20 Best Movies Over Three Hours Long
2. The Tree of Life (2011)
Runtime: 3 hours, 8 minutes
The pinnacle of Terrence Malick's preoccupation with time, space and self, The Tree of Life runs just over two hours theatrically, but shortly after its release a full director's cut - viewed by Malick as an "alternative" version of the film rather than an extension of the main project - was produced by The Criterion Collection.
With over an hour of extra material, this version is the best of Malick's drama, which serves as both as a visually dazzling exploration of human history and the intimate, autobiographical tale of a troubled young boy and his relationship with his parents, one cold and demanding, one peaceful and kind.
Crafted with impeccable care and shot to gorgeous perfection by cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki, The Tree of Life has long been a film easily criticised for its self-indulgence, but when the results are this beautiful and passionately conceived, who wouldn't want more films like it?
The greatest high of Terrence Malick's uniquely inspiring career, The Tree of Life is a moving voyage through the meaning of life that's worth every second.