The 15+ Best Abraham Lincoln Movies, Ranked
- 1Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn
Helmed by master director Steven Spielberg, Lincoln presents an enthralling portrayal of the 16th President's tumultuous final months in office while he fought to bring an end to the Civil War and eradicate slavery. Featuring the talents of the incomparable Daniel Day-Lewis, whose immersive portrayal of Abraham Lincoln garnered him an Academy Award for Best Actor, this powerful film delves into the complexities of America's historic transition. With Sally Field's riveting performance as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones' striking portrayal of Thaddeus Stevens, Lincoln is a captivating masterpiece that befits the legacy of one of history's greatest icons.
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- 2Raymond Massey, Gene Lockhart, Ruth Gordon
Delving into the life of Abraham Lincoln before his infamous presidency, Abe Lincoln in Illinois unfolds a compelling narrative anchored by Raymond Massey's impeccable portrayal of the young lawyer-turned-politician. Laden with powerful speeches, emotive scenes, and Ruth Gordon's captivating representation of Mary Todd Lincoln, this evocative film compels the audience to peer into the heart and soul of one of America's most venerated historical figures. Nominated for two Academy Awards, this 1940 gem solidifies its place in the annals of Lincoln-inspired cinema.
- 3Mary Tyler Moore, Sam Waterston, Ruby Dee
Based on the esteemed writer's eponymous novel, Gore Vidal's Lincoln is an epic miniseries that weaves a complex tapestry of the enigmatic President's life, both inside and outside the White House. With an alluring performance from Sam Waterston, who deftly captures the essence of Lincoln, and a resolute Mary Tyler Moore as Mary Todd Lincoln, this TV adaptation brings renewed depth and insight to the story of America's greatest leader. As it delves into previously veiled territory, this critically acclaimed miniseries invites viewers to re-examine their perceptions of the cherished President.
- 4Henry Fonda, Alice Brady, Marjorie Weaver
Brought to the silver screen by iconic director John Ford, Young Mr. Lincoln chronicles the formative years of the revered American President, through the eyes of an ambitious and tenacious Henry Fonda. This classic 1939 drama charts the early legal career of Abraham Lincoln, as Fonda masterfully captures the nuances of Lincoln's innate intelligence and rugged determination. Painted with Ford's silver screen expertise, Young Mr. Lincoln enshrines itself in the hearts of its audience as a captivating, time-honored tribute to the legendary figure.
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- 5James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Kevin Kline
Robert Redford's magnificent period piece, The Conspirator, delves into the conspiracy behind the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln and the controversial trial of Mary Surratt (Robin Wright), the lone female conspirator. Focusing on the moral dilemma of Union war hero Frederick Aiken (James McAvoy) as he is tasked with defending the enigmatic Surratt, this eye-opening film casts light upon the oft-forgotten remnants of America's already-tumultuous history. As a riveting courtroom drama and a piece of historical reflection, The Conspirator offers a refreshingly unique perspective on the nation's most devastating loss.
- 6Walter Huston, Una Merkel, Hobart Bosworth
D.W. Griffith's 1930 biographical film, Abraham Lincoln, traces the rise of America's greatest President from his humble rural beginnings to his tragic assassination. Walter Huston's enthralling portrayal highlights Lincoln's statesmanship, iron will, and unwavering commitment to the nation. Griffth's silent-era expertise and artistic vision breathe life into this captivating tribute, creating an enduring masterpiece that celebrates the legendary historical figure.
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- 7Wil Wheaton, Lance Henriksen, Donna Murphy
The Day Lincoln Was Shot details the harrowing events leading up to the tragic assassination of President Abraham Lincoln by actor-turned-conspirator John Wilkes Booth. Starring Lance Henriksen as the indefatigable leader and Rob Morrow as his menacing assailant, this TV movie presents a chilling and intimate exploration of a nation's darkest day. With keen historical insight and gripping suspense, The Day Lincoln Was Shot leaves an indelible impression upon its audience.
- 8Benjamin Walker, Dominic Cooper, Anthony Mackie
Daring to reimagine history with a fantastical twist, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter brings a unique fusion of the macabre and iconic statesmanship to the fore. Through Benjamin Walker's portrayal of Lincoln as both President and fearless vampire slayer, this action-packed fantasy unfolds a thrilling, fantastical narrative against an intricate historical canvas. A thrilling departure from traditional biographical films, Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter stands tall as a genre-bending spectacle, unafraid to explore new perspectives on the legend of Lincoln.
