Top 50 Best Medieval Movies Of All Time

"Seven Samurai" is widely regarded as a cinematic masterpiece by acclaimed director Akira Kurosawa, often appearing on lists of the greatest films ever made.

Set during Japan’s turbulent Sengoku period, the film was written, edited, and directed by Kurosawa, and stood out as one of the most expensive productions of its era.

Upon its release, it became the second-highest-grossing film of the year. The story is centered around a village in medieval Japan that constantly faces the threat of bandit raids after each harvest.

When the desperate village elder seeks help, he turns to a ronin—a masterless samurai—to protect their community.

The ronin assembles six other samurai, forming a group dedicated to defending the village. They train the villagers to stand up for themselves and defend their homes with courage and honor.

Though the villagers eventually triumph over the bandits, their victory comes at a steep cost as the samurai lose several of their own in battle.

"Seven Samurai" is often compared to classic Westerns like "High Noon." Critics hail it as one of Kurosawa’s finest works, praising its compelling storytelling, dynamic action sequences, and richly drawn characters.

This epic film delivers an unforgettable blend of drama, action, and humanity, securing its legacy as a true classic.

Ran is a Japanese epic directed by Akira Kurosawa, centering on a medieval warlord who retires and divides his domain among his three sons.

The film, inspired by Shakespeare's King Lear, was in development for ten years under Kurosawa's vision. It stands as his final adaptation of a Shakespearean work.

In the story, Lord Ichimonji splits his fief among his sons Taro, Jiro, and Saburo. While Taro and Jiro accept graciously, Saburo openly challenges his father's plan, leading to his banishment.

As time passes, Taro and Jiro betray their father's trust, breaking their pledge to care for him and coexist peacefully.

The ensuing betrayal spirals into a tragic conflict, ultimately resulting in devastating loss for every character involved.

During the production, Kurosawa, aged 76 and struggling with poor eyesight, relied heavily on assistants and detailed storyboards he prepared over a decade.

Despite suffering the loss of his wife during filming, Kurosawa only paused for one day to mourn before resuming his dedication to the film.

Monty Python, a renowned British comedy troupe, gained fame for their innovative sketch show that captivated audiences with its unique humor.

During the interval between their show's third and fourth seasons, all six members collaborated to write the script for "Monty Python and the Holy Grail."

The resulting film has become a legendary comedy, often regarded as one of the best ever made. It follows King Arthur as he travels across medieval England in search of knights for his legendary round table.

Arthur assembles an eclectic team, including Sir Lancelot the Brave, Sir Galahad the Pure, Sir Belvedere the Wise, and Sir Robin, who is not quite as brave as Lancelot, along with their loyal squires and minstrels.

After establishing the round table, God appears and commands them to embark on a quest for the elusive Holy Grail.

Their journey is filled with absurd and hilarious misadventures, making the film a staple of comedic cinema. Although it became a commercial success, initial critical response was mixed.

One critic hailed the film as "recklessly funny" and occasionally touched by comic genius. Its influence extended to pop culture—even the band Pink Floyd were such ardent fans that they would pause their recording sessions to watch the Monty Python show.

The Seventh Seal is a renowned Swedish medieval drama inspired by the play "Wood Painting."

Written and directed by Ingmar Bergman, this film is widely celebrated as a psychological masterpiece and frequently appears on lists of the greatest movies in world cinema.

The story follows the knight Antonius Block and his squire Jons as they return from the Crusades to discover their homeland ravaged by a relentless plague.

Disillusioned and plagued by doubts about faith, Block encounters Death personified, who has come to claim his life.

Determined to seek answers about God, life, and mortality, Block challenges Death to a game of chess as they journey across the countryside.

This iconic film also reflects Bergman's own struggles with the fear of death. It is said that he was influenced by Akira Kurosawa, a filmmaker he deeply admired, when developing this powerful story.

"Henry V" is a renowned historical play by William Shakespeare, masterfully brought to the screen by Kenneth Branagh, who served as writer, director, and star of the film. Branagh’s adaptation brings Shakespeare’s powerful drama to life with energy and authenticity.

