List of historical drama films and series 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 Asian historical drama films.

Films set in prehistoric era

    Title Release date Time Era Time Period Notes on setting
    The Land Before Time1988Mesozoic Triassic (1–2)

    Jurrasic (3-)

    Disney's Dinosaur 2000 Mesozoic Cretaceous
    The Good Dinosaur 2015 Mesozoic Cretaceous
    Walking with Dinosaurs the Movie 2013 Mesozoic Cretaceous
    One Million Years BC 1966 Mesozoic Cretaceous
    When Dinosaurs Ruled The Earth 1970 Mesozoic Cretaceous
    Quest for Fire 1981 Cenozoic Paleogene
    Ice Age (franchise) 2002–2016 Cenozoic Neogene
    The Clan of the Cave Bear 1986 Cenozoic Neogene
    Early Man 2018 Cenozoic Neogene
    Alpha 2018 Cenozoic Neogene
    Year one 2009 Cenozoic Quaternary
    10,000 BC 2008 Cenozoic Quaternary

    Films set in ancient era (3000–500 BC)

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    The Bible: In the Beginning...1966Film based on the Bible, starting with the Book of Genesis and ending with the binding of Isaac.
    Noah2014American epic biblical drama film inspired by the Genesis flood narrative and Noah's Ark in the Book of Genesis.
    The Pharaohs' Woman 1960 Predynastic A 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.
    La Donna dei Faraoni19613100 BCSet 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.
    Il Sepolcro dei re19602589–2566 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 Khafra (Chephren), a member of the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt.
    Sodom and Gomorrah19622100 BCA epic film which is loosely based on the tale of the cities Sodom and Gomorrah in the Book of Genesis.
    Abraham19942100–2000 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 BCFilmset 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 Tent (miniseries)20141700–1750 BCSet 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.
    Nefertiti, Regina del Nilo19611370–1330 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.
    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.
    Helen of Troy19561250 BCSet in western Anatolia during the Trojan War, largery based on the epic poems Iliad and Odyssey by Homer.
    Troy20041250 BCSet in western Anatolia during the Trojan War, loosely based on the epic poem Iliad by Homer.
    Iphigenia19771200 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.
    The Fury of Achilles19621200 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 BCSet in western Anatolia in the 10th and final year of the Trojan War.
    The Trojan Women19711200 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 Avenger1962early 12th century 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.
    Electra1962early 12th century 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.
    Ulysses1954early 12th century 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 Odyssey1997early 12th century 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.
    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.
    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 comsort, 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 Semiramis1962810 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
    Romolo e Remo1961753 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.
    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).
    Queen of Babylon1954600 BCSet in the Neo-Babylonian Empire, depicts Semiramis as a Babylonian queen.
    Gautama Buddha2007563–483 BCDepicting the life of the Gautama Buddha. Siddhārtha Gautama is a member of the Ikshvaku dynasty, and seeks a solution to human misery and a path for salvation. He redefines the concept of the Dharma (cosmic law and order).
    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 senf his own mother and his wife as their representatives.

    Films set in classical era (500 BC–600 AD)

