Roll out the red carpet and dust off your time machine, because we’re about to embark on a cinematic journey through the ages! Welcome to our definitive ranking of the top 20 history movies ever made, as voted by you, the audience. From the grandeur of ancient empires to the gritty realities of modern warfare, these films have not only entertained us but also educated us, bringing history to life in the most dramatic way possible. So, whether you’re a history buff, a movie enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good story, prepare to be captivated. These aren’t just films, they’re time capsules, transporting us back to moments that have shaped our world. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and let’s dive into the past as we countdown the audience’s favorite history movies of all time. Lights, camera, action…history!
Schindler’s List
“Schindler’s List” is a powerful and moving historical drama released on December 15, 1993. Starring Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, and Ralph Fiennes, the film tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a businessman who saved the lives of over a thousand Jewish people during World War II by employing them in his factory and protecting them from the Nazis. It’s a must-watch for its gripping portrayal of courage and humanity in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Cast: Liam Neeson (Oskar Schindler) , Ben Kingsley (Itzhak Stern) , Ralph Fiennes (Amon Goeth) , Caroline Goodall (Emilie Schindler) , Jonathan Sagall (Poldek Pfefferberg) , Embeth Davidtz (Helen Hirsch) , Malgorzata Gebel (Viktoria Klonowska) , Shmuel Levy (Wilek Chilowicz) , Mark Ivanir (Marcel Goldberg) , Béatrice Macola (Ingrid) , Andrzej Seweryn (Julian Scherner) , Friedrich von Thun (Rolf Czurda) , Krzysztof Luft (Herman Toffel) , Harry Nehring (Leo John) , Norbert Weisser (Albert Hujar) , Adi Nitzan (Mila Pfefferberg) , Michael Schneider (Juda Dresner) , Miri Fabian (Chaja Dresner) , Anna Mucha (Danka Dresner) , Albert Misak (Mordecai Wulkan) , Michael Gordon (Mr. Nussbaum) , Aldona Grochal (Mrs. Nussbaum) , Jacek Wójcicki (Henry Rosner) , Beata Paluch (Manci Rosner) , Piotr Polk (Leo Rosner)
Directors: Steven Spielberg
Writers: Steven Zaillian, Thomas Keneally
Tags: based on novel or book, factory, concentration camp, hero, holocaust (shoah), ss (nazi schutzstaffel), world war ii, ghetto, jew persecution, kraków, poland, auschwitz-birkenau concentration camp, industrialist, nazi, defense industry, biography, based on true story, historical fiction, black and white, train, poland, weapons manufacturer
Oppenheimer
“Oppenheimer” is an upcoming historical movie set to release on July 19, 2023. Starring a star-studded cast including Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., Florence Pugh, Josh Hartnett, Casey Affleck, Rami Malek, Kenneth Branagh, and Benny Safdie, the film tells the captivating story of J. Robert Oppenheimer’s pivotal role in developing the atomic bomb during World War II. It promises to be an intriguing and thought-provoking exploration of a significant moment in history.
Cast: Cillian Murphy (J. Robert Oppenheimer) , Emily Blunt (Kitty Oppenheimer) , Matt Damon (Leslie Groves) , Robert Downey Jr. (Lewis Strauss) , Florence Pugh (Jean Tatlock) , Josh Hartnett (Ernest Lawrence) , Casey Affleck (Boris Pash) , Rami Malek (David Hill) , Kenneth Branagh (Niels Bohr) , Benny Safdie (Edward Teller) , Jason Clarke (Roger Robb) , Dylan Arnold (Frank Oppenheimer) , Tom Conti (Albert Einstein) , James D’Arcy (Patrick Blackett) , David Dastmalchian (William Borden) , Dane DeHaan (Kenneth Nichols) , Alden Ehrenreich (Senate Aide) , Tony Goldwyn (Gordon Gray) , Jefferson Hall (Haakon Chevalier) , David Krumholtz (Isidor Rabi) , Matthew Modine (Vannevar Bush) , Scott Grimes (Counsel) , Kurt Koehler (Thomas Morgan) , John Gowans (Ward Evans) , Macon Blair (Lloyd Garrison)
Directors: Christopher Nolan
Writers: Christopher Nolan, Martin J. Sherwin, Kai Bird
Tags: based on novel or book, husband wife relationship, new mexico, patriotism, atomic bomb, world war ii, atomic bomb test, biography, physics, politics, physicist, based on true story, jewish american, guilt, nuclear weapons, red scare, prometheus, 1940s, ethics, new mexico desert, 20th century, manhattan project, los alamos
Hamilton
“Hamilton” is a captivating history movie that brings to life the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers. With an incredible cast including Lin-Manuel Miranda, Leslie Odom Jr., and Renée Elise Goldsberry, this filmed version of the original Broadway hit takes us on a journey through America’s past, told through the lens of the present. Get ready to be immersed in the fascinating tale of Hamilton when it hits the screens on July 3, 2020.