The story follows the young King Henry V, who ascends the English throne after the deaths of his father and brother. Thrust into leadership, Henry is determined to rule wisely and seeks peace in his early reign.

However, when the French King Charles VI insults him, Henry is compelled to lead England into battle against France. Despite facing opposition from his own court, the low morale of his troops, and being outnumbered by the French, Henry famously triumphs at the Battle of Agincourt.

Following his victory, King Charles VI offers the hand of his daughter, Katherine, and the promise of uniting England and France under Henry’s rule. This union marks both a personal and political triumph for Henry.

The film earned widespread acclaim for its powerful performances and faithful adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic. It is widely regarded as one of the finest Shakespearean adaptations ever made.

"Henry V" was nominated for several Academy Awards, including Best Director and Best Actor for Kenneth Branagh, and it won the Oscar for Best Costume Design.

How to Train Your Dragon is a captivating animated medieval fantasy adventure inspired by Cressida Cowell’s beloved children’s book of the same name.

This acclaimed film spawned two successful sequels, turning the franchise into a box office sensation. The story unfolds in the mythical Viking village of Berk, where dragon hunting and training are central to their way of life.

Stoick, the chieftain of Berk, is disappointed in his son Hiccup, who lacks interest in fighting dragons. Hiccup’s world changes when he encounters a rare Night Fury dragon during combat training.

Noticing that the Night Fury, later named Toothless, is unable to fly due to an injured tail wing, Hiccup chooses to help rather than harm the creature. He invents a mechanical tail fin, gradually earning the dragon’s trust and friendship.

The bond between Hiccup and Toothless transforms the perceptions of Berk’s inhabitants, altering their relationship with dragons forever. The film was celebrated both commercially and critically for its heartfelt storytelling and breathtaking animation.

An iconic scene features Toothless hesitating before allowing Hiccup to touch him—interestingly, this touching moment was due to an animation glitch that was so perfect, the filmmakers decided to include it in the final version.

"The Princess Bride" is a beloved medieval fantasy film that follows the journey of two lovers, whose devotion is tested by countless obstacles and fate's persistent interventions.

Adapted from William Goldman's acclaimed novel and masterfully directed by Rob Reiner, the movie weaves adventure with romance and wit.

The story unfolds as a grandfather recounts a fairy tale to his grandson. In the kingdom of Florin, Buttercup, a humble farm girl, is in love with Westley, a gentle farmhand.

When Prince Humperdinck of Florin decides to marry Buttercup, she is heartbroken—believing Westley has died at sea at the hands of the Dread Pirate Roberts.

Unknown to Buttercup, Westley survives by joining the pirates and secretly plots his return to Florin.

Upon his return, Westley is captured by Prince Humperdinck and nearly killed. With the help of his quirky companions—Vizzini, Fezzik, and Inigo Montoya—Westley overcomes peril, survives, and is finally reunited with Buttercup.

The film earned critical praise and has become a cherished cult classic. The chemistry between Cary Elwes and Robin Wright, enhanced by their off-screen camaraderie, adds genuine warmth to their performances.

Interestingly, the iconic role of Fezzik almost went to Arnold Schwarzenegger, but William Goldman insisted on casting André the Giant, perfectly embodying the beloved character.

"Hamlet" (1948) is a cinematic adaptation of William Shakespeare's renowned play, skillfully brought to the screen by Laurence Olivier, who took on the roles of writer, director, and producer.

This landmark film became the first British production to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, also making history as the first non-American winner in the category.

The story follows Prince Hamlet, who is deeply troubled by his mother’s hasty marriage to his uncle Claudius, just a month after the death of Hamlet's father.

While grappling with his grief, Hamlet encounters the ghost of his father, who reveals that Claudius was behind his murder, having poisoned him to claim the throne.

Determined to uncover the truth, Hamlet pretends to be mad, setting off a chain of dramatic events as Claudius conspires with Laertes to eliminate him through a deadly duel and a poisoned cup of wine.

