History has always been a source of plots when it comes to movies and shows. Away from the modern time’s drama, these movies have always remained successful to create a different kind of impact. Be it fact or fiction, the stories against ancient time are almost always compiled with elements like honor and value. As our past beholds so many beautiful stories of wars or revolutions, many such events are presented before us in the form of movies or shows. So, on that note, here are 20 movies and shows that will take you back to the ancient times.
1) Troy
In this movie, directed by Wolfgang Petersen and featuring an ensemble cast, we get to experience three beautiful love stories and a terrible war. It’s hard to decide which character is more compelling, the brave Hector, the mischievous Paris or the deadly Achilles. Although the entire film reminds you of those history lessons, the most breathtaking moment is the duel between Hector and Achilles. If you are in for some historical drama and action, this movie is a must watch.
2) The Lord of The Rings
Who can forget the beautifully crafted universe of The Lord of The Rings? Based on the novel by J. R. R. Tolkien, this Peter Jackson-directed trilogy is a mix of reality and fiction. While we see great warriors and legends gather together to save the Middle-earth, we also experience the strength of simplicity through the journey of Frodo and Sam. It is guaranteed that you can watch the entire trilogy in one go without feeling the urge to stop.
3) Gladiator
The story of the Ridley Scott film takes us back to AD 180. Maximus Decimus Meridius’s family is executed and he is sold to a gladiator trainer. Under the nickname ‘the Spaniard’, Maximus slowly approaches his shot at vengeance. This iconic film portrays the deep wound of a husband and father, and his hatred towards a civilization that enjoys watching manslaughter in an arena. There is chill and thrill in this movie, and to add a cherry on the top, there is the iconic dream sequence of Maximus where he reunites with his family in afterlife.
4) The Man in the Iron Mask
This directorial debut of Randall Wallace focuses on the last adventure of the four musketeers, D’Artagnan, Aramis, Athos and Porthos. As the kingdom of France suffers from poverty during the war against the Dutch, it is up to these four to make sure the course of fate is altered. This action-drama film moves towards a revolution and a hidden secret of the royal family. Although Philippe was the one literally wearing an iron mask, it was someone else whose secret was kept from public knowledge.
5) The Three Musketeers
Loosely based on Alexandre Dumas' novel The Three Musketeers, this period action-adventure film is based on the journey that Athos, Porthos and Aramis embark on, to stop a royal conspiracy against Queen Anne. Joined later by young D’Artagnan, the three sets out for their adventure. With the plot based on historical events we also see the age of scientific marvels involving the blueprints of an airship made by Leonardo da Vinci.
6) Gods of Egypt
When it comes to mythological plots, the tales of Egypt are bound to take a front seat. In this fantasy action film where Gods lives among the mortals, a cruel conspiracy unfolds, as Set kills his elder brother Osiris and sends his nephew, Horus, into exile after taking his eyes. The film is a treat for those who love old folklores and ancient Gods brought alive on screen. As Horus teams up with a mortal to regain his eyes and sets his mind to rid mankind of a tyrant, he starts developing compassion for the ones who once worshipped him.
7) Clash of the Titans
A Greek myth, where we see a demigod, Perseus, going up against the cunning of Hades. In this 2010 remake directed by Louis Leterrier, we see yet another instance of Man versus God. Perseus, accompanied by Lo and Draco along with other king’s guards, sets out for a path seeking means to destroy the Kraken. His desperate journey to save princess Andromeda from a gruesome sacrifice takes us through many ancient tales of mystic creatures.
8) Hercules
The legend of Hercules has always drawn the attention of mythology lovers. He is yet another son of Zeus, living amongst the mortals. In this live action film starring Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson, you can experience top notch action mixed with a captivating tale. Myths after myths unfold in this fantasy adventure, including Hydra, the Nemean Lion, and the Erymanthian Boar, as the deceived Hercules ends up murdering his wife and son. Tinted with reality, this tale of the legendary demigod is a treat for those who can’t break free from the enchantment of Greek mythology.
9) Spartacus
Spanning through almost three and a half years, this historical drama is solely based on the legendary slave revolution. Under the leader ship of Spartacus, a Thracian gladiator, the slaves of Rome go all in for their freedom. Although, we lost Andy Whitfield to cancer right after the first season, Liam Mclntyre has made sure to do justice to the historical character. Throughout the four seasons, we have experienced beautiful character building and a captivating storyline, besides out of the world action sequences.