Saving Private Ryan
“Saving Private Ryan” is a gripping war film set during the D-Day invasion of Normandy in World War II. It follows a group of soldiers led by Captain John Miller, played by Tom Hanks, who embark on a dangerous mission to bring a young soldier, played by Matt Damon, back home after his three brothers are killed in action. Released in 1998, this movie features an incredible ensemble cast and offers a realistic and intense portrayal of the horrors of war.
Cast: Tom Hanks (Captain John H. Miller) , Tom Sizemore (Technical Sergeant Michael Horvath) , Edward Burns (Private Richard Reiben) , Matt Damon (Private James Francis Ryan) , Barry Pepper (Private Daniel Jackson) , Adam Goldberg (Private Stanley Mellish) , Vin Diesel (Private Adrian Caparzo) , Giovanni Ribisi (T-Medic Irwin Wade) , Ted Danson (Captain Fred Hamill) , Jeremy Davies (Corporal Timothy Upham) , Paul Giamatti (Sergeant William Hill) , Dennis Farina (Lieutenant Colonel Walter Anderson) , Joerg Stadler (Steamboat Willie) , Max Martini (Corporal Henderson) , Dylan Bruno (Toynbe) , Daniel Cerqueira (Weller) , Demetri Goritsas (Parker) , Ian Porter (Trask) , Gary Sefton (Rice) , Julian Spencer (Garrity) , Steve Griffin (Wilson) , William Marsh (Lyle) , Marc Cass (Fallon) , Markus Napier (Major Hoess) , Neil Finnighan (Ramelle Paratrooper)
Directors: Steven Spielberg
Writers: Robert Rodat, John Greaves
Tags: war crimes, self sacrifice, war veteran, world war ii, war ship, airplane, bravery, normandy, france, parachute, troops, waffen ss, omaha beach, army, epic, cowardice, d-day, based on true story, rescue mission, war memorial, deserted town, soldier, death, military, military operation, 1940s
Hacksaw Ridge
“Hacksaw Ridge” is a gripping World War II movie based on the true story of Desmond T. Doss, an American Army Medic. Set during the Battle of Okinawa, it follows Doss as he bravely serves his country without ever picking up a weapon, ultimately becoming the first Conscientious Objector in American history to be awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor. With a talented cast including Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, and Vince Vaughn, this powerful film was released on October 7, 2016, and is considered one of the best history movies of all time.
