London is one of the biggest and most diverse cities in the entire world, and has been extremely important throughout human history as a place of development and importance. Because of this, lots of films, TV shows, games, and songs have been written about the city, as it has touched the lives of many people who went on to be involved in various forms of media.
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With lots of famous buildings and an extremely diverse population, London can serve as a backdrop or even something of a character in the movies that it appears in across multiple genres. This is evidenced bygames set in London, and by the following films that showcase what makes the city special.
7Paddington (2014)
Paddingtonwas pretty much guaranteed to be a success, as a live-action reboot of a much-loved established franchise. Set in London with the lead role being a sentient bear (a bit more child-friendly thanTed), it’s a feel-good family movie that makes excellent use of London as a memorable, atmospheric backdrop.
The movie had an extended cast of popular actors such as Ben Whishaw, Peter Capaldi, Julie Walters, and more. WhilePaddingtonisn’t one of thebest comedy movies, it’s a great film to relax to with the whole family.
6Nil By Mouth (1997)
Nil by Mouth, written and directed by Gary Oldman, is a British drama film that revolves around a family of South East Londoners, and was very popular amongst audiences. It’s a gritty film, filled with classic British swear words and other derogatory language, butNil By Mouthoffers a window into daily life for a lot of the everyman Londoners.
For those interested in London and the lives of the people there,Nil by Mouthis an unflinching, compelling portrayal that is distinct from a lot of the other movies based in London. It’s one of thebest drama moviesout there, and highly worth watching.
5Kidulthood (2006)
Kidulthoodis another gritty British drama movie that is based in London, covering the teenagers and young adults of its time. Starring a cast of relatively unknown actors at the time, the movie is very similar toNil by Mouthin terms of its gritty portrayal of what life is like in the famous city.
Unlike some films that glamorize London,Kidulthooddoesn’t shy away from extreme storylines such as trafficking, drugs, and gang violence. All of the actors give realistic and compelling performances that make the audience feel like they’re in the room with the characters.
4Skyfall (2012)
Skyfallwas one of the best-received James Bond films of all time, and was a commercial success as well. The 50th Anniversary of the film series,Skyfallfeatures lots of great shots of London, putting the city firmly on display for a global audience. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary, it’s a love letter to the fans of the series, including many elements of past James Bound movies. As a result, ends up feeling like an instant classic entry into the film franchise.
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It’s true thatSkyfallis not as grounded as other films set in London, but that’s not to say that the city doesn’t have an important role to play in the movie. Widely considered one of thebest Daniel Craig Bond movies, it’s worth a watch for anyone who is fan of both London and 007.
3V For Vendetta (2005)
V for Vendettais layered, captivating, and a great watch for just about anybody. Adapting the graphic novel of the same name, this movie features some of the best performances to date from Natalie Portman and Hugo Weaving.
A modern-day movie set in London, the titular character ofV for Vendettais influenced by historical figure Guy Fawkes. London is very much present throughout the whole film, and there are lots of contextual observations made by V about the city.V for Vendettais one of thebest Natalie Portman movies, so fans of hers should give it a watch if they haven’t already.
2Love, Actually (2003)
Love, Actuallyis one of the most popular romance ensemble movies of all time, featuring a plethora of well-respected actors that contribute to the overall feel-good factor of the movie. The film tells ten separate love stories across the ensemble cast, with an epilogue that ties it all together. To some, it’s regarded as one of thebest 21st century comedy movies.
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For those who love cheesy Christmas movies, love stories, and the city of London,Love Actuallyis one of the best choices to watch, particularly with a significant other. It encapsulates the romantic side of Britons and indeed the romantic side of London, which is in a direct juxtaposition to lots of the London-focused movies out there.
1Bridget Jones' Diary (2001)
Bridget Jones’s Diaryimmediately makes watchers want to endeavour on a pub crawl of London. A romantic comedy film with performances from heavy-hitter actors such as Colin Firth and Hugh Grant, this movie has a particularly distinct London feel that serves as the perfect backdrop to this light-hearted and charming story. It rivals even thebest Netflix original comediesout there.
Bridget Jones’s Diaryhas proven to be a success with critics and audiences alike, spawning an entire film franchise that has earned a handful of Award Wins and Award Nominations over its lifespan. Any rom-com lovers can attest to its genius.
