If you are a fan of period dramas and enjoyed the cinematic experience of Tess, you are in for a treat! Here is a curated list of 15 movies that capture the essence of historical storytelling, intricate plots, and compelling characters. You can also check out more about the genre here.

1. Pride and Prejudice

This timeless adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel follows the life of Elizabeth Bennet, played by Keira Knightley, as she navigates the societal pressures of 19th-century England. The film also stars Matthew Macfadyen as the brooding Mr. Darcy.

2. A Room with a View

Helena Bonham Carter stars as Lucy Honeychurch, a young woman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery during a trip to Italy. This romantic drama also features Daniel Day-Lewis and Maggie Smith.

3. Far from the Madding Crowd

In this adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s novel, Carey Mulligan shines as Bathsheba Everdene, a headstrong farmer who attracts three very different suitors. The film also stars Matthias Schoenaerts and Michael Sheen.

4. Jane Eyre

Mia Wasikowska portrays the titular character in this adaptation of Charlotte Brontë’s classic novel. The story follows Jane’s journey from a troubled childhood to her complex relationship with Mr. Rochester, played by Michael Fassbender.

5. Sense and Sensibility

Emma Thompson and Kate Winslet star as the Dashwood sisters in this adaptation of Jane Austen’s novel. The film explores themes of love, loss, and societal expectations in 19th-century England.

6. The Age of Innocence

Directed by Martin Scorsese, this film stars Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Winona Ryder. Set in 1870s New York, it delves into the complexities of love and societal expectations.

7. Anna Karenina

Keira Knightley stars as Anna Karenina in this visually stunning adaptation of Leo Tolstoy’s novel. The film explores the tragic consequences of Anna’s affair with Count Vronsky, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson.

8. Wuthering Heights

Based on Emily Brontë’s novel, this film stars Kaya Scodelario and James Howson as the doomed lovers Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff. The movie captures the dark and passionate love story set in the Yorkshire moors.

9. The Duchess

Keira Knightley portrays Georgiana Cavendish, the Duchess of Devonshire, in this historical drama. The film explores her tumultuous marriage to the Duke, played by Ralph Fiennes, and her struggle for independence.

10. Bright Star

This film tells the story of the romance between poet John Keats and Fanny Brawne, played by Ben Whishaw and Abbie Cornish, respectively. Set in the early 19th century, it beautifully captures their passionate but ill-fated love affair.

11. Becoming Jane

Anne Hathaway stars as a young Jane Austen in this biographical drama. The film explores her early life and her romantic relationship with Tom Lefroy, played by James McAvoy.

12. Little Women

Directed by Greta Gerwig, this adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel stars Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, and Timothée Chalamet. The film follows the lives of the March sisters during the Civil War era.

13. The Remains of the Day

Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson star in this adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro’s novel. The story centers on a butler who reflects on his life and missed opportunities for love.

14. Howard’s End

This film adaptation of E.M. Forster’s novel stars Emma Thompson, Anthony Hopkins, and Helena Bonham Carter. It explores the intersecting lives of three families in early 20th-century England.

15. The Piano

Holly Hunter stars as a mute pianist in this hauntingly beautiful film set in 19th-century New Zealand. The movie also features Harvey Keitel and Anna Paquin, who won an Academy Award for her role.