All 32 Mimi Leder Movies (in Order)
Get ready for an exciting journey through the world of cinema as we take a closer look at the remarkable collection of films directed by the talented Mimi Leder. From blockbuster hits to thought-provoking indies, Leder’s impressive career showcases her unique ability to captivate audiences and bring stories to life on the big screen. Join us as we explore the captivating world of Mimi Leder movies.
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1. My Friends Need Killing (1976)
In the gritty crime thriller “My Friends Need Killing” (1976), a Vietnam veteran returns home to unleash a chilling crime spree. Haunted by his past experiences in the war, he begins to target and brutally murder former army comrades, terrorizing the once tight-knit community. As the body count rises, the police race against time to catch the deranged killer before he claims more innocent lives.
2. Ape (1976)
Ape” is a 1976 action-packed thriller that takes viewers on a wild ride through the chaos of Seoul, South Korea. With a plot revolving around the escape of a 36-foot gorilla from a freighter to the shores of Korea, the movie quickly descends into pandemonium as the ape kidnaps an American actress while on location for her latest film. Set in the 1970s, the film pits man against monstrous beast and explores themes of survival and rescue amidst the rampant destruction.
3. Red Light in the White House (1977)
Red Light in the White House” is a gripping drama that takes you on a thrilling journey into the darkest corners of Washington D. C. With a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes, this R-rated film is packed with suspense and political intrigue.
4. Sketches of a Strangler (1978)
Experience the twisted tale of “Sketches of a Strangler”, a 1978 chilling crime thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The story revolves around an unsuspecting art student, who secretly harbors a sinister alter ego. He relentlessly hunts down dancers and prostitutes, leaving a trail of chilling strangulations in his wake.
5. Spawn of the Slithis (1978)
In the summer of 1978, the small, laid-back town of Venice, California was disrupted by an unspeakable terror lurking beneath its waters. “Spawn of the Slithis” is a low-budget sci-fi horror that tells the tale of a mutated Slithis sea monster that wreaks havoc on its unsuspecting victims.
6. Where’s Willie? (1978)
Where’s Willie? “ is a 1978 G-rated comedy film that follows the adventures of an 8-year-old genius who invents a hand-held computer capable of controlling any electronic device. The boy uses his creation to cause chaos and amusement in his Texas town.
7. Dummy (1979)
Dummy” (1979), a gripping crime drama directed by Frank Perry, is the suspenseful tale of a deaf and mute young man, who becomes the prime suspect in the murder of a prostitute. In a unique twist, the defendant is represented by an equally deaf lawyer, resulting in an intriguing courtroom drama.
8. Before and After (1979)
Experience a heartfelt tale in “Before and After” (1979), a compelling drama that follows the life of an overweight homemaker as she embarks on a journey of love, loss, and self-discovery. With an all-star cast including Patty Duke, Bradford Dillman, and Barbara Feldon, the film explores the challenges of dieting, exercising, and the pursuit of love. Witness the story of a woman who struggles with her weight, only to find her husband leaving her because of it, while she learns to confront her inner turmoil and face difficult choices for the sake of love.
9. The Boy Who Drank Too Much (1980)
The Boy Who Drank Too Much” is a poignant and thought-provoking drama from 1980, directed by Jerrold Freedman and featuring a compelling ensemble cast, including Scott Baio, Lance Kerwin, and Ed Lauter. Set in the world of high school sports, the film delves into the hidden world of a popular hockey player who struggles with a secret addiction to alcohol.
10. Borderline (1980)
Borderline” is a gripping 1980 action-drama film starring Charles Bronson as border cop Jeb Maynard. Set along the U. S. -Mexico border, Jeb is on a personal quest to hunt down a shadowy human smuggler, who is responsible for his partner’s murder.
11. A Long Way Home (1981)
A Long Way Home, set in 1981, is a heartwarming drama directed by Robert Markowitz. The film stars Timothy Hutton, Brenda Vaccaro, and Rosanna Arquette, and is produced by Alan Landsburg Productions. The story follows Donald, who was abandoned by his parents years ago, as he embarks on an emotional journey to find his siblings. The biggest obstacle he faces is navigating through layers of bureaucratic red tape. Along the way, he encounters a helpful counselor, who offers her assistance in locating Donald’s missing brother and sister.
