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 Pearl Harbor to Bohemian Rhapsody, 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. ‘Pearl Harbor’
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Set amidst the backdrop of one of the most tragic events in American history, Pearl Harbor reconstructs the fateful day that changed the world forever. Ben Affleck and Josh Hartnett portray two best friends, Rafe and Danny, U.S. pilots whose lives and mutual love interest — a dedicated nurse played by Kate Beckinsale — become entangled as the specter of war looms.
This epic tale of love, heroism and sacrifice delves into the personal narratives overshadowed by the catastrophic event. The film upsets expectations with its humanistic portrayal of characters adrift in the tides of war, leaving audiences with a profound empathetic connection to history.
2. ‘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.
3. ‘Lincoln’
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Unravel the story of an extraordinary leader during America’s most turbulent times in Lincoln (2012).
This critically acclaimed film delves into President Abraham Lincoln‘s (portrayed with majestic might by Daniel Day-Lewis) unwavering determination against an ongoing Civil War. As minds and hearts collide, watch as he exercises his political prowess to fulfill a momentous decision: abolishing slavery through the historic 13th Amendment. Amid battles both within the nation and the government, this compelling narrative reinforces Lincoln‘s monumental legacy of courage and morality. A riveting blend of history and humanity, this film underlines that true greatness strives for the betterment of all mankind.
4. ‘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.
5. ‘Hacksaw Ridge’
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Hacksaw Ridge is a riveting true story that tests the boundaries of courage. Andrew Garfield delivers a sensational performance as Pfc. Desmond T. Doss, a man who defied military norms by refusing to bear arms during WWII.
Despite the ostracization by his fellow soldiers for his pacifist stance, Doss emerges as an unlikely hero on the battlefront. As the fierce Battle of Okinawa rages, Doss risks his life to save 75 men, armed with nothing but bravery, selflessness and compassion. Witness a hero who stood his ground, proving that strength is not just about the firepower, but the fire within.
6. ‘Troy’
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Immerse yourself in the epic world of ancient Greece with the stunning 2004 war film Troy.
This cinematic masterpiece boasts a star-studded cast, with Brad Pitt delivering a raw, captivating performance as the legendary warrior Achilles. The film presents a gripping tale of love, honor and deceit woven into the chaotic tapestry of war that ensues when the Trojan prince Paris elopes with Helen of Sparta. With enthralling battle sequences and riveting character arcs, Troy reveals the glory and the bitterness of power, illuminating the heroism and folly that walks on the thin line of destiny and desire.
7. ‘The Woman King’
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Dive into the world of the 1800s African kingdom of Dahomey in The Woman King (2022), where an all-female warrior battalion fiercely safeguards their land. Their leader, the indomitable General Nanisca, played by Viola Davis, shapes an upcoming generation of warriors to continue their longstanding heritage. As Nanisca prepares the young warriors, an unprecedented foreign threat emerges, hell-bent on destabilizing their harmonious way of life.
With a potent blend of history, gender empowerment, and breathtaking battle scenes, The Woman King will hold you utterly captive until its final dramatic scene.
8. ‘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 African American 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.
9. ‘Redeeming Love’
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Delve into the world of Redeeming Love, inspired by a powerful and enduring story of love’s capacity to transform and heal. A woman named Angel, living a harrowing existence marked by heartbreak and despair during the 1850 California Gold Rush, crosses paths with the compassionate and determined farmer Michael Hosea, who is convinced that he must free her from a life of prostitution.
Throughout the film, a magnificently realized journey unfolds, revealing the transformative nature of genuine love and the redemption it brings to the most hardened hearts. This moving narrative illuminates the inexorable pull of hope, even in the grimmest corners of life.
10. ‘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.
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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