Cast: Andrew Garfield (Desmond T. Doss) , Sam Worthington (Captain Glover) , Vince Vaughn (Sergeant Howell) , Teresa Palmer (Dorothy Schuttle) , Luke Bracey (Smitty Ryker) , Hugo Weaving (Tom Doss) , Rachel Griffiths (Bertha Doss) , Ryan Corr (Lt. Manville) , Richard Roxburgh (Colonel Stelzer) , Goran D. Kleut (Andy ‘Ghoul’ Walker) , Luke Pegler (Milt ‘Hollywood’ Zane) , Firass Dirani (Vito Rinnelli) , Nathaniel Buzolic (Harold Doss) , Ori Pfeffer (Irv Schecter) , Matt Nable (Lt. Cooney) , Jacob Warner (James Pinnick) , Richard Pyros (Randall “Teach” Fuller) , Ben Mingay (Grease Nolan) , Harry Greenwood (Henry Brown) , Damien Thomlinson (Ralph Morgan) , Robert Morgan (Colonel Sangston) , Milo Gibson (Lucky Ford) , John Batziolas (Private Schulenburg) , Mikael Koski (Private Giles) , Charles Jacobs (Private Webb)
Directors: Mel Gibson
Writers: Robert Schenkkan, Andrew Knight
Tags: japan, world war ii, violent father, pacifism, bible, biography, okinawa, conscientious objector, based on true story, gore, religion, soldier, alcoholic, war hero, medic, us military, battle of okinawa, congressional medal of honor
Das Boot
“Das Boot” is a gripping German war film released in 1981. Set during World War II, it follows the intense journey of a German submarine and its crew as they hunt down allied ships, only to find themselves becoming the hunted. With a talented cast including Jürgen Prochnow and Herbert Grönemeyer, this movie takes you on a thrilling and suspenseful underwater adventure, showcasing the crew’s struggle for survival and the limits they push themselves to.
Cast: Jürgen Prochnow (Captain Lieutenant ‘Der Alte’) , Herbert Grönemeyer (Lieutenant Werner) , Klaus Wennemann (Chief Engineer) , Hubertus Bengsch (First Watch Officer) , Martin Semmelrogge (Second Watch Officer) , Bernd Tauber (Kriechbaum) , Erwin Leder (Johann ‘Das Gespenst’) , Martin May (Ullmann) , Heinz Hoenig (Hinrich) , Uwe Ochsenknecht (Chief Bosun) , Claude-Oliver Rudolph (Ario) , Jan Fedder (Pilgrim) , Rita Cadillac (Monique) , Ralf Richter (Frenssen) , Joachim Bernhard (Preacher) , Oliver Stritzel (Schwalle) , Konrad Becker (Bockstiegel) , Lutz Schnell (Dufte) , Martin Hemme (Brückenwilli) , Otto Sander (Phillip Thomsen) , Günter Lamprecht (Weser Captain) , Thomas Boxhammer () , Roger Barth () , Günther Franke (Weser First Officer) , Christian Bendomir ()
Directors: Wolfgang Petersen
Writers: Wolfgang Petersen, Lothar-Günther Buchheim, Dean Riesner
Tags: submarine, based on novel or book, atlantic ocean, gibraltar, world war ii, duty, war correspondent, suicide mission, drinking, sailor, convoy, destroyer, naval warfare, naval battle, battle of the atlantic
Ran
“Ran” is a captivating historical epic directed by the legendary Akira Kurosawa. Set in sixteenth-century Japan, this late-life masterpiece reimagines Shakespeare’s King Lear, delving into the destructive consequences of war and the disintegration of a family torn apart by betrayal, greed, and the relentless pursuit of power. With a stellar cast including Tatsuya Nakadai, Akira Terao, and Jinpachi Nezu, this 1985 film offers a profound examination of human folly and the tragic downfall of a once-mighty dynasty.
Cast: Tatsuya Nakadai (Lord Hidetora Ichimonji) , Akira Terao (Taro Takatora Ichimonji) , Jinpachi Nezu (Jiro Masatora Ichimonji) , Daisuke Ryū (Saburo Naotora Ichimonji) , Mieko Harada (Lady Kaede) , Yoshiko Miyazaki (Lady Sue) , Mansai Nomura (Tsurumaru) , Hisashi Igawa (Shuri Kurogane) , Shinnosuke Ikehata (Kyoami) , Masayuki Yui (Tango Hirayama) , Kazuo Katō (Kageyu Ikoma) , Norio Matsui (Shumenosuke Ogura) , Toshiya Ito (Mondo Naganuma) , Heihachiro Suzuki (Fujimaki’s General) , Kenji Kodama (Samon Shirane) , Haruko Tōgō (Kaede’s lady in waiting) , Reiko Nanjo (Hideota’s concubine) , Tokie Kanda (Sue’s lady in waiting) , Sawako Kochi (Hidetora’s concubine) , Kumeko Otowa (Sue’s lady in waiting) , Takeshi Katō (Koyota Hatakeyama) , Jun Tazaki (Seiji Ayabe) , Hitoshi Ueki (Nobuhiro Fujimaki) , Takao Zushi () , Yoshitaka Zushi ()
Directors: Akira Kurosawa
Writers: Akira Kurosawa, Hideo Oguni, William Shakespeare, Masato Ide
Tags: assassination, gun, castle, kingdom, greed, heir to the throne, epic, revenge, descent into madness, seppuku, inheritance fight, ruins, king lear, feudal japan, black widow, hopelessness
Hidden Figures
“Hidden Figures” is an inspiring and untold story about three brilliant African-American women, Katherine G. Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Mary Jackson, who worked at NASA during a time of racial and gender discrimination. Together, they played a crucial role in launching astronaut John Glenn into orbit, breaking barriers and inspiring generations to dream big. With a star-studded cast including Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, and Janelle Monáe, this 2016 release is a must-watch for history buffs and anyone looking for a powerful and uplifting true story.
