List of historical films set in Near Eastern and Western civilization

The historical drama or period drama is a film genre in which stories are based upon historical events and famous people. Some historical dramas are docudramas, which attempt an accurate portrayal of a historical event or biography, to the degree that the available historical research will allow. Other historical dramas are fictionalized tales that are based on an actual person and their deeds, such as Braveheart, which is loosely based on the 13th-century knight William Wallace's fight for Scotland's independence.

Due to the sheer volume of films included in this genre and in the interest of continuity, this list is primarily focused on films pertaining to the history of Near Eastern and Western civilization.

For films pertaining to the history of East Asia, Central Asia, and South Asia, please refer also to the List of historical films set in Asia.

Films set in the Stone Age (before 3300 BC)

TitleRelease dateTime EraTime PeriodNotes on setting
Early Man2018Paleolithic1 Million B.C.Stop motion animated comedy about a group of caveman fighting against Lord Nooth and his Bronze Age City to save their home.
Quest for Fire1981Paleolithic80,000 BCThe story is set in Paleolithic Europe, with its plot surrounding the struggle for control of fire by early humans.
The Clan of the Cave Bear1986Paleolithic40,000 – 35,000 BCIn times of Neanderthal extinction
Alpha2018Paleolithic20,000 BCDog domestication
Creatures the World Forgot1971Paleolithic
Year One2009NeolithicComedy about two hunter-gatherers who after being banished from their tribe encounter Biblical characters and eventually wind up in the city of Sodom.
Conan the Barbarian1982Neolithic32,000 – 10,000 BCOccurs in the pseudo-historical "Hyborian Age", set after the destruction of Atlantis and before the rise of any known ancient civilization
Conan the Destroyer1984Neolithic32,000 – 10,000 BC
10,000 BC2008Neolithic10,000 BCSet in the prehistoric era (12,000 years ago) and depicts the journeys of a prehistoric tribe of mammoth hunters.
Ice Age2002Neolithic9,000 BCFictional story about sub-zero heroes: a woolly mammoth, a saber-toothed tiger, and a sloth.
Iceman2017Neolithic3,300 BCFictional story about the life of Ötzi, a natural mummy of a man found in 1991 in the Ötztal Alps.

Films set in the Bronze Age (3300–1200 BC)

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Gods of Egypt20163200 BCA fantasy action film based on the ancient Egyptian deities and story of god Horus (Horus may be shown as a falcon on the Narmer Palette, dating from about the 3300–3200 BC).
The Scorpion King20023200–3000 BCA fantasy action film based on historical king of the Protodynastic Period of Egypt, King Scorpion.
The Pharaohs' Woman19603100 BCA beautiful girl and a young physician fall in love in the midst of a family, and power struggle between rival princes of Upper and Lower Egypt. Set shortly after the unification of Upper Egypt and Lower Egypt by the First Dynasty of Egypt.
Land of the Pharaohs19562589–2566 BCBased on the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops), a member of the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt.
Cleopatra's Daughter19602589–2566 BCBased on the reign of Pharaoh Khufu (Cheops), a member of the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt.
Sudan19452558–2532 BCSet during the reign of the pharaoh Khafre (Chephren), a member of the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt.
The Scorpion King 2: Rise of a Warrior20082334–2284 BC/ 1792 – c. 1750 BCA fictional story about Mathayus who aims to avenge the death of his father at the hand of Sargon, now king of Akkad. In this movie appear a fictional version of king Hammurabi of Babylon.
The Bible: In the Beginning...1966approx. 3761 BC – 1644 BC (according to the Hebrew Calendar)It recounts the first 22 chapters of the biblical Book of Genesis, covering the stories from Adam and Eve to the binding of Isaac.
Sodom and Gomorrah19622100 BCAn epic film which is loosely based on the tale of the cities Sodom and Gomorrah in the Book of Genesis.
The Eloquent Peasant19702160–2025 BCEgyptian short film based on the tale of The Eloquent Peasant from the Middle Kingdom period
Abraham19932100–2000 BCA television film based on the life of the patriarch Abraham.
The Bible20132100 BC – 67 ADTelevision miniseries based on the Bible, starting with Abraham.
Mohenjo Daro20162016 BCFilm set in 2016 BC, in the ancient city of Mohenjo-daro. The historical city was one of the largest settlements of the Indus Valley civilisation, and one of the world's earliest major cities.
Jacob19942000 BC (according to the Hebrew calendar)A German/Italian/American television film based on the novel Giacobbe by Francesco Maria Nappi. The novel is in turn based on the depiction of the patriarch Jacob in the Book of Genesis.
Slave of Dreams19951901–1850 BCSet in Ancient Egypt and based on the story of Joseph, a Vizier depicted in the Book of Genesis. The era of the film's setting corresponds to the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt.
Joseph19951901–1850 BCSet in Ancient Egypt and based on the story of Joseph, a Vizier depicted in the Book of Genesis. The era of the film's setting corresponds to the Twelfth Dynasty of Egypt.
The Red Tent20141700–1750 BCMiniseries set in The Holy Land during the time of the Old Testament patriarchs of the Book of Genesis. Dinah, the only daughter of Leah and Jacob, chronicles her story from youth through adulthood.
Atlantis: End of a World, Birth of a Legend20111600 BCDocudrama which depicts a re-enactment of the events surrounding the Minoan eruption, a major catastrophic volcanic eruption in the island of Thera (modern Santorini). The historical eruption devastated the island, and communities and agricultural areas on nearby islands and Crete. The event is thought to be connected to a decline and eventual downfall for the Minoan civilization, an incident believed to have inspired the legend of Atlantis.
Atlantis2013–20151600 BCFar from home, Jason washes up on the shores of the ancient and mysterious city of Atlantis.
Nefertiti, Queen of the Nile19611370–1330 BCSet in Ancient Egypt; loosely based on the life of Nefertiti, Great Royal Wife of the Pharaoh Akhenaten. Nefertiti and her husband were members of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt, and were ruling figures of the Amarna Period.
The Egyptian19541350 BCBased on the novel The Egyptian by Mika Waltari, who adapted the Story of Sinuhe. The film mentions the pharaoh Akhenaten, the Hittite Empire, and iron technology.
Tut20151332–1323 BCThe three-part miniseries is based on the life of Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, a member of the Eighteenth Dynasty of Egypt.
Jason and the Argonauts19631300 BCThe story of Jason and Argonauts, a band of heroes in Greek mythology, who in the years before the Trojan War (around 1300 BC) accompanied Jason to Colchis in his quest to find the Golden Fleece.
The Ten Commandments19561290–1213 BCSet in Ancient Egypt, during the reign of Ramesses II, a member of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt. The film is based on the founding narrative of the Exodus, as depicted in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
Exodus: Gods and Kings20141290–1213 BCSet in Ancient Egypt, during the reign of Ramesses II, a member of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt. The film is based on the founding narrative of the Exodus, as depicted in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
The Prince of Egypt19981290–1213 BCSet in Ancient Egypt, during the reign of Ramesses II, a member of the Nineteenth Dynasty of Egypt. The film is based on the founding narrative of the Exodus, as depicted in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
Immortals20111228 BCLoosely based on the Greek myth of Theseus and the Minotaur and the Titanomachy.
Iphigenia19771200–1150 BCSet in the port town of Aulis, Greece immediately before the Greek expeditionary force set sails to attack Troy. Due to unfavorable weather conditions, king Agamemnon of Mycenae offers his daughter Iphigenia as a human sacrifice to the goddess Artemis. The film is based on the theatrical play Iphigenia in Aulis by Euripides.
Helen of Troy19561200–1150 BCSet in western Anatolia during the Trojan War, largely based on the epic poems Iliad and Odyssey by Homer.
Helen of Troy20031200–1150 BCTV miniseries set in western Anatolia during the Trojan War, loosely based on the epic poem Iliad by Homer.
Troy20041200–1150 BCSet in western Anatolia during the Trojan War, loosely based on the epic poem Iliad by Homer.
Troy: Fall of a City20181200–1150 BCMiniseries that tells the story of the 10-year siege of Troy.
The Fury of Achilles19621200–1150 BCSet in western Anatolia in the 9th year of the Trojan War, based on the epic poem Iliad by Homer. King Agamemnon of Mycenae has lost his slave concubine Chryseis, and demands Briseis as a replacement concubine. Briseis is the slave concubine of Achilles, the leader of the Myrmidons, and Achilles feels insulted due to having to give her up to his superior. In retaliation, Achilles refuses to fight or lead his troops alongside the other Greek forces. The Trojans temporarily start gaining an advantage in the ongoing war.
The Trojan Horse19611200–1150 BCSet in western Anatolia in the 10th and final year of the Trojan War.
The Trojan Women19711200–1150 BCSet in the immediate aftermath of the Trojan War, based on the theatrical play The Trojan Women by Euripides. The city of Troy has been sacked and the victors of the war are taking decisions on the fates of surviving captives. The film focuses on the fates of female captives Hecuba, Andromache, Cassandra, and Helen of Sparta. Meanwhile, Astyanax, the underage heir to the Trojan throne and relative of all four women, is scheduled for execution.
The Avenger19621200–1150 BCAeneas struggles to establish a new home-land in the Italian Peninsula for his fellow survivors of the Trojan War. The film is based on the epic poem Aeneid by Virgil, which depicts Aeneas and his Trojan colonists as ancestor of the Romans.
Electra19621200–1150 BCSet in the aftermath of the Trojan War in Mycenae, based on the theatrical play Electra by Euripides and the traditional accounts of conflicts within the family of the Atreidai. Agamemnon, King of Mycenae returned victorious from the Trojan War, but was assassinated by his own wife Clytemnestra and by his first cousin Aegisthus (who served as Clytemnestra's lover and a rival claimant to the throne). Years, later Electra (the daughter of Agamemnon and Clytemnestra) seeks revenge for her father's murder, by plotting the assassinations of both her mother and her stepfather.
Ulysses19541200–1150 BCSet in the aftermath of the Trojan War, based on the epic poem Odyssey by Homer. It depicts the ten-year struggle of war veteran Odysseus to return home to the island of Ithaca following the war.
The Odyssey19681200–1150 BCBased on the epic poem Odyssey by Homer.
The Odyssey19971200–1150 BCSet in the aftermath of the Trojan War, based on the epic poem Odyssey by Homer. It depicts the ten-year struggle of war veteran Odysseus to return home to the island of Ithaca following the war.

Films set in the Iron Age (1200 BC–500 BC)

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Samson and Delilah19491118–1078 BCA romantic biblical drama film which depicts the story of Samson, a strongman whose secret lies in his uncut hair, and his love for Delilah, the woman who seduces him. Samson and Delilah are characters in the Book of Judges, where Samson is depicted as the last of the Biblical judges in its narrative, and Delilah as a woman of Nahal Sorek who was bribed by the lords of the Philistines to learn his secrets.
Samson20181118–1078 BCSamson is a 2018 Biblical drama film directed by Bruce Macdonald and inspired by the story of Samson in the Book of Judges.
Pharaoh19661069 BCSet in Ancient Egypt during the reign of a fictitious king "Ramses XIII" (there were only 11 kings by that name). The film is based on the novel Pharaoh by Bolesław Prus, and depicts the final years of the historical Twentieth Dynasty of Egypt. Ramses XIII rises to the throne when still in his 20s, following the deaths of his father, and the incapacitating illnesses and (one suicide) of a number of older brothers. Egypt is in decline due to a combination of internal and external threats, and Ramses is pushing for necessary reforms but his efforts are resisted by the powerful, bureaucratic priesthood. Ramses dies young, before accomplishing his goals. His political rival "Herhor" (the historical Herihor) succeeds him on the throne and attempts some of the same reforms, but still fails to rescue Egypt from its decline.
King David19851040–970 BCSet in the Southern Levant, it depicts the life and reign of David, Kings of Israel. Based on the Books of Samuel. David is the supposed founder of the House of David (Davidic line).
A Story of David19601040–970 BCSet in the Southern Levant, it depicts the complex relationship between Saul, Kings of Israel and his son-in-law and eventual successor David. Based on the Books of Samuel, where Saul is depicted as the founder of the Kingdom of Israel.
David and Goliath19601040–970 BCSet in the Southern Levant, focused on the conflict between rival kings Saul and Asrod, and their representatives in champion warfare: David and Goliath of Gath. Based on the Books of Samuel, which depict Achish as a king of Gath who was in conflict with Saul and recruited David to serve in his army.
David and Bathsheba19511040–970 BCSet in the Southern Levant, during the reign of David, Kings of Israel. David is married to Michal, daughter of his predecessor Saul. David has an extramarital affair with Bathsheba, wife of the soldier Uriah the Hittite. Uriah is one of David's Mighty Warriors (a group of soldiers personally loyal to David), but David arranges for Uriah to be killed in battle and then claims Bathsheba as his new wife. Based on the Books of Samuel.
Solomon and Sheba19591011–931 BCSet in the Southern Levant, during the reign of Solomon, Kings of Israel. Solomon forms a political alliance with the Queen of Sheba, becomes a lover of his new ally, and introduces pagan rituals in his kingdom. His exiled half-brother Adonijah offers his military services to Ancient Egypt and leads an Egyptian army in an invasion of Kingdom of Israel. The events of the film are loosely based on narratives from the Books of Kings and the Books of Chronicles. The Books of Kings depict Adonijah and Solomon as sons of David and rival claimants to the throne of Israel, but do not feature Adonijah as loyal to Egypt. Instead, Solomon himself is traditionally depicted as an ally of Egypt and as husband of a Pharaoh's daughter.
Sins of Jezebel1953874–853 BCSet in the Southern Levant, during the reign of Ahab, Kings of Israel. The film depicts the reign of the Omrides, based on Books of Kings and the Books of Chronicles. Jezebel, Ahab's queen consort, is depicted as having an extramarital affair with the military commander Jehu. This contradicts the traditional narrative, where Jezebel never has extramarital affairs and where she is assassinated by Jehu during the coup d'état which elevated him to the throne.
I Am Semiramis1963810 BCSet in the Neo-Assyrian Empire, during the reign of semi-legendary queen Semiramis. The legends are in part based on the historical Shammuramat, queen consort of Shamshi-Adad V and regent for her son Adad-nirari III.
King Lear (many adaptations)1905–800 BCCeltic Britain
Romulus2020–800 BCSet in the 8th century BC, narrates the events preceding the founding of Rome.
Duel of the Titans1961753 BCBased on the story of Romulus and Remus, and the founding of the city of Rome and the Roman Kingdom.
The First King: Birth of an Empire2019753 BCSet in the 8th century BC, it is about the shepherd brothers Romulus and Remus and the founding of Rome.
Romulus and the Sabines1961750 BCBased on the Rape of the Sabine Women, an origin myth for the Roman Kingdom. Shortly after the founding of the kingdom and the start of the reign of Romulus, Rome still lacks a female population and its residents can not reproduce. Romulus organizes bride kidnappings from neighboring people, primarily targeting the Sabines. This leads to a war between the Roman and Sabines, and the eventual assimilation of the Sabines by the Romans.
The Rape of the Sabine Women1962750 BCAdaptation of the Roman foundation myth about the abduction of Sabine women by the Romans shortly after the foundation of the city of Rome.
Duel of Champions1961650 BCBased on the Roman legend of the Horatii, set in the reign of Tullus Hostilius. The Roman Kingdom is at war with the city of Alba Longa and the outcome will by decided by champion warfare. Rome sends three brothers from gens Horatia and Alba Longa sends three brothers from gens Curiatia gens. Publius Horatius emerges as the sole survivor of the combat, and Alba Longa is annexed by the Roman Kingdom.
War Gods of Babylon1962627 BCSet in the Neo-Assyrian Empire; focusing largely on Sardanapalus (probably the Greek name for Ashurbanipal, but anachronistically including Zoroaster (11th–10th century BC) and Hammurabi (1792–1750 BC).
The Book of Daniel2013605 BCIn 605 B.C. Jerusalem was conquered by the Babylonians and many of their best young men were taken into captivity, including Daniel.
Queen of Babylon1954600 BCSet in the Neo-Babylonian Empire, depicts Semiramis as a Babylonian queen.
Tomyris2019600 – 530 BCThe film is based on the story of Herodotus about the death of the Persian King Cyrus the Great during the war with Massagetae, which was commanded by the queen Tomiris.
The Beast of Babylon Against the Son of Hercules1963539 BCA fictionalized account of the downfall of the Neo-Babylonian Empire and its conquest by the Achaemenid Empire under the Cyrus the Great. The cruel Balthazar (Belshazzar) has usurped the Babylonian throne and rules through state terrorism. He systematically offers young women as human sacrifice to his gods. Nippur, a descendant of former king Sargon II, fails to stop the usurper on his own. His life is saved by Zairus (Cyrus the Great) and he agrees to help the Persian king in his campaign to conquer Babylon. The historical Belshazzar was a son of king Nabonidus and served as a regent in his father's absence, but never became a king in his own right. During Cyrus' conquest, Nabonidus was captured and his life apparently spared, but Belshazzar may have died during the fall of the city.[1]
Hero of Rome1964509 BCThe story combines the Roman legends of Gaius Mucius Scaevola and the expulsion of king Lucius Tarquinius Superbus. In the film, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus has already been deposed, and the Roman Kingdom has been replaced by a Roman Republic. Lars Porsena, King of Clusium wages war against the Republic in an attempt to restore his ally Tarquinius to the throne. The Roman Senate offers the military leadership to Gaius Mucius Scaevola, a recently released prisoner of war whose right hand is permanently disabled. Scaevola trains himself to fight with his left hand, and leads his troops to victory against Lars Porsena.
Coriolanus: Hero without a Country1964493 BCThe Roman legend of Gaius Marcius Coriolanus. Coriolanus is a Roman general who distinguishes himself in a war between the Roman Republic and the Volsci. When the aristocratic Coriolanus proposes political reforms which will severely reduce the rights of the plebs, most of the Romans turn against him and he is exiled. The vengeful Coriolanus offers his military services to the Volsci, and leads an invasion army against Rome. Coriolanus refuses requests for a peaceful resolution by his former countrymen, but changes his mind when the Romans send his own mother and his wife as their representatives.

