It is a semi-autobiographical film, based on Boorman’s own childhood experiences.
Hope and Glory was well-received by critics and audiences alike, and was nominated for several Academy Awards.
It is widely regarded as one of the best films of the 1980s, and is noted for its vivid portrayal of wartime England, as well as for its strong performances and nuanced exploration of childhood and family.
While it is not a film by René Clair, if you enjoyed films like A Nous la Liberté or Le Million, there is a good chance that you will appreciate Hope and Glory as well.
It shares some thematic similarities with Clair’s work, particularly in its exploration of the human experience during times of social upheaval and uncertainty.
![Hope and Glory [DVD]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51UtE3RxgCL.jpg)
11. Where the Heart Is (1990)
Where the Heart Is is a 1990 drama film directed by John Boorman and starring Dabney Coleman and Uma Thurman.
The movie tells the story of Stewart McBain (Dabney Coleman), a wealthy businessman who moves his family from New York City to a small town in Virginia to start a new life.
Stewart’s wife, Jean (Suzy Amis), is unhappy with the move and begins to drink heavily, while their teenage daughter, Sheryl (Uma Thurman), struggles to fit in at her new school.
Meanwhile, their young son, Dwayne (David Hewlett), becomes involved with a group of local kids who are plotting to steal a valuable statue from a nearby museum.
As the McBain family tries to adjust to their new life, they become embroiled in a series of escalating conflicts and tensions, culminating in a violent confrontation with the local police.
Where the Heart Is explores themes of family, identity, and the clash between urban and rural cultures. Although the movie received mixed reviews upon its release, it has since gained a cult following and is considered a notable work in Boorman’s filmography.
12. Beyond Rangoon (1995)
“Beyond Rangoon” is a 1995 drama film directed by John Boorman and starring Patricia Arquette. T
he film is set in Burma in 1988, during the time of the Burmese democracy movement, and follows the story of an American doctor named Laura Bowman, played by Arquette, who is struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss of her husband and son.
While on a trip to Burma with her sister, Laura becomes embroiled in the political turmoil of the country and finds herself drawn to the pro-democracy movement.
As she witnesses the violent repression of the government and the bravery of the Burmese people in their struggle for freedom, Laura is forced to confront her own personal demons and find a new sense of purpose.
“Beyond Rangoon” is known for its stunning cinematography by Philippe Rousselot, which captures the beauty and chaos of Burma during a time of great upheaval.
The film also features powerful performances by Arquette and the supporting cast, as well as a stirring musical score by Hans Zimmer.
Overall, “Beyond Rangoon” is a poignant and thought-provoking film that explores the themes of loss, redemption, and political awakening. It is a must-see for fans of John Boorman’s work and anyone interested in the history and politics of Burma.
13. The General (1998)
“The General” is a 1998 Irish biographical film directed by John Boorman, based on the life of Irish Republican Army member Martin Cahill. Here are three characteristics of John Boorman’s films that can be found in “The General”:
Exploration of complex characters: Boorman’s films often feature characters who are morally ambiguous or flawed, and “The General” is no exception. Martin Cahill is a complex character.
who is simultaneously charming, ruthless, and tragic. Boorman’s portrayal of Cahill avoids simplistic moral judgments, instead presenting him as a complex human being with both good and bad qualities.
Striking visuals: Boorman is known for his visually striking films, and “The General” is no exception.
The film’s use of stylized cinematography, bold color schemes, and dynamic camera movements create a sense of energy and vitality that is unusual for a biographical drama.
Exploration of political themes: Many of Boorman’s films explore political themes or historical events, and “The General” is no exception.
The film is set against the backdrop of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, and explores issues such as the relationship between the IRA and the British government, the impact of sectarianism on Irish society, and the role of crime and violence in political struggles.
14. The Tailor of Panama (2001)
“The Tailor of Panama” is a 2001 spy thriller film directed by John Boorman, based on the novel of the same name by John le Carré.
The film tells the story of Harry Pendel, a British tailor living in Panama who is recruited by a British spy to gather intelligence on the country’s political and financial elite.
