10 Must-Watch Drama Films Set in Museums

Description: This stylish remake of the 1968 film features a billionaire art thief, Thomas Crown, who steals a priceless painting from the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The film delves into the cat-and-mouse game between Crown and an insurance investigator, set amidst the grandeur of museum settings.

Fact: The film was shot in several real museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where the famous heist scene takes place. The painting stolen in the movie, "San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk" by Monet, was recreated for the film.

Description: Although primarily a comedy, this film has dramatic elements as it follows a night watchman who discovers that the exhibits in the American Museum of Natural History come to life at night. It's a heartwarming tale about history, legacy, and the magic of museums.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life incident where a night guard at the museum claimed to have seen exhibits moving. The movie was shot on location at the actual American Museum of Natural History.

Description: While not directly about a museum, this political thriller involves a ghostwriter uncovering secrets related to a former British Prime Minister, with scenes set in a museum-like environment.

Fact: The film was directed by Roman Polanski, who himself has a history with art and museums, having been involved in several art-related controversies.

Description: An aging art expert becomes involved in a complex game of deception and love, centered around a mysterious woman and her collection of art, which includes pieces that could be housed in a museum.

Fact: The film was shot in Italy, with many scenes taking place in real auction houses and galleries, giving it an authentic museum-like atmosphere.

Description: A group of thieves plans to steal a priceless painting from a museum, but the heist turns into a complex game of betrayal and revenge. This film explores the darker side of the art world.

Fact: The film features a real-life painting by Salvador Dalí, which adds an element of authenticity to the museum setting.

Description: This film, based on true events, follows a group of art historians, curators, and museum directors during World War II, tasked with rescuing art stolen by the Nazis. It's a poignant drama about the preservation of cultural heritage.

Fact: The film was criticized for historical inaccuracies but praised for its portrayal of the importance of art in times of war. George Clooney, who directed and starred in the film, also co-wrote the screenplay.

Description: While not exclusively about museums, this Wes Anderson film features a museum-like hotel with priceless art, theft, and a murder mystery. The film's aesthetic and narrative make it a unique addition to this list.

Fact: The film was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning four, including Best Production Design, which captures the museum-like atmosphere of the hotel.

Description: This film tells the true story of Maria Altmann's legal battle to reclaim Gustav Klimt's painting "Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I" from the Austrian government, which was originally housed in the Belvedere Museum.

Fact: The painting was sold for $135 million, making it one of the most expensive paintings ever sold at auction.

Description: This film explores the relationship between painter Johannes Vermeer and his maid, Griet, who becomes the model for his famous painting. The film captures the essence of art creation in a museum-like setting.

Fact: The film was shot in Delft, where Vermeer lived, and many scenes were filmed in locations that resemble museums or art galleries.

Description: A young artist is coerced into forging a painting by Vermeer to replace one stolen from the Gardner Museum. The film delves into themes of art, morality, and the value of authenticity.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum art heist, one of the largest art thefts in history.