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    La battaglia di Maratona1959490 BCGreece: Battle of Marathon
    Ester e il re1960486–482 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
    Il tiranno di Siracusa1961400 BCSyracuse, Sicily
    Brenno il nemico di Roma1963387 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
    Asoka2001304–232 BCAncient India, during early years of the rule of Maurya emperor Asoka
    Il Colosso di Rodi1961280 BC
    Revak the Rebel1960218 BCIberian Peninsula immediately before the Second Punic War
    Cabiria1914 (silent)218–202 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
    Rome: Rise and Fall of an Empire 2008 113 BC - 476 AD From the cimbrian war to the last Western Roman emperor.
    Ancient Rome: The Rise and Fall of an Empire20062nd century BC – 410From Tiberius Gracchus to the Sack of Rome (410). BBC Docu-drama.
    The Centurion1961146 BCBattle of Corinth between Rome and the Achaean League
    Empire20051st century BCRome
    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)
    Spartaco195373–71 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
    Roman Empire 2016- 60's BC - 192 AD Anthology series with each season presenting an independent story.
    Druids200158–51 BCthe struggle between Julius Caesar and Vercingetorix in the Gallic Wars
    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
    A Queen for Caesar196248 BCEgypt leading up to the arrival of Julius Caesar
    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 Caesar195344–42 BCShakespeare's play about the death and aftermath of this famous dictator
    Julius Caesar197044–42 BCShakespeare's play about the death and aftermath of this famous dictator
    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.
    Jesus of Nazareth19774 BC to 30–33 ADJudea – the life of Jesus Christ
    Massacre in the Black Forest19679 ADGermany – The Battle of the Teutoburg Forest, where the Cherusci ambushed and annihilated three Roman legions.
    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 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
    The Robe195330–36Rome – ending reign of Tiberius, the beginning of Caligula
    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
    Britannia2018–201943Set 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 Vadis200154–68Rome during the reign of Nero
    Boudica200360Britain – 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
    Masada198172–73Roman province of Judea during the First Jewish–Roman War
    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
    The Fall of the Roman Empire1964180–192Rome during the reign of Commodus
    Gladiator2000180–192Rome during the reign of 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
    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
    Mayura1975354–365Kannada film set in Kadamba Dynasty, during the reign of Raja Mayurasharma
    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
    King Arthur2004early 5th centurythe Roman withdrawal from Britain and the Battle of Mount Badon
    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
    Die Nibelungen1924450about the Germanic hero Siegfried, his murder, and his widow's vengeance
    Die Nibelungen1967450about the Germanic hero Siegfried, his murder, and his widow's vengeance
    Ring of the Nibelungs2004450about the Germanic hero Siegfried
    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
    Hamlet19646th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – this is a Russian adaptation of the Shakespeare play based on the Danish legend of Amleth
    Prince of Jutland19946th centuryDenmark in the Germanic Heroic Age – legend of Amleth from the Danish Gesta Danorum
    Teodora1919500–548Byzantine 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 medieval era (600–1500)

    Early middle ages (7th–10th centuries)

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    681 AD: The Glory of Khan1981632–681epic about the fall of Old Great Bulgaria and the creation of modern-day Bulgaria; focuses on Kanasubigi Asparuh's life
    Outlander2008709Loosely based on the 9th-century epic poem Beowulf, adapted to a science-fiction backstory involving a spaceship crashing in Iron Age Norway
    Charlemagne, le prince à cheval1993768–800Charlemagne's reign up to his coronation as emperor in 800
    Roland the Mighty1956778Roland, a knight of Charlemagne's court who was killed at the Battle of Roncevaux Pass
    Vikings2013–793–865Series 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 God2003800Poland – the death of Popiel and the rise of Piast the Wheelwright
    Attack of the Normans1962early 9th centuryset in England during the Viking Age ("Normans" in the title being used in its original continental sense, meaning "Vikings")
    Útlaginn19819th centuryIceland – adaptation of the saga of Gisli Sursson
    Pope Joan19729th–11th centuryFictitious medieval legend of a woman who disguised herself as a man and rose to the status of Pope in the Middle Ages.
    Pope Joan2009814–855Fictitious medieval legend of a woman who disguised herself as a man and rose to the status of Pope in the Middle Ages.
    The Vikings1958860shighly fictionalized account of the death of Ragnar Lodbrok and the subsequent invasion of Northumbria by two of his sons
    The Last Kingdom2015–866–late 9th centuryViking Age
    Alfred the Great1969870–899England – Alfred the Great, king of Wessex repels the army of Guthrum and begins the unification of England
    A Viking Saga2008870sRussia – the Rus prince Oleg of Novgorod defeats Askold and Dir
    The Conquest1996896Magyar settlement in Hungary
    When the Raven Flies1984897Iceland in the Viking Age
    Pathfinder1987900Norway – based on a Sami legend
    In the Shadow of the Raven1988900Iceland in the Viking Age
    White Viking1991900Iceland in the Viking Age
    The 13th Warrior1999922blends 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 Castilian1963930–970Ferdinand Gonzalez: an early hero of the Spanish Reconquista
    The Viking2016970–1016Kievan Rus' – Vladimir I of Kiev
    Gniazdo1974972about Mieszko I of Poland
    The Ceremony of Innocence1970978–1016a fictionalized version of the reign of Æthelred the Unready
    Prince Vladimir2006980–1015Kievan Rus' – Vladimir I of Kiev
    The Long Ships1964late 10th century
    The Viking Sagas1995late 10th, early 11th centuriesIceland – borrows elements from several Icelandic sagas, most notably Laxdœla saga and Njáls saga
    The Viking19281000Leif Ericson and the expedition to North America
    Valhalla Rising20091000Scandinavia and North America in 1000 AD
    Severed Ways20091007North America – two Scandinavians left behind in North America after the settlements made by Leif Ericson were abandoned