The tragic finale sees Hamlet, Claudius, and Laertes lose their lives, while Hamlet’s mother inadvertently consumes the poisoned wine and dies as well.

This adaptation was groundbreaking, being the first sound film version of Shakespeare’s play. While some criticized its deviations from the original text, it received widespread acclaim from critics for its artistry and powerful performances.

"Kagemusha," or "Shadow Warrior," is a remarkable historical drama set during the tumultuous Sengoku era of Japan. The film presents a gripping narrative inspired by true events from this period of intense political intrigue and warfare.

Directed, written, and produced in partnership with legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, the project nearly stalled due to budget constraints. Fortunately, George Lucas and Francis Ford Coppola intervened, successfully persuading 20th Century Fox to provide funding in exchange for international distribution rights.

The story begins with Takeda Nobukado saving a petty thief from execution, presenting him to the feared warlord Takeda Shingen. This thief is subsequently trained to act as Shingen’s "Kagemusha," or shadow double.

As Takeda Shingen is assassinated during a siege against Tokugawa Ieyasu, only his trusted generals and Nobukado know the truth. They install the Kagemusha in Shingen’s place, deceiving both their enemies and their own warriors to maintain the clan's strength.

Though the impersonation succeeds for a time, the deception is uncovered. Despite being exiled as an imposter, the Kagemusha remains loyal and ultimately sacrifices himself on the battlefield in honor of Shingen.

"Kagemusha" earned multiple prestigious nominations, including the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and BAFTAs. The film also captured several major wins at Cannes, the César Awards, David di Donatello Awards, BAFTA, and Mainichi Film Concours, among others.

"El Cid" is a grand epic that delves into the legendary story of Don Rodrigo Diaz de Vivar, who would become known as El Cid, meaning "The Lord." Set in the 11th century, the film depicts the journey of this renowned Castilian knight who faithfully served King Ferdinand I the Great.

During a pivotal battle, Rodrigo rescues two Muslim emirs and chooses to release them after securing a peace oath with neighboring territories. This powerful act of mercy provokes outrage among his fellow noblemen, who accuse Rodrigo of treason, despite the king's steadfast trust in him.

After King Ferdinand's death, the kingdom is thrown into further turmoil as the invading Muslim leader Ibn Yusuf orchestrates conflict by framing one prince for the murder of another. Amid this chaos, Rodrigo—now known as El Cid—is exiled from Spain, only to be called back when his heroism is needed to defend Valencia from invasion.

The film earned three Academy Award nominations: Art Direction, Musical Score, and Original Song. Charlton Heston was handpicked for the title role, a casting choice the producers were adamant about. Heston later commented on the film’s progression, noting with humor that while he visibly aged as the narrative unfolded, his co-star Sophia Loren, playing his wife, retained her timeless beauty.

"Richard III" is an adaptation of the renowned play by William Shakespeare. In 1955, the legendary Laurence Olivier took on the roles of writer, director, producer, and lead actor for this film, making it a cornerstone of his celebrated Shakespearean trilogy alongside "Henry V" and "Hamlet."

Interestingly, "Richard III" is the least celebrated entry of Olivier's trilogy. It is notable for being the only one among the three that did not win an Academy Award.

The story centers on Richard III, the younger brother of King Edward IV of England. Thanks to his remarkable military skills, Richard helps his brother secure the throne and stabilize the kingdom.

These events, however, plant the seeds of rivalry and mistrust between the brothers. Driven by ambition and envy, Richard becomes determined to seize the crown and meticulously orchestrates a plot to gain power.

The film remains true to the original Shakespearean play, opening with a memorable nine-minute soliloquy performed by Olivier. Notably, during this iconic scene, Olivier accidentally dropped the crown but cleverly incorporated the mishap into his performance, enhancing the mood and setting the tone of the film.

"The Northman" is a 2022 American epic historical action thriller that follows the tale of Amleth, a Viking prince driven by the need to avenge his father's death.

