10 Best Movies Set In or About Factories

Factories are more than just places of production—they’re settings where human struggles, dreams, and triumphs unfold. From gritty dramas to whimsical fantasies, movies set in or about factories capture the heart of industry and the people behind it. These films show the challenges of working-class life, the clash of cultures, and even the magic of creation, offering stories that resonate with anyone curious about the industrial world.

We’ve picked ten standout movies that bring factory settings to life, each telling a unique story. From tales of labor and rebellion to surreal adventures, these films highlight the power of storytelling in industrial environments. Whether you’re drawn to historical dramas or lighthearted comedies, there’s something here for everyone.

10. The Man in the White Suit (1951)

This British comedy follows Sidney Stratton, a quirky inventor who creates a fabric that never gets dirty or wears out. Played by Alec Guinness, Sidney’s breakthrough threatens the clothing industry, sparking chaos among factory owners and workers.

The film blends humor with sharp commentary on innovation and greed. Its factory scenes, filled with clanking machines and bustling workers, paint a vivid picture of post-war industry. Guinness shines as the determined yet naive hero, making this a charming watch.

9. The Pajama Game (1957)

Set in a pajama factory, this musical stars Doris Day as a worker falling for a superintendent amid a labor dispute. Directed by George Abbott and Stanley Donen, it’s a lively mix of romance, comedy, and catchy tunes.

The factory setting grounds the film’s upbeat energy, with scenes of workers demanding a raise bringing real-world issues to the forefront. Day’s performance and the vibrant choreography make this a delightful look at love and solidarity in an industrial world.

8. Gung Ho (1986)

Michael Keaton leads this comedy about a struggling American car factory taken over by a Japanese company. Directed by Ron Howard, it explores cultural clashes and the fight to save jobs in a small town.

The film’s factory scenes are both funny and heartfelt, showing workers navigating new management styles. Keaton’s charm carries the story, blending humor with a look at globalization’s impact on everyday people.

7. The Machinist (2004)

Christian Bale stars as Trevor, a factory worker battling insomnia and paranoia in this dark psychological thriller. The industrial setting amplifies the film’s eerie tone, with dim machines and shadowy corners.

Bale’s intense performance—he lost over 60 pounds for the role—drives this haunting story of guilt and reality. The factory isn’t just a backdrop; it mirrors Trevor’s unraveling mind, making this a gripping watch.

6. Blue Collar (1978)

This gritty drama follows three auto workers, played by Richard Pryor, Harvey Keitel, and Yaphet Kotto, who plan to rob their union’s safe. Directed by Paul Schrader, it dives into the frustrations of factory life.

The film’s raw depiction of Detroit’s assembly lines exposes workplace tensions and corruption. Pryor’s powerful performance, paired with the film’s unflinching honesty, makes it a compelling look at labor struggles.

5. The Deer Hunter (1978)

This epic war drama, directed by Michael Cimino, starts in a Pennsylvania steel mill where friends, played by Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and Meryl Streep, face grueling work before heading to Vietnam. The factory scenes set the stage for their bond.

The mill’s fiery furnaces and harsh conditions reflect the characters’ resilience. With stunning performances and emotional depth, this Oscar-winning film uses its industrial roots to ground a devastating story.

4. American Factory (2019)

This documentary, produced by Barack Obama, follows a Chinese billionaire reopening a closed General Motors plant in Ohio. Directed by Steven Bognar and Julia Reichert, it captures the clash between American workers and Chinese management.

The film’s real-life factory footage shows automation, cultural differences, and labor challenges. Its honest look at globalization and working-class life earned it an Oscar, making it a must-see for understanding modern industry.

3. Norma Rae (1979)

Sally Field shines as Norma Rae, a textile worker fighting to unionize her mill in this inspiring drama directed by Martin Ritt. Based on a true story, it highlights the power of standing up for workers’ rights.

The film’s factory scenes, filled with noisy looms and tired workers, feel authentic. Field’s Oscar-winning performance brings heart and grit, making this a timeless tale of courage and change.

2. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)

Tim Burton’s remake of Roald Dahl’s classic, starring Johnny Depp as Willy Wonka, takes us inside a fantastical chocolate factory. The story follows young Charlie exploring a magical world of candy-making.

The factory’s wild machines and colorful sets create a surreal backdrop. Depp’s quirky performance and Burton’s imaginative direction make this a fun, family-friendly take on industry’s creative side.

1. Modern Times (1936)

Charlie Chaplin’s silent masterpiece stars him as a factory worker struggling in an industrialized world. Directed by Chaplin, it blends comedy with sharp commentary on mechanization and labor.

The iconic assembly line scenes, where Chaplin’s Tramp battles machines, are both hilarious and poignant. This timeless film captures the human spirit amid factory life, earning its place as a classic.

Which factory film resonates with you, or is there a hidden gem we missed? Drop your thoughts in the comments!