17 Films Directed by Gus Van Sant
17 titles
- 1
To Die ForMovie · 1995 · 106m · Drama, Comedy, Crime"The Ascent of Suzanne Stone" chronicles the relentless climb of a woman determined to become a world-famous news anchor. Driven by ambition and sharp-wittedness, Suzanne overcomes any challenges to reach the top of the competitive broadcasting world. She ruthlessly removes obstacles in her path, disregarding the consequences for others and the personal cost of her success. The film is a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the lengths people will go to achieve their goals.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 2
Last DaysMovie · 2005 · 97m · DramaThis film explores the isolated existence of a famous rock musician, haunted by loneliness and constantly surrounded by people asking for money and help. Inspired by the final days of Kurt Cobain, it portrays the musician's everyday life and the burdens of his fame.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.5 - 3
Don't Worry, He Won't Get Far on FootMovie · 2018 · 115m · Comedy, DramaFollowing a life-altering accident, John Callahan embarks on a difficult journey toward sobriety and finds healing through art. He begins drawing cartoons with his injured hands, creating humorous and sometimes provocative images that give him a renewed sense of purpose.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7 - 4
Paranoid ParkMovie · 2007 · 84m · Drama, Crime, MysteryA teenage skateboarder is suspected of a link to a security guard who died violently at Paranoid Park, a local skate park.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 5
Finding ForresterMovie · 2000 · 136m · Drama, HistoryGus Van Sant's film follows Jamal, a young African American man navigating life on the streets of the Bronx as he begins to recognize his abilities. He unexpectedly meets Forrester, an older writer who helps him discover a passion for writing. With Forrester’s guidance, Jamal earns a scholarship to a prestigious private school.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 6
Even Cowgirls Get the BluesMovie · 1994 · 96m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceIn 1950s America, a young girl is born with unusually large thumbs. This difference makes it hard for her to fit in and navigate everyday life. But she learns to accept herself and use her unique ability to succeed at things she never could before. The story follows her journey through adolescence as she finds purpose and strength in embracing her individuality, all while facing societal pressures to conform. It’s a film about self-acceptance, perseverance, and discovering the power of being different.IMDb 4.3TMDB 4.4 - 7
ElephantMovie · 2003 · 81m · Crime, DramaThe film follows the everyday lives of a group of typical high school students, while two others secretly plot something sinister.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 8
RestlessMovie · 2011 · 91m · Drama, RomanceTwo people who don't fit in find each other and develop a profound, enduring love because of their shared experiences.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 9
My Own Private IdahoMovie · 1991 · 104m · DramaInspired by Shakespeare's "Henry IV," the film follows Mike Waters and Scott Favor as they travel together to find Mike's mother, whom he hasn't seen in years. Mike, who suffers from narcolepsy, lives as a street hustler, while Scott, the son of a mayor, joins him on this unusual journey. Their travels lead them through Portland, Idaho, and finally to Italy.
To survive, they must adapt to difficult circumstances, often turning to selling themselves for money and drugs. This unconventional life draws their attention to a dangerous world of wealth and crime, controlled by a powerful benefactor with hidden motives. The story examines loyalty, identity, and the sacrifices people make for family when facing hardship and chaos.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.1 - 10
The Sea of TreesMovie · 2016 · 110m · DramaDeep within Japan's Aokigahara Forest, a teacher struggling with personal issues encounters a mysterious stranger who guides him on a transformative path toward love and finding himself.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.2 - 11
MilkMovie · 2008 · 128m · History, DramaThis is the true story of Harvey Milk, the first openly gay person elected to public office. In San Francisco during the late 1970s, Milk becomes an advocate for gay rights, galvanizing people to join him in his struggle for equal rights for all Americans.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 12
Drugstore CowboyMovie · 1989 · 102m · Drama, CrimePortland, Oregon, in the early 1970s. A group of people lives a life driven by addiction and lies. Bob Hughes leads his wife Dianne, his friend Rick, and Nadine, their mysterious partner. They are a close group who pull off risky heists, stealing drugs from stores and hospitals to feed their need.
But the excitement fades as the consequences of their actions mount. The police become suspicious, and addiction takes its toll. As trust breaks down and secrets are revealed, each person must face the serious impact of their choices and the darker side of their shared life. This story explores the complicated relationship between friendship and addiction, revealing how far people will go to get what they crave.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 13
GerryMovie · 2002 · 103m · Drama, Adventure, MysteryTwo friends named Gerry get lost in the desert after a wrong turn. Their efforts to find their way back home only result in more difficulties.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.1 - 14
Good Will HuntingMovie · 1997 · 127m · DramaUniversity professors discover an extraordinary mathematical talent in a janitor, but his brilliance hides a troubled inner life. A therapist helps him overcome personal struggles that have blocked his potential. This film explores the complexities of human psychology, examining the challenges and rewards of self-discovery and how past experiences shape our future. It's a story about personal growth, blending intellectual ideas with emotional depth.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.2 - 15
PsychoMovie · 1998 · 104m · Horror, Mystery, ThrillerA clever but troubled young woman who steals money finds herself taking shelter at a remote motel owned by a reserved man. She doesn't realize the motel hides unsettling secrets that begin to surface as they connect. As tension builds and the atmosphere darkens, their lives become entangled in a dangerous mix of lies, fear, and tragedy. This unsettling story examines trust, right and wrong, and the complexities of people against the backdrop of a silent motel with a dark history.IMDb 4.6TMDB 5.1 - 16
Promised LandMovie · 2012 · 106m · DramaA natural gas company salesman's life is profoundly altered when he's sent to a quiet town with promising energy reserves. His arrival sets in motion a series of events that will change everything.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 17
Mala NocheMovie · 1987 · 75m · Drama, RomanceWalt, a lonely convenience store worker, has his life changed when he meets Johnny, a Mexican migrant worker. An unexpected attraction develops between them, challenging societal norms. Despite their different backgrounds and language, Walt's desire for Johnny sparks a journey of self-discovery and a complicated relationship that involves a love triangle.
As they navigate this taboo connection, the characters confront their fears and desires, revealing intense emotions. The film gently examines themes of love, identity, cultural differences, and power within an unconventional relationship. This story of longing and desire prompts viewers to consider the complexities of human connection and the lengths people will go to find love when faced with obstacles.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1