Set against the rich backdrop of Norse mythology, the film delves into compelling themes of destiny, vengeance, and the supernatural forces shaping Amleth's path.

After escaping his uncle's violent coup, Amleth grows into a fierce Viking berserker. Guided by a mystical Seeress, he discovers that his fate is uniquely linked with that of a Maiden-King, adding a deeper layer to his quest.

Amleth ultimately confronts his uncle in a dramatic battle at the Gates of Hel. Though he is gravely wounded, he gains peace from a vision of his family, symbolizing his acceptance into Valhalla.

The film received widespread acclaim, praised for its direction, screenplay, striking cinematography, immersive musical score, and stellar performances.

Despite a modest box office run, "The Northman" achieved success and built a strong following through its popularity in post-theatrical releases.

"The Green Knight" transports viewers into the world of Arthurian legends, focusing on the epic tale of Sir Gawain and the mysterious Green Knight. This film offers a fresh, modern take on the classic 14th-century narrative, bringing the legendary knights of the round table to life with renewed depth and artistry.

At its heart, the story presents a formidable challenge to King Arthur’s knights, searching for the noblest among them. Sir Gawain, Arthur’s impulsive and daring nephew, boldly steps forward to accept the quest, shaping his journey of bravery and self-discovery.

The film meticulously follows Gawain’s trials, highlighting the character’s personal struggle to define his worth and become the greatest knight of all. As noted by a Vulture critic, the narrative explores the idea of seeking greatness from external sources, while ultimately reminding us that personal identity is inescapable.

Critics praised "The Green Knight" for its authenticity and craftsmanship, though some viewers felt the pacing was slower than expected. Nonetheless, its thought-provoking themes and atmospheric storytelling have secured the film a notable place among modern medieval cinema.

Mongol: The Rise of Genghis Khan is a gripping Russian epic that explores the formative years and ascent to power of the legendary Mongol leader, Genghis Khan.

This international production is a collaboration between Russia, Kazakhstan, and Germany. The story opens with young Temujin, journeying alongside his father to select a bride for himself.

Tragedy strikes on their return when Temujin's father is betrayed and murdered by his own lieutenant, who seizes leadership of their tribe.

Temujin endures imprisonment and tremendous hardship. Fueled by sheer determination, he perseveres, gathering loyal followers and assembling a formidable army.

Through unyielding courage, Temujin unites the Mongol tribes, establishing himself as the formidable Genghis Khan. The film earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.

Filmed in China's Mongol autonomous region, the movie is praised by critics for its breathtaking landscapes and compelling, intense battle sequences that convey raw energy and realism.

"Elizabeth" is a gripping biographical drama that chronicles the early life and reign of Queen Elizabeth I of England and Ireland, famously known as the Virgin Queen. Revered during her rule, Elizabeth became a symbol of strength and resilience.

While the film takes some creative liberties with historical facts, it compellingly depicts Elizabeth's transformation from vulnerable royal to powerful monarch. Elizabeth, the Protestant half-sister of the Catholic Queen Mary, is thrust into power after Mary's death and her own release from house arrest.

The new queen's ascension shatters the religious status quo, stirring deep conflict between Catholic and Protestant factions at court. In the midst of political turmoil and attempts on her life, Elizabeth quickly learns she must rule with determination and independence.

Rejecting marriage proposals to maintain her sovereignty, Elizabeth asserts that she is married to her country. The movie follows her journey as she champions religious equality and secures her authority.

"Elizabeth" received critical acclaim, earning six Academy Award nominations and winning for Best Makeup. The film was also recognized at the BAFTAs, Golden Globes, and SAG Awards, among others.

"Gladiator" (2000) is an epic historical drama directed by Ridley Scott. The film tells the story of Maximus Decimus Meridius, a Roman general betrayed by Commodus, the ambitious son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.

After being reduced to slavery, Maximus is forced to fight as a gladiator. He rises through the ranks, driven by a desire for revenge against those responsible for his family's murder and the emperor's death.

The film stars Russell Crowe and Joaquin Phoenix, and is praised for its outstanding performances, direction, visuals, screenplay, and gripping action sequences.