Films set in the Classical Era (500 BC – 600 AD)

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
The Giant of Marathon1959490 BCGreece: Battle of Marathon
Esther and the King1960486–482 BCthe biblical story of Esther
One Night with the King2006486–482 BCthe biblical story of Esther set in the Achaemenid Empire
The 300 Spartans1961480 BCGreece: Battle of Thermopylae
3002007480 BCGreece: Battle of Thermopylae
300: Rise of an Empire2014480 BCGreece: Battle of Salamis
Damon and Pythias1961400 BCSyracuse, Sicily
Socrates1971399 BCA false accusation leads the philosopher Socrates to trial and condemnation in 5th century BC Athens.
Brennus, Enemy of Rome1963387 BCthe Gallic sack of Rome
Hercules2014358 BCAn American action fantasy adventure film based on the graphic novel Hercules: The Thracian Wars, which presents a realistic and more human version of Hercules.
Alexander the Great1956356–323 BCAncient kingdom of Macedonia and Persia
Alexander2004356–323 BCAncient kingdom of Macedonia and Persia
The Cleopatras1983305–30 BCEgypt – The entire Ptolemaic dynasty
The Colossus of Rhodes1961280 BCFictional account of the island of Rhodes during its Classical period in the late third century before coming under Roman control
Revak the Rebel1960218 BCIberian Peninsula immediately before the Second Punic War
Cabiria1914 (silent)218–202 BCduring the Second Punic War
Jupiter's Darling1955218–202 BCduring the Second Punic War
Hannibal1959218–202 BCduring the Second Punic War
Hannibal – Rome's Worst Nightmare2006218–202 BCduring the Second Punic War
Siege of Syracuse1960214–212 BCthe Roman Siege of Syracuse during the Second Punic War
Scipio Africanus: The Defeat of Hannibal1937202 BCBattle of Zama which ended the Second Punic War
Scipio the African1971185 BCAbout the later life of Scipio.
Carthage in Flames1960149–146 BCDepicts the last of the Punic Wars between the Roman Republic and Carthage.
The Centurion1961146 BCBattle of Corinth between Rome and the Achaean League
Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire2006146 BC–410 ADFrom Tiberius Gracchus to the Sack of Rome (410). BBC Docu-drama.
Julius Caesar2002100–44 BCa bio-pic of Julius Caesar, not the Shakespeare play about his death and the aftermath
Burebista198082–44 BCThe reign of King Burebista of Dacia (modern day Romania)
Julius Caesar Against the Pirates196275 BCloosely based on actual events from the early life of Julius Caesar.
Sins of Rome195373–71 BCthe Third Servile War in Rome
Spartacus196073–71 BCthe Third Servile War in Rome
Spartacus200473–71 BCthe Third Servile War in Rome
Spartacus2010–201373–71 BCthe Third Servile War in Rome
Caesar the Conqueror196258–50 BCJulius Caesar leads the Roman army to battle against rebels in Gaul.
Druids200158–51 BCthe struggle between Julius Caesar and Vercingetorix in the Gallic Wars
Giants of Rome196452 BCThe film involves a group of soldiers infiltrating the enemy's stronghold to locate and destroy a secret weapon prior to the Battle of Alesia.
Rome2005–200752–30 BCfrom the end of the Gallic Wars to the death of Mark Antony and the beginning of the Principate
Imperium: Augustus200349 BC–14 ADRome – the life of Augustus, the first emperor
The Slave196248 BCUnofficial sequel to Stanley Kubrick's 1960 film Spartacus
A Queen for Caesar196248 BCEgypt leading up to the arrival of Julius Caesar
Caesar and Cleopatra194548–47 BCEgypt during the stay of Julius Caesar
Cleopatra191748–30 BCEgypt and Rome – follows her relationships first with Julius Caesar and then with Mark Antony
Cleopatra193448–30 BCEgypt and Rome – follows her relationships first with Julius Caesar and then with Mark Antony
Cleopatra196348–30 BCEgypt and Rome – follows her relationships first with Julius Caesar and then with Mark Antony
Cleopatra199948–30 BCEgypt and Rome – follows her relationships first with Julius Caesar and then with Mark Antony
Julius Caesar (many adaptations)1908–44–42 BCShakespeare's play about the death and aftermath of this famous dictator
Antony and Cleopatra (many adaptations)1908–44–30 BCShakespeare's play about the relationship between Cleopatra and Mark Antony
Serpent of the Nile195344–30 BCTells the story of the Egyptian Queen Cleopatra and her relationship with the Roman general Mark Anthony from just after the assassination of Julius Caesar.
Empire200544 BCCovers the struggle of a young Octavius to become the first emperor of Rome.
Domina202143–22 BCThe life and rise of Livia Drusilla, the powerful wife of the Roman emperor Augustus Caesar.
The Cantabrians198029 BCAbout the Cantabrian Wars during the final stage of the two-century long Roman conquest of Hispania.
The Caesars196727 BC–68 ADRome – the Julio-Claudian dynasty
I, Claudius197612 BC–54 ADRome – the reigns and family life of the Julio-Claudians
The Nativity Story20064 BCJudea – The Biblical account of the nativity of Jesus, following the story of Mary and Joseph until the birth of Jesus occurs.
King of Kings19614 BC to 30–33 ADJudea – Dramatization of the story of Jesus of Nazareth from his birth and ministry to his crucifixion and resurrection.
Jesus of Nazareth19774 BC to 30–33 ADJudea – the life of Jesus Christ
Monty Python's Life of Brian19796-4 BC to 30 ADJudea - Comedy parodying the life of Jesus Christ, through a man who lived his life parallel to Jesus.[2][3]
Massacre in the Black Forest19679 ADGermany – The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, where the Cherusci ambushed and annihilated three Roman legions.
Barbarians20209 ADSeries is a fictional account of events during the Roman Empire's occupation of Germania, and the resulting rebellion of the Germanic tribes led by Arminius.
Ben-Hur195926–30 ADBased on the 1880 novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace
Ben-Hur201626–30 ADBased on the 1880 novel Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace
The Last Temptation of Christ198827–30 ADJudea – the life of Jesus Christ
The Robe195330–36Rome – ending reign of Tiberius, the beginning of Caligula
Pontius Pilate196233 ADJudea – The events surrounding the Passion of Jesus Christ focusing on Pontius Pilate.
The Passion of the Christ200433 ADJudea – The final 12 hours of Jesus Christ's life
Risen201633 ADJudea – Immediately after Jesus' crucifixion
Barrabas196133–64Rome – ending reign of Tiberius, the reign of Nero
Imperium: Saint Peter200533–67Saint Peter
A.D. The Bible Continues201533–41Beginning with the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, and continues with the first ten chapters of the Book of Acts.
The Inquiry200637Roman province of Judea shortly after the death of Jesus
Caligula197937–41Rome – the reign of the third emperor
Demetrius and the Gladiators195441Ancient Rome – the end Caligula reign
Messalina195141–48Rome – about the reign of Messalina and Claudius
Messalina196041–48Rome – about the reign of Messalina and Claudius
Nero200441–68Rome – spanning the reigns of Claudius and Nero
Britannia201843Set in AD 43, the series follows the Roman conquest of Britain
St. Thomas197552–72Rome – low budget Indian film on the missionary work of Thomas the Apostle in India.
Quo Vadis195154–68Rome during the reign of Nero
Quo Vadis198554–68Rome during the reign of Nero
Quo Vadis200154–68Rome during the reign of Nero
The Viking Queen196760Britain – loosely based on the revolt of Boudica
Boudica200360Britain – a rebellion shortly after the area had been conquered by Rome
Boudica202360Britain – a rebellion shortly after the area had been conquered by Rome
Pompeii201462–79Pompeii in the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius
The Sign of the Cross193264Persecution of the Christians immediately after the Great Fire of Rome
The Dovekeepers201570Judea – the Siege of Masada during the First Jewish–Roman War
Masada198172–73Roman province of Judea during the First Jewish–Roman War
The Last Days of Pompeii195079Pompeii in the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius
The Last Days of Pompeii195979Pompeii in the days leading up to the eruption of Mount Vesuvius
Pompeii: The Last Day200379Docu-drama that tells of the eruption of Mount Vesuvius on August 24 79 AD
Dacii196786–87Dacia (modern Romania) – Domitian's Dacian War
The Apocalypse200290–96RomeEphesus
Revolt of the Praetorians196496Rome – the assassination of Domitian
The Column1968105–106the Roman emperor Trajan conquering Dacia
Centurion2010117Roman Britain – the supposed fate of the Ninth Legion
The Eagle2011140Roman Britain – a young Roman man attempts to find out what happened to his father and the Ninth Legion
Androcles and the Lion1952161Rome – Based on the 1912 George Bernard Shaw play of the same name.
The Two Gladiators1964180–192Rome during the reign of Commodus
The Fall of the Roman Empire1964180–192Rome during the reign of Commodus
Gladiator2000180–192Rome – spanning the reigns of Marcus Aurelius and Commodus
The Magnificent Gladiator1964260–268Rome during the reign of Gallienus
Sheba and the Gladiator1959260–273Rome and the Palmyrene Empire during the reigns of Aurelian and Zenobia
Santa Barbara (film)2012273–306Rome the story of Saint Barbara, a Christian martyr
Sebastiane1976288Rome Low-budget homo-erotic film about Saint Sebastian
Constantine and the Cross1962306–312Rome's first Christian emperor from the death of Constantius Chlorus to the Battle of the Milvian Bridge
Katherine of Alexandria2012307Roman province of Egypt shortly before the legalization of Christianity
Fabiola1949312Rome early in the reign of Constantine I
The Fall of Rome1963337Rome based on the persecution of Christians after the death of Emperor Constantine
Augustine: The Decline of the Roman Empire2010354–430Roman province of Africa – focusing on the life of Augustine of Hippo, and including the Vandal conquest of Carthage
Agora2009360–415Life and death of scientist/philosopher Hypatia of Alexandria and the destruction of the Library.
St. Patrick: The Irish Legend2000387–493Ireland and Roman Britain during the life of Saint Patrick
Roar1997400IrelandCeltic warriors attempt to repel a fictitious Roman invasion
Hagbard and Signe19675th centuryScandinavia during the Germanic Heroic Age
Arthur of the Britons1972–19735th centuryBritain after the Roman withdrawal
Sign of the Pagan1954406–453Rome – the Huns conquests and the downfall of the Roman Empire
Attila1954406–453Rome – the Hunnic leader up to his retreat from the Po river
Attila2001406–453Rome – the life and death of the famous Hunnic leader
Revenge of the Barbarians1960410the Visigothic sack of Rome
The Voyage Home2004415Rome – loosely based on the 5th-century poem De reditu suo by Rutilius Claudius Namatianus
Die Nibelungen1924450about the Germanic hero Siegfried, his murder, and his widow's vengeance
Die Nibelungen1966–1967450about the Germanic hero Siegfried, his murder, and his widow's vengeance
Ring of the Nibelungs2004450about the Germanic hero Siegfried
King Arthur2004452–467the Roman withdrawal from Britain and the Battle of Mount Badon
The Last Legion2007476–490connecting (in heavily fictionalized fashion) the deposition of the last Roman emperor Romulus Augustus by Odoacer with the Battle of Mount Badon
The Mists of Avalon2001late 5th – early 6th centuriesheavily fictionalized story of King Arthur
Lovespell19816th centuryBritain and Ireland – adaptation of the Brythonic legend of Tristan and Iseult
Fire and Sword19826th centuryBritain and Ireland – adaptation of the Brythonic legend of Tristan and Iseult
Tristan & Isolde20066th centuryBritain and Ireland – adaptation of the Brythonic legend of Tristan and Iseult
Grendel Grendel Grendel19816th centuryanimated film based on the 1971 novel Grendel, retelling the Anglo-Saxon poem from the monster's perspective
Beowulf & Grendel20056th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – loose adaptation of the Anglo-Saxon poem of Beowulf
Grendel20076th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – very loose adaptation of the Anglo-Saxon poem of Beowulf
Beowulf20076th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – loose adaptation of the Anglo-Saxon poem of Beowulf
Hamlet19486th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – adaptation of the Shakespeare play based on the Danish legend of Amleth
Hamlet19646th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – this is a Russian adaptation of the Shakespeare play based on the Danish legend of Amleth
Ophelia20186th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – follows the story of Hamlet from Ophelia's perspective
Prince of Jutland19946th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – legend of Amleth from the Danish Gesta Danorum
Teodora1921500–548Byzantine empress Theodora
Theodora, Slave Empress1954500–548Byzantine empress Theodora
The Last Roman1968/1969526–553the Ostrogoths' struggle against the Byzantine emperor Justinian I and his generals Belisarius and Narses – adaption of a novel by Felix Dahn
Sword of the Conqueror1961567–572Alboin and the Lombard invasion of Italy
Goliath and the Barbarians1959568the Lombard invasion of Italy
The Message1976570–632Arabian Peninsula – the life of Muhammad
The Messenger of God2015570–632Arabian Peninsula – the life of Muhammad
Omar2012595–644the life of Omar ibn Al-Khattab, one of the companions of Muhammad

Films set in the medieval era (600–1500)

Early Middle Ages (7th–10th centuries)

TitleRelease dateTime periodSettingNotes
The Lady of Heaven2021605–632ArabiaBiopic about Fatimah, daughter of Muhammad
681 AD: The Glory of Khan1981632–681BulgariaEpic about the fall of Old Great Bulgaria and the creation of First Bulgarian Empire; focuses on Kanasubigi Asparuh's life
Al Qadisiyya1981636Sasanian EmpireDepicts the Battle of al-Qadisiyyah
Redbad2018c.680–719Frisiaa Dutch drama film based on the life of Redbad, King of the Frisians, who is often considered the last independent ruler of Frisia before Frankish domination
Outlander2008709ScandinaviaLoosely based on the Anglo-Saxon epic poem Beowulf, adapted to a science-fiction backstory involving a spaceship crashing in Iron Age Norway
Charlemagne, le prince à cheval1993768–800FranceCharlemagne's reign up to his coronation as emperor in 800
Roland the Mighty1956778FranceRoland, a knight of Charlemagne's court who was killed at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass
Erik the Conqueror1961786–806EnglandTwo estranged brothers confront each other as rivals when war breaks out between Anglo-Saxon kingdoms and the Vikings.
Vikings2013–2020793–825Western EuropeSeries inspired by the sagas of Viking Ragnar Lothbrok, one of the best-known legendary Norse heroes and notorious as the scourge of England and France.
An Ancient Tale: When the Sun Was a God2003800PolandThe death of Popiel and the rise of Piast the Wheelwright
The Gaelic King2017800ScotlandTells the story of warrior-king Alpin. When his young brother is captured, Alpin must hunt the kidnappers though a dark forest that hides an ancient evil.
Attack of the Normans1962early 9th centuryEnglandset in England during the Viking Age ("Normans" in the title being used in its original continental sense, meaning "Vikings")
Útlaginn19819th centuryIcelandAdaptation of the saga of Gisli Sursson
Pope Joan19729th–11th centuryFrance, ItalyFictitious medieval legend of a woman who disguised herself as a man and rose to the status of Pope in the Middle Ages.
Pope Joan2009814–855France, ItalyFictitious medieval legend of a woman who disguised herself as a man and rose to the status of Pope in the Middle Ages.
The Vikings1958860sEnglandhighly fictionalized account of the death of Ragnar Lodbrok and the subsequent invasion of Northumbria by two of his sons
The Last Kingdom2015–2022866–late 9th centuryEnglandViking Age
Alfred the Great1969870–899EnglandAlfred the Great, king of Wessex repels the army of Guthrum and begins the unification of England
A Viking Saga2008870sRussiaThe Rus prince Oleg of Novgorod defeats Askold and Dir
The Northman2022895ScandinaviaSet in the Viking Age
The Conquest1996896HungaryAbout the Magyar settlement in Hungary
When the Raven Flies1984897IcelandSet in the Viking Age
Pathfinder1987900FinnmarkBased on a Sami legend
In the Shadow of the Raven1988900IcelandSet in the Viking Age
The 13th Warrior1999922Kievan Rus'blends elements of the historical account of the travels of Ahmad ibn Fadlan (AD 922), the legend of Beowulf (6th century), and the Kurosawa film Seven Samurai
The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die2023924–937EnglandSet in the Viking Age
The Legend of Princess Olga1983950–1015Kievan Rus'Olga of Kiev, the princess of Kievan Rus in the middle of the 10th century, the first of the Russian rulers to adopt Christianity.
Vikings: Valhalla2022–2023950–1066Western EuropeSet one hundred years after the events of Vikings, the series chronicles the beginning of the end of the Viking Age, marked by the Battle of Stamford Bridge in 1066.
The Castilian1963930–970SpainFerdinand Gonzalez: an early hero of the Spanish Reconquista
Viking2016976–1016Kievan Rus'Biopic of Vladimir I of Kiev, the ruler of the Kievan Rus', depicting his year in exile after his father's death and his subsequent rise to power
Gniazdo1974972Polandabout Mieszko I of Poland
The Ceremony of Innocence1970978–1016Englanda fictionalized version of the reign of Æthelred the Unready
Prince Vladimir2006980–1015Kievan RusVladimir I of Kiev
The Long Ships1964982–990Scandinavia, AfricaA vagabond Viking adventurer and a Moor both compete to find "The Mother of All Voices", a legendary golden bell near the Pillars of Hercules.
White Viking1991995–1000Iceland and NorwaySet in the Viking Age during the reign of Olaf Tryggvason of Norway and his project to Christianize Norway and Iceland.
The Viking Sagas1995late 10th, early 11th centuriesIcelandBorrows elements from several Icelandic sagas, most notably Laxdœla saga and Njáls saga

Films set in the 11th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodSettingNotes
The Viking19281000Norway, North AmericaLeif Ericson and the expedition to North America
Severed Ways20091007AmericaTwo Scandinavians left behind in North America after the settlements made by Leif Ericson were abandoned
The Physician20131021–1041England - Kakuyid PersiaIn 11th-century England, a travelling barber surgeon attempted to supply medical care to the ordinary population decided to meet the famous doctor Ibn Sina in Isfahan, the most important school for aspiring practitioners in the world at that time.
William the Conqueror20151034–1066Francethe life of William of Normandy prior to the Norman conquest
William the Conqueror19821035–1066France, EnglandWilliam the Conqueror from his recognition as Duke of Normandy to his coronation as King of England
El Cid19611040–1099Spain / Kingdom of CastileRodrigo Díaz de Vivar, an 11th-century Spanish warrior known as El Cid
El Cid2020–20211040–1099Spain / Kingdom of CastileRodrigo Díaz de Vivar, an 11th-century Spanish warrior known as El Cid
Macbeth19081050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19091050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19091050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19111050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19131050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19151050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
The Real Thing at Last19161050sScotlandSatirical silent movie based on the play Macbeth
Macbeth19161050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19221050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19481050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19541050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Throne of Blood19571050sJapan (Scotland)Transposes the plot of William Shakespeare's play Macbeth from Medieval Scotland to feudal Japan
Macbeth19601050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19601050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19611050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19711050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19791050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19811050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19821050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth19871050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth20041050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth20061050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth20101050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Macbeth20151050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
The Tragedy of Macbeth20211050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
Lady Godiva of Coventry19551050sEnglandan English noble woman who allegedly rode naked through the streets of Coventry in protest of unfair taxation
1066: The Battle for Middle Earth20091066EnglandThe Norman Conquest of England through the eye of ordinary people in the village of Crowhurst
Valhalla Rising20091069Scandinavian Scotland, North AmericaFollows a Norse warrior named One-Eye and a boy as they travel with a band of Christian Crusaders by ship in the hopes of finding the Holy Land.
The Crusaders19111096–1099JerusalemDepicts the Siege of Jerusalem during the First Crusade
The Mighty Crusaders19581096–1099JerusalemDepicts the Siege of Jerusalem during the First Crusade
Rytsarskiy roman20001096–1099Byzantine EmpireFirst Crusade
The Crusaders20011096–1099Italy and the LevantFirst Crusade

