Doctor Zhivago is a classic romantic drama that has captivated audiences for decades. If you’re a fan of epic love stories set against the backdrop of historical events, you’ll love these 16 movies that capture the same spirit. Check out Doctor Zhivago for more on this timeless genre.
1. Gone with the Wind
Gone with the Wind is an epic tale of love and loss set during the American Civil War. Starring Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable, this film follows the life of Scarlett O’Hara as she navigates the tumultuous changes brought on by the war.
2. War and Peace
War and Peace is a sweeping historical drama based on Leo Tolstoy’s novel, featuring Audrey Hepburn and Henry Fonda. The story intertwines the lives of several aristocratic families against the backdrop of Napoleon’s invasion of Russia.
3. Anna Karenina
Anna Karenina stars Keira Knightley and Jude Law in a tragic love story set in Imperial Russia. The film explores the consequences of an extramarital affair within the rigid social structures of the time.
4. The English Patient
The English Patient is a romantic war drama starring Ralph Fiennes and Juliette Binoche. Set during World War II, it tells the story of a critically burned man and the nurse who cares for him, revealing their past lives and loves.
5. Atonement
Atonement is a heartbreaking drama featuring Keira Knightley and James McAvoy. The film follows the repercussions of a false accusation that changes the lives of two lovers and their families forever.
6. Out of Africa
Out of Africa stars Meryl Streep and Robert Redford in a romantic drama set in Kenya during the early 20th century. The film is based on the autobiographical book by Isak Dinesen and explores themes of love and loss in a colonial setting.
7. The Last Emperor
The Last Emperor is a biographical drama about the life of Puyi, the last Emperor of China, starring John Lone and Joan Chen. The film spans his life from his ascension to the throne to his later years as a common citizen.
8. Reds
Reds is a historical drama starring Warren Beatty and Diane Keaton, focusing on the life of journalist John Reed. The film covers his involvement in the Russian Revolution and his romantic relationship with writer Louise Bryant.
9. The Remains of the Day
The Remains of the Day stars Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson in a poignant drama about a butler’s unspoken love for a housekeeper. Set in pre-World War II England, the film explores themes of duty, regret, and missed opportunities.
10. Lawrence of Arabia
Lawrence of Arabia is an epic historical drama starring Peter O’Toole and Alec Guinness. The film chronicles the life of T.E. Lawrence and his role in the Arab Revolt during World War I.
11. The Painted Veil
The Painted Veil features Naomi Watts and Edward Norton in a romantic drama set in 1920s China. The story follows a troubled marriage that finds new meaning during a cholera epidemic.
12. Cold Mountain
Cold Mountain is a Civil War drama starring Jude Law and Nicole Kidman. The film tells the story of a Confederate soldier’s perilous journey home to reunite with his beloved.
13. Legends of the Fall
Legends of the Fall is a sweeping family saga starring Brad Pitt, Anthony Hopkins, and Aidan Quinn. Set in the early 20th century, the film explores the lives and loves of three brothers and their father in the American West.
14. The Age of Innocence
The Age of Innocence stars Daniel Day-Lewis, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Winona Ryder in a romantic drama set in 1870s New York. The film delves into the complexities of love, duty, and societal expectations.
15. The House of the Spirits
The House of the Spirits is a multi-generational drama starring Meryl Streep, Jeremy Irons, and Glenn Close. Based on Isabel Allende’s novel, the film explores the lives of a Chilean family through love, tragedy, and political upheaval.
16. The Piano
The Piano stars Holly Hunter, Harvey Keitel, and Sam Neill in a haunting romantic drama set in 19th century New Zealand. The film follows a mute pianist and her daughter as they navigate life and love in a new land.
