The universe of ancient historical films, which encompasses far more than just sword-and-sandal, is home to some of the most evocative and dramatic epics in the entire cinematic canon. These movies transport audiences back to a time and place where both good and evil fought epic struggles for power and glory, whether that time and place is the world of Roman rulership, the mysterious kingdoms of Egyptian civilization, or the tumultuous eras of biblical history.
The best ancient movies, from the old classics like “Spartacus” and “Ben-Hur” to the newer, more visually stunning works like “Gladiator” and “Troy,” captivate the imagination and stimulate the senses, giving viewers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of ancient human civilization. In this article, we will present our top 11 picks for the best ancient history movies.
Gladiator (2000)
The best movie about ancient times to come out of Hollywood is none other than the historical epic “Gladiator,” featuring Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, and Connie Nielsen, and directed by Ridley Scott. Maximus Decimus Meridius, a prominent Roman army general and centurion in ancient Rome, is deceived by Commodus, the emperor’s son, and sold into slavery while also having his family killed.
Maximus becomes a hero to the Roman people after working his way through the gladiator ranks in order to get revenge on Commodus. The film’s spectacular effects, intense action scenes, and dramatic performances (including an Oscar-winning turn by Russell Crowe as the protagonist) have all garnered the film praise.
Troy (2004)
Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, and Orlando Bloom star in “Troy,” a film directed by Wolfgang Petersen and based on the Trojan War of ancient Greece. The film is based on Homer’s account of the Trojan War, found in his epic poem filled with gods and mortals – “The Iliad.” Legendary Greek warrior Achilles and his allies face off against Prince Hector and the Trojans in this epic tale.
Bana’s performance as the tragic hero, Hector, stands out among the many great performances in the film’s history as well as its famous fight sequences and stunning production design. The story of “Troy” is a fascinating and emotional rollercoaster into the soul of one of the greatest stories of all time.
Alexander (2004)
A biographical epic movie featuring Colin Farrell, Angelina Jolie, and Val Kilmer, “Alexander” is directed by Oliver Stone. The film is an account of the life of Alexander the Great, the famous king of Macedonia who is credited with establishing an empire that stretched across much of the globe.
In addition to his military victories and ultimate collapse, the film explores Alexander’s personal life, including his interactions with his relatives, allies, and lovers. The spectacular visual effects, thrilling fight sequences, and expansive scope of “Alexander” have made it a cult classic. As far as representations of ancient movies go, this is one of the most historically accurate in terms of cultures, architecture, armor and Greek swords.
300 (2006)
The film “300,” featuring Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, and David Wenham, is a stylized action film directed by Zack Snyder. The film is based on the historical Battle of Thermopylae, where King Leonidas commanded 300 Spartan troops in a desperate stand against an overwhelming Persian force and their terrifying Immortals on their road to Athens.
Remarkable special effects, thrilling combat scenes that depict the Spartans as titans, and memorable lines like “This is Sparta!” have made the picture a classic and fantasy depiction of the ancient world. Because of its groundbreaking use of CGI and live-action footage, this movie has become an industry benchmark.
Ben Hur (1959)
The classic epic film “Ben-Hur,” featuring Charlton Heston, Stephen Boyd, and Jack Hawkins, is directed by William Wyler. Based on the classic “Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ,” the film tells the story of Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman who is betrayed and deceived by his close friend Messala and sold into slavery.
Ben-Hur even meets Jesus Christ while on his quest for vengeance against Messala the betrayer. The dramatic speeches, effects, and the most memorable chariot race scene in “Ben-Hur” are legendary, as are the film’s dazzling visuals and Heston’s commanding portrayal of the title character.
Spartacus (1960)
Stanley Kubrick’s “Spartacus,” featuring Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, and Jean Simmons, is a renowned ancient historical film. The film portrays the story of Spartacus, a professional gladiator and slave who incites a massive slave uprising in the Roman Republic and threatens to tip the power balance in the ancient world.
The film’s revolutionary use of widescreen cinematography, memorable performances, and compelling themes of freedom and persecution have made it a classic.
Cleopatra (1963)
Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s “Cleopatra” is a timeless historical drama featuring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison. The film tells the story of Cleopatra, the Egyptian queen who became romantically and politically involved with two of Rome’s most powerful men, Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
The film’s extravagant production design, elaborate costumes from the land of the pharaohs, and extensive plot have all contributed to its widespread acclaim.
The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964)
Directed by Anthony Mann and featuring Sophia Loren, Stephen Boyd, and Alec Guinness, “The Fall of the Roman Empire” is a timeless ancient epic film. This film dramatizes the final years of the Roman Empire under Emperor Marcus Aurelius when his son Commodus and his rival General Livius fought for control of the empire.
An outstanding performance by Guinness as the philosopher and emperor Marcus Aurelius helps the film stand out among others, as do the film’s beautiful production design and dramatic war sequences that showcase the fall of the eagle.
The Ten Commandments (1956)
For a more religious reference, consider the famous biblical epic “The Ten Commandments,” featuring Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, and Anne Baxter which is directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film follows Moses, the prophet who freed the Hebrews from ancient Egypt and received the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai.
The film’s legendary performance by Heston in the lead role is just one of many memorable moments and creative achievements. Captivating generations of producers and audiences alike, “The Ten Commandments” has grown into a cultural touchstone and one of the most renowned and iconic biblical epics of all time inspiring later movies like “The Last Temptation of Christ”.
Agora (2009)
For a more religious reference, consider the famous biblical epic “The Ten Commandments,” featuring Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, and Anne Baxter, directed by Cecil B. DeMille. The film follows Moses, the prophet who freed the Hebrews from ancient Egypt and received the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai.
The film’s legendary performance by Heston in the lead role is just one of many memorable moments and creative achievements. Captivating generations of producers and audiences alike, “The Ten Commandments” has grown into a cultural touchstone and one of the most renowned and iconic biblical epics of all time, inspiring later movies like “The Last Temptation of Christ.”
Life of Brian (1979)
Graham Chapman, John Cleese, and Michael Palin star in Terry Jones’ “Life of Brian,” a beloved British comedy. A young Jewish man named Brian Cohen is caught in the middle of a theological and political turmoil in ancient Judea after he is confused for the Messiah. The film is well-known for its dark satire of religious and historical topics, as well as its witty wordplay and irreverent comedy.
Despite facing criticism about their filmmaking choices and banning upon its release, “Life of Brian” has gone on to become a cult favorite and is now universally recognized as a comedy masterpiece.