Films set in the 12th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodSettingNotes
Vision20091098–1179Holy Roman EmpireThe life of Benedictine nun and Medieval German Roman Catholic Saint Hildegard von Bingen
Stealing Heaven19881120FrancePeter Abelard and Héloïse
The Pillars of the Earth20101120–1170Englandduring the civil wars between King Stephen and his cousin Maud
Didgori: Land of Sacrificed Knights20091121Kingdom of GeorgiaBattle of Didgori, in which Georgia's king David IV defeated the Seljuks
Destiny19971126–1198Spainabout Averroes, the 12th-century philosopher from Muslim-controlled Andalusia in Spain whose commentaries would become a staple for subsequent generations of students of Aristotle in Europe
The Devil's Crown19781154–1216EnglandDuring the reigns of Henry II, Richard I and John
Becket19641155–1170Englandarchbishop Thomas Becket, once a close personal friend of Henry II
The Flame and the Arrow19501155–1190Northern ItalyDardo, a Robin Hood-like figure, and his loyal followers use a Roman ruin in Medieval Lombardy as their headquarters as they conduct an insurgency against their Hessian conquerors.
Nemanjić Dynasty: The Birth of the Kingdom20181165–1227SerbiaSerbian historical drama television series about the Serbian medieval dynasty Nemanjići
Murder in the Cathedral19511170EnglandFictionalized account of the last moment of Archbishop Thomas Becket immediately before his murder in the Canterbury Cathedral
Richard the Lionheart20131173EnglandKing Henry II decides to evaluate the courage of his son Richard the Lionheart, his possible successor.
Barbarossa20091176Northern ItalyBattle of Legnano
Arn – The Knight Templar20071179–1187Kingdom of Jerusalema Swedish knight is sent to Jerusalem as penance while his lover languishes in a convent
The Flowers of St. Francis19501181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
Francis of Assisi19611181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
Brother Sun, Sister Moon19721181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
Francesco19891181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
The Lion in Winter19681183Chinon, Angevin Empire (France)Henry II is in power as his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine plots with their sons
The Lion in Winter20031183Chinon, Angevin Empire (France)Henry II is in power as his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine plots with their sons
Kingdom of Heaven20051183–1190Kingdom of Jerusalemevents which led to the Third Crusade (the Battle of Hattin and the Siege of Jerusalem)
Soldier of God20051187Kingdom of Jerusalema Templar who has survived the Battle of Hattin
Saladin19631187–1192Levantevents leading up to and including the Third Crusade
Arn – The Kingdom at Road's End20081187–1205The Levant and Swedenfollowing the Battle of Hattin, the knight returns home to Sweden and participates in the civil wars
Richard the Lion-Hearted19921189Levantbased on Sir Walter Scott's The Talisman and set in the Third Crusade
The Crusades19351190–1192LevantAbout the Third Crusade
Richard the Lion-Hearted19231190Levantbased on Sir Walter Scott's The Talisman and set in the Third Crusade
Robin Hood19121190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
Robin Hood19221190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
The Adventures of Robin Hood19381190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart after his release from captivity in 1194
The Story of Robin Hood19521190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
The Arrows of Robin Hood19751190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
Robin of Sherwood19841190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
Robin Hood19911190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves19911190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart after his release from captivity in 1194
Robin Hood: Men in Tights19931190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
Robin Hood - fourth arrow19971190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
The New Adventures of Robin Hood19971190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
Robin Hood20061190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart
King Richard and the Crusaders19541191LevantWhile leading the Third Crusade, King Richard Lionheart battles treachery in his own camp as well as the Saracens and their charismatic leader Saladin.
Ivanhoe19131192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Ivanhoe19131192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Ivanhoe19521192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Ivanhoe19581192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
The Revenge of Ivanhoe19651192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Ivanhoe19701192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Ivanhoe19821192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
The Ballad of the Valiant Knight Ivanhoe19831192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Young Ivanhoe19951192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Ivanhoe19971192Englandadaptation of the novel by Sir Walter Scott about the English knight who returns from the Third Crusade to find that his name has been falsely slandered
Robin Hood20101199Englandfrom the death of Richard the Lionheart until the early reign of King John
Robin and Marian19761199–1201Englandfrom the death of Richard the Lionheart until the early reign of King John

Films set in the 13th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodSettingNotes
Valley of the Bees196813th centuryKingdom of BohemiaThe film follows a young man who's sent to join Teutonic order by his father.
Diriliş: Ertuğrul2014early-to-late 13th centuryAnatolia13th century Turkish warrior Ertuğrul agrees to fight the enemies of Seljuk Sultan Ala ad-Din Kay Qubadh I in exchange for land when a good deed endangers his clan. It centres around the life of Ertuğrul, the father of Osman I, who was the founder of the Ottoman Empire
The Last King20161204NorwaySet during the civil war era in Norway during the 13th-century, centers on the efforts of the Birkebeiner loyalists to protect the infant, Haakon Haakonsson, the heir to the Norwegian throne after the death of his father, King Haakon Sverresson.
Gates to Paradise19681212Francethe ill-fated Children's Crusade
Ironclad20111215Englandthe siege of Rochester Castle during the First Baron's War
Eye of the Eagle19971218DenmarkAdventure film about the prince of Denmark stopping a conspiracy to seize the crown
Ironclad: Battle for Blood20141221EnglandA survivor of the Great Siege of Rochester Castle fights to save his clan from Celtic raiders. A sequel to the 2011 film, Ironclad.
The Tartars19621236–1242Kievan Rus'Mongol invasion of Russia
Prince Daniil Galitsky19871238–1253Kingdom of Galicia–VolhyniaKing Daniel of Galicia, the first King of Rus'.
King Danylo – Kingdom Of Swords20181238–1253Kingdom of Galicia–VolhyniaKing Daniel of Galicia, the first King of Rus'.
Alexander Nevsky19381241North-eastern EuropePrince Alexander Nevsky and the Battle of the Ice
The Adventures of Marco Polo19381254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco Polo19621254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco the Magnificent19651254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco19731254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco Polo19751254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco Polo19821254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco Polo20071254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Marco Polo2014–20161254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
Northern Crusades19721260–1273Prussiathe Great Prussian Uprising against the Teutonic Knights during the Northern Crusades
King Mindaugas (Valdžia)19921263LithuaniaTwo-part psychological costume drama about the life of Lithuanian king Mindaugas based on a play by Latvian playwright Mārtiņš Zīverts, aired by Lithuania's national broadcaster.
Knights of the Quest20011271EuropeFrench knights journey to Greece to retrieve the Shroud of Turin
Les Rois maudits19721285–1328Francethe later Capetian dynasty and the arrest of the order of the Knights Templar and the seizure of their wealth by the French crown in 1307
Les Rois maudits20051285–1328Francethe later Capetian dynasty and the arrest of the order of the Knights Templar and the seizure of their wealth by the French crown in 1307
Knightfall2017–20191291–1307Francerecounts the success, fall, persecution, and suppression of the Knights Templar
Braveheart19951296–1305Kingdom of ScotlandWilliam Wallace, a Scotsman who fought for Scotland's independence in the 1290s
The Virgin Spring1960late 13th centurySwedenadaptation of the 13th century Swedish ballad, Töres döttrar i Wänge

Films set in the 14th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodSettingNotes
Kristin Lavransdatter1995early-to-mid-14th centuryNorwayAbout a noblewoman with an arranged marriage who falls in love with someone else.
Kings of the Sun19631300sMexicoOn the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, the Native American tribe of chief Black Eagle clashes with the Mayan tribe of King Balam
Outlaw King20181304–1307ScotlandRobert the Bruce rebels against Edward I's rule over Scotland, thus becoming an "outlaw", depicts the Battle of Loudoun Hill
The Bruce19961305–1314ScotlandRobert the Bruce, who took over the rebellion against Edward "Longshanks" following the death of William Wallace in 1305
Robert the Bruce20191306–1314ScotlandThe story follows Robert the Bruce during the First War of Scottish Independence
Tower of Lust19551314FranceMargaret of Burgundy, Queen of France
Cathedral of the Sea20181320–1370Spain – BarcelonaThe action takes place in 14th century Barcelona at the height of the city's trade and military power in the Mediterranean, during the construction of Santa Maria del Mar serving as background to the story.
Anchoress19931329EnglandChristina Carpenter, an anchoress from Shere, in southern England
Journey to Mecca20091325Middle-EastA dramatised documentary film charting the first real-life journey made by the Islamic scholar Ibn Battuta from his native Morocco to Mecca for the Hajj
The Name of the Rose19861327Italyset in an Italian monastery
The Name of the Rose20191327ItalyMiniseries set in an Italian monastery. A dispute over the evangelical counsels of poverty between representatives of the Franciscan Order and the Avignon Papacy
World Without End20121327–1361EnglandA sequel to the 2010 miniseries The Pillars of the Earth, set in England at the outset of the Hundred Years War
Kazimierz Wielki19761333–1370PolandCasimir III the Great of Poland
The Decameron19711348Italybased on the novel Il Decameron by Giovanni Boccaccio.
Black Death20101348EnglandDuring the initial outbreak of the plague
The Seventh Seal19571351SwedenDuring the initial outbreak of the plague
Du Guesclin19481354–1380FranceBertrand du Guesclin, a Constable of France in the Hundred Years' War
A Knight's Tale20011356Englandloose adaptation of The Knight's Tale by Geoffrey Chaucer, this tale is partially inspired by the exploits of William Marshall, but set in the 1350s (with mention made of Edward, the Black Prince and the Battle of Poitiers (1356))
A Walk with Love and Death19691358France near Paris and MeauxAnjelica Huston in the turmoil of the Jacquerie
The Dark Avenger19551359EnglandEdward, the Black Prince
Andrei Rublev19661360–1430Russiaabout the life of Andrei Rublev, who was considered to be the greatest medieval Russian painter of icons and frescoes
John Wycliffe: The Morning Star19841378–1384Englandthe life and teachings of John Wycliffe, the 14th-century English theologian who is often seen as a fore-runner of the Protestant Reformation
The Reckoning20031380EnglandA priest on the lam takes up with a traveling band of actors, who then discover a murder has occurred and try to solve it by recreating the crime in a play.
The Last Duel20211386FranceBased on the book The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France by Eric Jager.
Mircea19891386–1418WallachiaMircea the Elder, who repelled the Ottoman Empire during his reign
Boj na Kosovu19891389Serbia, Montenegroa battle between Medieval Serbia and the Ottoman Empire
Banović Strahinja19831389Serbiaa battle between Medieval Serbia and the Ottoman Empire
Knights of the Teutonic Order19601390s-1410PolandSet in the Polish–Lithuanian–Teutonic War
An Age of Kings19601398–1485EnglandTV series based on Shakespeare's plays depicting the lives of Richard II of England, Henry IV of England, Henry V of England, Henry VI of England, and Richard III of England
The Hollow Crown2012–20161398–1485Englandseries of films based on Shakespeare's plays depicting the lives of Richard II of England, Henry IV of England, Henry V of England, Henry VI of England, and Richard III of England
The Canterbury Tales1972late 14th centuryEnglandBased on the medieval narrative poem The Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer.

Films set in the 15th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodSettingNotes
Tirante el Blanco200615th centuryFrance and ConstantinopleAdaptation of the 1490 romance, Tirant lo Blanc, about a French knight in the service of the Byzantine emperor in campaigns against the Ottoman Turks.
Chimes at Midnight (Falstaff)19661400–1413EnglandWilliam Shakespeare's recurring character Sir John Falstaff and the father-son relationship he has with Prince Hal
John Hus19771400–1415Kingdom of BohemiaBiography of church reformer Jan Hus.
12 Paces Without a Head20091401Baltic Seamedieval German folk-hero Klaus Störtebeker, a pirate captain in the Baltic Sea who was said to have walked 12 paces after being decapitated by officials of the Hanseatic League
Margrete: Queen of the North20211402ScandinaviaThe film is a fictionalised account of the Man from Graudenz, an impostor who in 1402 claimed to be the deceased King Olaf II/Olav IV of Denmark-Norway, son of the Margrete I of Denmark.
Jan Hus20151402–1415Kingdom of BohemiaBiography of church reformer Jan Hus
Medieval20221402–1419Kingdom of Bohemiafictionalised account of Czech military commander Jan Žižka prior to the Hussite Wars
The King20191403–1420England and northern FranceHenry V of England, depicts the Siege of Harfleur and the Battle of Agincourt
Krzyzacy19601406–1410Central Europethe Battle of Grunwald
Medici2016–20191409–1492Republic of FlorenceThe series follows the Medici family, bankers of the Pope, during Renaissance Florence.
Jan Hus19541412–1415Kingdom of BohemiaBiography of church reformer Jan Hus.
Joan of Arc19991412–1431FranceMiniseries about Joan of Arc from her birth in 1412 until her execution in 1431
Henry V19441413–1422England and northern FranceHenry V of England's wars in France
Henry V19891413–1422England and northern FranceHenry V of England's wars in France
Jan Žižka19551419–1420Kingdom of BohemiaBiopic about Hussite reformer Jan Želivský.
Against All19561420Kingdom of BohemiaHussite reformation.
Joan of Arc19481426–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War
Saint Joan19571429–1456FranceThe story of Joan of Arc, told from the perspective of Charles VII, from the time she first met him at court until 25 years after he executed her.
The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc19991429–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War
Joan the Maiden, Part 1: The Battles, Part 2: The Prisons19941429–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War, from her first encounter with Charles VII until her execution
The Silence of Joan20111430–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War, from her capture in late 1430 until her execution in 1431
The Passion of Joan of Arc19281431EnglandThe trial and execution of Joan of Arc
Vlad Tepes19791439–1476Wallachiaabout prince Vlad the Impaler of Wallachia, who fought to repel the invading Muslim Ottoman Empire throughout his reign
Dracula Untold20141439–1476WallachiaOrigin story of Dracula, alter ego of prince Vlad the Impaler of Wallachia
Dark Prince: The True Story of Dracula20001439–1476Wallachiaabout prince Vlad the Impaler of Wallachia, who fought to repel the invading Muslim Ottoman Empire throughout his reign
Rise of Empires: Ottoman20201444–1453Constantinoplethe Fall of Constantinople to Mehmed the Conqueror, sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ending the Byzantine Empire
The Hour of the Pig19931452FranceA public defender in a remote, rural province finds himself expected to defend a pig in a murder trial
Richard III19121452–1485EnglandRichard III of England
Richard III19551452–1485EnglandRichard III of England
Looking for Richard19961452–1485EnglandDocumentary film about William Shakespeare's Richard III
The Life of Leonardo da Vinci19711452–1519Italy, FranceThe life of the Italian Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519).
Io, Leonardo20191452–1519Italy, FranceA journey in Leonardo da Vinci's mind.
Leonardo20211452–1519ItalyLeonardo da Vinci accused of the murder of a fictional Caterina da Cremona.
The Conquest of Constantinople19511453Constantinoplethe Fall of Constantinople to Mehmed the Conqueror, sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ending the Byzantine Empire
Fetih 145320121453Constantinoplethe Fall of Constantinople to Mehmed the Conqueror, sultan of the Ottoman Empire, ending the Byzantine Empire
The Black Arrow19481455–1485Englandadaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson novel about the Lancastrian hero in the Wars of the Roses
Black Arrow19851455–1485Englandadaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson novel about the Lancastrian hero in the Wars of the Roses
The Conclave20061458Papal StatesDepicting a tense, politically charged Papal conclave
Isabel2012–20141460–1504SpainBiography about the Queen of Castile, Isabella the Catholic.
Tower of London19391462–1483Englandduring the reign of Edward IV of England
The White Queen20131464Englandthe House of York and the House of Lancaster, are in violent conflict over the throne[4]
Stephen the Great - Vaslui 147519751475MoldaviaBattle of Vaslui
Leonardo2011–20121475–1490ItalySet in 15th-century Florence, the show follows the adventures of a teenage Leonardo da Vinci
Da Vinci's Demons2013–20151475–1490ItalyHistorical fantasy drama series that presents a fictional account of Leonardo da Vinci's early life
Maximilian and Marie De Bourgogne20171477–1507AustriaMaximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor and Mary of Burgundy
The Hunchback of Notre-Dame (many adaptations)1905–1482FranceVictor Hugo's novel, set in Paris.
Tower of London19621483–1485Englandduring the reign of Richard III of England
The Shadow of the Tower19721485–1509Englandduring the reign of Henry VII of England
The White Princess20171485EnglandElizabeth of York's marriage to Henry VII, as well as his early reign
Princes in the Tower20051490sEnglandthe trial of Perkin Warbeck, who claimed to be prince Richard, rightful heir to the throne before his untimely death in the Tower as a child
Christopher Columbus19491492New Worldthe discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus19851492New Worldthe discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
Christopher Columbus: The Discovery19921492New Worldthe discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
1492: Conquest of Paradise19921492–1506New Worldthe discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
The Borgias19811492–1503Italythe family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
Los Borgia20061492–1503Italythe family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
Borgia20111492–1503Italythe family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
The Borgias20111492–1503Italythe family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
Muhteşem Yüzyıl2011–20141494–1566Ottoman EmpireBased on the life of Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent
Lucrèce Borgia19531497–1501ItalyLucrezia Borgia from the annulment of her first marriage to Giovanni Sforza until her final marriage to Alfonso d'Este

Renaissance era (1500–1700)

