The Best Movies About Ivy League Schools
College days are some of the best (and worst) times of our lives. There’s nothing more exciting than making it out of high school alive, moving out of the parent’s house, drinking at parties all night, and you know, going to class (most of the time). Ivy League schools are the most prestigious in America, and while many students dream about attending, few are accepted each year in schools like Harvard University, some even served as a the location for filming. What are the best movies about Ivy League schools? Vote up the best films below and see where your favorites rank!
The movies on this list have been ranked as the all time best movies about Ivy League schools. Many of the movies featured here were filmed on location at one of the Ivies. There are a variety of genres represented, so there's sure to be an option for whatever you're feeling like watching.
This list features the best movies about Ivy League schools including, The Social Network, Legally Blonde, The Skulls, and Good Will Hunting. Vote up the best movies about the Ivy League below, then be sure to check out our list of good college movies.
- 1Tom Cruise, Jeanne Tripplehorn, Gene Hackman
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Sydney Pollack
Tom Cruise stars in this suspenseful thriller based on John Grisham's bestselling novel about a Harvard Law School graduate who uncovers sinister secrets at his prestigious new law firm. With an outstanding supporting cast including Gene Hackman, Holly Hunter (garnering an Academy Award nomination), and Sydney Pollack (also directing), The Firm remains one of Grisham's most successful adaptations. Its intricate plot keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.
- 2Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield, Justin Timberlake
- Released: 2010
- Directed by: David Fincher
David Fincher's gripping drama delves into the origins of Facebook, with Jesse Eisenberg delivering a powerful performance as Mark Zuckerberg. The film boasts an Oscar-winning screenplay by Aaron Sorkin that expertly weaves together multiple narratives. Alongside its critical acclaim, the movie garnered eight Academy Award nominations and won three.
- 3Reese Witherspoon, Luke Wilson, Selma Blair
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Robert Luketic
Reese Witherspoon shines in her iconic role as Elle Woods, a sorority girl who defies expectations when she enrolls at Harvard Law School. A feel-good comedy with an empowering message about self-belief and resilience, Legally Blonde has earned cult status since its release in 2001. Directed by Robert Luketic, this modern classic boasts memorable performances from Selma Blair, Jennifer Coolidge, and Luke Wilson.
- 4Russell Crowe, Ed Harris, Jennifer Connelly
- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Ron Howard
Ron Howard masterfully directs this emotional biopic about John Nash Jr., played by Russell Crowe in one of his most acclaimed performances. Based on Sylvia Nasar's biography of Nash – a brilliant mathematician who struggled with schizophrenia – the film paints an intimate portrait of genius and mental illness. A Beautiful Mind was awarded four Oscars for Best Picture, Best Director (Ron Howard), Best Supporting Actress (Jennifer Connelly) and Best Adapted Screenplay (Akiva Goldsman).
- 5Timothy Bottoms, John Houseman, Lindsay Wagner
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: James Bridges
This 1973 drama stars Timothy Bottoms as a first-year Harvard Law student struggling with academic pressure and his turbulent relationship with the stern Professor Kingsfield (a superb John Houseman). Winning Houseman an Oscar for Best Supporting Actor, James Bridges' film is renowned for its authentic portrayal of life at an elite law school. A classic examination of ambition and morality, The Paper Chase remains relevant today.
- 6Brendan Fraser, Matt Damon, Chris O'Donnell
- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Robert Mandel
Brendan Fraser delivers one of his finest performances as working-class Jewish student David Greene, who hides his identity to attend an elite New England prep school in this 1992 drama. Directed by Robert Mandel, School Ties tackles themes of prejudice and integrity with a superb ensemble cast including Matt Damon and Chris O'Donnell. The film has earned praise for its thought-provoking story and powerful performances.