    Films set in 11th century

    Title Release date Time period Setting Notes
    El Cid19611040–1099Spain / Kingdom of CastileRodrigo Díaz de Vivar, an 11th-century Spanish warrior known as El Cid
    Macbeth19711050sScotlandScottish king Mac Bethad mac Findlaích
    Macbeth20151050sScotlandScottish 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 Earth20091066EnglandDuring the Norman conquest
    The War Lord19651066–1100EnglandA knight in the service of a duke goes to a coastal village where an earlier attempt to build a defensive castle has failed.
    The Mighty Crusaders19581096–1099LevantFirst Crusade
    Rytsarskiy roman20001096–1099Byzantine EmpireFirst Crusade
    The Crusaders20011096–1099Italy and the LevantFirst Crusade
    The Physician20131100England/Middle EastA adventure film based on the novel of the same name by Noah Gordon.

    Films set in 12th century

    Title Release date Time period Setting Notes
    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
    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
    Francis of Assisi19611181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
    Brother Sun, Sister Moon19721181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
    Francesco19891181–1226ItalyFrancis of Assisi
    The Lion in Winter19681183EnglandHenry II is in power as his wife Eleanor of Aquitaine plots with their sons
    The Lion in Winter20031183EnglandHenry 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-Hearted19231190Levantbased on Sir Walter Scott's The Talisman and set in the Third Crusade
    The Adventures of Robin Hood19381190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart after his release from captivity in 1194
    Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves19911190sEnglandDuring the life of Richard the Lionheart after his release from captivity in 1194
    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.
    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
    Mongol20071192–1227MongoliaA film about the early life of Temüjin, who later came to be known as Genghis Khan
    The Conqueror19561192–1227MongoliaA film about the life of Temüjin, who later came to be known as Genghis Khan
    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 13th century

    Title Release date Time period Setting Notes
    Valley of the Bees196813th centuryKingdom of Bohemia
    Gates to Paradise19681212Francethe ill-fated Children's Crusade
    Ironclad20111215Englandthe siege of Rochester Castle
    Eye of the Eagle19971218Denmark
    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.
    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 Black Rose1950mid-to-late 13th centuryChinathe fictional exploits of a young Englishman who travells to China, falls in love along the way, and manages to return with a formula for gunpowder
    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 centers around the life of Ertuğrul, the father of Osman I, who was the founder of the Ottoman Empire
    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 Polo20141254–1325Chinathe Italian explorer who traveled to the court of Kublai Khan
    King Mindaugas1263LithuaniaPsychological costume drama about the life of Lithuanian king Mindaugas based on a play by Latvian playwright Mārtiņš Zīverts.
    Northern Crusades19721260–1273Prussiathe Great Prussian Uprising against the Teutonic Knights during the Northern Crusades
    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
    Braveheart19951296–1305Great BritainWilliam 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 14th century

    Title Release date Time period Setting Notes
    Kristin Lavransdatter1995early-to-mid-14th centuryNorway
    Knightfall2017–20191291–1307Francerecounts the success, fall, persecution, and suppression of the Knights Templar
    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
    Padmaavat20181303Indiabased on the epic poem Padmavat by Malik Muhammad Jayasi, Sultan Alauddin Khilji hears of Rani Padmavati's beauty and attacks on Mewar to claim her
    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
    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.
    Anchoress19931325FranceAn anchorite
    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
    John Wycliffe: The Morning Star19841325–1384Englandthe life and teachings of John Wycliffe, the 14th-century English theologian who is often seen as a fore-runner of the Protestant Reformation
    The Name of the Rose19861327Italyset in an Italian monastery
    The Name of the Rose20191327ItalyMiniseries set in an Italian monastery. A dispute over the evangelical counsel 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 during the 1300s
    Kazimierz Wielki19761333–1370PolandCasimir III the Great of Poland
    The Decameron19711348Italy
    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 to Edward, the Black Prince and the Battle of Poitiers (1356))
    A Walk with Love and Death19691358France near Paris and MeauxAngelica 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
    The Reckoning20031380England
    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
    The Canterbury Tales1972late 14th centuryEngland