12. I’m Going to Be Famous (1983)
In the 1983 drama “I’m Going to Be Famous, “ a group of ambitious young actors clamor for their big break in the world of theater. Set on the stage of a famous author’s play, these hopefuls employ every weapon in their arsenal to secure their dream role.
13. A Time to Live (1985)
A Time to Live” is a heart-wrenching drama based on the true story of Peter and Mary-Lou Weisman. This powerful film, released in 1985, follows the life-altering journey of a mother as she helps her son battle muscular dystrophy. Actress Liza Minnelli delivers an outstanding performance in this emotionally charged movie.
14. The Education of Allison Tate (1986)
The Education of Allison Tate is a gripping drama released in 1986, with a runtime of 1 hour and 28 minutes. Directed by Paul Leder, the film explores the complexities of power, prejudice, and the price of progress. The plot revolves around influential real estate developer Richard Tate, who unscrupulously grabs land from a Native American tribe for his next construction project.
15. Under the Influence (1986)
Under the Influence” (1986) is a compelling drama film that delves into the world of alcoholism and its devastating toll on lives. The story is centered on Noah Talbot, a long-time alcoholic who’s personal life and family begin to suffer as a result of his excessive drinking.
16. Nightingales (1988)
Nightingales, “ a 1988 drama series, follows the lives of five beautiful nurse students living together in a villa called “Nightingale House” in Los Angeles. The story revolves around their work and personal lives, with their boss Leonore having a complicated private relationship with a physician. The series also touches upon the characters’ romantic entanglements and their journey to find balance in their personal and professional lives.
17. A Little Piece of Heaven (1991)
Will Loomis, a caring man who takes on the responsibility of looking after his mentally-handicapped sister Violet, makes a heart-wrenching decision to kidnap two children from the local children’s home, in an attempt to provide joy and companionship for his sister. Together, they turn their farm into a little piece of heaven for the children, while authorities grow increasingly suspicious of their actions.
18. Woman with a Past (1992)
Woman with a Past” is a gripping 1992 drama film directed by the talented Mimi Leder. The movie tells the story of a woman who seems to be living a normal life, complete with a new husband and new family. However, when her past catches up to her, a riveting narrative unfolds in flashbacks that lead viewers through moments in her life, from her first marriage, to her struggles with addiction, criminal actions, a stint in prison, attempts at normalcy, and ultimately, her fight to protect her children. The film also tackles the intricacies of family relationships and grapples with the weighty realities of human life.
19. Marked for Murder (1993)
A thrilling blend of action and drama, “Marked for Murder” (1993) follows the story of Mace Moutron, a formidable ex-convict who is given a chance at redemption by participating in a police project alongside other felons. As a dedicated man with a fierce dedication to justice, Mace clashes with the system’s corruption and impotence.
20. Rio Shannon (1993)
Rio Shannon, “ directed by Mimi Leder, is a poignant drama film that premiered in 1993. The story follows a widow and her family as they navigate a new chapter in their lives after relocating to a dilapidated guest ranch in New Mexico. This unexpected move, accompanied by the challenges they face, offers a powerful exploration of life, love, and the enduring bonds of family.
21. House of Secrets (1993)
In the gripping 1993 thriller, “House of Secrets, “ Marion Ravinel finds herself trapped in a dangerous marriage. Desperate for escape, she devises a twisted plan with her husband’s former lover to end his life. But as unexpected events unfold, Marion starts to suspect her husband’s ghostly return to wreak vengeance on her.
22. There Was a Little Boy (1993)
There Was a Little Boy” is an emotional, gripping drama that unfolds in 1993, following the story of wealthy couple Gregg and Julie, who lose their young son Robby in a heartbreaking kidnapping. As they struggle to move on and maintain hope, their lives take a turn when Julie becomes pregnant again, and the high school principal enlists her help to mentor a gifted student named Jesse.
23. Baby Brokers (1994)
Baby Brokers” is a gripping drama film released in 1994, directed by Mimi Leder and written by Susan Nanus. The story revolves around Debbie, an LA doctor who desperately seeks to adopt a baby. Her life takes a dark turn when she becomes the victim of baby brokers, a couple posing as willing sellers of their child.