Films set in the 16th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Viy196716th centurySoviet horror film set in 16th century Ukraine, based on the story of the same name by Nikolai Gogol.
Ever After1998early 1500sA modern interpretation of the Cinderella story, involving several historical figures like Francis I, King Henry (later Henry II of France) and Leonardo da Vinci
The Man Who Laughs19661500–1502Set during the war between the Borgia family and Astorre Manfredi, prince of Faenza.
Prince of Foxes19491500–1507About fictional Andrea Orsini, a captain in the service of Cesare Borgia.
The Black Duke19631500–1510The domain of Cesare Borgia is opposed by Caterina Sforza.
Conspiracy of the Borgias19591500–1510Cesare Borgia and Lucrezia Borgia chasing a conspiracy document.
Don Juan19261500–1510Fictional Don Juan famous as a lover and pursued by many women, including the powerful Lucrezia Borgia.
Lucrezia Borgia19121500–1510Silent film about Lucrezia Borgia.
Lucrezia Borgia19221500–1510Silent film about Lucrezia Borgia.
Lucrezia Borgia19351500–1510French film about Lucrezia Borgia.
Lucrezia Borgia19471500–1510Argentine film about Lucrezia Borgia.
Meriota the Dancer19221500–1510Love affair between Cesare Borgia and the dancer Meriota.
A Season of Giants19901500–1550Depicts real life events of Michelangelo.
Lucrezia Borgia19401501Lucrezia Borgia's marriage to Alfonso d'Este
Bride of Vengeance19491501Lucrezia Borgia's brother Cesare Borgia has her second husband Prince Bisceglie killed in order to marry her to Alfonso I d'Este, Duke of Ferrara.
The Spanish Princess20191501–1509Catherine of Aragon
Apocalypto20061502Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, the declining period of the Maya civilization.
La corona partida20161504–1516After the death of Queen Isabella I of Castile, both Ferdinand II of Aragon and Felipe el Hermoso fight to succeed her.
The Mandrake19651504Set in Florence in 1504, based on Niccolò Machiavelli's play.
Luther20031505–1530Martin Luther, from the time he became a friar until his trial before the Diet of Augsburg.
The Agony and the Ecstasy19651508–1512The painting of the Sistine Chapel.
A Princess of Destiny19291509–1547Henry VIII of England
Henry VIII and His Six Wives19721509–1547Henry VIII of England
Henry the Ache19341509–1547Short film burlesque of the 1933 film The Private Life of Henry VIII
Condottieri19371510–1520Depicts the life of Giovanni delle Bande Nere, a famous 16th century Condottiero.
Nostradamus19941510–1566The life story of Nostradamus.
Sin20191513The life of the famous sculptor and painter of the Renaissance, Michelangelo Buonarroti of Florence, set immediately after the death of Pope Julius II.
Judgement19701514Rebellion of György Dózsa, Hungary.
When Knighthood Was in Flower19221514–1515The story of Mary Tudor, and her marriages to Louis XII and Charles Brandon.
The Sword and the Rose19531514–1515The story of Mary Tudor, and her marriages to Louis XII and Charles Brandon.
Emperor20181516–1558In the 16th century, a young woman asked Emperor Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor to help her in her revenge.
Henry VIII19111520–1530British silent historical film based on William Shakespeare and John Fletcher's play Henry VIII
The Other Boleyn Girl20031520–1536Anne and Mary Boleyn
The Other Boleyn Girl20081520–1536Anne and Mary Boleyn
The Other Conquest19981521Mexico, depicting the secret adherence to traditional religious beliefs of the converted Aztec survivors.
Diane19561523–1559Based on the relationship between Diane de Poitiers and Henry II of France.
Diane de Poitiers20221523–1559The story of Diane de Poitiers and her destiny as the favorite of King Henry II of France.
Anna Boleyn19201524–1536Anne Boleyn, Queen Consort of King Henry VIII and the mother of Queen Elizabeth I.
Anne of the Thousand Days19691524–1536Anne Boleyn, Queen Consort of King Henry VIII and the mother of Queen Elizabeth I.
God's Outlaw19861525Depicts the historical figure of William Tyndale and his struggles with the authorities in the time of Henry VIII for translating the Bible into English.
The Headsman20051525An executioner in Tyrol (part of the Holy Roman Empire).
A Man for All Seasons19661525–1535Thomas More
A Man for All Seasons19881525–1535Thomas More
The Profession of Arms20011526Ludovico de' Medici and the War of the League of Cognac.
The Royal Hunt of the Sun19691532Francisco Pizarro's capture of Atahualpa, Sapa Inca.
Wara Wara19301535Romance set at the time of the Spanish conquest of Bolivia.
Carry On Henry19711536–1540Fictionalised story involving Henry VIII, ends with his marriage to Catherine Howard
The Private Life of Henry VIII19331536–1543Henry VIII of England, from immediately after the execution of Anne Boleyn until his marriage to Catherine Parr.
Young Bess19531536–1558From the death of Anne Boleyn to the coronation of Elizabeth I of England.
The Return of Martin Guerre19821542–1560Imposture of French peasant Martin Guerre in Artigat, France.
Jodhaa Akbar20081542–1605The love story of Mughal emperor Akbar the Great and Rajput princess "Jodhaa" i.e. Empress Mariam uz-Zamani.
Gunpowder, Treason & Plot20041542–1605The reigns of Mary, Queen of Scots and her son James I of England.
Firebrand20231544–1547Catherine Parr, from her time as regent until the death of her husband Henry VIII.
Monarch20001547The final days of Henry VIII of England
Ivan the Terrible1944, 19581547–1569Two-part film about Ivan IV of Russia, beginning with his coronation as Tsar of Russia and ending with the death of Vladimir of Staritsa.
The Prince and the Pauper (many adaptations)1909–1547Mark Twain's novel, featuring a fictional portrayal of Edward VI of England.
The Return of Martin Guerre19821548–1588The case of Martin Guerre in France – a true case of identity theft.
Stars of Eger19681552During the Ottoman–Hungarian wars, after the Ottomans have taken Buda, the Hungarian Capital (in 1541), the siege of Eger (1552).
Tudor Rose (Nine Days a Queen)19361553About Lady Jane Grey, Queen Regnant of the Kingdom of England for nine days.
Lady Jane19861553About Lady Jane Grey, Queen Regnant of the Kingdom of England for nine days.
Elizabeth19981554–1563The early reign of Elizabeth I of England.
Mughal-e-Azam19601556–1605The Story of Akbar the Great, Mughal emperor and his son Jahangir. Jahangir's relationship with slave girl Anarkali is featured.
Les Amours de la reine Élisabeth19121558–1603Love affair between Elizabeth I of England and the Earl of Essex.
The Virgin Queen19231558–1603The reign of Elizabeth I of England.
The Virgin Queen19281558–1603The reign of Elizabeth I of England.
The Virgin Queen19551558–1603It focuses on the relationship between Elizabeth I of England and Sir Walter Raleigh.
Elizabeth R19711558–1603The reign of Elizabeth I of England.
The Virgin Queen20051558–1603The reign of Elizabeth I of England.
Aguirre, the Wrath of God19721560Lope de Aguirre's ill-fated expedition down the Amazon in search of El Dorado.
Mary, Queen of Scots19711560–1587Mary, Queen of Scots
Queens: The Virgin and the Martyr20171561The rivalry between Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England
Mary of Scotland19361561–1587Mary, Queen of Scots
Das Herz der Königin19401561–1587Selective use of the life story of Mary, Queen of Scots, and her execution by Queen Elizabeth I for anti-English and pro-Scottish propaganda.
The crown is made of gold 19791561–1587Mary, Queen of Scots
Mary Queen of Scots20131561–1587Mary, Queen of Scots
Mary, Queen of Scots20181561–1587Mary, Queen of Scots
Dangerous Beauty19981562–1583The film is about Veronica Franco, a courtesan in 16th-century Venice who becomes a hero to her city, but later becomes the target of an inquisition by the Church for witchcraft.[5]
The Mill and the Cross20111564Life in Flanders under Spanish Habsburg rule as depicted in Pieter Bruegel the Elder's 1564 painting The Procession to Calvary.
Tsar20091566–1569Film about Ivan IV of Russia during the Oprichnina and the Livonian War
El Greco20071567–1600Greek biographical film about the life of the Greek painter of the Spanish Renaissance, Doménikos Theotokópoulos, known as El Greco.
Otello19061570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Othello19221570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Othello19511570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Othello19551570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Othello19651570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Otello19791570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Otello19861570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Othello19951570–1573During the Ottoman–Venetian War (1570–1573) fought for the control of the Island of Cyprus
Anonymous20111570–1604Life of Edward de Vere, 17th Earl of Oxford, an Elizabethan courtier, playwright, poet and patron of the arts, suggested as the actual author of William Shakespeare's plays.
Countess Dracula19711570–1614Based on the legends surrounding the "Blood Countess" Elizabeth Báthory.
Bathory20081570–1614Based on the story of Elizabeth Báthory, a Hungarian countess in the 16th and 17th centuries.
The Countess20091570–1614Based on the story of Elizabeth Báthory, a Hungarian countess in the 16th and 17th centuries.
La Reine Margot19541572France during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre. The massacre was part of the French Wars of Religion.
La Reine Margot19941572France during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre. The massacre was part of the French Wars of Religion.
The Princess of Montpensier20101572France during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre. The massacre was part of the French Wars of Religion.
Beatrice Cenci19091577–1599About the life events of Beatrice Cenci.
Beatrice Cenci19261577–1599About the life events of Beatrice Cenci.
Beatrice Cenci19411577–1599About the life events of Beatrice Cenci.
Beatrice Cenci19561577–1599About the life events of Beatrice Cenci.
Beatrice Cenci19691577–1599It depicts real life events of Francesco and Beatrice Cenci.
Elizabeth I20051578–1603The last 25 years of the reign of Elizabeth I of England.
Ermak19961580–1690Yermak Timofeyevich and the Russian conquest of Siberia.
Elizabeth: The Golden Age20071585–1590The reign of Elizabeth I of England and the Spanish Armada.
The Testament of Aga Koppanyi19671586Hungarian adventure film based on the eponymous novel by István Fekete. It talks about the adventourous life of the Hungarian soldiers in the Ottoman Hungary, during the Ottoman–Hungarian wars.
The Execution of Mary Stuart18951587The execution of Mary, Queen of Scots.
Fire Over England19371588The Spanish Armada during the Anglo-Spanish War.
The Sea Hawk19401588The Spanish Armada during the Anglo-Spanish War.
Will (TV series)20171589The young upstart actor/playwright William Shakespeare, a Catholic from the small town of Stratford, arrives in wild and turbulent Elizabethan era' London during a time of religious turmoil looking for fame and fortune.
Goltzius and the Pelican Company20121590Dutch artist Hendrick Goltzius
Bill20151593–1598Set during Shakespeare's "lost years" —the crucial period, long a mystery to scholars, covering his rise from obscurity in Stratford-upon-Avon to fame as a playwright in Elizabethan era' London. [ When hopeless lute player Bill Shakespeare leaves his family and home to follow his dream. It’s a tale of murderous kings, spies, lost loves, and a plot to blow up Queen Elizabeth I.
Shakespeare in Love19981593Fictional love affair involving playwright William Shakespeare and Viola de Lesseps while Shakespeare was writing Romeo and Juliet.
Mihai Viteazul19701593–1601Michael the Brave, prince of Wallachia, Moldavia and Transylvania.
The Merchant of Venice20041596Set in the Republic of Venice. The film focuses on the Venetian Ghetto.
Nova Zembla20111596–1597About the last journey of Willem Barentsz and Jacob van Heemskerk, when they and their crew attempted sail to the Indies via Northeast Passage over Russia. They were stranded on the island of Nova Zembla.
The Favourite of the Queen19221596–1601Elizabeth I of England
The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex19391596–1601Elizabeth I of England and Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex.
Elizabeth the Queen19681596–1601Elizabeth I of England and Robert Devereux, 2nd Earl of Essex.
Galileo19681597–1642Depicts the life of Galileo Galilei and particularly his clash with the Catholic Church.

Films set in the 17th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Shōgun19801600–Miniseries adaptation of the novel by James Clavell, which is loosely based on the adventures of English navigator William Adams, who journeyed to Japan in 1600 and rose to high rank in the service of the shōgun.
Mary & George20241600–1628British television miniseries based on Benjamin Woolley's non-fiction book The King's Assassin (2017) about the affair between James VI and I and George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham.
Hamlet A.D.D.20141602–futureRe-imagines Hamlet Shakespeare's play as a bizarre and comical tour through the ages. The story begins in 1602 and leaps chronologically through time to the present, then into the distant future.
Gunpowder20171603–1605English Catholic Robert Catesby and the Gunpowder Plot
Orlando19921603–Set in the Elizabethan era, loosely based on Virginia Woolf's novel Orlando: A Biography
Rembrandt19361606–1669Life of Dutch painter Rembrandt
Captain John Smith and Pocahontas19531607–1609Relationship between Captain John Smith and Pocahontas in Jamestown, Virginia
The New World20051607–1617The colonization of Jamestown, Virginia
Galileo19751609–1633Biopic about the life of Galileo Galilei, focusing on his conflict with the Catholic church
161220071612The Tsardom of Russia during the Time of Troubles
All Is True20181613–1616later years in the life of William Shakespeare
The Last Valley19701618–1648Set in the Kingdom of Germany, Holy Roman Empire during the Thirty Years' War.
Jamestown2017–20191619–1622The colonization of Jamestown, Virginia
Benedetta20211619-1661About the life of Italian nun Benedetta Carlini
Squanto: A Warrior's Tale19941620The life of Patuxet man Squanto and arrival of the Mayflower
Molière19781622–1673The French playwright Molière
Royal Affairs in Versailles19541623A historical film showing Palace of Versailles from its beginnings to the present day
Day of Wrath19431624Loosely based on the case of alleged witch Anne Pedersdotter, and using a fictitious witchcraft trial as a metaphor for the then-current Nazi persecution of Jews.
The Three MusketeersSeveral adaptations (1903–2014)1625–1673Based on the novels (The Three Musketeers and its sequels) by Alexandre Dumas. The protagonists are loosely based on historical figures Charles de Batz-Castelmore d'Artagnan, Armand d'Athos, Isaac de Porthau, and Henri d'Aramitz.
Cardinal Richelieu19351626–1642The life of the great 17th-century French statesman Cardinal Richelieu and his dealings with Louis XIII of France
Silence20161630s–1638Jesuit priests from Portugal attempt to spread Catholic Christianity in Edo-era Japan
Queen Christina19331632–1654Christina, Queen of Sweden
Le Roi danse20001632–1687Jean-Baptiste Lully, an Italian immigrant to France and noted composer of Baroque music.
Black Robe19911634Jesuit missionary among the Hurons.
The Devils19711634The life and trial of Urbain Grandier, who was convicted of witchcraft and burned. He was blamed for the Loudun possessions.
The Devil's Whore20081638–1660The English Civil War and the reign of Oliver Cromwell
Witchfinder General19681640sSet during the English Civil War. A fictionalized depiction of Matthew Hopkins, a witch-hunter.
Admiral20151640s–1650sThe life of Michiel de Ruyter and the Dutch civil war
A Field in England20131640sDuring the English Civil War
Barbara19971640Set in Faroe Islands. About a love triangle between the pastor for the parish of Vágar, his unfaithful wife, and her foppish lover.
Cromwell19701640–1653The English Civil War and the dissolution of the Rump Parliament
Cyrano20211640–1655The life of Cyrano de Bergerac in early 17th century Paris
Alatriste20061643Life of a Spanish soldier (Capitaine Alatriste) until the Battle of Rocroi. Based on the novel by Arturo Perez-Reverte
Molière20071645The French playwright Molière
The Libertine20041647–1680Life of the poet John Wilmot, 2nd Earl of Rochester
With Fire and Sword19991648–1654The Khmelnytsky uprising in Ukraine against the control of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth. It led to the period of the Commonwealth known as the Deluge.
To Kill a King20031648–1658The reign of Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector.
Charles II: The Power and The Passion20031649–1685The reign of Charles II of England
Restoration19951649–1685Set during the reign of Charles II of England
The First Churchills19691650–1722A BBC serial about the life of John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough and his wife, Sarah Churchill, Duchess of Marlborough
The Deluge19741655–1660The Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth during the Second Northern War
The Man in the Iron Mask19771660–1667Loosely based on the existence of the Man in the Iron Mask. Set in France in the reign of Louis XIV
The Great Fire20141666Set during the Great Fire of London in England in 1666
Versailles20151660sFictionalized drama about the reign of King Louis XIV of France and the building of Versailles
Cutthroat Island19951668A female pirate and her companion race against their rivals to find a hidden island that contains a fabulous treasure.
Colonel Wolodyjowski19681668The Ottoman invasion of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth, part of the Polish–Ottoman Wars.
Time of Violence19881668Bulgarian Christian region is selected by the Ottoman rulers to serve as an example of conversion to Islam
England, My England19951670–1695Depicts the life of the composer Henry Purcell
Vatel20001671France during the life of master chef François Vatel
The Prince of Homburg19971675Adaptation of the Heinrich von Kleist play fictionalizing the deeds of Frederick II, Landgrave of Hesse-Homburg in the Battle of Fehrbellin against Sweden. The Battle was part of the Scanian War.
Witchhammer19701678–1696Northern Moravia witch trials
The Red Violin19981681One section of the film is set in 1681 in Cremona
A Little Chaos20141682King Louis XIV of France and the design and construction of the Gardens of Versailles
Peter the Great19841682–1725The reign of Peter I of Russia
The Day of the Siege: September Eleven 1683 20121683Second Ottoman siege of Vienna.
The Cantor of St Thomas's19841685–1750German composer Johann Sebastian Bach
The Crucible19571692–1693Dramatization of the Salem witch trials that took place in Province of Massachusetts Bay
The Crucible19961692–1693Dramatization of the Salem witch trials that took place in Province of Massachusetts Bay
Salem20141692–1693Loosely inspired by the real Salem witch trials in the 17th century
The Draughtsman's Contract19821694Set during the reign of William III and Mary II in England.
Robinson Crusoe19971694–early 18th centuryRobinson Crusoe flees Britain on a ship after killing his friend over love for the same woman. A fierce ocean storm wrecks his ship and leaves him stranded by himself on an uncharted island where he must fight for survival.
Tous les matins du monde1991late 17th centuryFrench composer Monsieur de Sainte-Colombe.

Films set in the industrial era (1700–1900)

