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THE BEST HISTORICAL FILMS YOU HAVEN'T WATCHED (YET)

By Danilo Raul
Updated Jul 10, 2023

Not all historical films are action blockbusters. Many of them go past our radar
despite their quality. Check out these cinematic hidden gems!

Warner Bros.

Are you ready to go on a cinematic journey through time? Get ready to discover
some hidden historical gems! We all have our favorite historical movies, but
many underrated films deserve more attention. This list has everything from epic
battles and royal scandals to inspiring biopics and heart-wrenching dramas. So
grab your popcorn, sit back, and dive into the world of lesser-known yet
impressive historical films.

The Menu: 6 Things You MISSED!

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The Menu: 6 Things You MISSED!

Update July 10, 2023: History is all the rage in Hollywood right now as
Oppenheimer approaches its release, and the trailer for Napoleon has just been
released, so this list has been updated with even more underrated historical
films.

There is no shortage of historical movies out there; some go overboard by
portraying fantastic elements, but this never dilutes their historical value. If
you're tired of watching the same old blockbusters and want to discover
something new and exciting, we've curated a list of the best historical films
you likely haven't watched, from gripping war dramas to little-known biopics
that will transport you back in time.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey into history's darkest corners with our
must-watch historical movies.

25 EXODUS (1960)

United Artists

Exodus is a sweeping epic that tells the story of the founding of the modern
state of Israel. The film is notable for its impressive production values and
ability to capture the political and social upheaval of the period. The movie's
script pays close attention to many historical details, including the settlement
of the first establishments of Jewish people in the former region of Palestine.
The direction and music score are top-notch, especially when combined with
powerful performances by an all-star cast that includes Paul Newman, Eva Marie
Saint, and Peter Lawford, to make it a standout in the genre of historical
epics. The film's portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of the Israeli people
also lends it a timeless quality, allowing it to resonate with audiences decades
after its initial release.

24 ZULU (1964)

Paramount Pictures

Zulu is a 1964 British epic historical war film depicting the Battle of Rorke's
Drift between the British Army and the Zulu Kingdom. Set in 1879 during the
Anglo-Zulu War, it chronicles the story of 150 British soldiers who successfully
held off a force of 4,000 Zulu warriors, despite having numerous sick and
wounded among their ranks. The film stars Stanley Baker, Michael Caine, Jack
Hawkins, and Ulla Jacobsson. The screenplay was written by Cornelius Ryan and
directed by Cy Endfield.

Almost taken page-by-page from British history books, this movie was shot
entirely in South Africa and depicted the battle as a victory of British
colonization over African savagery. The film has garnered a lot of criticism
over the years for its depictions of racial stereotypes and violence.
Nevertheless, it is considered one of the best historical war films ever.

23 THE FALL OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE (1964)

Paramount Pictures

The Fall of the Roman Empire is a 1964 American epic film directed by Anthony
Mann, starring Sophia Loren, Stephen Boyd, Alec Guinness, James Mason,
Christopher Plummer, and Omar Sharif. The film was deemed a box office bomb,
losing an estimated $12 million. The movie chronicles the life of Marcus
Aurelius, from his youth as a member of the ruling class in Rome through his
later years as emperor. The story focuses on Aurelius' battle with Germanic
tribes invading the empire and his eventual death at the hands of his son
Commodus (Boyd).

This film was not well-received upon its release but has garnered a cult
following among fans with time. The Fall of the Roman Empire is now considered
one of the best historical films ever.

22 TORA! TORA! TORA! (1970)

20th Century Fox/Toei

Tora! Tora! Tora! is a 1970 American epic historical war film dramatizing the
Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent United States declaration of
war on Japan. The film was directed by Richard Fleischer, Toshio Masuda, and
Kinji Fukasaku. It starred an ensemble cast of American and Japanese actors,
including Martin Balsam, So Yamamura, E.G., Marshall, James Whitmore, Tatsuya
Mihashi, Jason Robards, Henry Fonda, and Charlton Heston. The film was nominated
for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director (for Richard
Fleischer), but only won Best Visual Effects.

As part of commemorating the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor in
2016, the Library of Congress selected Tora! Tora! Tora! for preservation in the
National Film Registry for being "culturally, historically, and aesthetically
significant."