"Gladiator" grossed over $503 million worldwide and won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Crowe. Its immense success revitalized the careers of its cast and crew and established the film as a cultural touchstone.

Maximus’s journey of vengeance and redemption, set against the backdrop of ancient Rome, captivated audiences and remains a powerful and visually stunning cinematic experience.

Braveheart is a sweeping historical epic that chronicles the life of William Wallace, drawing inspiration from the 15th-century poem "The Actes and Deidis of the Illustre and Vallyeant Campion Schir William Wallace" by Blind Harry.

While the screenplay takes creative liberties and contains several historical inaccuracies, it vividly depicts the era during King Edward I's reign when England sought to unify with Scotland and end the long-standing conflict.

The film portrays the fierce resistance of Scottish rebels, who, unwilling to be subjugated by the English, fought tirelessly for their freedom under Wallace's leadership.

With the support of Robert the Bruce, Wallace managed to unite the diverse Scottish tribes and factions, rallying them under a single banner against King Edward I.

Braveheart received widespread acclaim, earning nominations and wins at prestigious ceremonies including 10 Academy Awards, seven BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and several others such as the Directors Guild and Saturn Awards.

This film stands as one of the most inspiring examples of medieval cinema, motivating audiences with its powerful portrayal of courage and determination.

"The Last Duel" is adapted from Eric Jager's book, The Last Duel: A True Story of Trial by Combat in Medieval France. This compelling film brings to life a real historical account set in medieval France.

The screenplay was a collaborative effort by Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Nicole Holofcener, with Holofcener contributing a vital female perspective to the narrative.

The story centers on Jean de Carrouges, a knight at the court of King Charles VI, who challenges Jacques Le Gris to a duel to defend the honor of his wife after she accuses Jacques of sexual assault. Le Gris, protected by his influential lord Pierre d’Alençon, forces Jean to seek justice from the king himself.

The film unfolds in three distinct chapters, each offering a unique viewpoint of the characters and a deepening insight into the political and personal tensions at play.

This marked the first time Damon and Affleck co-wrote a screenplay since their Oscar-winning "Good Will Hunting." Despite positive critical reviews and its thought-provoking approach to issues like systemic misogyny, the film struggled commercially at the box office.

Critics generally lauded the film for its strong performances and nuanced script, though some felt its impact could have been even greater.

"Becket" tells the dramatic story of a turbulent era when the church and the monarchy battled for dominance in medieval England. The film adapts Jean Anouilh's celebrated play, "Becket or the Honour of God," bringing this historic conflict to life with intensity and nuance.

At the heart of the narrative is King Henry II of England, renowned for his efforts to redefine the relationship between the crown and the church. In a strategic move, he appoints his trusted friend, Thomas Becket, as Archbishop of Canterbury, hoping to exert greater control over church affairs.

However, the plan unravels when Becket develops a deep sense of loyalty to the church and refuses to support Henry’s policies. This growing rift ultimately leads to Becket's assassination in 1170—a turning point that shocked the nation.

In the aftermath, Henry petitions for Becket’s canonization, cementing his legacy as a martyr. The film was widely praised by both audiences and critics, earning eleven Academy Award nominations and winning Best Adapted Screenplay. Interestingly, Richard Burton, the film’s star, famously remarked that he felt more naturally suited to play King Henry II rather than Saint Thomas Becket.

"Ivanhoe" (1952) is a sweeping historical adventure adapted from Sir Walter Scott's classic novel. The film brings to life the medieval world with thrilling action and timeless themes of loyalty and heroism.

The plot centers on Wilfred of Ivanhoe, who embarks on a daring mission to rescue King Richard the Lionheart after he is kidnapped by Leopold of Austria and held for a substantial ransom.

Despite Richard's Norman lineage, Ivanhoe—a Saxon—shows unwavering bravery, overcoming deep-seated animosities and gathering allies to free the captive king.

Facing opposition from rival factions, Ivanhoe's determination and courage ultimately lead to Richard's release. The movie masterfully depicts the tension and intrigue of medieval England.