24. The Innocent (1994)
The Innocent, “ directed by Mimi Leder and written by David Venable, is a gripping crime drama that pushes the boundaries of what it means to be a child. When the owner of a local drugstore is brutally murdered during a robbery, the only witness, nine-year-old autistic boy Gregory, becomes the key to solving the case. Policeman Barlow is determined to protect Gregory from danger, as the perpetrators are likely to silence him.
25. The Peacemaker (1997)
In the pulse-pounding thriller, “The Peacemaker, “ an expert US Army colonel teams up with a highly intelligent and determined civilian woman to stop a deadly plot involving stolen Russian nuclear weapons. The clock is ticking and terrorist forces aim to use these dangerous devices for their own chaotic purposes, setting the stage for a relentless race against time. Starring George Clooney and Nicole Kidman, this high-stakes action drama, from directors Mimi Leder and writers Leslie Cockburn and Andrew Cockburn, will have you on the edge of your seat as the Peacemaker faces his toughest challenge.
26. Deep Impact (1998)
In 1998, the world was introduced to “Deep Impact, “ a thrilling disaster movie that left audiences on the edge of their seats. Directed by Mimi Leder and starring Robert Duvall, Téa Leoni, and Elijah Wood, the film centers around a comet that is discovered to be on a collision course with Earth. With just a short amount of time to prepare, the world’s leaders, including the President, must rally together to devise a plan to save as many lives as possible.
27. Pay It Forward (2000)
Pay It Forward, “ directed by Mimi Leder and featuring an all-star cast, tells the heartwarming tale of a young boy named Trevor (played by Haley Joel Osment) who seeks to make the world a better place after his teacher Mrs. Evans (played by Helen Hunt) gives him that chance. Trevor’s philosophy of “pay it forward” — inspired by his kind-hearted teacher — encourages people to help three others, while those aided are asked to do the same, forming a chain of kindness that sweeps through the community.
28. Rennie’s Landing (2001)
Rennie’s Landing is a 2001 drama film that reunites college friends after graduation, as they attempt to recreate the zealous spirit of their college days. Directed by Marc Fusco and written by Michael Garrity, this independent movie stars Charlotte Ayanna, Ethan Embry, and Peter Facinelli. Produced by Magellan Filmed Entertainment and The Nickel Palace, Rennie’s Landing takes the audience on a journey of rediscovering old friendships, past experiences, and the idealistic mindset of youth.
29. Baltic Storm (2003)
In 2003, “Baltic Storm” (formerly known as “2002: The Baltic Storm”) unravels the truth behind the tragic sinking of the “MS Estonia” in 1994, leaving more than 800 people drowned. Featuring a captivating blend of drama and thriller, this thought-provoking film follows the journey of a Berlin journalist and a Swedish lawyer as they uncover the hidden mysteries involving the Estonia disaster.
30. The Code (2009)
The Code, “ also known as “Thick as Thieves, “ is a 2009 action, crime, and thriller film. Directed by Mimi Leder and written by Ted Humphrey, the movie follows a veteran thief who recruits a younger criminal to help him execute one final heist. This heist is crucial, as it involves settling a debt with a ruthless Russian mob. Featuring a star-studded cast including Ivan Petrushinov, Victor Boichev, and Nickolay Hadjiminev, the film brings together a cast of skilled criminals for a high-stakes operation.
31. On the Basis of Sex (2018)
On the Basis of Sex” is a captivating biographical drama that delves into the life of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the trailblazing U. S. Supreme Court Associate Justice. The film portrays Ginsburg’s formative years as a relentless advocate for equal rights. Exploring her early cases and the struggle against misogyny, the movie highlights the pivotal moments that led to her nomination and confirmation.
32. The Planters (2019)
The Planters” is a unique and captivating comedy film that follows the life of an awkward telemarketer named Martha Plant. Living a secluded life, she finds solace in burying treasure and indulging in her love for split pea soup. Her monotonous existence takes an unexpected turn when she takes in a quirky vagrant with multiple personalities. The arrival of this new houseguest proves to be quite an adventure for Martha as she discovers that having three friends in one might be more than she bargained for.