17 period dramas that nailed their historical accuracy

Period dramas have mesmerized audiences with their captivating stories, amazing costumes, and awesome settings since time immemorial. They were, however, last to gain importance initially for their credibility in history. True to form, these movies and TV series plunge into the depths of history, painstakingly re-creating events, customs, and environments for the audience. From the politics of the old British monarchy down to wars in reality, period dramas are windows to history, providing us with a view into historical events and the lives of people who affected them. Here is a list of 17 period dramas that have nailed their historical accuracy.

17) The Tudors (2007-2010)

The Tudors fits the list of historically accurate period dramas due to its detailed portrayal of the reign of King Henry VIII (Jonathan Rhys Meyers). While the series undoubtedly uses creative liberties for dramatic effect, it does get the major events and personalities of the Tudor court correct. The show delves into Henry's relationships, politics, and the significant historical events of his reign, such as the formation of the Church of England. The production is noted for its elaborate costumes, set designs, and attention to period-specific details, which provide an immersive experience of 16th-century England.

16) Wolf Hall ( 2015- 2024)

Wolf Hall earns its place among historically accurate period dramas through its intimate and nuanced portrayal of Thomas Cromwell, played by Mark Rylance, and the Tudor court. The series is based on Hilary Mantel's acclaimed novels, Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies, which meticulously chronicle the life of Thomas Cromwell, a key advisor to the king. The filmmakers' collaboration with historians underscores their commitment to accuracy, resulting in a series praised for its historical detail and avoidance of sensationalism.

15) Deadwood (2004- 2006)

Deadwood is a gritty and authentic portrayal of life in the American frontier town of Deadwood, South Dakota, during the late 19th century. The series is known for its meticulous historical detail and captures the rough and lawless nature of the time. It features real historical figures such as Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Al Swearengen, blending their stories with fictional characters to create a rich and immersive narrative. This period drama accurately depicts the social, economic, and political challenges faced by the inhabitants of Deadwood, from gold prospectors to outlaws.

14) Rome (2005-2007)

The show Rome makes it to the list of accurate historical period dramas because of its thoroughness and authenticity in portraying the late Roman Republic. Focusing on key historical happenings from the rise and fall of Julius Caesar, political turmoil, and the transition into the Roman Empire by Augustus, the production prides itself on its meticulous attention to historical detail, including the accurate representation of Roman customs, political practices, and social systems. The costumes, sets, and dialogue reflect the era's complexities, providing viewers with an immersive experience of ancient Rome.

13) The Queen (2006)

The Queen fits into a list of historically accurate period dramas because of its detailed depiction of the events that unfolded after the death of Princess Diana in 1997. The film recounts the response of Queen Elizabeth II, played by Helen Mirren, to the tragedy and the political and public pressures she felt at the time. The representation of key historical characters such as Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Tony Blair has been extensively and intensively researched, providing a nuanced account of their interactions and decisions.

12) Downton Abbey (2010-2015)

Downton Abbey (2010-2015) fits the list of historically accurate period dramas due to its careful attention to the social and cultural details of early 20th-century England. The series revolves around the life of the aristocratic Crawley family, and their servants, against the backdrop of some major historical events like the sinking of the Titanic, World War 1, the Spanish flu pandemic, and the interwar period. The show's creators placed a strong emphasis on accurately depicting the period's customs, fashion, and societal changes.

11) The King's Speech (2010)

Focusing on George VI's effort to overcome a speech impediment and the unexpected ascension to the British throne, The King's Speech can be placed among historically accurate period dramas. The plot centers on the relationship between the king, played by Colin Firth, and his unconventional speech therapist Lionel Logue ( Geoffrey Rush), and the efforts of the king to overcome his stammer to address the nation at a critical time in history. The production pays close attention to the period details, including costumes, settings, and historical events, providing an authentic glimpse into the challenges faced by the monarchy in the 1930s and 1940s.

10) Lincoln (2012)

Lincoln is a masterful historical drama that fits the list due to its detailed and accurate portrayal of President Abraham Lincoln's efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, which abolished slavery in the United States. Directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Doris Kearns Goodwin's biography Team of Rivals: The Political Genius Of Abraham Lincoln, the movie meticulously reconstructs the political landscape of the time. This period drama explores the complexities of Lincoln's presidency, his calculated maneuvering, and his moral resolve. The attention to detail with periodic costumes, dialogue, and settings contributes to the authenticity of the film.