    Films set in 15th century

    Title Release date Time period Setting Notes
    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
    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
    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
    The King20191403–1420England and northern FranceHenry V of England
    Krzyzacy19601406–1410Central Europethe Battle of Grunwald
    Medici2016–20191409–1492ItalyThe series follows the Medici family, bankers of the Pope, during Renaissance Florence.
    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
    The Whore20101414–1415Germany
    Joan of Arc19481429–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War
    Saint Joan19571429–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War
    Joan of Arc19991429–1431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War
    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
    The Passion of Joan of Arc19281431EnglandThe trial and execution of Joan of Arc
    The Silence of Joan20111431FranceJoan of Arc, the French heroine of the Hundred Years' War
    Vlad Tepes19791439–1476Wallachiaabout prince Vlad the Impaler of Wallachia, who fought to repel the invading Muslim Ottoman Empire throughout his reign
    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 III19551452–1485Richard III of England
    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.
    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
    Black Arrow19851455–1485adaptation of the Robert Louis Stevenson novel about the Lancastrian hero in the Wars of the Roses
    The Conclave20061458depicting this tense, politically charged Papal election
    Isabel2012–20141460–1504SpainBiography about the Queen of Castile, Isabella the Catholic.
    Tower of London19391462–1483during the reign of Edward IV of England
    The White Queen20131464the House of York and the House of Lancaster, are in violent conflict over the throne[2]
    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
    Tower of London19621483–1485during the reign of Richard III of England
    The Shadow of the Tower19721485–1509during 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 Tower20051490sthe 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 Columbus19851492the discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
    Christopher Columbus: The Discovery19921492the discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
    1492: Conquest of Paradise19921492–1506the discovery and conquest of the New World by Christopher Columbus
    The Borgias19811492–1503the family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
    Los Borgia20061492–1503the family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
    Borgia20111492–1503the family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
    The Borgias20111492–1503the family life and papacy of Rodrigo Borgia, widely considered to be the epitome of papal corruption of the era
    Muhteşem Yüzyıl2011–20141494–1566Based on the life of Ottoman Sultan Süleyman the Magnificent

    Renaissance era (1500–1700)

    Films set in 16th century

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    The Spanish Princess (TV series)20191501–1509Catherine of Aragon
    Wara Wara193016th centuryromance set at the time of the Spanish conquest of Bolivia
    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 him.
    Luther20031505–1530Martin Luther
    The Agony and the Ecstasy19651508–1512the painting of the Sistine Chapel
    Henry VIII and His Six Wives19721509–1547Henry VIII of England
    The Private Life of Henry VIII19331509–1547Henry VIII of England
    Monarch20001509–1547Henry VIII of England
    Henry VIII20031509–1547Henry VIII of England
    The Tudors2007–20101514–1547Henry VIII of England
    Judgement19701514Rebellion of György Dózsa, Hungary
    Carlos, rey emperador2015–20161516–1558The series tells the story of Charles I or Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, one of the most powerful men Europe has met
    The Other Conquest19981521Mexico, depicting the secret adherence to traditional religious beliefs of the converted Aztec survivors
    The Headsman20051525an executioner in Tyrol (part of the Holy Roman Empire)
    A Man for All Seasons19661525–1535Thomas More
    Anne of the Thousand Days19691524–1536Anne Boleyn, Queen Consort of King Henry VIII and the mother of Queen Elizabeth I
    The Other Boleyn Girl20081520–1536Anne and Mary Boleyn
    Wolf Hall20151529–1536the court of Henry VIII of England through the eyes of Thomas Cromwell
    Ivan the Terrible1944, 19581530–1584Two-part film about Ivan IV of Russia
    Ivan Groznyy20091530–158419-episodes TV Series about Ivan IV of Russia
    Tsar20091530–1584Film about Ivan IV of Russia
    The Royal Hunt of the Sun19691532Francisco Pizarro's capture of Atahualpa, Sapa Inca.
    Young Bess19531536–1558From the death of Anne Boleyn to the coronation of Elizabeth I of England
    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
    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).
    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.
    Reign (TV series)2013–20171557–158778-episode TV series about Mary, Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I of England
    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
    Mary of Scotland19361561–1587Mary, 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.[3]
    El Greco20071567–1600Greek biographical film about the life of the Greek painter of the Spanish Renaissance, Doménikos Theotokópoulos, known as El Greco
    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 Cenci19691599It 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 Seven Samurai19541586It follows the story of a village of farmers that hire seven ronin (masterless samurai) to combat bandits who will return after the harvest to steal their crops.
    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.
    Fire Over England19371588The Spanish Armada during the Anglo-Spanish War.
    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.
    Ran1985late 16th centuryAs an adaptation of Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear, the film stars as Hidetora Ichimonji, an aging Sengoku-era warlord who decides to abdicate as ruler in favor of his three sons.
    Kagemusha1980Late 16th centuryIt is set in the Sengoku period of Japanese history and tells the story of a lower-class criminal who is taught to impersonate a dying daimyō to dissuade opposing lords from attacking the newly vulnerable clan. The daimyō is based on Takeda Shingen, and the film ends with the climactic 1575 Battle of Nagashino.
    The Floating Castle2012Late 16th centurySet in feudal Japan, the film is based on the Siege of Oshi and depicts the struggle of Oshi's villagers in defending their fortress against Toyotomi Hideyoshi's campaign against the Hojo clan.