Films set in the 18th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Rákóczi hadnagya19541708Adventure movie in Hungary during Rákóczi's War of Independence (1703–11).
The Sovereign's Servant20071709The Battle of Poltava during the Great Northern War.
A Glass of Water19601710Set in London during the War of Spanish Succession
The Favourite20181711A frail Queen Anne occupies the throne and her close friend, Lady Sarah, governs the country in her stead. When a new servant, Abigail, arrives, her charm endears her to Sarah.
Rob Roy: The Highland Rogue19531713Scottish folk hero Robert Roy MacGregor
Rob Roy19951713Scottish folk hero Robert Roy MacGregor
Black Sails2014–20171715–1726Set roughly two decades before the events of Treasure Island and during the Golden Age of Piracy
Farinelli19941715–1740Depicts the life of Farinelli, one of the most famous castrati
Our Flag Means Death2022-20231717Television series depicting the relationship between pirates Stede Bonnet and Blackbeard (Edward Teach) during the Golden Age of Piracy
Blackbeard, the Pirate19521718British Navy Lieutenant Robert Maynard aboard pirate Blackbeard's ship.
Blackbeard20061718the infamous pirate Edward Teach
Maria Theresia20171723–1741Depicts the life of the young Maria Theresa
King of the Wind19901727Depicts the life of the Godolphin Arabian, an Arabian colt in 18th-century Kingdom of Great Britain during the reign of George II of Great Britain.
Of Love and Other Demons20091730sDepicts the daily life in the colonial port-city of Cartagena de Indias, at the Viceroyalty of New Granada at a time of extreme religious intolerance (thanks to the Holy Inquisition) and slavery.
The Great King19421740–1786It depicts the life of Frederick the Great
Maria Theresa19511740–1780Depicts the life of Maria Theresa
Joseph Andrews19771742An adaption of the novel Joseph Andrews by Henry Fielding.
Outlander (TV series)20141743–ongoingDepicts events leading up to the Jacobite Rising of 1745
George Washington19841743–1783George Washington's life up to the American Revolutionary War
The Scarlet Empress19341744–1762Catherine II of Russia
The Rise of Catherine the Great19341744–1762Catherine II of Russia
Young Catherine19911744Catherine II of Russia
Catherine the Great19951744–1762Catherine II of Russia
Ekaterina2014–20191744–1782Catherine II of Russia
Catherine the Great20151744–1782Catherine II of Russia
The Master of Ballantrae19531745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
Culloden19641745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
The Master of Ballantrae19841745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
The Great20201745Loosely based on the rise to power of Catherine the Great, Empress of All Russia
Chasing the Deer19941745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
Mein Name ist Bach20031747Depicts Johann Sebastian Bach's visit to Frederick the Great in Potsdam, Prussia, when The Musical Offering was composed.
Horseman20031747Set in the borders between the regions of Bosnia and Dalmatia, the crossroads of the Ottoman Empire and the Republic of Venice. It deals with issues relating to the region's native Croats as they struggle to live between two empires and two faiths: Catholicism and Islam. Also covers the possibility of a love affair between a Christian soldier and a Muslim noblewoman.
The Amazing Grace20061748Tells the story of John Newton's transformation from slave trader to Anglican priest; story is set in Calabar, Nigeria.
Plunkett & Macleane19991748Loosely based on The Gentlemen Highwaymen William Plunkett and Captain James MacLaine. They were highwaymen noted for their restrained and courteous behavior towards their victims.
Treasure Island19341750Adaptation of the famous pirate story by Robert Louis Stevenson
Treasure Island19501750Adaptation of the famous pirate story by Robert Louis Stevenson
Treasure Island19721750Adaptation of the famous pirate story by Robert Louis Stevenson
Treasure Island19901750Adaptation of the famous pirate story by Robert Louis Stevenson
Casanova20051753–1757Giacomo Casanova
Lady Oscar19791755–1789The woman Oscar François de Jarjayes is raised as a man by her father, later gaining a career as a guard for Marie Antoinette.
A Tale of Two Cities19111755–1792England and France prior and during the French Revolution.
A Tale of Two Cities19351755–1792England and France prior and during the French Revolution.
A Tale of Two Cities19581755–1792England and France prior and during the French Revolution.
A Tale of Two Cities19801755–1792England and France prior and during the French Revolution.
A Tale of Two Cities19801755–1792England and France prior and during the French Revolution.
Amadeus19841756–1791Austria composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Barry Lyndon19751756–1789The Seven Years' War, etc.
The Last of the Mohicans19361757French and Indian War
The Last of the Mohicans19921757French and Indian War
Northwest Passage19401757French and Indian War and the ranger campaign of Robert Rogers
Clive of India19351757Robert Clive, Commander-in-Chief, India and the Battle of Plassey. The Battle was part of the Carnatic Wars.
John Paul Jones19591759–1792Biographical adventure film about American Revolutionary War naval hero John Paul Jones.
The Mission19861760–1763Jesuit missionaries in South America
Belle20131761–1804The true history of Dido Elizabeth Belle, a mixed–race daughter of British Naval officer John Lindsay and an African woman. She was taken to England by her father to be raised by his uncle, William Murray, 1st Earl of Mansfield, as an aristocratic Lady, as befits her blood line. This forces Lord Mansfield, the Lord Chief Justice, to confront his own views on race, society and the antiquated laws of the time.
Mozart's Sister20101763The early life of Maria Anna Mozart, older sister of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Unconquered19471763Pontiac's War focusing on the Siege of Fort Pitt.
Brotherhood of the Wolf20011764–1767Based on a real-life series of killings that took place in France in the 18th century and on the famous legend of the Beast of Gévaudan
Catherine the Great20191764–1796Catherine II of Russia
Sons of Liberty20151765–1776A story about the Founding Fathers of the United States and the American Revolution.
A Royal Affair20121766–1783Set at the court of the mentally ill King Christian VII of Denmark, and focuses on the romance between his wife, Caroline Matilda of Great Britain, and the royal physician Johann Friedrich Struensee.
Napoléon19551769–1821French historical epic film that depicts major events in the life of Napoleon.
John Adams20081770–1826The story about the American Founding Father John Adams from the Boston Massacre in 1770 to his death in 1826.[6]
Louis van Beethoven20201770s–1827Life of Ludwig van Beethoven, called Louis in family
The Duchess20081774–1806The life of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire
Marie Antoinette19381774–1792Marie Antoinette, Queen consort of France
Marie Antoinette Queen of France19561774–1792Marie Antoinette, Queen consort of France
Marie Antoinette20061774–1792Marie Antoinette, Queen consort of France
Marie Antoinette20221774–1792Marie Antoinette, Queen consort of France
Drums Along the Mohawk19391776Settlers during the American Revolution. They are raided by a combined force of British, Loyalist, and Indian raiders.
177619721776A musical retelling of the American Revolution's political struggle in the Continental Congress to declare independence.
The Crossing20001776George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River and the Battle of Trenton
Revolution19851776–1777Fictionalized story of the American Revolution in New York
La Fayette19611776–1781The film depicts the life of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, in particular his role in the American War of Independence.
The Patriot20001776–1781Based on the life of Francis Marion, an officer of the Continental Army officer during the American Revolutionary War.
Benedict Arnold: A Question of Honor20031776–1782Depicting Benedict Arnold, both an early hero of the American Revolution and a notorious defector.
Turn: Washington's Spies2014–20171776–1814American Revolutionary War
The Queen's Necklace19461780sBased on the Affair of the Diamond Necklace. Jeanne of Valois-Saint-Rémy, a descendant of the House of Valois and courtesan takes revenge by scamming Marie Antoinette, Cardinal de Rohan, and others. The scandal kindling the flames of the French Revolution.
Admiral Ushakov19531780–1792Portrays the career of Feodor Ushakov, a celebrated naval officer and contemporary of Horatio Nelson
The Affair of the Necklace20011780sBased on the Affair of the Diamond Necklace. Jeanne of Valois-Saint-Rémy, a descendant of the House of Valois and courtesan takes revenge by scamming Marie Antoinette, Cardinal de Rohan, and others. The scandal kindling the flames of the French Revolution.
Poldark1975–19771781–1799Adaptation of Winston Graham's novels set in Cornwall in the late 18th century
Poldark2015–20191781–1801Adaptation of Winston Graham's novels set in Cornwall in the late 18th century
Les Liaisons dangereuses19591782Adaptation of 1782 French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, originally set in pre-Revolution Paris. This adaptation is set in present-day France.
Dangerous Liaisons19881782Adaptation of 1782 French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, set in pre-Revolution Paris
Valmont19891782Adaptation of 1782 French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, set in pre-Revolution Paris
Dangerous Liaisons20221782Prequel of 1782 French novel Les Liaisons dangereuses by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos, set in pre-Revolution Paris
Ridicule19961783–1794On the brink of the French Revolution. A minor baron and engineer from Lyon tries to gain audience with King Louis XVI of France to fund drainage of the mosquito-infested swamps bringing sickness and death to his region.
The Liberator20131783–1830Life of Simon Bolivar
Jefferson in Paris19951784–1788A semi-fictional account of Thomas Jefferson's tenure as the Ambassador of the United States to France before his presidency and of his alleged relationships with British artist Maria Cosway and his slave, Sally Hemings.
Botany Bay19531787Fictional story about the First Fleet sailing to Botany Bay, New South Wales
The Madness of King George19941788The deteriorating mental health of George III of the United Kingdom, King of Great Britain and Ireland
George Washington II: The Forging of a Nation19861788–1797George Washington's life during his time as President of the United States.
Mutiny on the Bounty19351789the Mutiny on the Bounty
Mutiny on the Bounty19621789the Mutiny on the Bounty
The Bounty19841789The Mutiny on the Bounty
Farewell, My Queen20121789Marie Antoinette, Queen consort of France
La Révolution française19891789–1794French Revolution
The Scarlet Pimpernel19341792French Revolution
The Scarlet Pimpernel19821792French Revolution
Madame Sans-Gêne19611792–1811Historical comedy drama during the reign of Napoleon
Charlotte Corday20081793Trial and execution of Charlotte Corday after her murder of Jean-Paul Marat. Marat was a Jacobin journalist and politician.
Napoleon20231793–1821Historical epic film that depicts major events in the life of Napoleon.
Danton19831794Conflict between Georges Danton and Maximilien Robespierre during the French Revolution.
La Pola20101795–1822Historical series which explored the life and the times of Policarpa Salavarrieta, also known as La Pola, Icon of Colombia, a Neogranadine seamstress who spied for the Revolutionary Forces during the Spanish Reconquista of the Viceroyalty of New Granada a woman who became one of the most important figures during the tumultuous years of the Colombian Declaration of Independence for preferring death instead of submission.
Napoléon (miniseries)20021795–1821Historical miniseries which explored the life of Napoleon Bonaparte
Beau Brummell19541795Beau Brummell, a 19th-century arbiter of fashion in England who popularized the man's suit and necktie
Kranthiveera Sangolli Rayanna19671798–1831Films are about Sangolli Rayanna, a prominent general from Karnataka, who fought against the East India Company until he was captured and executed in 1831.
Krantiveera Sangolli Rayanna20121798–1831
Attack from the Sea19531798–1811Russian naval commander Fyodor Ushakov during the Mediterranean campaign
Northanger Abbey1986late 18th century (1798)adaptation of Jane Austen's 1817 novel set during the time Miss Austen wrote the novel.
Sleepy Hollow19991799Set in the years after the American Revolution, when a Headless Horseman haunted a little town, Sleepy Hollow, New York.
The Remains of Nothing20041799Eleonora Fonseca Pimentel
Désirée19541799–1815The love story between Désirée Clary and Napoleon I
Napoléon19271799–1815Napoléon I of France

Films set in the 19th century

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Sense and Sensibility1971early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1811 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Sense and Sensibility1981early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1811 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Sense and Sensibility1995early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1811 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Sense and Sensibility2008early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1811 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Pride and Prejudice1940early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1813 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Pride and Prejudice1980early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1813 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Pride and Prejudice1995early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1813 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Pride and Prejudice2005early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1813 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Mansfield Park1983early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1814 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Mansfield Park1999early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1814 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Mansfield Park2007early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1814 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Emma1972early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Emma1996early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Emma1996early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Emma2009early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Emma2020early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1815 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Persuasion1971early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1817 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Persuasion1995early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1817 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Persuasion2007early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1817 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Northanger Abbey2007early 19th centuryadaptation of Jane Austen's 1817 novel set during the Regency era in Great Britain
Centennial197919th centuryminiseries based on the James A. Michener novel chronicling the history of the American frontier in a fictional town in Colorado
The Divine Lady19291803–1815Tells the story of the love affair between Horatio Nelson and Emma Hamilton
That Hamilton Woman19411803–1815Set during the Napoleonic Wars, the film tells the story of the rise and fall of Emma Hamilton, dance-hall girl and courtesan, who married Sir William Hamilton, British ambassador to the Kingdom of Naples.
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World20031803–1805During the Napoleonic Wars
Vanity Fair20041803–1814The Napoleonic era
War and Peace19561803–1815The Russian Empire during the Napoleonic era
Eroica20031804first performance of Beethoven's third symphony
The Duellists19771804–1814The Napoleonic Wars
Tripoli19501805Battle of Derne
Austerlitz19601805Portrays Napoleon in this film about his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz
War & Peace20161805–1812The Russian Empire during the Napoleonic era
Conquest19371806–1816The love story between Marie Walewska and Napoleon I
Captain Horatio Hornblower R.N.19511807The Napoleonic Wars
The Pride and the Passion19571807–1814The Napoleonic Wars, the Peninsular War in Spain
Lady Caroline Lamb19721810–1828Lady Caroline Lamb, the British aristocrat, novelist and Lord Byron's lover
Mary Shelley20171813–1821Depicts the affair between poets Mary Shelley and Percy Shelley
Napoleon and Me20061814Principality of Elba during the Napoleonic Wars
Waterloo19701815Battle of Waterloo during the Napoleonic Wars.
Les Misérables19341815–1832France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
Les Misérables19351815–1832France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
Les Misérables19951815–1832France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
Les Misérables19981815–1832France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
Les Misérables20121815–1832France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
Les Misérables20181815–1832France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
The Count of Monte Cristo19341815–1838France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
The Count of Monte Cristo19751815–1838France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy)
The Count of Monte Cristo20021815–1831France after Napoleon I (Bourbon Restoration and July Monarchy); Unlike the first two films, this version states 1814 at the start. Dantes' plan happens over a three-year period, having been imprisoned for thirteen years, as is stated during the film. The ending is set shortly after Albert's sixteenth birthday, having been born in 1815.
Bright Star20091818–1821The last three years of poet John Keats' life
Peterloo20181819based on the Peterloo massacre of 1819
In the Heart of the Sea20151820–1850the story of the whaleship Essex which inspired the writing of Moby-Dick
The Greatest Showman20171820–1860Based on the story and life of P.T. Barnum, a famous showman and entertainer, and his creation of the Barnum & Bailey Circus
The White Slave 20161821In the newly formed Great Colombia, a Spanish plantation burns down and only the baby of some planters is saved. She is sent to Kingdom of Spain, but as an adult, she hatches a plan to return home and become an abolitionist.
El Santo de la Espada19701821–1822José de San Martín and the Spanish American wars of independence
Bouboulina19591821–1829Laskarina Bouboulina, heroine of the Greek War of Independence
The Revenant20151823American frontiersman Hugh Glass fights for survival in the unincorporated Dakotas
Copying Beethoven20061824final years of Ludwig van Beethoven
The Deceivers19881825British officer in India investigates the Thugee cult
Mr. Turner20141826–1851Based on the last 25 years of the life of artist J. M. W. Turner (1775–1851)
Immortal Beloved19941827aftermath of the death of Beethoven
The Enigma of Kaspar Hauser19741828–1833The story of foundling Kaspar Hauser in the German Confederation.
Bleak House20051830sBased on Charles Dickens' 1852–1853 novel
The Devil's Violinist20131830sBased on the life story of the 19th-century Italian violinist and composer Niccolò Paganini
A Song to Remember19451830–1849Based on the life story of the Polish pianist and composer Frédéric Chopin
La Note bleue19911830–1849Based on the life story of the Polish pianist and composer Frédéric Chopin
Impromptu19911830–1849Based on the life story of the Polish pianist and composer Frédéric Chopin
Chopin: Desire for Love20021830–1849Based on the life story of the Polish pianist and composer Frédéric Chopin
Disraeli19161830–1880It details the life and times of Benjamin Disraeli, who became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Disraeli19211830–1880It details the life and times of Benjamin Disraeli, who became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Disraeli19291830–1880It details the life and times of Benjamin Disraeli, who became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
The Prime Minister19411830–1880It details the life and times of Benjamin Disraeli, who became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
Disraeli19781830–1880It details the life and times of Benjamin Disraeli, who became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
The Horseman on the Roof19951832Second cholera pandemic in July Monarchy France
Young Mr. Lincoln19391832–1837Early career of future president Abraham Lincoln
Miss Marx20201833–1898Story of the daughter of Karl Marx, Eleanor Marx
The Alamo19601836Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.
Victoria in Dover19361836Young Queen Victoria meets her future husband Prince Albert
Victoria in Dover19541836Young Queen Victoria meets her future husband Prince Albert
Victoria the Great19371836–1861Life of Queen Victoria
The Young Victoria20091836–1840Early reign of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and her marriage to Albert, Prince Consort
Sixty Years a Queen19131837–1901Life of Queen Victoria
Victoria Regina19611837–1897Life of Queen Victoria
Victoria2016–20191837–1850sLife of Queen Victoria
Amistad19971839–1841Mutiny aboard La Amistad, a ship containing slaves from Africa. The ship had left Havana and was bound for Camagüey, both ports being in Spanish Cuba. The film follows the ship's entry into United States custody and the subsequent trial. The case was resolved by the trial United States v. The Amistad.
How the West Was Won19621839–1889United States expansion into and settlement of the West.
Belgravia20201840British society during the early Victorian era
The Emigrants19711840sThe Swedish immigrants in Minnesota
Ammonite20201840sThe romance between British paleontologist Mary Anning and Charlotte Murchison
Livingstone19251840–1871Depicts the life of the African missionary David Livingstone
David Livingstone19361840–1871Portrays the expedition of the British explorer David Livingstone to Africa
Song of Love19471840–1856The marriage of Robert and Clara Schumann and their close friendship with Johannes Brahms. All three were notable composers.
12 Years a Slave20131841–1853The story of free African American Solomon Northup after he was abducted and sold into slavery. Based on the autobiography of the same name
Edward the Seventh19751841–1910The life of Edward VII, King of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland.
Alias Grace20171843The story of Grace Marks, a maid who allegedly murder her employer and his wife in 1843
The Young Karl Marx20171844–1848Karl Marx
To Walk Invisible20161845–1848Based on the later lives of the Brontës as they wrote and published their written works.
Angelique's Isle20181845Based on the story of Angelique Mott, an Anishnaabe woman and her voyageur husband Charlie Mott who were stranded on Isle Royal in Lake Superior during the Ontario copper rush
Harriet20191840s–1863biographical film about Harriet Tubman
Gangs of New York20021846–1863New York City prior and during the American Civil War. The events occur in the crime- infested neighborhood of Five Points, Manhattan. The film opens in 1846 with a conflict between a Nativist gang and the Dead Rabbits. The action then moves forward to the 1860s with the Nativists still active and involved with William M. Tweed, "boss" of Tammany Hall. The action culminates in the New York City draft riots of 1863.
80 Hussars19781848Hungarian movie about the 1848–49 Revolution and War of Freedom in Hungary. Under the leadership of Farkas Paál a small Hussar troupe escapes from Poland to Hungary to join the Independence war against the Habsburgs. Their adventurous journey is full of thousands of dangers.
The Sea Has Risen19531848–49Epic Hungarian movie in Communist style about the 1848–49 Revolution and War of Freedom in Hungary, and about the great Hungarian poet Sándor Petőfi. Known with the title: Föltámadott a tenger
Men and Banners19651848–49Epic Hungarian movie about the 1848–49 Revolution and War of Freedom in Hungary. Known with the title A kőszívű ember fiai
Flowers of Reverie19841849Hungarian movie which talks about the time after the defeat of the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 and the Surrender at Világos
Dead or Alive19801851Hungarian movie which talks about the failed assassination by Gáspár Noszlopy on Franz Joseph I of Austria
The Sisters Brothers20181851Takes place during the California Gold Rush
The Empress20221853Historical drama series on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria.
Eureka Stockade19491854Peter Lalor and the Eureka Rebellion, a gold miners' rebellion at the Eureka Stockade (Ballarat, Australia).
Mountains of the Moon19901854–1864Journey of Richard Francis Burton and John Hanning Speke in their expedition to Central Africa and the rivalry that followed
The Charge of the Light Brigade19681854The disaster of the Crimean War known as the Charge of the Light Brigade. It took place within the Battle of Balaclava.
Sissi19551854It is the first installment in the trilogy of films about Empress Elisabeth of Austria, nicknamed Sissi.
Sisi20211854–1860TV series about Empress Elisabeth of Austria, nicknamed Sissi.
Sisi & I20231854–1860Fictionalised story of Empress Elisabeth of Austria from the point of view of her lady-in-waiting, Irma Sztáray.
Sissi – The Young Empress19561855–1856Sissi adapts to life as Empress of Austria.
Dickinson20191856–1862A TV series on the early life of American poet Emily Dickson, taking place in part during the American Civil War
Sissi – Fateful Years of an Empress19571857–1860Last film in the Sissi trilogy.
Quanto è bello lu murire acciso19761857Failed rising organized by Carlo Pisacane in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies
Garibaldi19611860Giuseppe Garibaldi leads a military campaign known as the Expedition of the Thousand in 1860
The Leopard19631860The Kingdom of the Two Sicilies during the Risorgimento
Sixty Glorious Years19381861–1901Life of Queen Victoria, sequel to the 1937 film Victoria the Great
Ride with the Devil19991861–1864depicts the activities of pro-Confederate Bushwhackers, guerrilla fighters, in Missouri during the American Civil War
Cold Mountain20031861–1864A couple in North Carolina is separated during the American Civil War and try to find each other again.
Gone with the Wind19391861–1877Georgia during the American Civil War and the Reconstruction Era.
Mrs Brown19971861–1883The relationship between Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and her personal servant John Brown.
Gods and Generals20031861–1863The American Civil War from the outset of the war to the Battle of Chancellorsville
Glory19891862–1863The American Civil War from the Battle of Antietam to the Second Battle of Fort Wagner
Copperhead20131862based on novel by Harold Frederic, set in upstate New York during the American Civil War
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly19661862Two bounty hunters in an uneasy alliance against a third attempt to find a stash of hidden Confederate gold in New Mexico in the middle of the chaos of the American Civil War
Gettysburg19931863The Battle of Gettysburg in the American Civil War
Lillie19781863–1929British television about Lillie Langtry
Wyatt Earp19941863–1884Events leading up to and following the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral
Dances with Wolves19901863–1870Fictional story set during the American Civil War and its aftermath in the American West, interaction with the Lakota Sioux
Ludwig19731864–1886Life and death of King Ludwig II of Bavaria.
Lincoln2012Early 1865Events chronicling the last few months of the life of President of the United States Abraham Lincoln.
The Conspirator2011April 1865Based on the events of the aftermath of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.
Hell on Wheels2011–20161865–1867based on the construction of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Senso19541866An Italian countess as an affair with an Austrian soldier in Venice during the Third Italian War of Independence
Tommy's Honour20161866–1876The complex and bittersweet relationship between the pioneering and legendary Scottish golfing champions Old Tom Morris and Young Tom Morris.
Riel19791869–1885The activities of Louis Riel, a Métis in both the Red River Rebellion of Manitoba and the North-West Rebellion in the District of Saskatchewan.
The Lone Ranger20131869The Lone Ranger and his sidekick Tonto bring justice to the wild west.
Stanley and Livingstone19391870–1871Welsh reporter Sir Henry M. Stanley's quest to find Dr. David Livingstone
Lust for Life19561870–1890The life of the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh
Vincent & Theo19901870–1890About the Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo
News of the World20201870based on the 2016 American Western novel
Lonesome Dove19891870sthe closing years of the Old West
Daniel Deronda20021870sbased on George Eliot's 1876 novel
Citizen Kane19411871–1940Chronicles the life of fictional yellow journalist Charles Foster Kane.
Young Winston19721874–1902The biography Winston Churchill before he became Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II.
Quigley Down Under19901874A Sharpshooter from Wyoming is hired by an Australian rancher paying a very high price. But when Quigley arrives Down Under, all is not as it seems.
Cannibal! The Musical19931873–1883Comedic musical retelling the story of cannibal Alferd Packer.[7][8]
Centennial Summer19461876Set in Philadelphia at the time of the Centennial Exposition
Wild Bill19951876The last days of legendary lawman Wild Bill Hickok
The Last Samurai20031876–1877Events in the wake of the Meiji Restoration in the Empire of Japan, 1876–1877
Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee20071876–1895Events leading to the Wounded Knee massacre
Corsage20221877Empress Elisabeth of Austria nearing her 40th birthday
Ned Kelly19701878–1880British-Australian biographical film of 19th-century Australian bushranger Ned Kelly
Ned Kelly20031878–1879Biographical film of Ned Kelly based on the historical novel Our Sunshine
Warrior2019–1878set during the Tong Wars in San Francisco
Zulu Dawn19791879The Battle of Isandlwana during the Anglo-Zulu War
Zulu19641879The Battle of Rorke's Drift during the Anglo-Zulu War
The English Game20201879–1883early association football in Great Britain
The Great McGonagall19741880sHumorous biopic of the Scottish poet William McGonagall
The Current War20171880–1893the 19th-century competition between Thomas Edison and George Westinghouse over which electric power delivery system would be used in the United States (often referred to as the "war of the currents").
Thousand Pieces of Gold19911880sChinese immigrant woman in the American Old West.
Thariode: The Lost CityTBA1880sBased on the 2019 documentary film "Thariode" by Nirmal Baby Varghese. History of gold mining in Thariode, one of the most ancient cities of Malabar region, British India on 19th century.
Canadian Pacific19491880sFollows surveyors for the Canadian Pacific Railroad
The Miracle Worker19621880–1887The early childhood of Helen Keller, her infancy contraction of blindness and deafness and Anne Sullivan's arrival
Unforgiven19921881set in the American Old West
Tombstone19931881–1884Events leading up to and following the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral
The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford20071881–1892The end of Jesse James' career as a criminal and the man who eventually kills him, Robert Ford in 1882
The Electrical Life of Louis Wain20211881–1930The life of English artist Louis Wain
The Gilded Age20221882society in New York City during the Gilded Age
The Four Feathers19391882–1888During the British Army's Nile Expedition
The Four Feathers20021882–1888During the British Army's Nile Expedition
Wilde19971882–1897Oscar Wilde
Khartoum19661884Charles George Gordon defense of the Sudanese city of Khartoum from the forces of the army of Muhammad Ahmad during the Siege of Khartoum. Muhammad Ahmad had proclaimed himself to be the Mahdi.
Tesla20201884–1900Biographical drama film about Nikola Tesla
Houdini20141884–1926Miniseries about the life of the legendary illusionist and escape artist Harry Houdini from poverty to worldwide fame.
The Mudlark19501885A fictional account of how Queen Victoria was eventually brought out of her mourning for her dead husband, Prince Albert.
Arms and the Man19581885Takes place during the Serbo-Bulgarian War
Melba19531886–1900Musical biopic drama film of the life of Australian-born soprano Nellie Melba
Geronimo: An American Legend19931886Events leading up to the capture of Geronimo, a prominent Apache leader during the Apache Wars.
Freud20201886Depicts early career of Sigmund Freud, centred around a fictional criminal case in Vienna
Princess Kaiulani20091887–1898based on the life of Princess Kaʻiulani of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi
Victoria & Abdul20171887–1901About the real-life relationship between Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom and her Indian Muslim servant Abdul Karim
From Hell20011888based on the graphic novel of the same name by Alan Moore and Eddie Campbell about the Jack the Ripper murders.
Mayerling19681888–1889Based on the Mayerling Incident, a series of events leading to the apparent murder–suicide of Crown Prince Rudolf of Austria and his lover Baroness Mary Vetsera.
At Eternity's Gate20181888–1890the final years of painter Vincent van Gogh's life
The Illusionist20061889tells the story of a magician in turn-of-the-century Vienna
Man of God20211889brings to life the incredible true story of Saint Nectarios of Aegina, Greece.
Ripper Street20121889-