The film is notable for its strong performances from actors such as Pierce Brosnan, Geoffrey Rush, and Jamie Lee Curtis, as well as its exploration of themes of loyalty, deception, and the corrupting influence of power.
It is also known for its complex plot, filled with twists and turns, that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
“The Tailor of Panama” is a gripping and intelligent thriller that offers a thought-provoking examination of the world of espionage and international politics.
It is a testament to John Boorman’s skill as a director and storyteller, and is a must-see for fans of the spy thriller genre.
15. In My Country (2004)
“In My Country” is a 2004 drama film directed by John Boorman. The film is based on the book “Country of My Skull” by Antjie Krog and is set in post-apartheid South Africa.
It follows the story of Anna Malan (played by Juliette Binoche), a white South African journalist, and Langston Whitfield (played by Samuel L. Jackson), a black American journalist, as they cover the Truth and Reconciliation Commission hearings.
The film explores the difficult and emotional process of South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which aimed to bring perpetrators of human rights violations during apartheid to justice and promote national healing.
Through their coverage of the hearings, Anna and Langston confront their own biases and prejudices and learn about the devastating effects of apartheid on South Africa’s black population.
The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising the performances of Binoche and Jackson, while others criticized the film for oversimplifying the complexities of South Africa’s history.
Despite this, “In My Country” remains a powerful exploration of truth, justice, and reconciliation in the aftermath of a painful and traumatic chapter in South Africa’s history.
3 Characteristics of John Boorman Films
Here are three characteristics commonly found in John Boorman’s films:
Bold and visionary storytelling: Boorman’s films often feature unconventional and innovative storytelling techniques, such as non-linear narratives, dream sequences, and surreal imagery. He is not afraid to take risks with his storytelling, often pushing the boundaries of traditional cinematic conventions.
Exploration of existential themes: Boorman’s films frequently explore philosophical and existential themes, such as the search for identity, the nature of reality, and the struggle to find meaning in life.
His films often present a complex and nuanced view of the human condition, and are known for their depth and thoughtfulness.
Visual flair: Boorman is known for his strong visual style, often incorporating bold and striking imagery into his films.
He has a keen eye for composition and color, and is skilled at creating visually stunning and memorable scenes. His films often have a dreamlike quality, with vivid and fantastical imagery that transports the viewer to otherworldly realms.
3 Reasons Why You Should Watch John Boorman Films
Here are three reasons why you should watch John Boorman films:
Innovation and Creativity: John Boorman is a director who is known for his innovative and creative approach to filmmaking.
He has directed films in a wide range of genres, from gritty and intense dramas to whimsical and fantastical adventures. Boorman’s films often feature inventive camera work, bold visual choices, and unconventional storytelling techniques, making them stand out from other movies of their time.
Thought-Provoking Themes: Boorman’s films often explore deep and thought-provoking themes, such as the human condition, morality, and the relationship between individuals and society.
His films often offer a unique and insightful perspective on these issues, and they encourage viewers to think deeply about their own beliefs and values.
Stellar Performances: Boorman has worked with some of the biggest names in Hollywood, and his films feature some truly outstanding performances.
From Jon Voight and Burt Reynolds in Deliverance to Helen Mirren and Sean Connery in Zardoz, Boorman has a knack for bringing out the best in his actors and creating memorable and complex characters that stay with audiences long after the credits have rolled.
Best John Boorman Films – Wrapping Up
In summary, John Boorman is a talented filmmaker with a diverse and impressive body of work spanning over five decades. His films are known for their unique visual style, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking themes.
Some of Boorman’s most notable films include “Deliverance” (1972), “Excalibur” (1981), “The Emerald Forest” (1985), “Hope and Glory” (1987), and “The General” (1998).
Each of these films demonstrates Boorman’s versatility as a filmmaker, from the visceral intensity of “Deliverance” to the epic fantasy of “Excalibur” to the personal and nostalgic “Hope and Glory.”
Boorman’s films often explore complex themes such as identity, morality, and the human condition. He has a unique ability to blend genres and storytelling techniques to create films that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Overall, John Boorman’s films are an essential part of the cinematic landscape and are well worth exploring for anyone interested in the art of filmmaking.
