All 9 James Clavell Movies In Order — All The Best (And Worst) Films To Watch Online

Allison Sanchez
4 min readJun 20, 2024

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In the realm of cinematic storytelling, it’s not uncommon for books to find their way onto the big screen. One such author whose works have been successfully adapted into movies is James Clavell. Known for his intriguing narratives, Clavell’s films not only captivate audiences but also leave a lasting impression.

Join us as we dive into the world of James Clavell’s movies, exploring not only his best-known adaptations but also shedding light on lesser-known works that showcase his genius and unique storytelling abilities.

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1. The Fly (1958)

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In the gripping 1958 film “The Fly, “ a devoted scientist embarks on a daring experiment with catastrophic consequences. As Andre (David Hedison) works on a groundbreaking teleportation device, he inadvertently draws a tiny, unwitting participant into the equation: a fly! The unimaginable occurs as Andre is transported from one chamber to another, his atoms becoming mixed with those of the creature.

2. Five Gates to Hell (1959)

Set in the year 1959, the film “Five Gates to Hell” chronicles the harrowing journey of a group of Red Cross medics who find themselves ensnared by Chinese guerrillas in Vietnam. This riveting tale of war, violence, and peril offers viewers a chilling glimpse into the chaos and danger of the battlefield. The talented cast, including Dolores Michaels, Patricia Owens, and Neville Brand, masterfully portrays their characters’ courageous efforts to navigate not only the treacherous jungle terrain but also the treacherous intentions of their captors.

3. Watusi (1959)

“Watusi, “ a 1959 adventure film set in Africa, follows the journey of Alan Quartermain’s son as he seeks to uncover the treasure his father was unable to bring home. With danger lurking at every turn, the film takes viewers on a suspense-filled adventure that explores the beauty and dangers of the African wilderness.

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4. The Great Escape (1963)

“The Great Escape” is a gripping tale of courage and ingenuity set in the midst of World War II. Allied prisoners of war craft a daring plan to escape from a tightly guarded German camp, determined to defy their captors and return to the fight. Led by a tenacious and skilled group of escape artists, they must use cunning and teamwork to outwit their oppressors and break free.

5. The Satan Bug (1965)

With the possibility of life on Earth hanging in the balance, The Satan Bug takes a thrilling ride into the heart of biological warfare. In the spring of 1965, a germ capable of destroying all living organisms is stolen from a lab and the thief threatens to release it unless Station Three is destroyed.

6. King Rat (1965)

King Rat, a gripping 1965 drama and war film takes viewers into the intense world of a Malaysian P. O. W. camp during World War II. Corporal King, a fast-talking wheeler-dealer, finds himself trapped in the camp while employing bribery and larceny to deceptively take control. The movie, based on a novel, showcases a homoerotic friendship amidst the harsh realities of war, making it both compelling and raw.

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7. To Sir, with Love (1967)

In “To Sir, with Love, “ the dedicated and idealistic engineer-turned-teacher, Mark Thackeray (Sidney Poitier), is given the challenging task of teaching a group of rambunctious white high school students from the slums of London’s East End. The film delves into themes of race, class, and education as Thackeray navigates his student’s unique circumstances.

8. The Last Valley (1971)

“The Last Valley,” a timeless adventure drama, transports us to the tumultuous 17th century, amidst the height of the Thirty Years’ War. The compelling narrative unfolds in a hidden, picturesque mountain valley where Protestant mercenaries and German Catholic villagers coexist peacefully, unaware of the relentless chaos surrounding them.

9. Shogun (1980)

“Shogun” is a gripping tale of adventure and political intrigue set in the treacherous world of feudal Japan. In 17th century Japan, an English navigator becomes entangled in the lethal chess game of power, as he navigates through the treacherous waters of Japanese society and politics. Through the captivating lenses of history and adventure, “Shogun” explores the complexities of human nature and the fragile dance of power in a time when a wrong move could mean death.

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