The Ultimate List of Historical Movies you Must Watch

Table of Contents

Introduction

In the realm of cinema, historical movies play a unique role by providing a vibrant and immersive glance into past eras. These films transport viewers back in time, often based on real events and personages, offering personal perspectives flavored with authentic cultural portrayals. In this article, we bring you a comprehensive lineup of historical movies worth your watch that successfully merge entertainment with enlightenment.

Yield to the Glory of the Past: Foreign Historical Cinema

The Admiral (Roaring Currents)

This Korean cinematic gem is not only the highest-grossing Korean film of all time but also a remarkable historical marvel. The movie accounts for the legendary battle of Myeongnyang wherein General Yi Sun-sin defeated an army of 330 Japanese vessels with just 13 ships.

A Very Long Engagement

This romantic war film, set in the backdrop of World War I, is a French classic. The film follows the story of a young woman’s relentless search for her missing fiancé.

Gems from Hollywood: Epic American Historical Dramas

Saving Private Ryan

This 1998 Spielberg masterpiece is a must-watch historical movie. Based on the story of the Niland brothers during World War II, the film encapsulates the horrors of war, while its poignant tale resonates with viewers even today.

Lincoln

A brilliant biographical drama based on the final four months of President Abraham Lincoln’s life, Lincoln showcases the President’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment, ending slavery.

Adventures in the Ancient World: Movies based on Antiquity

Gladiator

Capturing the grandeur of the Roman Empire, Gladiator tells the tale of the great General Maximus, his fall from grace, and inspired revenge with the backdrop of deadly gladiatorial arenas.

Apocalypto

Mel Gibson’s Mayan kingdom-centric Apocalypto provides viewers with an unfiltered view of a civilization on the brink of decline. The story follows Jaguar Paw as he escapes human sacrifice and aims to save his family.

World War Chronicles: Experiences in the Midst of Humanity’s Darkest Hour

Schindler’s List

Chronicling the life of Oskar Schindler, a German industrialist who saved hundreds of Jews during the Holocaust, Schindler’s List is an emotional rollercoaster that ought to be seen to fully understand the depth of human resilience and empathy.

The Pianist

A film inspired by the memoirs of the Polish-Jewish pianist Władysław Szpilman, The Pianist exhibits the horrors of Nazi-occupied Warsaw and the struggle for survival in one of history’s bleakest hours.

Conclusion

These aforementioned movies are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to historical cinema. Each of these masterpieces offers not just a deep dive into historical events, but they also explore the spectrum of human emotions during these events. Be it the magnificent royal courts, the gritty warzones, or stark realities of human struggle, historical cinema provides a movie experience like no other.