21 WATERLOO (1970)

Columbia Pictures

Waterloo is a classic directed by Sergei Bondarchuk, starring Rod Steiger,
Christopher Plummer, and Orson Welles as Louis XVIII of France. The performances
are powerful and nuanced, bringing to life the historical figures they portray
with authenticity and depth. The film tells the story of the Battle of Waterloo
from the perspective of Napoleon Bonaparte. The film is notable for taking a few
liberties in portraying the events leading up to the battle and its depiction of
the conflict.

Related: 20 Classic Movies About Controversial Historical Figures

Waterloo has received critical acclaim for its attention to detail, stunning
battle sequences, and outstanding performances. Upon its release, the film
received several accolades, including an Academy Award nomination for Best
Original Score and BAFTA nominations for Best Costume Design and Best Art
Director. The film would eventually become a huge source of inspiration for many
future filmmakers, most notably Peter Jackson, who said the scope of his Lord of
the Rings trilogy is mainly drawn from this film. The upcoming Ridley
Scott-directed Napoleon will have a lot to live up to.

20 A BRIDGE TOO FAR (1977)

United Artists

A Bridge Too Far is a 1977 epic war film based on the 1974 book of the same name
by Cornelius Ryan. The film tells the story of Operation Market Garden, an
Allied military operation in September 1944 during World War II intended to
break through German defenses and seize a series of bridges leading to the
Netherlands. The operation was undertaken by American, British, Polish, and
Canadian forces, and it was the largest airborne operation up to that time. The
operation was unsuccessful, and many soldiers were killed or captured.

The film stars an ensemble cast that includes Sean Connery, Michael Caine,
Anthony Hopkins, Hardy Krüger, Dirk Bogarde, Robert Redford, James Caan, Liv
Ullmann, Gene Hackman, Laurence Olivier, and Ryan O'Neal. A Bridge Too Far was
directed by Richard Attenborough and produced by Joseph E. Levine and Richard P.
Levine. It received mixed reviews from critics but was nominated for eight BAFTA
Awards, winning Best Sound, Best Actor in a Supporting Role, Best Music, and
Best Cinematography.

19 GLORY (1989)

TriStar Pictures

Not many films accurately tackle the horrors of the American Civil War,
including the rampant racism that plagued both sides fighting the war. Edward
Zwick did his best to change this with this minor hit from 1989. Glory is a war
drama recounting a romanticized version of the achievements of the 54th
Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry Regiment, one of the first all-Black units
during the American Civil War.

Directed by Zwick and with a screenplay by Kevin Jarre, Glory tells a powerful
and inspiring story about the brave men who faced the Confederacy and their
mandate to kill black soldiers alongside their white superiors. This fantastic
film features the talents of Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan
Freeman, who does incredible work depicting the struggles of the era. It was
made on a budget of $18 million and only recouped $27 million at the box office.
It's fair to say it deserves a second chance by audiences.

18 CURSE OF THE GOLDEN FLOWER (2006)

Beijing New Picture Film Company

Though less well-known than some of its predecessors on this list, Curse of the
Golden Flower is a 2006 Chinese historical drama worth your time. Starring Chow
Yun-fat, Gong Li, and Jay Chou, the film is set in the Tang Dynasty and tells
the story of Emperor Ping and his Empress, who are struggling to maintain their
power amidst court intrigue and rebellion. The film's plot is equally
enthralling, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end.

Visually, Curse of the Golden Flower is a feast for the eyes, with lavish
costumes and settings that will transport you back in time. If you're looking
for a historical drama that's a little off the beaten path, Curse of the Golden
Flower is worth checking out.

17 ARN: THE KNIGHT TEMPLAR (2007)

Svensk Filmindustri

If you're a fan of medieval action epics, then Arn: The Knight Templar is a
must-watch. The film is a captivating historical epic telling the story of Arn
Magnusson, a young Swedish nobleman who joins the Knights Templar during the
Crusades. The film is notable for its breathtaking cinematography, impressive
battle sequences, and strong performances from its talented cast.

Starring Joakim Nätterqvist, Sofia Helin, and Stellan Skarsgård, the film boasts
a skilled cast that brings depth and authenticity to their roles. Director Peter
Flinth expertly captures the harsh beauty of medieval Europe, immersing viewers
in a vivid and authentic depiction of the era. The film's attention to
historical accuracy and detail adds to its appeal, offering a glimpse into the
time's religious conflicts and cultural clashes.