    Films set in 17th century

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    Shōgun19801600The miniseries 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.
    Gunpowder20171603–1605English Catholic Robert Catesby and the Gunpowder Plot
    The New World20051607–1608The colonization of Jamestown, Virginia
    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
    Molière19781622–1673The French playwright Molière
    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
    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
    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
    Versailles20151660sFictionalized drama about the reign of King Louis XIV 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
    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
    Peter the Great19841682–1725The reign of Peter I of Russia
    The Cantor of St Thomas's19841685–1750German composer Johann Sebastian Bach
    The Crucible19961692–1693Dramatization of the Salem witch trials that took place in Province of Massachusetts Bay
    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 industrial era (1700–1900)

    Films set in the 18th century

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    The Favourite20181708A 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.
    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.
    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
    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.
    The Great King19421740–1786It depicts the life of Frederick the Great
    Maria Theresa19511740–1780Depicts the life of Maria Theresa
    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
    The Master of Ballantrae19531745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
    Culloden19641745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
    The Master of Ballantrae19841745–1746Jacobite Rising of 1745
    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
    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.
    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.
    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.
    The Duchess20081774–1806The life of Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire
    John Adams20081770–1826The story about the American Founding Father John Adams from the Boston massacre in 1770 to his death in 1826.[4]
    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
    Drums Along the Mohawk19391776Settlers during the American Revolution. They suffer British, Loyalist, and Indian attacks on their farm.
    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
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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
    The French Revolution19891789–1794French Revolution
    The Scarlet Pimpernel19341792French Revolution
    The Scarlet Pimpernel19821792French Revolution
    Charlotte Corday20081793Trial and execution of Charlotte Corday after her murder of Jean-Paul Marat. Marat was a Jacobin journalist and politician.
    Danton19831794Conflict between Georges Danton and Maximilien Robespierre during the French Revolution.
    Beau Brummell19541795Beau Brummell, a 19th-century arbiter of fashion in England who popularized the man's suit and necktie
    Sangolli Rayanna20121798–1831Film is about Sangolli Rayanna, a prominent freedom fighter from Karnataka, who fought the British East India Company until he was captured and executed in 1831.
    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
    Northanger Abbey1986late 18th century (1798)adaptation of Jane Austen's 1817 novel set during the time Miss Austen wrote the novel.

