Baz Luhrmann has always been one of Hollywood's most eccentric and stylistic directors - and his latest musical biopic Elvis promises to keep up this trend. Having just premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, the film is already proving to maintain that typical Luhrmann style that makes his movies so unique and distinct.
Although Luhrmann hasn't made that many films so far in his career, Ranker has discovered which of his projects are most beloved by audiences according to fan votes. Several of his movies have had a huge influence on pop culture, so it's not easy to define his best work down to one title.
No. 5 The Film (2008)
At the bottom of Luhrmann's filmography is No. 5 The Film, which isn't technically a film at all. It's a 180-second long short film that stars Nicole Kidman and Rodrigo Santoro, designed to advertise Chanel No. 5 perfume. It was one of the first examples of branded content, like an extended commercial with Luhrmann's stylistic direction to make it stand out from the crowd.
Although No. 5 The Film doesn't particularly have a story or characters that allow Luhrmann to show off his directorial flair, the short still has a lot of style and substance that makes it an interesting watch throughout.
Puccini: La Boheme (1993)
Puccini: La Boheme is one of the most famous operas out there, and this live recording from Baz Luhrmann is widely considered one of the best interpretations. Recorded from the Sydney Opera House, the film chronicles a dramatic and emotional romance in 1950s post-war Paris.
Puccini is one of the great movie musicals, not only because of the power and authenticity of this live performance, but also thanks to Cheryl Baker and David Hobson's lead performances,as they both hold some serious star power and singing talent.
Australia (2008)
In Australia, Nicole Kidman plays an English aristocrat who travels to the titular country on a quest to save a cattle ranch that she inherited. Whilst she's there, she forms a close friendship with a man named Drover who helps her out on her mission.
Although it's probably Luhrmann's least recognized film to date, there are still plenty of great moments in Australia that make it an interesting and intriguing drama throughout. Its depiction of the country is one that many Australians will find authentically charming.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Based on the famous novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby tells the story of a war veteran named Nick Carraway who finds himself drawn into the luxurious world of Jay Gatsby, his neighbor. The film chronicles Gatsby's pursuit of love as he attempts to impress his neighbor Daisy with his excessive parties.
The Great Gatsby is widely considered one of Leonardo DiCaprio's best performances, mostly because of how complex and interesting the character of Jay Gatsby really is. He's given so much to work with, and his expert navigation of the character makes the film endlessly gripping and compelling.
Strictly Ballroom (1992)
Strictly Ballroom was Baz Luhrmann's first attempt at romantic comedy, which makes it all the more surprising that the final product is one of the most beloved entries into the genre. The film follows two young individuals as they fight for their artistic freedom in a society that oppresses them at every turn.
Luhrmann tells an extremely universal and hopeful story with Strictly Ballroom, which isn't something viewers particularly expect from this kind of film. His unique writing and direction make the film stand out from the competition, which is why Luhrmann became such an acclaimed director right from his feature film directorial debut.
Romeo and Juliet (1996)
Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet has been adapted to screen countless times, but it's Baz Luhrmann's 1996 adaptation of the iconic tragedy that many fans of the story consider to be the best, or at the very least the most unique. Despite a few adaptations to the story to make it fit into the modern age, the story is pretty much identical to Shakespeare's original work.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes star in the titular roles, and their on-screen chemistry makes the film all the more engaging to watch. Their romance is completely believable - which is obviously crucial for this kind of story. The supporting cast, including Paul Rudd and John Leguizamo, is also a huge asset to the film.
Moulin Rouge! (2001)
Starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor in the lead roles, Moulin Rouge! is widely considered to be one of the best movie musicals of all time. It tells a timeless story of love, artistry, and revolution - which remains topical and relevant even today. It also sets itself apart form the standard musical by re-interpreting classic pop hits and making them sound and feel appropriate for the period drama setting.
The film is also widely praised on the technical side, with many fans agreeing that Moulin Rouge! has some of the best costume designs in any movie musical, and with its set design still looking spectacular today. It has all the trademarks of Luhrmann's best work, which makes it an extremely sensorial and maximalist experience throughout.