9) John Adams (2008)

John Adams is a meticulously crafted miniseries that offers a detailed and historically accurate portrayal of the life and times of John Adams ( Paul Giamatti), the second President of the United States. Based on David McCullough's Pulitzer Prize-winning biography, this period drama spans the American Revolution, the drafting of the Declaration of Independence, the formation of the U.S. Constitution, and Adams' presidency. The production paid close attention to historical details, from the costumes and settings to the events and dialogues. It highlights key moments in American history, capturing the political and personal challenges faced by Adams and his contemporaries.

8) Selma ( 2014)

Selma is an important and historically accurate film that depicts the pivotal 1965 Selma to Montgomery marches during the American Civil Rights Movement. The period drama shows Dr. King's leadership and the constant struggles of African Americans to gain the right to vote. Selma has well-earned its reputation for honestly representing the events that highlight the tension, violence, and sheer determination experienced by the movement. The filmmakers created a realistic setting using authentic locations with costumes and events from the period.

7) Pride And Prejudice (1995)

Pride and Prejudice is a beloved adaptation of Jane Austen's classic novel, and it fits the list of historically accurate period dramas due to its faithful representation of early 19th-century England. The miniseries meticulously recreates the societal norms, customs, and everyday life of the Regency period. The costumes, sets, and dialogue transport the viewer to the world of the Bennets and their entourage. Its attention to historical detail and commitment to preserving the essence of the original work make it a standout period drama.

6) 12 Years A Slave (2013)

12 Years A Slave is a powerful biographical period drama on the true story of Solomon Northup, a free African American man who was kidnapped and sold into slavery in the United States before the Civil War. Based on Northup's 1853 memoir, The film is known for its accurate depiction of the harsh realities of slavery. It shows the brutal conditions on plantations and the struggles of enslaved people. The filmmakers used real historical locations, accurate costumes, and true events to tell Solomon's story.

5) A Night to Remember (1958)

A Night to Remember has garnered much acclaim for its detailed attention to historical accuracy in portraying the tragic sinking of the RMS Titanic. Based on Walter Lord's non-fiction book of the same name, the period drama offers an almost documentary-like account of the fateful events that transpired on that night in April 1912. With an emphasis on factual reporting, the film utilizes accurate timelines, eyewitness accounts from survivors, and a view of the experiences of crew and passengers to lend authenticity to its narrative.

4) The Crown (2016- 2023)

Peter Morgan's The Crown is a compelling historical period drama that excels in its portrayal of key events and figures in the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. The series offers a detailed and nuanced depiction of British history from the mid-20th century to the present day, focusing on both the public and private lives of the royal family. With its meticulous attention to period-accurate settings, costumes, and events, the show brings historical moments to life, from political crises to personal challenges.

3) Band of Brothers (2001)

Created by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, the miniseries is based on the non-fiction book by Stephen E. Ambrose. The series draws from the first-hand accounts and real-life experiences of the Easy Company, a unit of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, during World War II. With detailed reconstructions of key battles, authentic equipment, and settings, the miniseries immerses viewers in the harsh realities of war. It highlights personal stories and the camaraderie among soldiers, providing a human perspective on the conflict.

2) Chernobyl ( 2019)

With a remarkable commitment to historical accuracy, HBO's miniseries, Chernobyl, masterfully recreates the tragic events of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986. The series accurately reconstructs the explosion with disastrous consequences, immediate repercussions, and far-reaching implications for the region and its inhabitants. It delves into the political and bureaucratic decisions that contributed to the disaster, providing a sobering look at the human cost of systemic failures. Through detailed character portrayals, authentic settings, and factual events, the show offers an immersive and chilling account of one of the worst nuclear accidents in history.

1) Shogun ( 2024- Present)

Based on the novel by James Clavell, Shogun stands out for its rich portrayal of feudal Japan through the perspective of an English navigator, John Blackthorne. The series successfully captures the essence of early 17th-century Japan, highlighting key historical events such as the rise of Tokugawa Ieyasu and the intricate social structures of the time. The meticulous attention to cultural details, from samurai codes to traditional customs, provides a captivating glimpse into a fascinating period.