The Elephant Man
“The Elephant Man” is a captivating historical drama released in 1980. Based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, it follows a compassionate Victorian surgeon who saves a severely disfigured man from a life of mistreatment as a circus attraction. As the film unfolds, we witness the remarkable intelligence and sensitivity hidden behind the protagonist’s monstrous appearance. With an incredible cast including Anthony Hopkins, John Hurt, and Anne Bancroft, this movie offers a touching portrayal of humanity and the power of empathy in 19th century London.
Amadeus
“Amadeus” is a captivating historical drama released in 1984 that delves into the intense rivalry between two brilliant composers, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Antonio Salieri. Fueled by Salieri’s jealousy and resentment towards Mozart’s talent and extravagant lifestyle, the movie takes us on a gripping journey as Salieri becomes consumed by his obsession with Mozart’s downfall. With a stellar cast including F. Murray Abraham and Tom Hulce, this film offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of classical music and the consequences of envy.
Casino
“Casino” is a thrilling crime drama set in early-1970s Las Vegas. Starring Robert De Niro, Sharon Stone, and Joe Pesci, the movie follows the rise and fall of Sam “Ace” Rothstein, who is chosen to run the Tangiers Casino. As Sam navigates the glamorous world of gambling, he faces increasing danger from his unpredictable enforcer Nicky Santoro, his troubled wife Ginger, and a web of corruption involving politicians. Released on November 22, 1995, this film offers a captivating glimpse into the dark side of the casino industry.
Cast: Robert De Niro (Sam ‘Ace’ Rothstein) , Sharon Stone (Ginger McKenna) , Joe Pesci (Nicky Santoro) , James Woods (Lester Diamond) , Don Rickles (Billy Sherbert) , Alan King (Andy Stone) , Kevin Pollak (Phillip Green) , L.Q. Jones (Pat Webb) , Dick Smothers (Senator) , Frank Vincent (Frank Marino) , John Bloom (Don Ward) , Pasquale Cajano (Remo Gaggi) , Melissa Prophet (Jennifer Santoro) , Bill Allison (John Nance) , Vinny Vella (Artie Piscano) , Oscar Goodman (Himself) , Catherine Scorsese (Piscano’s Mother) , Philip Suriano (Dominick Santoro) , Erika von Tagen (Older Amy) , Frankie Avalon (Himself) , Steve Allen (Himself) , Jayne Meadows (Herself) , Jerry Vale (Himself) , Joseph Rigano (Vincent Borelli) , Gene Ruffini (Vinny Forlano)
Directors: Martin Scorsese
Writers: Martin Scorsese, Nicholas Pileggi
Tags: poker, gambling, casino, italian american, drug abuse, 1970s, fbi, overdose, greed, rise and fall, car bomb, organized crime, mafia, money, jewish american, las vegas, desert, 1980s
Ford v Ferrari
“Ford v Ferrari” is an exciting and gripping movie based on a true story. It follows the journey of American car designer Carroll Shelby and British driver Ken Miles as they team up to create a groundbreaking race car for Ford Motor Company. Battling against corporate interference, the laws of physics, and their own personal struggles, they take on the dominant race cars of Enzo Ferrari at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in France in 1966. With an incredible cast including Christian Bale and Matt Damon, this film is a must-watch for history and racing enthusiasts. Released on November 13, 2019.