1897

a British mystery drama television series set in Whitechapel in the East End of London. It begins in 1889, six months after the infamous Jack the Ripper murders.
Van Gogh19911890Set in 1890, the film follows the last 67 days of Vincent van Gogh's life
Woman Walks Ahead20171890the story of Catherine Weldon, a portrait painter who travels from New York to Dakota to paint a portrait of Sitting Bull
The English20221890an Englishwoman travels to the American West
The Prestige20061890srival stage magicians in Victorian London
Colette20181890sBased upon the life of the French novelist Colette
Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid19691890s–1908Covers the activities of Butch Cassidy and Harry Longabaugh, prominent members of Butch Cassidy's Wild Bunch. The Wild Bunch was a loosely organized outlaw gang from Wyoming.
Loving Vincent20171890–1891The circumstances of Vincent Van Gogh's death and aftermath
Heaven's Gate19801892Covers the Johnson County War
Hostiles20171892A U.S. Cavalry officer who must escort a Cheyenne war chief and his family back to their home in Montana
Lizzie20181892The Lizzie Border murders
Gandhi19821893–1947Biopic about the life and activism of Mahatma Gandhi
Mao Zedong20131893–1949Television series about Mao Zedong, from his childhood to the foundation of the People's Republic of China
Radioactive20191893–1934Biopic about the life and scientific discoveries of Marie Curie
An Officer and a Spy20191894Depicts the events of the Dreyfus Affair
The Last Czars20191894–1918Docudrama miniseries about the reign of Tsar Nicholas II from his coronation until his assassination
El Presidente20121896–1964Philippine Revolution and the final years and death of President Emilio Aguinaldo
Entente cordiale19391898–1904Depicts events between the Fashoda crisis in 1898 and the 1904 signing of the Entente Cordiale creating an alliance between Britain and France and ending their historic rivalry
Rough Riders19971898Depicts The Battle of San Juan Hill, part of the Spanish–American War
A merénylet (The assassination)20181898Depicts the tragic assassination of Empress Elisabeth of Austria
Heneral Luna20151898–1899The Second Phase of the Philippine Revolution and the heroism of General Antonio Luna
Trotsky20171898–1918Biographical television miniseries about Leon Trotsky
There Will Be Blood20071898–1927Epic drama set during the Southern California Oil Boom, loosely based on the book Oil!
Ohm Krüger19411899The film depicts the life of the South African politician Paul Kruger and his eventual defeat by the British during the Boer War
Gold20131899the Klondike Gold Rush in the Yukon Territory
Newsies19921899Based on the Newsboys' strike of 1899 in New York City

Films set in the modern era (1900–1949)

