Welcome back everyone. Matthew again with Cinegold and today we are covering the great historical epic. Few genres capture the grandeur of cinema quite like this one. From legendary battles to the rise and fall of great empires, these movies bring history to life with breathtaking scale.
So sit back as we count down the Top 10 Historical Epic Movies on Netflix right now, starting with number 10.
10. Horizon: An American Saga
It takes place in the mid to late-1800s and chronicles the challenges of settlers expanding into the American West. This is the first part in what is set to be a four-part epic western written, directed and starring Kevin Costner. Horizon: An American Saga is the type of grand, sprawling western that hardly ever gets made anymore.
It brings the vastness of the American frontier to life with breathtaking cinematography and an epic story that’s only just getting started. Chapter 2 is supposed to release sometime in 2025, so it’s definitely a good time to check out this first chapter. Right now, Horizon: An American Saga can be found in the US region of Netflix.
9. The Fortress
Set in 17th-century Korea, The Fortress depicts the dramatic siege of Namhansanseong Fortress during the Qing invasion of Joseon in 1636. This is a gripping war epic and, like the best historical epics, it immerses viewers in a pivotal moment in history. It marked the turning point in Joseon’s relationship with China and led to a massive shift in power dynamics in East Asia.
The Fortress is a historical drama and focuses more on atmosphere and tension rather than nonstop action, but if you are in the mood for a unique Asia-centric entry into the historical epic genre, this film is an excellent choice. It can be found in many Netflix regions including the US, Canada, Mexico and many more.
8. Outlaw King
It’s about Robert the Bruce, the man who would become King of Scots and lead a revolt against English rule. Outlaw King is a gritty, visceral war film set during the First War of Scottish Independence and gives us an up-close look at medieval Scottish culture. The film is a classical historical epic in every way, from rebellion and massive battles, to the legendary historical figure at its center.
It’s also a beautiful film to look at, whether it’s the breathtaking Scottish landscapes or the brutal, muddy battles. Outlaw King brings one of Scotland’s greatest legends to life and its powerful underdog story makes it a highly entertaining watch. You can find Outlaw King in almost every Netflix region.
7. RRR
Set in 1920s colonial India, RRR reimagines the lives of two real-life Indian revolutionaries who team up to take on the British Empire. RRR is a cinematic spectacle unlike any other, boasting jaw-dropping action sequences, incredible choreography, and a larger-than-life story.
Though it’s not a traditional historical epic, RRR still manages to capture the spirit of resistance against colonial rule, using its historical backdrop to craft an epic narrative. It’s got a grand scope, elaborate set pieces and lots of high-octane action, making it one of the most entertaining historical epics released in recent years. You can find RRR in nearly every region on Netflix.
6. The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die
This movie serves as the grand finale to The Last Kingdom series, which is about Uhtred of Bebbanburg, a fierce warrior caught in power struggles that will determine the fate of England. For Seven Kings Must Die, you most certainly need to have seen the five-season series first.
But since we’re on the subject of historical epics, if you haven’t seen The Last Kingdom, it’s easily one of the very best epic series on all of Netflix. Seven Kings Must Die does a great job of capping off this brutal and gripping Medieval England-based series. You can watch The Last Kingdom and Seven Kings Must Die in every Netflix region.
By the way, I make new top 10 lists every week of all the best movies and series you can find on Netflix. From history to war to sci-fi and everything in between, so make sure to hit the subscribe button now so you don’t miss out.
5. The King
This is a gritty retelling of the rise of King Henry V of England, a young ruler who inherits the throne after his father’s death. Yes, this is another medieval England-based movie, a period that has inspired plenty of great movies and series.
The King is a grounded, brutal take on medieval warfare, stripping away the romanticized vision of kingship in favor of a more realistic and personal journey.
The film’s battle sequences, especially the muddy, chaotic Battle of Agincourt, are among some of the best I’ve seen in any recent historical epic movie. The King is a visceral, visually beautiful take on one of England’s most legendary rulers and luckily can be found in every Netflix region.
4. All Quiet on the Western Front
It follows a group of young German soldiers during World War I as they face the harsh realities of war, questioning their beliefs and struggling to maintain their humanity in the chaos of the front lines. All Quiet on the Western Front is an adaptation of the classic 1929 novel and is a brutal, yet powerful depiction of The Great War.
It’s got a grand scope, far more epic than your average war film and is a powerful anti-war statement that speaks to the universal horrors of conflict. All Quiet on the Western Front’s powerful visuals, unflinching portrayal of violence and gripping narrative make it a timeless must-see movie for all fans of historical epics, and you can find it in every Netflix region.
3. Troy
Loosely based on Homer’s Iliad, Troy follows the Greek army, led by King Agamemnon, as they lay siege to the city of Troy, while legendary Greek warrior Achilles battles both enemies and his own fate. Directed by Wolfgang Petersen, Troy is a Hollywood epic in the grandest tradition, packed with massive battles, intense rivalries, and larger-than-life characters.
I went back and watched this recently and it was way better than I remembered. It’s got huge battles, spectacular set designs and a sweeping, mythic story. While Troy isn’t the most historically accurate take on the Trojan War, it is an amazing epic that brings one of the greatest legends of all time to the big screen. Troy can be found in a few Netflix regions such as the UK, Spain and Portugal.
2. Gladiator
Set during the height of the Roman Empire, Gladiator follows Maximus, a loyal general who is betrayed and forced into slavery, where he rises as a gladiator seeking vengeance in the heart of Rome’s Colosseum. Directed by Ridley Scott.
Gladiator is one of the most iconic historical epics ever made, with its legendary performances, breathtaking action, and powerful themes of honor and revenge. And it still holds up well today.
It’s hard not to get a tear in your eye as Maximus walks through the wheat fields, finally reunited with his family at home. Gladiator is one of the must-see historical epics of all time and a great film for any movie lover. It can be found in only a few Netflix regions including Canada and South Korea.
1. Saving Private Ryan
Set during World War II, it follows a group of US soldiers who set off on a dangerous mission to find and bring home Private James Ryan, whose brothers have all been killed in combat. Saving Private Ryan is a definitive historical epic, showing the scale, horror, and heroism of World War II, with massive battle sequences, deeply personal stakes, and unforgettable performances.
It’s got a strong argument for the greatest war film ever made, as it’s an outstanding cinematic experience that leaves a long-lasting impression. More than two decades later, Saving Private Ryan still holds up as one of the best historical-based movies ever made and easily the best historical epic on Netflix. You can find it in a few Netflix regions such as Australia, Canada, South Africa, India and more.
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