10 Films That Had The Longest Production Time

1 / 10

'Avatar'

James Cameron's 2009 sci-fi epic took 12 years to bring to life, from the initial development of the script to the final post-production work. The film's groundbreaking special effects and immersive worldbuilding made it a box office smash and a cultural phenomenon.

2 / 10

'Blade Runner'

Ridley Scott's 1982 neo-noir sci-fi film took four years to complete, due to the challenges of creating its futuristic Los Angeles setting. The film's atmospheric visuals and thought-provoking story have made it a cult classic.

3 / 10

'Koyaanisqatsi'

Godfrey Reggio's 1982 experimental film took seven years to create, using time-lapse photography and manipulated footage to capture the rhythm and energy of the American landscape. The film's hypnotic visuals and Philip Glass's minimalist score have made it a cult classic.

4 / 10

'Heaven's Gate'

Michael Cimino's 1980 western epic was a notorious box office flop, but its production remains a fascinating story. The film took six years to complete, due to Cimino's perfectionism and the film's sprawling scope. Despite its financial failure, Heaven's Gate has gained a cult following for its ambitious vision and sweeping landscapes.

5 / 10

'Marketa Lazarová'

This 1967 Czech historical drama took seven years to film, with director František Vláčil meticulously recreating the 15th century setting. The film's epic scope and complex characters make it a powerful and moving portrait of medieval life.

6 / 10

'The Grand Budapest Hotel'

Wes Anderson's 2014 meticulously crafted comedy-drama took three years to film, with the director working with a team of artisans to create the film's unique visual style. The film's whimsical story and stunning visuals make it a delight for the eyes.

7 / 10

'Lord of the Rings'

Peter Jackson's epic fantasy trilogy took eight years to film, with each film being shot back-to-back in New Zealand. The films' stunning visuals, faithful adaptation of Tolkien's source material, and memorable characters made them a critical and commercial success.

8 / 10

'Mad God'

Phil Tippett's 2021 stop-motion animated film was a labor of love, taking 30 years to complete. Tippett, a veteran of the 'Star Wars' films, created a dark and disturbing world populated by grotesque creatures. The film's intricate visuals and unsettling atmosphere make it a unique and unforgettable experience.

9 / 10

'The Wind Rises'

Hayao Miyazaki's 2013 film took five years to complete, with the director meticulously hand-drawing each frame. The film's beautifully animated visuals and touching story make it a fitting farewell from one of animation's greatest masters.

10 / 10

'The King and the Mockingbird'

This 1980 French animated film took a staggering 33 years to complete, with director Paul Grimault meticulously crafting each frame by hand. The film's whimsical story and stunning visuals make it a true masterpiece of animation.

Making a movie isn't an easy task, and for many, it is a one time chance to prove themselves they can be added to the list of the best films in history. Some break records in box office, others in awards and nominations, and some others also made it to the list of the longest movie productions in history.

10 Movies with he Longest Production Time

The films with the longest production times often involve complex animation, painstaking special effects, or meticulous historical accuracy. Here are 10 of the films that took the longest to bring to the screen.