16 AGORA (2009)

20th Century Fox

Agora is a 2009 Spanish historical drama written and directed by Alejandro
Amenábar and co-written bt Mateo Gil. The film stars Rachel Weisz as Hypatia of
Alexandria, a female mathematician, philosopher, and astronomer in 4th-century
Roman Egypt who investigates the flaws of the geocentric Ptolemaic system and
develops her theory about the universe's heliocentricity. As the Roman Empire
crumbled in the 4th century A.D., religious fanatics led by Cyril of Alexandria
were hell-bent on destroying anything representing pagan culture—including the
renowned Library of Alexandria. When Hypatia refuses to renounce her beliefs,
she becomes Cyril's next target.

Related: Historical Dramas That Get It Right

Agora is an epic story of courage and conviction set against one of history's
most turbulent eras. Weisz delivers a knockout performance as Hypatia, a woman
whose groundbreaking theories ultimately lead to her tragic demise.

15 POPE JOAN (2009)

Constantin Films

Pope Joan is a historical movie directed by Sönke Wortmann, starring Johanna
Wokalek in the title role. The film is based on the legend of Pope Joan, a woman
who allegedly disguised herself as a man and rose to the papacy in the 9th
century. Despite its subject matter, Pope Joan is not a particularly religious
film. Instead, it focuses on the personal story of Joan, who is driven by her
ambition and intellect to achieve great things. However, her true identity is
discovered when she gives birth during a papal procession.

Pope Joan is an intriguing and thought-provoking film that challenges
traditional ideas about gender and power. Wokalek performs strongly, and the
film's period setting is well-rendered. If you're looking for a historical drama
different from the usual fare, Pope Joan is worth seeking out.

14 BLACK DEATH (2010)

Revolver Entertainment

The Black Death is a 2010 historical film directed by Christopher Smith. It
stars Sean Bean as Ulric, a Knight Hospitaler who accompanies a young monk
(Eddie Redmayne) to find a cure for the Black Death. The film also stars
Carrie-Anne Moss and John Lynch. Set in medieval England, The Black Death
follows the story of Ulric and his companions as they travel to a remote village
to find a cure for the plague ravaging the country. Along the way, they must
face many challenges, including hostile villagers, murderous bandits, and the
ever-present danger of the disease itself.

Although it may not be one of the most well-known historical films, The Black
Death is worth watching. It's an excellent example of how powerful and
entertaining history can be.

13 CENTURION (2010)

Warner Bros.

In 2010, director Neil Marshall brought us the historical action film Centurion.
The film is a gripping historical tale about a group of Roman soldiers who must
fight for their lives against a tribe of Pictish warriors in 2nd-century
Scotland. The film is notable for its attention to historical accuracy, its
gritty and realistic portrayal of ancient warfare, and its outstanding cast.
Starring Michael Fassbender, Olga Kurylenko, and Dominic West, the cast's
powerful performances bring its characters to life with depth and complexity.

A talented crew, including director Neil Marshall, supports the cast, who
expertly balances the film's action and drama. Centurion has received critical
acclaim for its authenticity and engaging storytelling, earning Best British
Film and Best Production Design nominations at the Empire Awards. The film's
impressive use of real Scottish locations and attention to detail in its
depiction of ancient Roman and Pictish cultures make it stand out in historical
epics.

12 THE EAGLE (2011)

Universal Pictures

Another British historical drama film set in 140 AD starring Channing Tatum and
Jamie Bell, The Eagle is considered by many a proto-sequel to Centurion since
the two stories are historically linked. The film follows the story of Marcus
Aquila (Tatum), a Roman centurion who sets out to find his father's lost legion
in Britain. Along the way, he teams up with Esca, a British slave who hates
Romans but begrudgingly agrees to help Marcus on his quest.

The Eagle is an underrated gem that deserves more attention. The film is
visually stunning, with sweeping shots of the British landscape. The acting is
also top-notch, with Tatum and Bell giving great performances.

11 THE PHYSICIAN (2013)

Universal Pictures

The Physician is a 2013 historical drama film directed by Philipp Stölzl,
starring Tom Payne, Ben Kingsley, Emma Rigby, and Oliver Martinez. The film is
based on the novel of the same name by Noah Gordon. It tells the story of Rob
Cole, a young man in medieval England with a natural gift to identify illnesses
and dreams of becoming a physician, despite being born into a family of
clothiers. With the help of his friend and mentor, John Marnin, Rob sets out on
a journey to study medicine in Persia, where he meets physician Ibn Sina and
falls in love with a woman named Rebecca.