Acclaimed by critics, "Ivanhoe" earned nominations for Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Cinematography, and Best Music. It was also recognized at the Directors Guild Awards and the Golden Globes, with some praising it as a proud homage to both Walter Scott and Britain.

Brave is an animated Pixar film about a medieval Scottish princess who refuses to conform to tradition and yearns to pave her own destiny.

The story is written by Brenda Chapman combining Scottish legends of Will o’ Wisps and more.

Princess Merida is more comfortable with a bow and arrows. Yet, her mother wishes she were a proper lady.

As the time for her marriage nears, the conflict between Merida and her mother increases.

In a rash and impulsive decision, Merida uses a witch to put a beastly curse on her mother.

Now, she has only three days to save her mother from remaining a bear. Brave was well received by the fans and the critics.

They gave positive reviews for the film. They agreed that Brave offers something for fantasy lovers, fairytale fans, and discerning young women about self-reliance and communication.

Black Death is an action horror set during the time of the outbreak of bubonic plague in England.

Due to the heavy influence of the church, a group of soldiers is sent to inspect a remote village that has remained plague-free.

They suspect the actions of the Devil are keeping the people safe. The original script, written by Dario Poloni, shows that Satan was in the village.

The priest sent to guide the soldiers ends up in Hell for his sins. But, the director, Christopher Smith, changed a huge portion of the script.

He depicted Hell as just a state of mind that the priest gets stuck into due to guilt.

The film received favorable reviews, and one critic wrote that the movie poses some interesting questions about faith and religion.

It delivers on its promise of fire and brimstone with its action and horror. It is an enjoyable fare with Sean Bean, Eddie Redmayne, Carice Van Houten, and more.

The King is a historical drama set in England in the early 15th century. The story is based on the play Henriad, written by William Shakespeare.

The film was produced by Brad Pitt, Joel Edgerton, the co-writer, David Michod, the co-writer and director, and others.

The film starts with Henry V of England as a reluctant prince of Wales who visits his father, Henry IV of England.

Later, after the death of his brother and father, Henry V became the King of England.

He chooses a peaceful path and ignores the provocations from France. Yet, when push comes to shove, Henry V attacks France, and in a brilliant strategic move against the French army, he defeats them in the Battle of Agincourt.

France accedes to England, and King Charles VI gives his daughter’s hand in marriage. Thus making him the sovereign of England and France.

The film received favorable reviews, with the critics hailing the strong performances of Timothee Chalamet, Joel Edgerton, and others.

The character of Sir John Falstaff was a fictional one, and it was inspired by Sir John Oldcastle, who was a companion of Henry V.

Excalibur is a medieval fantasy movie based on the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.

The story is co-written, directed, and produced by John Boorman and based on the Arthurian classic Le Morte d’Arthur, by Thomas Mallory.

The film starts with Merlin helping Uther Pendragon get away after an affair with the wife of the Duke of Cornwall.

He is killed by the associates of Cornwall, and before dying, he stuffs his sword, Excalibur, into the stone.

Merlin proclaims that only the son of Uther can take the sword and become the ruler.

Later, Arthur pulls out the sword and becomes the king. He gathers brave knights who swear allegiance to him, thus creating the knights of the round table.

Trouble soon comes in the form of Morgana le Fay, who is Arthur’s half-sister, and the secret affair between Lancelot and Guinevere.

The reviews for the film were critical of the characters, although they also praised the visual style and effects used in the film.

The film did decent business at the box office, standing as the 18th highest-grosser of the year.

The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die is a 2023 British historical drama film based on the The Saxon Stories by Bernard Cornwell. It is a sequel to the television series of the same name. The film follows the continuing adventures of Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Alexander Dreymon), a Saxon warrior who fights for the unification of England. 

In the film, Uhtred and his comrades must contend with the death of King Edward and the subsequent power struggle that ensues. They must also face off against new enemies, including the Vikings and the Danes.

The film was released on Netflix on April 14, 2023. It received positive reviews from critics, who praised its action sequences, performances, and direction.

