3 Epic Movies That Surpass The Lord of the Rings

Ben-Hur, Gone With the Wind, and Lawrence of Arabia are considered even better than Peter Jackson's acclaimed fantasy trilogy.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:22am

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An abstract close-up image of shattered glass and glittering shards, captured in high-contrast studio lighting to evoke the glamour and grandeur of timeless epic films.The shattered remnants of a bygone cinematic era, the glittering textures of classic Hollywood epics captured in dramatic close-up.Los Angeles Today

While Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings trilogy is widely regarded as one of the greatest epic film series of all time, winning 17 Academy Awards, three other classic movies are considered to be even more impressive in terms of cinematic importance, technical mastery, and longevity. These are Ben-Hur (1959), Gone With the Wind (1939), and Lawrence of Arabia (1962).

Why it matters

These three films represent the pinnacle of the epic genre in Hollywood, setting new standards for grand-scale storytelling, visual spectacle, and emotional impact that have influenced countless other movies over the decades. Analyzing why they are considered superior to even the acclaimed Lord of the Rings trilogy provides insight into what makes a true cinematic epic.

The details

Ben-Hur, directed by William Wyler, is praised for its exceptional performances, attention to historical detail, and the iconic chariot race sequence. Gone With the Wind, directed by Victor Fleming, is celebrated for its sweeping romantic drama set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, as well as its cultural significance. Lawrence of Arabia, directed by David Lean, is lauded for its breathtaking cinematography, complex character study, and thoughtful commentary on the nature of war and imperialism.

  • Ben-Hur was released in 1959.
  • Gone With the Wind was released in 1939.
  • Lawrence of Arabia was released in 1962.

The players

Charlton Heston

The lead actor in the 1959 film Ben-Hur, delivering a critically acclaimed performance as the title character.

Clark Gable

The iconic leading man who starred as Rhett Butler in the 1939 film Gone With the Wind.

Peter O'Toole

The acclaimed actor who portrayed T.E. Lawrence in the 1962 film Lawrence of Arabia, delivering a mesmerizing performance.

David Lean

The renowned director who helmed the epic Lawrence of Arabia, known for his masterful visual storytelling.

Victor Fleming

The director who brought both the fantasy classic The Wizard of Oz and the sweeping historical drama Gone With the Wind to the screen in 1939.

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What they’re saying

“There's a reason that Steven Spielberg considers this Best Picture winner to be a perfect film.”

— Michael John Petty, Author

“Although not the first adaptation of Ben-Hur, the 1959 film is undoubtedly the best, with Charlton Heston returning to the biblical epic only three years after headlining The Ten Commandments. Somehow, he manages to completely outdo himself, setting the standard for not just the religious epic, but for all the epic historical pictures that would come after.”

— Michael John Petty, Author

The takeaway

These three classic epic films - Ben-Hur, Gone With the Wind, and Lawrence of Arabia - have stood the test of time and are considered superior to even the acclaimed Lord of the Rings trilogy due to their unparalleled cinematic achievements, emotional resonance, and lasting cultural impact. They represent the pinnacle of the epic genre and continue to inspire filmmakers today.