    Films set in the 19th century

    Title Release date Time period Notes 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
    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
    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
    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
    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
    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 Horseman on the Roof19951832Second cholera pandemic in July Monarchy France
    The Alamo19601836Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.
    The Alamo20041836Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.
    The Young Victoria20091836–1840Early reign of Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland and her marriage to Albert, Prince Consort
    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
    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.
    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 Rising Sea19531848–49Epic 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
    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.
    Sissi – The Young Empress19561855–1856Sissi adapts to life as Empress of Austria.
    Quanto è bello lu murire acciso19761857Failed rising organized by Carlo Pisacane in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies
    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
    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
    Wyatt Earp19941863–1884Events leading up to and following the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral
    Dances with Wolves19901864–1870Fictional story set during the American Civil War and its aftermath in the American West, interaction with the Lakota Sioux
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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
    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
    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
    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.
    The Miracle Worker19621880–1887The early childhood of Helen Keller, her infancy contraction of blindness and deafness and Anne Sullivan's arrival
    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 Four Feathers19391882–1888During the British Army's Nile Expedition
    The Four Feathers20021882–1888During the British Army's Nile Expedition
    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.
    Geronimo: An American Legend19931886Events leading up to the capture of Geronimo, a prominent Apache leader during the Apache Wars.
    Princess Kaiulani20091887–1898based on the life of Princess Kaʻiulani of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi
    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
    Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee20071890Wounded Knee massacre
    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 Prestige20061890srival stage magicians in Victorian London
    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.
    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
    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
    El Presidente20121896–1964Philippine Revolution and the final years and death of President of the Philippines Emilio Aguinaldo
    Rough Riders19971898Depicts The Battle of San Juan Hill, part of the Spanish–American War
    Heneral Luna20151898–1899The Second Phase of the Philippine Revolution and the heroism of General Antonio Luna
    Trotsky20171898–1918Biographical television miniseries about Leon Trotsky

    Films set in the modern era (1900–1949)

    Title Release date Time period Notes 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
    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
    Iron Jawed Angels20041913–1920American women's suffrage movement during the 1910s
    Titanic19431912the Titanic disaster
    Titanic19531912the Titanic disaster
    A Night to Remember19581912the Titanic disaster
    Titanic 19971912the Titanic disaster
    Titanic 20121912the Titanic disaster
    Reds19811912–1920Russian Revolution
    Doctor Zhivago19651912–1923World War I, the Russian Revolution and the Russian Civil War
    Downton Abbey2010–20151912–1926set in a fictional Yorkshire country estate during the post-Edwardian era
    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
    A Very Long Engagement20041914–1920sWestern Front of World War I
    The Aviator20041914–1947Biopic about Howard Hughes, an aviation pioneer, director, and successful film producer.
    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
    Shimon Haber20081915–1919Development and usage of Chemical weapons in World War I
    Sinking of the Lusitania: Terror at Sea20071915The Sinking of the RMS Lusitania
    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.
    1917 2019 1917 European 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
    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.
    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.
    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.
    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.
    Legionnaire19981920–1926Rif War
    Boardwalk Empire2010–2014January 1920 – October 1931Crime and power in Atlantic City during the Prohibition Era
    Jinnah19981920–1947Depicts the role of Muhammad Ali Jinnah in the independence of Pakistan.
    The First of the Few19421922–1936Aerospace engineer R.J. Mitchell designs the Spitfire despite his failing health.
    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
    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.
    Downton Abbey20191927film sequel to the television series of the same name
    Phar Lap19831928–1932Biography about the New Zealand-born Australian racehorse Phar Lap
    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.
    Mildred Pierce20111930sbased on the 1941 novel, set during the Great Depression
    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 sunk 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.
    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
    Public Enemies20091933–1934Set during the Great Depression, it chronicles the final years of the notorious bank robber John Dillinger.
    The National Anthem19991934–1935Set in Shanghai during the Japanese occupation of Manchuria and the resulting conflict.
    Murder on the Orient Express20171934murder mystery set aboard the Orient Express train traveling from Istanbul to London
    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.
    Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom19841935Archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones travels to India, and is asked to find a mystical stone. He then stumbles upon a secret cult committing enslavement and human sacrifices in the catacombs of an ancient palace.
    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.
    Unbroken20141936–1998The life of Louis Zamperini.
    Race20161936The life of Jesse Owens wons four gold medals during Athletics.
    Raiders of the Lost Ark19811936Archaeologist and adventurer Indiana Jones is hired by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before Adolf Hitler's Nazis can obtain its awesome powers.
    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
    John Rabe20091937The Nanking massacre during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
    The Flowers of War20111937The Nanking massacre during the Second Sino-Japanese War.
    Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade19891938After his father Professor Henry Jones, Sr. goes missing while pursuing the Holy Grail, Indiana Jones finds himself up against Adolf Hitler's Nazis again to stop them obtaining its powers.
    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
    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 Last Bastion19841939–1945Australia during World War II
    Hacksaw Ridge20161939–1945World War II experiences of Desmond Doss
    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
    Battle of Britain19691940The Battle of Britain
    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.
    Kongens nei20161940The 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.
    Hurricane20181940The Battle of Britain
    Malèna20001940–1944Italy during World War II
    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
    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
    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
    Pearl Harbor2001December 1941 – April 1942The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor, and the subsequent American retaliation in the Doolittle Raid.
    Hong Kong 19411984December 1941The Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, and the story of local resistance against Japanese forces.
    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 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
    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.
    Midway1976June 1942The Battle of Midway
    Midway2019June 1942The Battle of Midway
    Kododa2006August 1942Australia's 39th Battalion during the early days of the Kokoda Track 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
    Stalingrad1993August 1942 – February 1943The Battle of Stalingrad from a German perspective.
    The Thin Red Line1998August 1942 – February 1943The Guadalcanal Campaign
    Enemy at the Gates2001winter 1942–1943The activities of Soviet sniper Vasily Zaytsev in the Battle of Stalingrad
    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 Gruppen20121943the 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 Founding of a Republic20091945–1949Inspired by true events, The Founding of a Republic weaves a rousing tale of Mao Zedong, who fought against Chiang Kai-shek and the Kuomintang. Mao Zedong led his people in battle during the Chinese Civil War, to establish a new People's Republic of China.
    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.
    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
    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.
    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.[5]
    Ashes and Diamonds1958May 1945Polish Home Army soldiers assigned to assassinate a Communist commissar
    USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage2016July 1945The sinking of the USS Indianapolis.
    The Good German2006July–August 1945During the Potsdam Conference
    Nuremberg2000November 1945 – Octobeeer 1946The first of the Nuremberg trials
    Judgment at Nuremberg19611947The Judges' Trial
    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 Israeli War of Independence