10) Those about to die
This 2024 epic historical drama takes us back to AD 79, where Romans are obsessed with bloodsports. Starring the legendary Anthony Hopkins, the first season of this series is based on the cut-throat politics involving the royal family and a local crime boss Tenax. We also experience the story of an African woman, Cala, who travels to Rome and joins Tenax to free her three children from slavery.
11) Vikings
Here comes the tale of the brave and rowdy Norsemen. Spanning for six seasons, this engaging series takes a deep dive into the life of the legendary Viking leader Ragnar Lothbrok, his family and descendants. Apart from depicting the obvious hunger for war among the Vikings, this series vastly focuses on the political aspects and emotional ups and downs of the characters. All in all, the series is totally bingeworthy.
12) 300
This Zack Snyder marvel has, no doubt, heavily influenced action sequences in Hollywood. This tale of 300 Spartans going up against the Persian God-King Xerxes is absolutely mind-blowing. Along with the captivating war scenes, this movie also takes a deep dive into the political corruption of ancient times. Bravery, valor and love for freedom were the only weapons that Leonidas had, as he set out on a seemingly impossible task with his 300 companions, of which only one survives.
13) Alexandar
A peek into the mythological movies is incomplete without mentioning this epic portraying the life of Alexandar the Great. The story of the Oliver Stone film focuses on Alexandar’s rise as the King of Macedonia along with some dramatic plot twists. Starting from the legend’s childhood to his last battle, the Battle of Hydaspes, we embark on a historical journey in this historical drama, which is an absolute treat. It’s not just the story but also the rock-solid cast that engages the audience till the very end.
14) Kingdom of Heaven
This film, directed by Ridley Scott, is a sweeping medieval epic about Balian, a blacksmith turned knight, who finds himself in the middle of the Crusades. Thrown into a world of politics, war, and shifting loyalties, he tries to protect Jerusalem and its people while navigating battles, betrayal, and moral dilemmas. With epic sword fights and stunning visuals, it’s a story about faith, honour, and the blurry line between hero and villain. The film is perfect for fans of historical drama with a lot of action and a touch of idealism.
15) King Arthur
King Arthur reimagines the legendary tale as a gritty, action-packed adventure. Arthur starts as a street-smart leader unaware of his royal blood, but when he pulls the magical sword Excalibur, his life takes a sharp turn. With a ragtag crew, he goes up against a tyrant king. After uncovering his destiny, he fights epic battles to reclaim his throne. It’s a fresh take on the classic legend with plenty of action, magic, and a modern twist on medieval heroism.
16) The Northman
This movie is based on the legend of Amleth. The young prince is presumed dead after his uncle coups against his father and kills him. The story evolves around Amleth’s return to seek vengeance and finally embracing death. We experience a captivating plot along with an incomplete love story. This ensemble cast movie directed by Robert Eggers will leave you in awe if you are into Norse mythology.
17) The 13th Warrior
This historical fiction is about an Arab poet, Ahmed, who gets roped into joining a band of Viking warriors on a dangerous mission. At first, he’s completely out of his element, surrounded by brutal battles, strange customs, and a terrifying enemy. But as they fight against a mysterious, almost mythical threat, Ahmed proves he is braver and tougher than anyone imagined. The film is a mix of epic battles, culture clash, and camaraderie, with a unique take on historical adventure.
18) The Ten Commandments
The Ten Commandments is a grand, old-school epic about Moses, a former Egyptian prince turned prophet, who leads the enslaved Hebrews to freedom. Along the way, he takes on his old adoptive brother, Ramses, in a clash of wills, plagues, and miracles. With parting seas, fiery commandments, and some serious drama, Cecil B. DeMille's film unfolds a visually stunning tale of faith, freedom, and sticks to your convictions, even when the odds seem impossible.
19) The Last Kingdom
The Last Kingdom is a gritty historical series following Uhtred, a Saxon noble raised by Vikings, who’s caught between two worlds. As he fights to reclaim his ancestral land, he navigates battles, shifting loyalties, and political schemes in a divided England. With fierce warriors, epic sword fights, and a hero who, in equal parts, is charming and stubborn, the series tells a story of survival, revenge, and is about figuring out where you truly belong. Perfect for anyone who loves action and drama with a hint of Viking chaos.
20) Shogun
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No wonder Shogun, as the first Japanese-language series, has won Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series. This 2024 release is about an English sailor, John Blackthorne, who washes up in feudal Japan and gets tangled in a world of samurai, honour, and political intrigue. As he learns the culture and earns the respect of the locals, he becomes a key player in a power struggle between warlords. It’s a clash of East and West, packed with drama, sword fights, and a deep dive into the beauty and brutality of samurai life.
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