History is full of incredible stories—some deeply inspiring, others heartbreakingly tragic. If you’re ready to dive into the past, this list of the top 10 best historical movies will take you on an unforgettable journey through some of the most significant eras of decades – and sometimes centuries – passed.
Whether you’re interested in historical dramas, or you love immersing yourself in historical time period movies that bring bygone eras to life, this list has you covered. From The Warriors Way to 12 Mighty Orphans, these films showcase the best in historical storytelling, providing endless entertainment for anyone captivated by the past.
Be sure to keep an eye on this list for updates—you won’t want to miss out on these iconic stories that bring history to life.
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Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
TOP 10 HISTORY MOVIES TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending history movies that TV-watchers are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘The Warrior’s Way’
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Engage your senses in a riveting journey with The Warrior’s Way (2010), where cultures clash and destinies intertwine. Master swordsman Yang, vivaciously portrayed by Jang Dong-gun, shatters traditions, choosing humanity over bloodshed as he refuses to kill an infant from an adversary clan. Instead, he defects to an obscure American frontier town, swearing off the way of the sword to raise the child peacefully.
But this quaint town harbors its own vengeance-seeking maiden, Lynne, who has a bone to pick with the ruthless colonel who ravaged her family. The colonel’s return forces Yang to unsheathe his sword again, triggering a whirlwind of battles and beckoning the return of his lethal clansmen. This film will lure you into a hectic blend of Eastern martial arts and Western shootout, leaving you breathlessly on the edge of your seat.
2. ‘Gone with the Wind’
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Experience the cinematic treasure of 1939, Gone with the Wind. This grandiose epic encapsulates the tumultuous era of the American Civil War through the lens of Southern belle Scarlett O’Hara. Presenting a world of sprawling land and lavish dresses, the movie delves deep into Scarlett’s survival amidst the ruinous backdrop of war and reconstruction.
Witness her intricate relationships with the honorable Ashley Wilkes and audacious Rhett Butler. Be warned, the film’s antiquated themes and contentious character depictions resonate with its original release and may create a sense of unease for contemporary viewers, providing an uncomfortable yet authentic insight into the era.
3. ‘Dances with Wolves’
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Dances with Wolves, a groundbreaking film from 1990, defies categorization by blending elements of drama, romance, and adventure. The highly acclaimed Kevin Costner plays Lieutenant John Dunbar, a Union soldier who, after befriending a tribe of Sioux Indians, begins to see the world through a different lens.
This compelling story bravely challenges viewers’ perceptions of Native Americans and Western cultural norms. A sweeping mix of panoramic landscapes and emotionally charged performances, Dances with Wolves is more than just a movie, it’s a heartfelt human journey into the heartland of America.
4. ‘Titanic’
↑ 2 vs. Prior Week
Titanic was a masterpiece of 1990s filmmaking. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet as lovers Jack and Rose, the movie skillfully merges a poignant love story with the harsh realities of the catastrophic sinking of the RMS Titanic.
Battling social class differences, the two find love in the most unlikely place, but their world is rocked when the ship hits an iceberg. This Academy Award-winning film filled with heartache, suspense and unforgettable performances will immerse you in the ill-fated voyage, compelling you to ask if love can indeed conquer all, even impending doom.
5. ‘JFK’
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Delving into the darkest chapter of American history, JFK (1991) is Oliver Stone’s meticulously detailed account of the investigation into the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Kevin Costner delivers a captivating performance as New Orleans district attorney Jim Garrison, the man brave enough to question the crime that shocked the nation.
After the murder of alleged assassin Lee Harvey Oswald, played by a chilling Gary Oldman, Garrison’s quest is momentarily halted, only for him to uncover a deeper, sprawling conspiracy upon reopening the case. This powerful, controversial drama exposes the hidden layers of one of the biggest American mysteries, compelling audiences to question the truths they thought they knew.
6. ‘Hidden Figures’
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Celebrate the unsung heroes of the space race in the remarkable movie, Hidden Figures. In an era where their contributions were overlooked due to their gender and race, three tenacious Black female mathematicians at NASA, portrayed by exceptional Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer and Janelle Monáe, played pivotal roles in launching astronaut John Glenn into orbit.
This inspiring tale of human perseverance, against all societal norms of the ’60s, delivers a punch of empowerment, stimulating your intellectual curiosity. Hidden Figures is a perfect blend of history and heart, portraying hardship and triumph on the grand canvas of space exploration.
7. ‘Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1’
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Embark on an epic journey into the unforgiving landscape of the Old West in Horizon: An American Saga – Chapter 1. Set against the volatile backdrop of the Civil War, witness families, friends, and foes, pushed to their limits, and drawn into the harsh realism of a country divided.
A diverse set of characters come alive, each playing their part in weaving a tapestry of ambition, treachery and survival. Watch as they endure the raw beauty and dangerous allure of the frontier, showcasing their resilience in face of hardships, and the eternal human spirit. Their stories reflect the true American saga, a tale of courage and hope, ever set towards the horizon. This movie is an unmissable cinematic masterpiece.
8. ‘Full Metal Jacket’
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Step into the realities of warfare with Stanley Kubrick’s unflinching portrayal of the Vietnam War, Full Metal Jacket. Matthew Modine delivers a striking performance as smart-mouthed Private Davis, also known as “Joker,” an apt moniker designated by his aggressive drill sergeant, brilliantly played by R. Lee Ermey. Alongside him is the heavy-set Private Lawrence, a.k.a. “Gomer Pyle”, portrayed by Vincent D’Onofrio.
During basic training, Pyle takes a disturbing turn while Joker heads to the frontlines. Now a journalist, Joker is thrust into the vicious Battle of Hué, blurring the lines between observer and participant. This film is a hauntingly intense adventure, clawing away the romanticized façade of war.
9. ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’
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Bohemian Rhapsody, the 2018 sensation, takes you on an unforgettable rock ‘n’ roll journey, recounting the extraordinary life and career of eclectic Freddie Mercury, lead vocalist of the iconic band Queen.
Rami Malek’s portray of the defiant and larger-than-life Mercury will take your breath away as he rises through the ranks of the music world, challenging stereotypes and norms. Yet, amid massive success and popular hits, Mercury bravely ventures out as a solo artist, only to find himself drawing back to where it all began – Queen and their epic Live Aid performance. This unforgettable film will leave you celebrating their music and Mercury’s indomitable spirit.
10. ’12 Mighty Orphans’
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12 Mighty Orphans is a gripping story of hope and tenacity in the face of adversity. Set against the harsh backdrop of the Great Depression, it follows the character of Rusty Russell as he relinquishes his comfortable life to coach football at an orphanage in Fort Worth, Texas.
As he molds his inexperienced and scrappy team into worthy opponents on the gridiron, they become an unexpectedly electrifying force, offering hope and inspiration to their city, state and indeed, the entire nation. This is a cinematic experience that celebrates the power of the human spirit and the underdog fighting against all odds.
And there you have it: the top 10 historical dramas to stream at home. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular historical drama movies in recent years?
Among the most popular historical drama movies from recent years are 'Oppenheimer,' 'Zone of Interest,' 'Blackberry,' 'Till,' and many others.
What is the difference between a historical drama and a biopic movie?
While there are some similarities between historical drama movies and biopic movies, the main difference is that biopics are about a particular person or historic figure, while historical drama movies can be more broadly associated with a time, event, or era. Historical dramas typically have fictional characters, while biopics are more accurate to real life.
Which time in history is most commonly used in historical drama movies?
History movies can be about anytime and anyplace in history, but popular films often take place during WWII, Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece and 19th and 20th Century America.
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