Movies like Heaven's Gate

Paul Thomas Anderson’s tale of obsession, ambition, and the American Dream echoes the thematic richness of Heaven's Gate. Set against the backdrop of California's oil boom, it offers a similarly intense and sprawling look at a pivotal time in American history.

Also directed by Michael Cimino, The Deer Hunter captures the profound human drama and poignant narrative that viewers admire in Heaven's Gate. Focusing on the impacts of the Vietnam War, it's a similarly ambitious film dealing with the fate of its characters and their communities.

Spanning decades and centered around a Montana family facing turbulent times, Legends of the Fall shares Heaven's Gate's epic feel and historical backdrop. Its exploration of love, loss, and war will captivate viewers who appreciate multilayered family epics.

Kevin Costner's Oscar-winning epic shares Heaven's Gate's deep immersion into frontier life, showcasing the interaction between settlers and Native Americans. Its sprawling narrative and stunning landscapes make it another compelling choice for those who appreciate the scope of Cimino's work.

This film delves deep into the lives and psyches of its titular characters, much like Heaven's Gate's exploration of its ensemble cast. Its contemplative pace and emphasis on character over action make it a thought-provoking watch for fans of atmospheric westerns.