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
The Knick20141900Doctors, Nurses, and others work at The Knickerbocker hospital
55 Days at Peking19631900Depicts the Battle of Peking during the Boxer Rebellion.
Breaker Morant19801901An Australian Lieutenant, Harry "Breaker" Morant, who ordered the summary execution of several prisoners during the Second Boer War
The Godfather Part II19741901–1958Second installment in The Godfather trilogy, the film serves as both a sequel and a prequel to The Godfather
The Battle of Port Arthur19801904–1905The film depicts the fiercest battles in Siege of Port Arthur during the Russo-Japanese War 1904 - 1905.
Nicholas and Alexandra19711904–1918Covers the last 14 years of the life and reign of Nicholas II of Russia, last Emperor of Russia. Includes the events of World War I, the Russian Revolution, the Russian Civil War and the shooting of the Romanov family.
A Dangerous Method20111904–1912Covers personal and professional relationships between Carl Jung, Sigmund Freud and Sabina Spielrein
Rosa Luxemburg19861904–1919Biography Of Marxist And Anti-War Activist Rosa Luxemburg and her assassination in 1919.
The Battleship Potemkin19251905The Russian battleship Potemkin uprising, part of the Revolution of 1905 in the Russian Empire.
The Real Glory19391906Moro Rebellion
The Passion of Marie20121910Biopic about Marie, the wife of Danish painter Peder Severin Krøyer
Tolkien20191890s–1930sBiopic about the life of J. R. R. Tolkien
Titanic19431912the Titanic disaster
Titanic19531912the Titanic disaster
A Night to Remember19581912the Titanic disaster
S.O.S. Titanic19791912the Titanic disaster
Titanic19971912the Titanic disaster
Titanic20121912the Titanic disaster
War Horse20111912–1918journey of a horse raised by a British teenager during World War I
Reds19811912–1920Russian Revolution
Doctor Zhivago19651912–1923World War I, the Russian Revolution and the Russian Civil War
Iron Jawed Angels20041913–1920American women's suffrage movement during the 1910s
Gallipoli19811914–1915Gallipoli Campaign of World War I
Flyboys20061914–1917Focusing on the Lafayette Escadrille, a unit of American volunteer combat pilots in service for the Allies of World War I.
Admiral20081914–1917, 1964Covers the last three years of the naval career of Alexander Kolchak, a vice-admiral in the Imperial Russian Navy and leader of the anti-communist White Movement during the Russian Civil War. The film also depicts the love triangle between the Admiral, his wife, and the poet Anna Timiryova.
All Quiet on the Western Front19301914–1918Western Front of World War I
All Quiet on the Western Front19791914–1918Western Front of World War I
All Quiet on the Western Front20221914–1918Western Front of World War I
A Very Long Engagement20041914–1920sWestern Front of World War I
La Masseria Delle Allodole20071915Set during World War I in the Ottoman Empire, depicting the Armenian genocide.
Ararat20021915Based on the Defense of Van in 1915, an Armenian insurgence in the Ottoman Empire during the Armenian genocide.
The Promise20171915The Armenian genocide
Renoir20121915–1919Biopic about French artist Pierre-Auguste Renoir focusing on the last four years of his life
Shimon Haber20081915–1919Development and usage of Chemical weapons in World War I
Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea20071915The Sinking of the RMS Lusitania
Rebellion20161916Miniseries dramatization of the Easter Rebellion in Dublin
Lawrence of Arabia19621916–1918T. E. Lawrence and the Arab Revolt in the Ottoman Empire.
Michael Collins19961916–1922Later life of Irish resistance leader Michael Collins and his participation in the Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War.
191720191917European theatre of World War I
The Lighthorsemen19871917Battle of Beersheba in the Middle Eastern theatre of World War I.
Stalin19921917–1953Brutal Career and Corruption of Soviet Leader Joseph Stalin
Erna i krig20201918A woman disguises herself as a man to join the army in order to protect her educationally subnormal son who has been called up to fight in World War I
The Wind Rises20131918–1945The life of Jiro Horikoshi
The Lost Battalion19191918Covers the fate of the Lost Battalion, units of the 77th Infantry Division. The units under the command of Major Charles White Whittlesey penetrated deep into the Forest of Argonne in France during World War I. They were trapped and surrounded by the German Army.
The Lost Battalion20011918Covers the fate of the Lost Battalion, units of the 77th Infantry Division. The units under the command of Major Charles White Whittlesey penetrated deep into the Forest of Argonne in France during World War I. They were trapped and surrounded by the German Army.
191819851918Written by Horton Foote, depicts life in Texas and the devastating effect of the great flu epidemic of 1918.
La Vie en Rose20071918–1963Biopic of French singer Édith Piaf
The Wind that Shakes the Barley20061919–1923The Irish War of Independence and the Irish Civil War
Chariots of Fire19811919–1924British runners face prejudice and compete in the 1924 Summer Olympics. The runners are Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams. Liddell was a Scottish man and Abrahams was A British Jew.
Killers of the Flower Moon20231919–1926the Osage Indian murders in Oklahoma
Al Capone19591919–1929Biopic of American gangster Al Capone from the beginning of his career in 1919 until his arrest in 1929
Rebel in the Rye20171919–1951Biopic of American author J.D. Salinger, from his childhood until the publication of his debut novel Catcher in the Rye in 1959
Evita19961919–1952Biopic of Eva Perón, First Lady of Argentina.
J. Edgar20111919–1972Life and career of J. Edgar Hoover, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation from 1935 to 1972.
The Wind that Shakes the Barley20061920–1923War film set during the Irish War of Independence and Irish Civil War
Maria Cano19901920sLife of Maria Cano a Colombian poet and writer who was the country's first female political leader. Called the "Flor del trabajo" (Labor flower), Cano led the struggle for basic civil rights and for the rights of salaried workers. She was the leader of several workers' strikes
Anastasia19561920sBased upon theories on the survival of Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna of Russia and the activities of Anna Anderson. Anderson was the most famous of the Romanov impostors.
Vita & Virginia20181920sDepicts the relationship between Virginia Woolf and Vita Sackville-West
A Real Vermeer20151920sBiopic about Dutch art forger Han van Meegeren
Legionnaire19981920–1926Rif War
The First of the Few19421922–1936Aerospace engineer R.J. Mitchell designs the Spitfire despite his failing health.
Little Ashes20081922–1938Depicts the love affair between artist Salvador Dalí and poet Federico García Lorca
Frida20021922–1953A biography of artist Frida Kahlo
Rosewood19971923Depicts the Rosewood massacre
Bertie and Elizabeth20021923–1952Explores the relationship between King George VI and his wife Queen Elizabeth from their first meeting to the King's death in the winter of 1952.
The King's Speech20101924–1939The quest of George VI, King of the United Kingdom to overcome his stammer.
Togo20191925the story of Togo, a lead dog during the 1925 serum run to Nome
Inherit the Wind19601925Fictionalized account of the Scopes Trial in Tennessee
The Ogre19961925–1945The account of a simple Frenchman caught up in the events of World War II. He involuntarily serves in the French Army, spends time as a prisoner of war in East Prussia, and gets hired to take care of the animals in the local estate of Hermann Göring. When fired, the Frenchman finds a new job at nearby Kaltenborn Castle, a Nazi Germany military academy for boys. He gets tasked with recruiting children to serve the cause. Continuing service while Nazi Germany deteriorates and East Prussia faces a Soviet invasion.
Death Defying Acts20071926An episode in the life of Hungarian-American escapologist Harry Houdini at the height of his career in the 1920s.
Murderous Maids20001926–1933Set in Le Mans, France, tells the story of two French maids, Christine and Léa Papin who murdered their employer in 1933.
Hacksaw Ridge20161926–1945Early life and World War II experiences of Desmond Doss
Downton Abbey20191927film sequel to the television series of the same name
Ma Rainey's Black Bottom20201927A fictional story about real blues singer Ma Rainey, taking place during a single recording session.
The Aviator20041927–1947Biopic about Howard Hughes, an aviation pioneer, director, and successful film producer.
Changeling20081928Based on the Wineville Chicken Coop murders
Downton Abbey: A New Era20221928film sequel to the television series of the same name
Phar Lap19831928–1932Biography about the New Zealand-born Australian racehorse Phar Lap
The Imitation Game20141928–1950British cryptanalyst Alan Turing, who decrypted German intelligence messages for the British government during the Second World War
Lion of the Desert19811929–1931About the struggle of Libyan rebels under Omar Mukhtar against the Italian Royal Army in the years leading up to World War II.
Joe MacBeth19551930sModern retelling of Shakespeare's Macbeth, set in a 1930s American criminal underworld.
Mildred Pierce20111930sbased on the 1941 novel, set during the Great Depression
Richard III19951930sAdapts Richard III story and characters to a setting based on 1930s Britain, with Richard depicted as a fascist plotting to usurp the thron
Mank20201930–1940Biopic about screenwriter Herman J. Mankiewicz and the development of the screenplay for Citizen Kane
Henry & June19901931Biopic about two writers Henry Miller and Anais Nin
Hugo (film)20111931A young boy discovers the history of early filmmaking
Rabbit-Proof Fence20021931Australia's Stolen Generations
The Legend of Bagger Vance20001931Set in Savannah, Georgia, during the Great Depression; loosely based on the Bhagavad Gita. The story starts by setting a background. A noteworthy golf player went off to fight in World War I. He returned a decorated veteran but traumatized by the deaths of his unit in battle. He then sank into a life of habitual alcohol intoxication. In 1931, there is to be an exhibition match between famous golfers Bobby Jones and Walter Hagen. The veteran is asked to participate and compete against them. A mysterious man volunteers to be his caddie, helping the veteran to come to grips with his personal demons and play golf again.
Road to Perdition2002winter 1931A film set in Illinois during the Great Depression, and featuring Prohibition Era-organized crime figures. The protagonist is a mob enforcer for an Irish mob boss. The son of the boss wants to kill him, however, and manages to kill his wife and one of his sons. The protagonist and his remaining son escape to Chicago, attempting to find new work under Al Capone and his Chicago Outfit. Underboss Frank Nitti rejects the offers of the protagonist to join them. Nitti also contacts the Irish mob boss and they agree to have the protagonist killed. Starting an escalating conflict.
Perry Mason20201931–1932a fictional detective in Depression-era Los Angeles, based on the award-winning series of the same name broadcast from 1957 to 1966
Christopher and His Kind20111931–1952Biopic about playwright and novelist Christopher Isherwood, focusing on his years in Berlin before the Second World War
Bonnie and Clyde19671931–1934About the exploits of Bonnie and Clyde, American outlaws and robbers during the Great Depression.
Frances19821931–1958Life of actress Frances Farmer
Last Man Standing19961932During Prohibition in the United States, gun-wielding mercenary John Smith, arrives at the small town Jericho, Texas, close to the Mexico–United States border. He plays on both sides in a gang war between the Irish Mob and the American Mafia, while scheming to eliminate both gangs. The film is a loose remake of Yojimbo (1961), which was set in Japan during the Tokugawa shogunate. The original film was a loose adaptation of the novels Red Harvest (1929) and The Glass Key (1931) by Dashiell Hammett.
Gosford Park20011932murder mystery set at an English country house during the Interwar period
The Grand Budapest Hotel20141932 (1968, 1985)Two men team up to try and make a fortune
King Kong20051933A greedy film producer assembles a team of moviemakers and sets out for the infamous Skull Island.
Public Enemies20091933–1934Set during the Great Depression, it chronicles the final years of the notorious bank robber John Dillinger.
Race20161933–1936The life of Jesse Owens who won four gold medals during Athletics.
The First Lady20221933–2017It portrays life and family events of three first ladies of the United States: Eleanor Roosevelt, Betty Ford, and Michelle Obama.
Murder on the Orient Express20171934murder mystery set aboard the Orient Express train traveling from Istanbul to London
The Highwaymen20191934Film about two Texas Rangers tasked with apprehending Bonnie and Clyde
The National Anthem19991934–1935Set in Shanghai during the Japanese occupation of Manchuria and the resulting conflict.
A Pearl in the Forest20081934–1938Set during the Great Purge initiated by Joseph Stalin in the Soviet Union. The film focuses on the spillover effects of the Purge on the Mongolian People's Republic, a satellite state of the Soviet Union.
The Gathering Storm20021934–1939Biopic about British prime minister Winston Churchill in the years leading up to the outbreak of World War 2
Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom19841935In 1935, Indiana Jones arrives in India, still part of the British Empire, and is asked to find a mystical stone.
Cinderella Man20051935biographical sports film about American boxer James J. Braddock
Atonement20071935–1940A romantic suspense war film. Opening in the interwar period of the United Kingdom, during the late 1930s, and continuing to the early days of World War II. The film opens in 1935 with the interactions between the girls of the wealthy Tallis family and their cousin Lola on one side, and a lower class-man by the name of Robbie Turner on the other. When Lola gets raped, Robbie gets blamed for the act, arrested, and imprisoned. Four years later, Robbie is released on condition of serving in the British Army as part of the British Expeditionary Force on the areas of the French Third Republic.
Olga20041935–1942The relationship between German-Brazilian communist militant Olga Benário and Luís Carlos Prestes, one of the main leaders of the opposition against Brazilian dictatorship of Getúlio Vargas.
Elvis20221935–1956Biopic about the early life and career of Elvis Presley
Raiders of the Lost Ark19811936In 1936, archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant.
Unbroken20141936–1998The life of Louis Zamperini.
The Hindenburg19751937The Hindenburg disaster at Naval Air Station Lakehurst, New Jersey.
O Brother, Where Art Thou?20001937set in 1937 rural Mississippi during the Great Depression. Its story is a modern satire loosely based on Homer's epic poem The Odyssey that incorporates mythology from the American South
Seabiscuit20031937Race horse Seabiscuit
I Saw the Light20151937–1953Biopic about country singer Hank Williams
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade19891938An art collector appeals to Jones to embark on a search for the Holy Grail.
The Good Shepherd20061938–1961Rise of Central Intelligence Agency's counterintelligence, leading up to the Bay of Pigs Invasion
Voyage of the Damned19761939Based on the events of the MS St. Louis
The Dig20211939The 1939 excavation of Sutton Hoo
Hyde Park on Hudson20121939The 1939 visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Roosevelt's country estate.
The Last Bastion19841939–1945Australia during World War II
Schindler's List19931939–1945German industrialist Oskar Schindler's efforts to keep Jewish people from being interred in Nazi concentration camps during World War II.
The Pianist20021939–1945World War II experiences of Polish-Jewish pianist/composer and Holocaust survivor Władysław Szpilman
Max Manus: Man of War20081939–1945Norway during World War II and Winter War
The Zookeeper's Wife20171939–1945the story of Antonina Żabińska and Jan Żabiński, who saved the lives of 300 Jews imprisoned in the Warsaw Ghetto following the German invasion of Poland during World War II
Battle of Britain19691940The Battle of Britain
The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe20051940Four kids travel through a wardrobe to the land of Narnia
April 9th201519409 April, German invasion of Denmark. A group of Danish bicycle infantry is sent as a vanguard to slow down the German advance until reinforcements can arrive.
The Exception20161940Deposed Kaiser Wilhelm II living in exile in Nazi-occupied Netherlands.
Kongens nei (The King's Choice)20161940The film focuses on King Haakon VII and the Norwegian Royal family in the days before and immediately after the German invasion of Norway in April 1940.
Darkest Hour20171940May–June 1940. Winston Churchill's early days as Prime Minister, as Hitler closes in on Britain during World War II.
Dunkirk20171940The Dunkirk evacuation of World War II
Hurricane20181940The Battle of Britain
Malèna20001940–1944Italy during World War II
Un village français20091940–2000German military forces invade the fictional French village of Villeneuve, near the French-Swiss border.
Life Is Beautiful1997early 1940sA Jewish-Italian man and his son during their internment in a Nazi concentration camp
The Way Back20101941Escape from a Siberian Gulag
The Good Traitor20201941Henrik Kauffmann and the signing of the Greenland treaty with the United States
Sink the Bismarck!1960May 1941Depicts German battleship Bismarck and its last battle.
Defiance2008August 1941Story of three Jewish brothers of the Bielski partisans who saved and recruited Jews during the Nazi occupation of Belarus.
Das Boot1981October 1941Battle of the Atlantic
Tora! Tora! Tora!19707 December 1941The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor
Hong Kong 19411984December 1941The Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, and the story of local resistance against Japanese forces.
Pearl Harbor2001December 1941 – April 1942The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent American retaliation in the Doolittle Raid.
The Gallant Hours19601942U.S. Navy admiral William Halsey in the crucial early weeks of his command of American forces in the Guadalcanal campaign of World War II.
U-57120001942Battle of the Atlantic
The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep20071942A boy named Angus MacMorrow lives in the manor house of Lord Killin on Loch Ness with his mother Anne MacMorrow and his sister, Kirstie.
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas20081942Set during the Holocaust
Allied20161942a Canadian intelligence officer and a French Resistance fighter pose as a married couple during a mission in Casablanca
Das Boot20181942Battle of the Atlantic, sequel to Das Boot (1981)
Greyhound20201942Battle of the Atlantic
Midway1976June 1942The Battle of Midway
Midway2019June 1942The Battle of Midway
Kokoda2006August 1942Australia's 39th Battalion during the early days of the Kokoda Track campaign
The Bridge on the River Kwai19571942–1943Construction of the Burma Railway by forced labour, mainly British prisoners of war, during the Burma Campaign of World War II.
Captain America: The First Avenger20111942–1945Steve Rogers, a rejected military soldier, transforms into Captain America
Stalingrad1993August 1942 – February 1943The Battle of Stalingrad from a German perspective.
The Thin Red Line1998August 1942 – February 1943The Guadalcanal Campaign
Band of Brothers2001August 1942 – May 1945Miniseries portraying the soldiers in Easy Company of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, from training in boot camp to action in the European Theatre of World War II.
The Pacific2010August 1942 – August 1945Miniseries portraying the Pacific Theater of World War II
Enemy at the Gates2001winter 1942–1943The activities of Soviet sniper Vasily Zaytsev in the Battle of Stalingrad
Masters of the Air2024spring 1943–1945Miniseries portraying the story of the 100th Bomb Group during World War II and follows bomber crews on dangerous missions to destroy targets inside German-occupied Europe
Patton19701943–1945The exploits of United States Army General George S. Patton during World War II
Sophie Scholl – The Final Days2005February 1943The ultimate days of Sophie Scholl, a White Rose revolutionary. She actively opposing Nazi Germany until her execution and death.
Cross of Iron1977spring 1943Eastern Front
Hvidsten Gruppen (This Life)20121943the story about the Danish resistance movement Hvidsten Gruppen.
The Dam Busters1955May 1943Development of the Upkeep bouncing bomb and its use in Operation Chastise
Memphis Belle1990May 1943About the 25th and last mission of the Memphis Belle, an American Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress bomber flying over Nazi Germany as part Strategic bombing operations.
Eye of the Needle19811944a German spy in England who discovers vital information about the upcoming D-Day invasion
Black Book20061944a Dutch-Jewish singer becomes a spy for the resistance in German-occupied Netherlands
Flame & Citron20081944the story of two Danish resistance movement fighters nicknamed Flame and Citron, during the Nazi occupation of Denmark
Red Tails20121944Tuskegee Airmen during World War II
The Longest Day19626 June 1944The Normandy landings, the first stage of the Invasion of Normandy
Saving Private Ryan1998June 1944The Normandy landings and their aftermath
Windtalkers2002June–July 1944Focuses on Navajo code talkers during the Battle of Saipan
Valkyrie2008July 1944Set in Nazi Germany during World War II. It depicts the 20 July plot in 1944 by German army officers to assassinate Adolf Hitler and to use the Operation Valkyrie national emergency plan to take control of the country.
A Bridge Too Far1977September 1944Operation Market Garden
Kanal1956September 1944Warsaw uprising
When Trumpets Fade1998September 1944The Battle of Hürtgen Forest
Saints and Soldiers2003December 1944 – January 1945The Malmedy massacre and its aftermath during the Battle of the Bulge.
Battle of the Bulge1965December 1944 – January 1945The Battle of the Bulge. Based on the last major German offensive campaign on the Western Front during World War II. It was launched through the densely forested Ardennes region of Wallonia in eastern Belgium, northeast France, and Luxembourg, towards the end of the war in Europe.
The Great Raid2005January 1945Liberation of the Cabanatuan Prison Camp on the island of Luzon, Philippines. The camp was set up during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.
Flags of Our Fathers2006February–March 1945the Battle of Iwo Jima from an American perspective.
Letters from Iwo Jima2006February–March 1945The Battle of Iwo Jima from a Japanese perspective.
The Shadow In My Eye202121 March 1945Operation Carthage
Grave of the Fireflies1988March–September 1945Japanese sibling struggle to survive toward the end of World War II during the firebombing of Kobe and its aftermath.
Fury2014April 19452nd Armored Division Tank crewmen during the Western Allied invasion of Germany
The Captain2017April 1945German war Criminal Willi Herold assumes command after finding a Nazi uniform.
Downfall2004April–May 1945Depicting the final ten days of Adolf Hitler's reign over Nazi Germany and their immediate aftermath. Events take place during the Battle of Berlin.
Ashes and Diamonds1958May 1945Polish Home Army soldiers assigned to assassinate a Communist commissar
A Royal Night Out2015May 1945The teenaged Princess Elizabeth, with younger sister Princess Margaret, ventures out of Buckingham Palace to enjoy the VE Day celebrations.
USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage2016July 1945The sinking of the USS Indianapolis.
The Good German2006July–August 1945During the Potsdam Conference
Nuremberg2000November 1945 – October 1946The first of the Nuremberg trials
4220131945–47Jackie Robinson biopic of MLB playing career
The Godfather19721945–1955Vito Corleone, the aging patriarch of an organized crime dynasty, transfers control of his clandestine empire to his reluctant son Michael Corleone. The film is set primarily in New York City, and is based on the novel The Godfather by Mario Puzo. The novel and film fictionalize actual people and events connected to the Five Families. Vito Corleone himself was a composite of real-life organized crime bosses Frank Costello and Carlo Gambino.[9]
Judgment at Nuremberg19611947The Judges' Trial
Who Framed Roger Rabbit19881947A toon-hating detective is a cartoon rabbit's only hope to prove his innocence when he is accused of murder.
The Black Dahlia20061947The murder of Elizabeth Short and subsequent investigation.
Exodus19601947–1948Foundation of Israel
Cast a Giant Shadow19661948United States Army colonel Mickey Marcus's involvement in the 1948 Arab–Israeli War
Roa20131948The final days in the life of Juan Roa Sierra, the man who was blamed for the 1948 assassination of Jorge Eliécer Gaitán, the charismatic liberal candidate for president of the Republic of Colombia his murder provoked the Bogotazo rioting and the imminent beginning of the bloody La Violencia
The Pact20211948The intense friendship between Karen Blixen, the Danish author best known for her autobiographical novel Out of Africa, and Thorkild Bjørnvig, a young and promising poet.

Films set in the atomic era (1950–1999)

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom20131925–1995Nelson Mandela
Walk the Line20051944–1968Johnny Cash
The Notorious Bettie Page20051949–1959Bettie Page
The Right Stuff19831947–1963History of the space race
The Shawshank Redemption19941947–1987takes place in a state penitentiary set in mid-century New England
A Beautiful Mind20011947–1994based on the life of John Nash, a Nobel Laureate in Economics
The Crown20161947–2005Follows the political rivalries and romance of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century.
American Hot Wax19781950Disc jockey Alan Freed's involvement in the emergence of rock and roll
Snow Falling on Cedars (film)19991950A Japanese-American fisherman is accused of killing his neighbor at sea. In the 1950s, race figures into the trial. So does reporter Ishmael.
71: Into the Fire20101950The story of student-soldiers trying to protect a middle school during the early days of the Korean War
Taegukgi20041950–1953A drama about the fate of brothers forced to fight in the Korean War
Sayonara19571950–1953the story of an American Air Force pilot during the Korean War who falls in love with a famous Japanese dancer
A Funny Man20111950s–1980Dirch Passer
Rocketman20191950s–1982Elton John
Hail, Caesar!20161951A Hollywood fixer in the 1950s works to keep the studio's stars in line
The Queen's Sister20051952–1975A semi-fictionalized account of the life of Princess Margaret, the younger sister of Queen Elizabeth II, from 1952 until the mid-1970s
The Finest Hours20161952The SS Pendleton Coast Guard rescue mission attempt
The Motorcycle Diaries20041952–1967The life of Che Guevara
The Kennedys20111952–1968The triumphs and tragedies of the Kennedy family
Good Night, and Good Luck20051953The conflict between veteran radio and television journalist Edward R. Murrow and U.S. Senator Joseph McCarthy relating to the anti-Communist Senator's actions with the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations
The Front Line20111953A drama centered on the Korean War's final battle which will determine the border between North Korea and South Korea
The Death of Stalin20171953The events that transpired after the death of Joseph Stalin in 1953
Being the Ricardos20211953Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz deal with accusations that Lucille is a communist in Cold War America while preparing to film an episode of I Love Lucy
Elvis19791953–1972The story follows the life and career of rock and roll icon Elvis Presley
The People vs. Larry Flynt19961953–1988Biopic about Larry Flynt, publisher of Hustler magazine
The Quiet American20021954The film covers early American covert involvement in Vietnam during the last days of the First Indochina War. It set the stage for the subsequent Vietnam War.
Shutter Island20101954In Massachusetts, U.S. Marshal Edward "Teddy" Daniels investigates the disappearance of murderer Rachel Solando, who escaped from a hospital for the criminally insane. The film is set in Boston Harbor, and is based on the novel Shutter Island (2003) by Dennis Lehane. The hospital is loosely based on the Chronic Disease Hospital of Long Island.
The Founder20161954The story of Ray Kroc, a salesman who turned the innovative fast food eatery of

Richard and Maurice McDonald, McDonald's, into one of the biggest restaurant businesses in the world. Th film depicts Kroc using a combination of ambition, persistence, and ruthlessness.

The Battle of Algiers19661954–1960During the Algerian War
Forrest Gump19941954–1981The remarkable life story of a kind and brave Alabama man with an IQ of 75.
Lumumba20001955–1961Path of the first Prime Minister of the Republic of the Congo Patrice Lumumba and his killing. The Republic itself was the former Belgian Congo following its independence.
Che20081955–1967The life and death of Che Guevara
Goodfellas19901955–1980Biopic about mobster Henry Hill. Hill was an associate of the