The Imitation Game
“The Imitation Game” is a captivating history movie that tells the incredible true story of Alan Turing, a renowned cryptanalyst. Set during World War II, the film follows Turing and his brilliant team of code-breakers as they race against time to crack Germany’s secret codes. With an all-star cast including Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley, this nail-biting drama is a must-watch for history enthusiasts. Released on November 14, 2014, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the darkest days of the war.
Bohemian Rhapsody
“Bohemian Rhapsody” is a captivating history movie that tells the incredible story of the iconic rock band Queen. Set in the 1970s, it follows the journey of lead singer Freddie Mercury and his bandmates as they rise to fame with their unforgettable music. As Mercury’s personal life takes a tumultuous turn, the band faces their biggest challenge yet – staying together amidst the pressures of success. With an outstanding cast including Rami Malek, Gwilym Lee, and Lucy Boynton, this film, released on October 24, 2018, is a must-watch for music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Cast: Rami Malek (Freddie Mercury) , Gwilym Lee (Brian May) , Ben Hardy (Roger Taylor) , Joseph Mazzello (John Deacon) , Lucy Boynton (Mary Austin) , Aidan Gillen (John Reid) , Allen Leech (Paul Prenter) , Tom Hollander (Jim Beach) , Mike Myers (Ray Foster) , Aaron McCusker (Jim Hutton) , Meneka Das (Jer Bulsara) , Ace Bhatti (Bomi Bulsara) , Priya Blackburn (Kashmira Bulsara) , Max Bennett (David) , Dermot Murphy (Bob Geldof) , Dickie Beau (Kenny Everett) , Jack Roth (Tim Staffell) , Neil Fox-Roberts (Mr. Austin) , Jess Radomska (Cheryl) , Michelle Duncan (Shelley Stern) , Ross Green (Reporter 1) , Bruce Mackinnon (Reporter 2) , Joshua Higgott (Reporter 3) , Pat Lally (Reporter 4) , William Owen (Reporter 5)
Directors: Bryan Singer
Writers: Peter Morgan, Anthony McCarten
Tags: london, england, aids, 1970s, queen, musician, biography, based on true story, hiv, male homosexuality, singer, fame, rock band, lgbt, 1980s, gay theme, music movie
1917
“1917” is a gripping and intense war film set during the First World War. It follows two brave young British soldiers who embark on a dangerous mission to deliver a crucial message that could save the lives of hundreds of soldiers. With a star-studded cast including George MacKay, Dean-Charles Chapman, and Benedict Cumberbatch, this highly acclaimed movie takes you on a thrilling journey through enemy territory. Released on December 25, 2019, it’s definitely a must-watch for history movie enthusiasts.
Lawrence of Arabia
“Lawrence of Arabia” is a captivating historical movie released on December 11, 1962. Starring Peter O’Toole, Alec Guinness, Anthony Quinn, and more talented actors, it tells the story of British officer T.E. Lawrence’s mission to support Arab tribes in their fight against the Ottoman Empire during World War I. As Lawrence becomes a charismatic and influential figure in the Arab unity movement, his own psychological struggles threaten to undermine his remarkable achievements. It’s a must-watch for history enthusiasts and fans of epic storytelling.
Raging Bull
“Raging Bull” is a gripping and intense biographical drama released on November 14, 1980. Starring Robert De Niro, Joe Pesci, and Cathy Moriarty, the film tells the captivating story of Jake LaMotta, a talented boxer whose explosive temper and violent nature both propelled him to success in the ring and ultimately destroyed his personal life. With a stellar cast and a powerful portrayal of LaMotta’s struggles, this movie is a must-watch for history and sports enthusiasts alike.
