There's something undeniably charming about a film that captures the essence of gentlemanly conduct, where honour, dignity, and a touch of old-world charm take centre stage. This curated list of 10 dramas will transport you into worlds where the code of the gentleman is not just a facade but a way of life. Whether you're in the mood for historical epics, tales of love and loss, or stories of personal growth, these films offer a rich tapestry of narratives that celebrate the timeless virtues of chivalry and grace.

The Ipcress File (1965)
Description: While more of a spy thriller, this film features Michael Caine as Harry Palmer, a working-class spy with a gentlemanly demeanor, navigating the world of espionage with wit and style.
Fact: Michael Caine's character, Harry Palmer, was a departure from the typical suave spy, bringing a more relatable, everyman quality to the role.


Maurice (1987)
Description: This film, based on E.M. Forster's novel, follows the life of Maurice Hall, a young man coming to terms with his homosexuality in Edwardian England. It's a poignant exploration of love, societal expectations, and the gentleman's struggle for personal freedom.
Fact: The film was released posthumously, as Forster had requested it be published only after his death due to its controversial subject matter.


The Age of Innocence (1993)
Description: Martin Scorsese's adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel is a sumptuous exploration of New York's high society in the 1870s, where love, duty, and social expectations collide in a world of genteel manners.
Fact: Scorsese was drawn to the project because of his fascination with the rituals and customs of the Gilded Age.


The Remains of the Day (1993)
Description: Anthony Hopkins delivers a masterclass in restraint as a butler whose dedication to duty overshadows his personal life. This film delves into the life of a gentleman's gentleman, exploring themes of duty, love, and regret.
Fact: The film was adapted from Kazuo Ishiguro's novel, which won the Booker Prize in


The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)
Description: While not all characters are gentlemen, the film explores the dark side of charm and deception, with Tom Ripley's obsession with the life of a wealthy playboy. It's a psychological drama that delves into the complexities of identity and morality.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Italy, capturing the allure of the Mediterranean lifestyle.


The Quiet American (2002)
Description: Set during the early stages of the Vietnam War, this film explores the moral complexities of war through the eyes of a British journalist and an American aid worker, both of whom exhibit gentlemanly qualities in their own ways.
Fact: The film was adapted from Graham Greene's novel, which was initially banned in Vietnam.


Gosford Park (2001)
Description: Robert Altman's intricate ensemble piece offers a glimpse into the lives of the British upper class and their servants in the 1930s. It's a study in class, manners, and the subtle power dynamics that define the gentleman's world.
Fact: The film was inspired by the works of Agatha Christie and Jean Renoir's "The Rules of the Game."


The Great Gatsby (2013)
Description: Baz Luhrmann's adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's novel is a visually stunning portrayal of the Roaring Twenties, where the pursuit of the American Dream and the decadence of the wealthy are examined through the lens of gentlemanly conduct.
Fact: The film's soundtrack features contemporary artists like Jay-Z and Lana Del Rey, blending modern music with the era's jazz.


The King's Speech (2010)
Description: This film captures the struggle of King George VI to overcome his stammer with the help of an unconventional speech therapist. It's a story of personal triumph, friendship, and the quiet strength of a gentleman.
Fact: Colin Firth won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of King George VI.


A Room with a View (1985)
Description: This Merchant Ivory production is a quintessential gentleman's drama, exploring the clash between passion and propriety in Edwardian England. It's a tale of a young woman's journey towards self-discovery and love, surrounded by the refined manners of the time.
Fact: The film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, winning three, including Best Adapted Screenplay.