- 9Billy Campbell, Jesse Johnson, Geraldine Hughes
In Killing Lincoln, a riveting National Geographic film, viewers are transported into the final days of President Abraham Lincoln's life and the turbulent aftermath of his assassination. Narrated by the masterful Tom Hanks, this docudrama juxtaposes the lives of Lincoln and his assassin John Wilkes Booth, capturing the heart-wrenching tension that gripped a nation. Encompassing expert historical insights and dramatic reenactments, Killing Lincoln breathes new life into the tragic events surrounding the beloved President's untimely death.
- 10
Saving Lincoln
Penelope Ann Miller, Bruce Davison, Creed BrattonFocusing on the little-known friendship between Abraham Lincoln and Ward Hill Lamon, Saving Lincoln explores the President's life through the eyes of his loyal friend and confidante. Chronicles of attempted assassination plots paint a vivid picture of the danger surrounding Lincoln, while Tom Amandes' portrayal of the steadfast leader enchants audiences with its vulnerability and authority. A heartwarming exploration of friendship amidst political upheaval, Saving Lincoln delivers a unique and touching perspective on the legendary figure.
- 11
Abraham Lincoln
Frank McGlynn Sr.A groundbreaking exploration of the timeless story of America's 16th President, Abraham Lincoln benefits from the burgeoning innovations of the Phonofilm sound-on-film process, breathing life into the tale through director J. Searle Dawley's deft touch. Based on John Drinkwater's widely acclaimed 1918 play, the film stars Frank McGlynn Sr. as the iconic Lincoln, offering a compelling portrayal that earned him praise both on Broadway and within the nascent realm of cinema. As an embodiment of Lincoln's indomitable spirit and an unyielding testament to the power of theatre, Abraham Lincoln stands tall as a pioneering achievement in the sphere of early motion pictures.
- 12Merrell Gage
As an intriguing ode to the life and legacy of America's 16th President, The Face of Lincoln combines artistic appreciation with biographical insight. Master sculptor Merrell Gage conveys the hardships and achievements that shaped Lincoln's character as he meticulously crafts the President's likeness in clay. Demonstrating the profound impact of Lincoln's life on both art and history, The Face of Lincoln allows audiences to explore the spirit of an extraordinary leader through an enchanting creative medium.
- 13
The Better Angels
Jason Clarke, Diane Kruger, Brit MarlingCapturing the humble beginnings and quiet resilience of a young Abraham Lincoln, The Better Angels invites audiences to explore the future President's formative years in rural Indiana. Director A.J. Edwards' poetic and visually stunning film showcases a raw and emotive performance by Braydon Denney, who embodies the spirit of Lincoln's early life. With its evocative storytelling and richly textured cinematography, The Better Angels shines a light on the origins of greatness in an iconic historical figure.
- 14
The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln
Louise Fazenda, Ruth Clifford, George A. BillingsBlending documentary elements with classic storytelling, The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln offers an authentic and engaging portrayal of the 16th President's life. An evocative narration and compelling renditions of pivotal moments from Lincoln's life acquaint modern audiences with the hardships, triumphs, and moral resolve that defined the revered leader. Through this fresh lens, The Dramatic Life of Abraham Lincoln celebrates the inexorable spirit of a man who changed the course of history.
- 15John Dehner, Bradford Dillman, John Anderson
Unraveling the web of intrigue surrounding President Abraham Lincoln's assassination, The Lincoln Conspiracy delves into the heart of political conspiracies and clandestine plots. Amidst the whirlwind of tension and subterfuge, this film scrutinizes the sinister forces that contributed to the death of the revered leader. As a captivating and thrilling dissection of one of history's most infamous moments, The Lincoln Conspiracy challenges audiences to reconsider the events leading to that fateful night at Ford's Theatre.
- 16Bill Oberst Jr., Chip Lane, Richard Schenkman
In a wildly imaginative twist on conventional biopics, Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies presents a larger-than-life version of the beloved President who valiantly combats the undead during the Civil War. Starring the versatile Bill Oberst Jr., this film delivers a thrilling and outlandish portrayal of Lincoln, as he fearlessly faces supernatural foes while seeking to save a divided nation. With its action-packed sequences and unique premise, Abraham Lincoln vs. Zombies reimagines history through an unconventional and thoroughly entertaining lens.