Cast: Robert De Niro (Jake LaMotta) , Joe Pesci (Joey LaMotta) , Cathy Moriarty (Vickie LaMotta) , Frank Vincent (Salvy Batts) , Nicholas Colasanto (Tommy Como) , Mario Gallo (Mario) , Bernie Allen (Comedian) , Joseph Bono (Guido) , Lori Anne Flax (Irma) , Theresa Saldana (Lenore) , Frank Adonis (Patsy) , Bill Hanrahan (Eddie Eagan) , Frank Topham (Toppy) , Don Dunphy (Dauthuille Fight Radio Announcer) , Kevin Mahon (Tony Janiro) , Louis Raftis (Marcel Cerdan) , Johnny Turner (Laurent Dauthuille) , Floyd Anderson (Jimmy Reeves (Reeves Fight)) , Gene LeBell (Ring Announcer (Reeves Fight)) , Harold Valan (Referee (Reeves Fight)) , Victor Magnotta (Fighting Soldier (Reeves Fight)) , Johnny Barnes (Sugar Ray Robinson (First Robinson Fight)) , John Thomas (Trainer (First Robinson Fight)) , Kenny Davis (Referee (First Robinson Fight)) , Paul Carmello (Ring Announcer (First Robinson Fight))
Directors: Martin Scorsese
Writers: Paul Schrader, Mardik Martin, Jake LaMotta
Tags: transporter, jealousy, violent husband, paranoia, boxer, brother, biography, fistfight, broken nose, sports, domestic violence, over-the-hill fighter
12 Years a Slave
“12 Years a Slave” is a powerful and gripping historical drama set in the pre-Civil War era. It tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who is kidnapped and forced into slavery. With an incredible cast including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Fassbender, and Lupita Nyong’o, the film explores Solomon’s harrowing journey as he fights for survival and dignity. Released in 2013, this thought-provoking movie sheds light on a dark chapter in American history.
The Great Escape
“The Great Escape” is a thrilling and inspiring history movie released on July 3, 1963. Starring Steve McQueen, James Garner, Richard Attenborough, and a talented ensemble cast, the film tells the incredible true story of Allied prisoners during World War II. Frustrated by their numerous escape attempts, the Nazis transfer them to a supposedly ‘escape-proof’ camp, but the prisoners refuse to be defeated and plan an audacious breakout that will go down in history.
Cast: Steve McQueen (Hilts ‘The Cooler King’) , James Garner (Hendley ‘The Scrounger’) , Richard Attenborough (Bartlett ‘Big X’) , James Donald (Ramsey ‘The SBO’) , Charles Bronson (Danny ‘Tunnel King’) , Donald Pleasence (Blythe ‘The Forger’) , James Coburn (Sedgwick ‘Manufacturer’) , Hannes Messemer (Von Luger ‘The Kommandant’) , David McCallum (Ashley-Pitt ‘Dispersal’) , Gordon Jackson (MacDonald ‘Intelligence’) , John Leyton (Willie ‘Tunnel King’) , Angus Lennie (Ives ‘The Mole’) , Nigel Stock (Cavendish ‘The Surveyor’) , Robert Graf (Werner ‘The Ferret’) , Jud Taylor (Goff) , Hans Reiser (Herr Kuhn) , Harry Riebauer (Stratwitch) , William Russell (Sorren) , Robert Freitag (Capt. Posen) , Ulrich Beiger (Preissen) , George Mikell (Lt. Dietrich) , Lawrence Montaigne (Haynes (‘Diversions’)) , Robert Desmond (Griffith ‘Tailor’) , Til Kiwe (Frick) , Heinz Weiss (Kramer)
Directors: John Sturges
Writers: James Clavell, Paul Brickhill, W.R. Burnett
Tags: based on novel or book, optimism, switzerland, baseball, famous score, prisoner, shower, world war ii, prisoner of war, claustrophobia, nazi, machinegun, dystopia, attempt to escape, uniform, freedom, epic, based on true story, prison guard, prison escape, tragedy, escape, swastika, barbed wire, solitary confinement, motorcycle, alps mountains, 1940s
Dallas Buyers Club
“Dallas Buyers Club” is a captivating and inspiring movie based on the true story of Ron Woodroof. Set in 1986, it follows Ron’s journey after being diagnosed with HIV/AIDS and given only thirty days to live. With an incredible cast including Matthew McConaughey, Jared Leto, and Jennifer Garner, this film tells a powerful tale of resilience, compassion, and the fight for survival. Released in 2013, it’s definitely a must-watch for history movie enthusiasts.
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