    Films set in atomic era (1950–1999)

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom20131925–1995Nelson Mandela
    Walk the Line20051944–1968Johnny Cash
    The Crown20161947–presentFollows the political rivalries and romance of Queen Elizabeth II's reign and the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century.
    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
    American Hot Wax19781950Disc jockey Alan Freed's involvement in the emergence of rock and roll
    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
    Rocketman20191950s–1982Elton John
    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
    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
    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
    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.
    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.

    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 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
    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.
    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.
    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
    Heaven & Earth19931960–1980Vietnam War
    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.
    Hidden Figures20161961The black female mathematicians who worked at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) during the Space Race
    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
    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
    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
    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
    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
    Selma20141965Selma to Montgomery march in Alabama during the civil rights movement
    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.
    Born on the Fourth of July19891965–1968Ron Kovic's experiences in the Vietnam War
    Coming Home20141966–1976Cultural Revolution in China.
    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
    Bobby20061968The assassination of Senator Robert F. Kennedy
    Full Metal Jacket19871968Battle of Huế in the Vietnam War
    Coming Home19781968Vietnam War
    The Damned United20091968–1975Brian Clough as manager of Derby County and Leeds United
    American Gangster20071968–1976Frank Lucas and his heroin drug trade.
    The Deer Hunter19781968–1975Vietnam War
    Hamburger Hill19871969Battle of Hamburger Hill in the Vietnam War
    Apocalypse Now19791969Vietnam War
    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
    Nixon19951969–1974The political life of President of the United States Richard M. Nixon
    Zodiac20071969–1975the Zodiac murders in Northern California
    Secretariat20101970–1973Race horse Secretariat.
    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.
    Elvis & Nixon20161970The untold true story behind the meeting between Elvis Presley, the King of rock and roll, and President Richard Nixon.
    Apollo 1319951970Apollo 13 lunar mission
    Bohemian Rhapsody20181970–1985Follows the band Queen from their formation all the way to the Live Aid concert.
    Milk20081970–1978Gay rights activist Harvey Milk
    Remember the Titans20001971Follows a desegregated high school's football team in 1970s Alexandria, Virginia
    The Last King of Scotland20061971–1976President of Uganda Idi Amin
    Pirates of Silicon Valley19991971–1997Follows the growth of the personal computer industry through the lives of Bill Gates and Steve Jobs
    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.
    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
    All the Money in the World20171973The kidnapping of John Paul Getty III in July 1973.
    Missing19821973The 1973 Chilean coup d'état and the murder of Charles Horman
    Vinyl20161973The musical industry in 1973.
    The Killing Fields19841973–1979The Cambodian genocide under the Khmer Rouge regime
    Balibo20091975the Indonesian invasion of East Timor and the Balibo Five
    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.
    Raid on Entebbe19771976The July 1976 rescue of passengers from a hijacked plane
    Dazed and Confused19931976Based on Richard Linklater's life experiences.
    Invincible20061976–1978story of Vince Papale, who played for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1976 to 1978
    Frost/Nixon20081977the Frost-Nixon interviews
    Summer of Sam19991977The Son of Sam murders in New York City
    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
    Gracie20071978Six years after the introduction of Title IX
    American Hustle20131978Abscam operation
    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.
    5419981979The last year of Studio 54 in New York City.