Lucchese crime family, who later became an informant of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Blow20011955–1994Biopic about drug trafficker George Jung
The Club20211950–1955Multiple depictions that show an anti-Greek sentiment in Turkey, Varlık Vergisi and in the last episode the Istanbul pogrom is depicted.[10]
Pains of Autumn2009September 1955Istanbul pogrom against Greek minority.[11]
Nasser 5619961956The Suez Crisis from the Egyptian point of view
Children of Glory20061956Hungarian Revolution of 1956
Great Balls of Fire!19891956–1958The early career of Rock and roll pioneer Jerry Lee Lewis
Quiz Show19941956–1958Twenty-One Quiz show scandals
My Week with Marilyn20111956The film focuses on the week during the shooting of the 1957 film The Prince and the Showgirl. Marilyn Monroe was escorted around London by Colin Clark, after her husband Arthur Miller had returned to the United States.
The Iron Giant19991957Animated film; A young boy befriends a giant robot from outer space that a paranoid government agent wants to destroy.
Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull20081957In 1957, archaeologist and adventurer Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr. is called back into action.
Motherless Brooklyn20191957A private investigator struggling with Tourette syndrome works to solve the mystery of his mentor's demise during the 1950s in New York City
Bridge of Spies20151957–1961During the Cold War, an American lawyer is recruited to defend an arrested Soviet spy in court, and then help the CIA facilitate an exchange of the spy for the Soviet-captured American U2 spy plane pilot, Francis Gary Powers.
The Butler20131957–1986Based on the life of White House butler Eugene Allen
Loving20161958–1967Based on the lives of Mildred and Richard Loving and the events surrounding the landmark court case of Loving v. Virginia.
In Cold Blood19671959Based on Truman Capote's nonfiction book of the same name about the murdered Clutter family in Holcomb, Kansas.
Black and White20021959Biographical film about the Max Stuart case where an Indigenous Australia man was found guilty of murder and the legal fight to have his death sentence commuted.
Hollywoodland20061959a private detective investigates the circumstances surrounding the death of actor George Reeves
Scandal19891959–1963Christine Keeler, Stephen Ward and the Profumo affair
Respect20211959–1972Follows the career of African American singer Aretha Franklin
Heaven & Earth19931960–1980Vietnam War
The Courier20201960–1966Greville Wynne
The Odd Angry Shot19791960sExperiences of Australian soldiers during the Vietnam War.
The German Doctor20131960The life of Josef Mengele in Argentina. He was a former Nazi wanted for War crimes. He was a target for Nazi hunters.
Gagarin: First in Space20131960–1961The Vostok 1 mission, making the Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin the first human to cross into outer space. It was the first human spaceflight.
City of God20021960–1980The growth of organized crime in Cidade de Deus, Rio de Janeiro.
Selena (film)19971961; 1981–1995Biographic of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez.
The Eichmann Show20151961The behind the scenes of the television broadcast of the Eichmann Trial
Hidden Figures20161961The black female mathematicians who worked at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) during the Space Race
Experimenter20151961Milgram experiment
K-19: The Widowmaker20021961, 1989Soviet submarine K-19 nuclear disaster
Saving Mr. Banks20131961–1964Events surrounding the development of the film Mary Poppins
JFK19911961–1966The assassination of President of the United States John F. Kennedy and subsequent investigation
First Man20181961–1969About the life of Neil Armstrong and the decade leading up to the Apollo 11 lunar mission
The Sandlot19931962Boys playing baseball in Los Angeles fearing a big dog
Thirteen Days20001962The Cuban Missile Crisis
Green Book20181962a tour of the Deep South by African American classical and jazz pianist Don Shirley and Italian American bouncer Frank "Tony Lip" Vallelonga who served as Shirley's driver and bodyguard
Dear Comrades!20201962Novocherkassk massacre
Z19691963The assassination of Grigoris Lambrakis
A Perfect World19931963A kidnapped boy strikes up a friendship with his captor: an escaped convict on the run from the law, while the search is headed up by an honorable Texas Ranger.
The Help20111963Race relations in the Deep South during the Civil Rights Movement
Parkland20131963Immediate aftermath of the JFK assassination
Jackie20161963Jacqueline Kennedy in the immediate aftermath of the JFK assassination
The Kennedys: After Camelot20171963–1994Follow-up to the 2011 miniseries The Kennedys, the triumphs and tragedies of the Kennedy family.
All the Way20161963–1965Lyndon Baines Johnson becomes the President of the United States in the chaotic aftermath of the Assassination of John F. Kennedy. He spends his first year in office fighting to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
LBJ20161963–1969The story of President of the United States Lyndon Baines Johnson from his young days in West Texas to the White House.
Catch Me If You Can20021963–1974The life of Frank Abagnale, a con artist and famous check forger.
Ghosts of Mississippi19961963–1990Events surrounding the murder of NAACP field secretary Medgar Evers during the civil rights movement in Mississippi
The Theory of Everything20141963–1998Stephen Hawking biographic
196520141963–1966Singapore in Malaysia, 1964 race riots in Singapore (Indonesia–Malaysia confrontation) and National Day of 1965
Mississippi Burning19881964The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation investigation into the murders of Chaney, Goodman, and Schwerner
The Doors19911964–1971Biopic about the 1960s–1970s rock band of the same name which emphasizes the life of its lead singer, Jim Morrison
The Year of Living Dangerously19821965Set in Indonesia during the overthrow of President Sukarno
We Were Soldiers20021965The Battle of Ia Drang in the Vietnam War
An American Crime20071965The film tells the story of the torture and murder of Sylvia Likens by Indianapolis housewife Gertrude Baniszewski.
Selma20141965Selma to Montgomery march in Alabama during the civil rights movement
Born on the Fourth of July19891965–1968Ron Kovic's experiences in the Vietnam War
Coming Home20141966–1976Cultural Revolution in China.
Ultraman Mebius20061966–1981Mirai Hinbino, a rejected member of The rookie team Crew GUYS, and transforms into a giant hero Ultraman Mebius
Ultraman Mebius & Ultra Brothers20061966–1981Mirai Hinbino, a rejected member of the rookie team Crew GUYS, and transforms into a giant hero Ultraman Mebius
W.20081966–2003The life and presidency of President of the United States George W. Bush
Platoon19851967–1968Vietnam War
Half of a Yellow Sun20131967–1970the Nigerian Civil War
Detroit20171967The 12th Street Riot in Detroit, Michigan
Coming Home19781968Vietnam War
Full Metal Jacket19871968Battle of Huế in the Vietnam War
Bobby20061968The assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy
Judy20191968American actress and singer Judy Garland performs a series of concerts in London in the last year of her life
Rose Island20201968Establishment of the Republic of Rose Island off the coast of Rimini
The Trial of the Chicago 720201968Follows the story of the Chicago Seven
The Deer Hunter19781968–1975Vietnam War
The Damned United20091968–1975Brian Clough as manager of Derby County and Leeds United
American Gangster20071968–1976Frank Lucas and his heroin drug trade.
Hamburger Hill19871969Battle of Hamburger Hill in the Vietnam War
Apocalypse Now19791969Vietnam War
Four Days in September19971969Kidnapping of the United States Ambassador to Brazil, Charles Burke Elbrick, by members of 8th October Revolutionary Movement and Ação Libertadora Nacional
Chappaquiddick20171969Chronicles the untold story of Ted Kennedy and the Chappaquiddick incident during July 1969.
Once Upon a Time in Hollywood20191969follows an actor and his stunt double as they navigate the changing film industry in Los Angeles, set during the time of the Manson murders
Judas and the Black Messiah20211969The betrayal and assassination of Chicago based Black Panther Fred Hampton
Belfast20211969A young boy's childhood in Belfast, Northern Ireland during The Troubles
Secretariat20101969–1973Race horse Secretariat.
Nixon19951969–1974The political life of President of the United States Richard M. Nixon
Zodiac20071969–1975the Zodiac murders in Northern California
Apollo 1319951970Apollo 13 lunar mission
Dekada '70
(The 70s)
20021970Based on the novel of the same name by Lualhati Bautista. The setting is the period of martial law in the Philippines, under the control of President Ferdinand Marcos.
Inherent Vice20141970Based on the novel following detective Doc Sportello.
Elvis & Nixon20161970The untold true story behind the meeting between Elvis Presley, the King of rock and roll, and President Richard Nixon.
Misbehaviour20201970The disruption of the 1970 Miss World competition in London by the women's liberation movement
Roma20181970–1971The story of a Mixteco maid living in Mexico City during the Corpus Christi Massacre
Milk20081970–1978Gay rights activist Harvey Milk
Bohemian Rhapsody20181970–1985Follows the band Queen from their formation all the way to the Live Aid concert.
Diana: Her True Story19931970–1992The story of Diana, Princess of Wales, based on the publication of the same name by Andrew Morton.
Remember the Titans20001971Follows a desegregated high school's football team in 1970s Alexandria, Virginia
'7120141971Northern Ireland during The Troubles
The Post20171971–1972Journalists from The Washington Post and The New York Times who published the Pentagon Papers, regarding the United States' covert political and military involvement during the Vietnam War.
The Last King of Scotland20061971–1976President of Uganda Idi Amin
Whatever Love Means20051971–1981About Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall and Charles, Prince of Wales
Pirates of Silicon Valley19991971–1997Follows the growth of the personal computer industry through the lives of Bill Gates and Steve Jobs
Bloody Sunday20021972Bloody Sunday shootings in Northern Ireland
All the President's Men19761972The Nixon-era Watergate scandal
Alive19931972Crash of Uruguayan Air Force Flight 571
Cry Freedom19871972–1978Steve Biko and Donald Woods in the apartheid era of South Africa
Munich20051972–1979Mossad efforts to avenge the Munich massacre, the murder of Israeli athletes during the 1972 Summer Olympics
Missing19821973The 1973 Chilean coup d'état and the murder of Charles Horman
Colonia20151973The 1973 Chilean coup d'etat and the Colonia Dignidad[12]
Vinyl20161973The musical industry in 1973.
All the Money in the World20171973The kidnapping of John Paul Getty III in July 1973.
The Killing Fields19841973–1979The Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge regime of Pol Pot
Jobs20131974–2001Biopic about the career of Steve Jobs
West Beirut19981975High school students living in Beirut during the outbreak of the Lebanese Civil War
The Amityville Horror20051975A year after the murders of the DeFeo family in Amity, New York another family moves into the house where the murders took place. Soon, it becomes clear that the house is haunted. The film was based on the novel The Amityville Horror (1977) by Jay Anson. The novel was inspired by real-life reports of a haunted house in Amity, and by the house's connection to six murders performed by former resident Ronald DeFeo Jr. in 1974.
Balibo20091975the Indonesian invasion of East Timor and the Balibo Five
Raid on Entebbe19771976The July 1976 rescue of passengers from a hijacked plane in Uganda by the IDF
Dazed and Confused19931976Based on Richard Linklater's life experiences.
Invincible20061976–1978story of Vince Papale, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1976 to 1978
Summer of Sam19991977The Son of Sam murders in New York City
Frost/Nixon20081977the Frost-Nixon interviews
Romero19891977–1980The assassination of Archbishop Oscar Romero at the height of the Salvadorian Civil War
Boogie Nights19971977–1984Golden Age of Porn: The rise and fall of fictional pornographic film actor Dirk Diggler
Detroit Rock City19991978Four teenagers embark on a roadtrip from Columbus, Ohio, to Detroit, Michigan, to attend a concert by KISS, their favourite band. The film is named after the song Detroit Rock City (1976) and depicts a concert within Cobo Center.
Gracie20071978Six years after the introduction of Title IX
American Hustle20131978Abscam operation
The Godfather: Part III19901979Aging Mafia Don Michael Corleone seeks to avow for his sins, while taking his nephew Vincent Mancini under his wing. The film is loosely based on the sudden death of Pope John Paul I (1978), whose entire term lasted 33 days, and the Banco Ambrosiano scandal (1981–1982).
5419981979The last year of Studio 54 in New York City.
Super 820111979Kids filming a horror movie film something out of this world instead.
Escape from Pretoria20201979The prison escape of three white South Africans, Tim Jenkins, Stephen Lee and Dennis Goldberg who were imprisoned for anti-Apartheid activism
Argo20121979–1980A portrayal of the CIA's role in the Canadian Caper.
The 9th Company20051979–1989Young Soviet Army recruits are stuck in the bloody War in Afghanistan, that was started by politicians.
The Iron Lady20111979–1990An elderly Margaret Thatcher talks to the imagined presence of her recently deceased husband Denis Thatcher, as she struggles to come to terms with his death. Scenes from her past life, from girlhood to her terms as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, intervene.
House of Saddam20081979–2006A mini-series that explores the inner workings of President of Iraq Saddam Hussein's family and his relationship with his closest advisers.
Walesa: Man of Hope20131980–1989Portrayal of Polish labor leader Lech Walesa and the Solidarity movement.
Miracle20041980The United States men's national ice hockey team's gold medal victory at the 1980 Winter Olympics
No Country For Old Men20071980While hunting in West Texas, Llewelyn Moss stumbles upon several dead men and dogs, and a suitcase full of cash. This makes him the target for psychotic hitman Anton Chigurh, who hunts him down to retrieve the stolen money. The film is based on the novel No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy, and dramatizes the illegal drug trade across the Mexico–United States border. The character Llewelyn Moss is depicted as a veteran of the Vietnam War.
The Falklands Play20021980–1982Diplomacy leading up to and during the Falklands War
The Reagans20031980–1989Legacy and career of Ronald Reagan and his wife, Nancy Reagan.
Charlie Wilson's War20071980–1989CIA's covert involvement in the Soviet–Afghan War
Oranges and Sunshine20101980sBased on the book Empty Cradles by Margaret Humphreys about her investigations in British Home Children.
Goodbye Bafana20071980–1990Nelson Mandela's imprisonment
Scarface19831980–1983Ruthless Cuban criminal Tony Montana arrives in Miami, Florida as part of the Mariel boatlift (1980) and builds a drug empire. The film was a remake of Scarface (1932), and dramatizes the war on drugs and the illegal drug trade.
Catch a Fire20061980–1994Set during the early 1980s concerning the plight of the ANC's military wing in the apartheid-era of South Africa
Wonderland20031981Wonderland murders
Hunger200819811981 Irish hunger strike (Part of the Cold War and The Troubles)
Joker20191981Backstory of the character Joker (character).
The Americans2013–20181981–1987spy thriller series detailing the lives of KGB agents posing as Americans during the Cold War
Barry20161981–2009A look into the early life of President of the United States Barack Obama.
An Ungentlemanly Act19921982The first days of the Argentine invasion of the Falkland Islands
Tumbledown19881982Falklands War (Part of the Cold War and The Troubles)
Heartbreak Ridge19861983United States invasion of Grenada: A hard-nosed, hard-living Marine gunnery sergeant clashes with his superiors and his ex-wife, as he takes command of a spoiled recon platoon with a bad attitude.
Halt and Catch Fire2014–20171983–1995Set in the years from 1983 to 1995, the series depicts a fictionalized insider's view of the personal computer revolution of the 1980s and the growth of the World Wide Web in the early 1990s
The Hunt for Red October19901984Soviet submarine during the late Cold War era
Steve Jobs20151984–1998Covers fourteen years of Steve Jobs' computing career
The Lives of Others20061984–1993In East Berlin, a Stasi agent is assigned to wire-tap a playwright and his lover, who are suspected to be disloyal to the GDR. However, the agent finds himself increasingly absorbed by their lives.
Paid in Full20021985During the Crack epidemic of the 1980s
Climber's High20081985Historical drama about Japan Airlines Flight 123
Shizumanu Taiyō20091985Historical drama about Japan Airlines Flight 123
Dallas Buyers Club20131986The story of Ron Woodroof who was diagnosed with AIDS during the AIDS epidemic
Chernobyl20191986–1987Mini-series depicting the Chernobyl disaster.
Donald Trump's The Art of the Deal: The Movie20161986–2016A satirical rendition of Donald Trump's 1987 best selling business book, The Art of the Deal.
Foxcatcher20141986–1996Wrestling coach John Eleuthère du Pont and Wrestlers Mark Schultz and Dave Schultz and the events of Foxcatcher farm in the lead up to, and following, the 1988 Summer Olympics.
Straight Outta Compton20151986–1996The story behind hip hop group, N.W.A
Hamlet Goes Business19871987Based on William Shakespeare's play Hamlet, but the events are housed in a modern Finnish wood processing family business.
Endgame20091987–1990final days of apartheid in South Africa
Polytechnique20091989Polytechnique Massacre in Montreal
Narcos20151989Pablo Escobar rules the Medellín Cartel.
Atomic Blonde20171989Spy thriller set in the days before, during and after the Fall of the Wall
Good Bye, Lenin!20031989–1990Fall of the Berlin Wall and German reunification
Jarhead20051989–1991Gulf War
The Big Lebowski1998early 1990sJeff "The Dude" Lebowski needs a new rug after being mistaken for another Lebowski
Beans20201990A young Mohawk girl lives through the Oka Crisis in Quebec
tick, tick...BOOM!20211990Adaptation of musical by the same name as well as biopic of its creator Jonathan Larson
Joy20151990–1995Joy Mangano and the invention of the Miracle Mop
Three Kings199919911991 Iraqi uprisings against Saddam Hussein and aftermath of the Gulf War and the Dissolution of the Soviet Union
The Perfect Storm200019911991 Perfect Storm
Spencer20211991Princess Diana spends a Christmas with the British royal family at the Queen's Sandringham House
Invictus20091991–1995Post-apartheid South Africa and the 1995 Rugby World Cup
Welcome to Sarajevo19971992Bosnian War
No Man's Land20011992Bosnian War
As If I Am Not There20101992Bosnian War
In the Land of Blood and Honey20111992Bosnian War
Snowtown20111992–1999Snowtown murders
Black Hawk Down20011993The Battle of Mogadishu, Somali Civil War
The Fighter20101993About boxer Micky Ward and his family
Hotel Rwanda20041994Assassination of Juvénal Habyarimana and Cyprien Ntaryamira and Rwandan genocide
Shooting Dogs20051994Rwandan genocide
Sometimes in April20051994Rwandan genocide
Shake Hands with the Devil20071994Rwandan genocide
The Special Relationship20101994–2001The United Kingdom–United States Special Relationship between Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair and President of the United States Bill Clinton
Savior19981995During the Bosnian War in former Yugoslavia
Behind Enemy Lines20011995the Mrkonjić Grad incident during the Bosnian War in former Yugoslavia
Pain & Gain20131995Based on the criminal activities of the short-lived Sun Gym gang (1994–1995) of Miami Lakes, Florida, which consisted mostly of bodybuilders. In the film, a trio of bodybuilders in Florida get caught up in an extortion ring and a kidnapping scheme that goes terribly wrong.
Diana20131995–1997Depicts the last two years of Princess Diana of Wales' life, from her divorce from Prince Charles to her death in 1997
Everest20151996Based on the real events of the 1996 Mount Everest disaster
Bernie20111996Murder of Marjorie Nugent by Bernie Tiede
The Queen20061997A fictional account of the immediate events following the death of Diana, Princess of Wales
Diana: Last Days of a Princess20071997A fairly accurate (albeit semi-fictionalized) account of the last two months in the life of Diana, Princess of Wales, leading up to her death on 31 August 1997.
Open Water20031998Tom and Eileen Lonergan
I'm Not Ashamed20161998–1999Based on the writings of Rachel Scott
American Sniper20141998–2011Based on the 2012 memoir of former US Navy SEAL, Chris Kyle
Coach Carter20051999Story of high school basketball coach Ken Carter who suspended his team due to poor academic results
Blood Diamond20061999During the Sierra Leone Civil War
The Rookie20021999–2000The story of Jim Morris, an American baseball player who reached the major leagues at the age of 35

Films set in the information era (after 2000)

TitleRelease dateTime periodNotes on setting
Holy Spider20222000–2002Iranian serial killer Saeed Hanaei
Mary: The Making of a Princess20152000-2004the relationship between Mary Donaldson and Prince Frederik
World Trade Center20062001September 11 attacks
United 9320062001September 11 attacks
Flight 9320062001September 11 attacks
William & Kate: The Movie20112001the relationship between Prince William and Catherine "Kate" Middleton (now The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge)
Diaz - Don't Clean Up This Blood20122001The 2001 G8 Summit in Genoa, Italy and the storming of the Armando Diaz school by police
Spotlight20152001The Boston Globe's investigative story on the Sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic archdiocese of Boston and the September 11 attacks
Zero Dark Thirty20122001–2012The finding and assassination of Osama Bin Laden
Moneyball (film)20112002Based on Michael Lewis's 2003 nonfiction book of the same name, an account of the Oakland Athletics baseball team's 2002 season and their general manager Billy Beane's attempts to assemble a competitive team.
The Dropout20222002–2017Disgraced biotechnology company Theranos and its founder Elizabeth Holmes
The Social Network20102003–2007The founding of the social networking service-website Facebook
127 Hours2010April 2003The true story about Aron Ralston, a mountain climber who had his arm trapped by a boulder while climbing in an isolated slot canyon in Utah.
The Hurt Locker20082004the Iraq War, just before the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami
The Impossible20122004The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, from the viewpoint of a tourist family in Thailand
Lone Survivor20132005Based on the 2007 non-fiction book of the same name about Operation Red Wings by Marcus Luttrell and Patrick Robinson
The Big Short20152005–2008Based on the 2010 book of the same name, about numerous financial experts who predict and proceed to take advantage of the 2008 financial meltdown
The Fifth Estate20132007–2010About Julian Assange and the foundation of his news-leaking site WikiLeaks
Too Big to Fail20112008The 2008 financial meltdown
Million Dollar Arm20142008the story of Indian baseball pitchers Rinku Singh and Dinesh Patel
Captain Phillips20132009Kidnapping of merchant mariner Richard Phillips by Somalian pirates
Sully20162009the story of Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger and the aftermath of US Airways Flight 1549
Deepwater Horizon20162010Deepwater Horizon explosion
13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi201620122012 Benghazi attack: During an attack on a U.S. compound in Benghazi, Libya, a security team struggles to make sense out of the chaos.
Uncut Gems20192012Kevin Garnett's performance in the 2012 NBA Eastern Conference Semi-finals
Patriots Day20162013The Boston Marathon Bombing.
Daniel20192013–2014the experiences of Daniel Rye who was held hostage by ISIS for 13 months
Operation Red Sea20182015The People's Liberation Army Navy entered the Yemeni Civil War and the International military intervention against ISIL.
Zola20212015Based on a viral Twitter thread about a part-time stripper who is convinced to travel to Tampa by her new friend for a gig.
Brexit: The Uncivil War20192015–2016The lead up to the 2016 Brexit referendum from the perspective of strategists in the Vote Leave campaign

See also

References

Sources

External links

  • History on Film—A historian looks at how Hollywood has presented historical events in the films.
  • Fraser, George McDonald, The Hollywood History of the World, from One Million Years B.C. to 'Apocalypse Now', London: M. Joseph, 1988; "First U.S. ed.", New York: Beech Tree Books, cop. 1988. Both eds. collate thus: xix, 268 p., amply ill. (b&w photos). ISBN 0-7181-2997-0 (U.K. ed.), 0-688-07520-7 (U.S. ed.)
  • The Period-Drama Timeline—listing costume dramas according to the year in which they are set.
  • Enchanted Serenity of Period Films—A fansite dedicated to period films.
  • Period Movies and Dramas—listings of period films and costume dramas according to various criteria (century, subject, alphabetical, directors, and actors).
  • Recycled Movie Costumes—Site dedicated to documenting costumes used in more than one film
  • Frock Flicks—Blog and podcast about costumes in historical costume movies and TV shows.
  • Period Movies Box—Blog with information on latest period movies, exciting facts and honest reviews.