If you’re a fan of period dramas like The Favourite, you’re in for a treat. This genre is rich with captivating stories, intricate costumes, and stellar performances. Below, you’ll find a curated list of 17 movies that will transport you to different eras and keep you thoroughly entertained. The Favourite is just the beginning of your journey into the world of historical cinema.
1. The Duchess
The Duchess stars Keira Knightley as Georgiana Cavendish, the Duchess of Devonshire. The film explores her tumultuous marriage and her involvement in politics and social circles during the late 18th century.
2. Marie Antoinette
Directed by Sofia Coppola, Marie Antoinette stars Kirsten Dunst as the ill-fated queen of France. The movie offers a visually stunning portrayal of her life from her marriage to Louis XVI to the onset of the French Revolution.
3. The Other Boleyn Girl
Starring Natalie Portman and Scarlett Johansson, The Other Boleyn Girl tells the story of Anne and Mary Boleyn, who compete for the affection of King Henry VIII. The film delves into the political and romantic intrigues of the Tudor court.
4. Elizabeth
Elizabeth stars Cate Blanchett as Queen Elizabeth I and chronicles her rise to power. The film showcases the challenges she faces in a male-dominated world and her determination to lead England to prosperity.
5. Atonement
Featuring Keira Knightley and James McAvoy, Atonement is a sweeping romantic drama set before and during World War II. The film explores themes of love, betrayal, and the devastating impact of a single lie.
6. The King’s Speech
The King’s Speech stars Colin Firth as King George VI and Geoffrey Rush as his speech therapist. The film focuses on the king’s struggle to overcome his stammer and deliver a crucial speech during World War II.
7. Pride & Prejudice
Starring Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Bennet, Pride & Prejudice is a beloved adaptation of Jane Austen’s classic novel. The film explores themes of love, class, and societal expectations in 19th-century England.
8. Belle
Belle stars Gugu Mbatha-Raw as Dido Elizabeth Belle, the mixed-race daughter of a British naval officer. The film explores her struggle to find her place in society and her impact on the abolitionist movement in 18th-century England.
9. Dangerous Liaisons
Starring Glenn Close, John Malkovich, and Michelle Pfeiffer, Dangerous Liaisons is a tale of seduction and betrayal set in pre-revolutionary France. The film follows aristocrats who manipulate each other’s romantic lives for sport.
10. Anna Karenina
Anna Karenina stars Keira Knightley as the titular character and is based on Leo Tolstoy’s classic novel. The film explores her tragic love affair with Count Vronsky and the societal pressures that lead to her downfall.
11. The Young Victoria
Starring Emily Blunt as Queen Victoria, The Young Victoria focuses on her early reign and romantic relationship with Prince Albert. The film highlights her struggles to assert her independence and rule effectively.
12. Bright Star
Bright Star stars Abbie Cornish and Ben Whishaw and tells the story of the romance between poet John Keats and Fanny Brawne. The film beautifully captures their passionate but doomed relationship.
13. The Illusionist
Starring Edward Norton and Jessica Biel, The Illusionist is a romantic mystery set in turn-of-the-century Vienna. The film follows a magician who uses his skills to win back the love of his life while outwitting a ruthless crown prince.
14. Shakespeare in Love
Shakespeare in Love stars Gwyneth Paltrow and Joseph Fiennes and imagines a love affair between William Shakespeare and a noblewoman. The film blends romance, comedy, and historical fiction to create a delightful story.
15. Gosford Park
Directed by Robert Altman, Gosford Park features an ensemble cast including Maggie Smith, Helen Mirren, and Clive Owen. The film is a murder mystery set in an English country house in the 1930s, exploring the lives of both the wealthy guests and their servants.
16. Far from the Madding Crowd
Starring Carey Mulligan, Far from the Madding Crowd is an adaptation of Thomas Hardy’s novel. The film follows the independent and headstrong Bathsheba Everdene as she navigates love and life in rural England.
17. The Painted Veil
The Painted Veil stars Naomi Watts and Edward Norton and is set in 1920s China. The film tells the story of a troubled marriage between a doctor and his unfaithful wife, who find redemption and love amidst a cholera epidemic.
