10 More Historical Epics
Braveheart is a well written and endearing historical epic, with Mel Gibson at the helm in one of his most iconic roles. If you’ve finished watching this one, you may be after similar picks to satiate your appetite.
We’ve combed through the archives and saved you the hassle with our top picks for alternate viewing. As usual, let us know your thoughts about our picks in the comments below!
The Patriot (2000)
Directed by Roland Emmerich, The Patriot follows Benjamin Martin, a peaceful farmer driven to lead the Colonial Militia during the American Revolutionary War after a sadistic British officer murders his son.
Both movies focus on a man who initially seeks a peaceful life but is driven to lead a revolt against oppressive forces after personal loss. This and Braveheart both center on the struggle for freedom and involve epic battle sequences too.
Mongol: The Rise of Genghis Khan (2007)
Sergei Bodrov’s Mongol is another historical epic, one which depicts the early life of Temüjin, who later becomes Genghis Khan. It shows his rise to power, from a slave to a respected warrior, and then eventually a leader.
Both historical dramas portray the life and struggles of a legendary leader, and their journey from humble beginnings to power. These movies are epic in scope, depicting large-scale warfare and complex political scenarios.
The Last Samurai (2003)
The Last Samurai is a great movie, one that follows Nathan Algren, a U.S. army captain who is hired to train the Japanese army to fight against the samurai. He ends up being captured by samurai though and, during his captivity, comes to respect their way of life.
The Last Samurai depicts a journey of transformation for its main character, driven by the quest for honor, justice, and freedom, which is very similar to that of Braveheart. The clash of cultures and the protagonist’s eventual alignment with a seemingly opposing force, make this another must-watch.
Kingdom of Heaven [Director’s Cut] (2005)
Directed by Ridley Scott, Kingdom of Heaven is a historical drama about Balian of Ibelin, a blacksmith who becomes a knight and defends Jerusalem against formidable odds during the Crusades. Now, it is worth pointing out that the Director’s cut is the definitive way to watch this one.
Just like Braveheart, Kingdom of Heaven is a historical epic featuring a reluctant hero who rises to the occasion to lead a resistance against a powerful enemy. These movies also contain large-scale battle sequences and explore themes of morality, honor, and religious conflict.
Gladiator (2000)
Speaking of Ridley Scott, this leads us nicely into our next pick, Gladiator. This excellent and endearing film follows Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general who is betrayed, his family are murdered, and he’s forced into slavery. Driven by vengeance, he rises through the ranks to avenge the murders of his family and his emperor.
Both films involve a main character who suffers a significant personal loss and is then driven to lead a revolt against an oppressive regime. They showcase epic battles and the pursuit of justice and freedom against a corrupt leadership.
Last of the Mohicans (1992)
Last of the Mohicans is set in 1757 during the French and Indian War. The story follows Hawkeye, an adopted son of the Mohican tribe, as he and his adoptive father and brother protect a British Colonel’s daughters in the midst of war.
This is another historical epic, set right in the period of war and conflict. They also feature a main character who steps up to protect those in need, with romance backdropped against the war.
Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Lawrence of Arabia is a classic, telling the story of T.E. Lawrence, a British officer who is sent to Arabia during WWI. Whilst there, he successfully unites and leads the diverse, often warring, Arab tribes against the Turks.
Similar to Braveheart, Arabia is a sweeping historical drama depicting a charismatic and complex protagonist who leads a resistance against an oppressive force. They both explore themes of freedom, rebellion and the personal cost of war.
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
Master and Commander follows Captain Jack Aubrey, a man who commands the HMS Surprise during the Napoleonic Wars. He is on a mission to capture a French war vessel around South America.
Both films are set during war times and focus on the character of a leader determined to fulfill his mission despite numerous obstacles.
It’s also a glaringly accurate recreation of what it’s like to be out at sea, while Russell Crowe is on top form for this one. If that wasn’t enough, there’s great themes of friendship, leadership, and duty.
Dances with Wolves (1990)
Kevin Costner’s Dances with Wolves is about Union Army lieutenant John Dunbar who, after being assigned to a remote western Civil War outpost, befriends wolves and Native Americans, making him an intolerable aberration in the military.
Both of these movies feature a main character who, while initially a part of the dominant force, comes to empathize with and support the oppressed group. They both offer a critique of oppressive systems and explore ideas of friendship, respect, and cultural understanding.
Zulu (1964)
Zulu is a historical war film that depicts the Battle of Rorke’s Drift between the British Army and the Zulus in January 1879, during the Anglo-Zulu War. It showcases the defense of the mission station by a small force of British soldiers.
Both of these historical films feature a group of outnumbered warriors who defend their position against a much larger force. They both depict the heroism, courage, and tactical acumen of the underdogs.
There we have it, our list of best movies that are similar to Braveheart. What do you think about our picks? Did one of your favourites make the list? Let us know in the comments below!