Top 5 Tom Stoppard Films

The legendary playwright and screenwriter passed away at the age of 88 on Saturday (29.11.25). In celebration of his career, here is a rundown of the top five films written by the iconic writer.

5. Anna Karenina (2012)

Stoppard adapted Leo Tolstoy’s epic novel into a stylised screenplay for Joe Wright’s visually experimental film, set largely within a theatre to underline its themes of performance and society. His script condensed the sprawling narrative into a sleek, theatrical structure that earned strong critical praise for its bold interpretation.

4. Brazil (1985)

Although his involvement was uncredited, Stoppard co-wrote the screenplay with Terry Gilliam and Charles McKeown, helping shape the dystopian satire’s intricate structure and razor-sharp dialogue. Brazil went on to become a cult classic, celebrated for its imaginative world-building and biting political commentary.

3. Empire of the Sun (1987)

Stoppard wrote the screenplay for Steven Spielberg’s adaptation of J.G. Ballard’s autobiographical novel, shaping its coming-of-age story about a boy separated from his family during World War II. The film helped launch Christian Bale’s career and remains one of Spielberg’s most acclaimed dramas.

2. Rosencrantz Guildenstern Are Dead (1990)

Stoppard adapted and directed the film version of his own celebrated play, following two minor Hamlet characters as they stumble through philosophical confusion and dark humour. The movie maintained the play’s existential wit and earned the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival.

1. Shakespeare in Love (1998)

Stoppard co-wrote the Oscar-winning romantic comedy, crafting its witty, layered screenplay filled with Shakespearean in-jokes and theatrical meta-play. The film won seven Academy Awards—including Best Picture—and Stoppard’s sharp, literate dialogue was widely praised as a key reason for its enduring charm.