Related: Best Historical TV Shows of All Time, Ranked

The Physician is an epic tale of ambition, courage, and determination. It's a
film that celebrates the human spirit and the power of knowledge. The acting is
superb, the cinematography is beautiful, and the story is heartwarming and
tragic. This is a film that should not be missed.

10 42 (2013)

Warner Bros.

It's refreshing to take a bit of a detour and appreciate a film that still
recounts significant historical events without all the gruesome visuals of war.
42 is a chronicle of the groundbreaking journey of baseball legend Jackie
Robinson, the first black man who played in the Major Leagues of Baseball by
merit. The story was set in 1945, and while the film offers a heartwarming
story, it's difficult to do so without showcasing an accurate portrayal of the
racism of the era.

The film was written and directed by Brian Helgeland. It features the
exceptional talent of the late Chadwick Boseman as Robinson, a man who was
offered a golden ticket and took knowing too well what he'd have to face.
Although the movie plays fast and loose with specific events, it also features
some historical landmarks that really took place, such as the show of support
offered by Pee Wee Reese, played by Lucas Black. The film was a modest success
deserving more love from current audiences.

9 UNBROKEN (2014)

Legendary Pictures

Some of the most harrowing historical films recount men enduring hard times.
Most World War II veterans barely lived to tell the tale. Unbroken is a film
based on the real-life of Louis Zamperini as told in the book of the same name
written by Laura Hillenbrand. The film was written by the Coen Brothers and
directed by Angelina Jolie. It was a modest box office hit back in the day, so
it's safe to say you haven't watched it yet.

In the movie, we follow Zamperini, a boy who is constantly picked on by his
Italian heritage but manages to overcome his social surroundings to become an
Olympic-level athlete. He gave up his dreams to enlist and fight in WWII, as
happened with many Americans back in the day. After surviving a plane crash,
he's captured alongside the surviving members of the crew. He endures two years
of hell on earth as a sadist Japanese Sargent named Mutsuhiro Watanabe beats and
tortures him constantly for his incredible defiance.

8 TRUMBO (2015)

Universal Pictures

Trumbo is a biographical drama narrating the story of Dalton Trumbo, a
screenwriter who was blacklisted during the McCarthy era for his political
beliefs. Trumbo was the author of the notorious anti-war book Johnny Got His
Gun, which inspired a film and the first-ever Metallica music video many years
later. The movie explores the dangerous consequences of political censorship,
which still plagues the modern-day world.

The film is notable for its nuanced portrayal of Trumbo and his fight for
freedom of speech and artistic expression. The film's strong performances by
Bryan Cranston, Diane Lane, and Helen Mirren, combined with its attention to
historical accuracy and detail, make it stand out as a historical drama.

7 MACBETH (2015)

StudioCanal

Macbeth is a visually stunning adaptation of William Shakespeare's classic play.
The movie explores the psychological toll of ambition and power while portraying
the brutal realities of medieval life. The film is notable for striking
cinematography, capturing medieval Scotland's raw beauty and violence. Macbeth
is imbued with attention to detail, complemented by powerful performances by
Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard, making it a huge accomplishment as a
period piece.

The film’s main achievement is adapting one of the most complex literary pieces
ever written and offering a great film for a script usually reserved for plays.
Overall, Macbeth is a visually stunning portrayal of one of Shakespeare's most
iconic plays and a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.

6 FURIOUS (2017)

Film Studio KIT

Also known as Legend of Kolovrat, Furious is an epic about a young warrior who
sets out to protect his homeland from invading Mongols in 13th-century Russia.
Starring Ilya Malakov, Polina Chernyshova, and Aleksey Serebryakov, the film is
notable for its stunning visuals, thrilling action sequences, and strong
performances from its talented cast. Malakov, in particular, delivers a standout
performance as the fearless warrior Evpaty Kolovrat, showcasing physical prowess
and emotional range as he battles to defend his people. Director Dzhanik Fayziev
expertly captures medieval Russia's brutal violence and harsh beauty, immersing
viewers in a vivid and authentic depiction of the era.

The film pays good attention to historical accuracy, offering a glimpse into
pivotal moments in Russian history. Furious has received critical acclaim for
its exceptional visuals and engaging storytelling, earning Best Costume Design
and Best Makeup nominations at the Golden Eagle Awards. The movie can balance
action and drama while exploring deeper themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the
power of the human spirit.

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