    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).
    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.
    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.
    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.
    Walesa: Man of Hope20131980–1989Portrayal of Polish labor leader Lech Walesa and the Solidarity movement.
    Oranges and Sunshine20101980sBased on the book Empty Cradles by Margaret Humphreys about her investigations in British Home Children.
    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 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
    Goodbye Bafana20071980–1990Nelson Mandela's imprisonment
    Barry20161981–2009A look into the early life of President of the United States Barack Obama.
    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
    The Falklands Play20021980–1982Diplomacy leading up to and during the Falklands War
    Wonderland20031981Wonderland murders
    Joker20191981In Gotham City, mentally-troubled comedian Arthur Fleck is disregarded and mistreated by society. He then embarks on a downward spiral of revolution and bloody crime. This path brings him face-to-face with his alter-ego: "The Joker".
    Hunger200819811981 Irish hunger strike (Part of the Cold War and The Troubles)
    The Americans2013–20181981–1987spy thriller series detailing the lives of KGB agents posing as Americans during the Cold War
    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.
    Stranger Things2016–1983–1985science fiction horror series set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana
    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
    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
    Endgame20091987–1990final days of apartheid in South Africa
    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
    Three Kings199919911991 uprisings in Iraq against Saddam Hussein and aftermath of the Gulf War and the Dissolution of the Soviet Union
    The Perfect Storm200019911991 Perfect Storm
    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
    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.
    Behind Enemy Lines20011995the Mrkonjić Grad incident during the Bosnian War in former Yugoslavia
    The Queen20061997A fictional account of the immediate events following the death of Diana, Princess of Wales
    Open Water20031998Tom and Eileen Lonergan
    American Sniper20141998–2011Based on the 2012 memoir of former US Navy SEAL, Chris Kyle
    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 information era (after 2000)

    Title Release date Time period Notes on setting
    Spotlight20152001The Boston Globe's investigative story on the Sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic archdiocese of Boston and the September 11 attacks
    World Trade Center20062001September 11 attacks
    United 9320062001September 11 attacks
    Zero Dark Thirty20122001–2012The finding and assassination of Osama Bin Laden
    The Social Network20102003–2007The founding of the social networking service-website Facebook
    Kaguya-sama: Love Is War and Morrison Y. and the Olympic Documentary20192004–17Based on a manga, documentary about from the successful 2004 Summer Olympics to the 2016 Summer Olympics.
    The Impossible20122004The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, from the viewpoint of a tourist family in Thailand
    The Hurt Locker20082004the Iraq War, just before the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami
    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
    Sully20162009the story of Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger and the aftermath of US Airways Flight 1549
    Captain Phillips20132009Kidnapping of merchant mariner Richard Phillips by Somalian pirates
    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 Gems 2019 2012 Kevin Garnett's performance in the 2012 NBA Eastern Conference Semi-finals
    Patriots Day20162013The Boston Marathon Bombing.
    Ser du månen, Daniel20192013–2014The story of the kidnapping of Danish photographer Daniel Rye by the terrorist militant group ISIS in Syria.
    Operation Red Sea20182015The People's Liberation Army Navy entered the Yemeni Civil War and the International military intervention against ISIL.
    The Day We Died20202015Film about the events surrounding the terrorist attacks in Copenhagen on 14 and 15 February 2015.

    See also

    References

    1. Albertz 2003, p. 69-70.
    2. The White Queen
    3. Dangerous Beauty
    4. "John Adams". Retrieved 3 March 2018 via www.imdb.com.
    5. "The Godfather by Mario Puzo". FactBehindFiction.com. Archived from the original on 8 August 2015. Retrieved 23 January 2019.

    Sources

    • 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.
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