Ladyhawke is a fantasy adventure set in Medieval Italy under the sway of a corrupt bishop of Aquila.

Richard Donner directed the movie based on the story written by Edward Khmara. Gaston is a young thief who was imprisoned by the Bishop of Aquila for stealing.

He escapes prison and runs into an odd couple. Etienne of Navarre and his hawk rescue Gaston from the guards and request his help to assassinate the Bishop.

Initially, Gaston refuses to help, but he finds out that the hawk is, in fact, Lady Isabeau.

Navarre and Isabeau love each other, and in a fit of jealousy, the Bishop curses them to turn into animals.

Isabeau is a hawk by day, and Navarre is a wolf by night. Finally, all three set out to reverse the curse.

The film was a disappointment at the box office. Critics blamed the unsteady pacing of the narrative for the failure.

They, however, loved the romantic fairytale appeal of the film and the swordplay and sorcery too.

"Valhalla Rising," directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, is a visually stunning and enigmatic journey set in 10th century Scandinavia. Mads Mikkelsen stars as One Eye, a mute warrior with a mysterious past, who escapes captivity with a young boy.

Together, they embark on a surreal odyssey, encountering violence, mysticism, and the brutal landscapes of Norse wilderness. The film's sparse dialogue and atmospheric cinematography create an immersive and symbolic experience, blurring the lines between reality and the metaphysical.

As they traverse through desolation and tribal conflicts, "Valhalla Rising" unfolds as a haunting exploration of existentialism and the human condition, leaving viewers captivated by its dark beauty and lingering sense of ambiguity. The film received a rating of 71% on Rotten Tomatoes, and it was praisedd for being and original film that combined fantasy, creativity, and grit.
 

Outlaw King is the story of Robert the Bruce, who rebelled against the English army to become the King of Scotland.

The Scots and the English kings have always been at odds with each other, and after years of battle, the old Scottish lords surrendered to King Edward I of England.

Although the old accepted English rule, the young Scotsmen were not willing to accede. When William Wallace was quartered, there was an overwhelming public outrage against the English.

Using this momentum, Robert the Bruce rebels against the crown and is declared an outlaw.

Despite the larger and superior army, the English forces lost to Scotland due to the guerilla warfare of Bruce.

Critics felt that the movie was sufficiently accurate in the warfare, gore, and battle scenes, yet they missed many historical facts about Robert the Bruce.

The film premiered at Toronto International Film Festival. After this, the director removed twenty minutes worth of scenes, including an eight-minute chase and the encounter between Robert and William Wallace in the forest.

300 is a movie about a typical David versus Goliath fight, where 300 Spartans stood between 100,000 Persian warriors and Greece.

This battle was the famous last stand in history. King Leonides of Sparta is the point of entry for the invading Persian army into Greece.

The Persian King, Xerxes, came with a force of over a hundred thousand men, and as a last stand, the Spartans could gather only 300 strong men, along with 700 hundred Thespians and 400 Thebans.

The film was a Zack Synder film with stylish imagery, gory battle, and fight sequences.

The film highlighted the Spartan motto of returning from a war with your shield or on your shield.

This implied that everyone would die fighting but never give up. 300 was the highest-grossing R-rated comic book before the release of Deadpool.

A Knight’s Tale is a medieval story that revolves around a jousting tournament and the quest of a peasant to participate in a nobleman’s sport.

The film, however, became famous for its anachronism. It employs 1970s rock music and pop culture references during the medieval tournament to create an interesting contrast.

The tale is supposed to be inspired by Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. In fact, the title is taken from this novel.

It is a simple tale of a young squire who takes the place of a nobleman in the jousting tournament when he suddenly expires.

The squire makes lasting and valuable friends during his tournament. He meets people like Geoffrey Chaucer, Sir Thomas Colville, or Edward the Black Prince.

The film received mixed reviews, but the audiences loved it. Critics felt that once we look past the anachronisms, the movie plot is quite plain and simple.

Many of the characters from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales are included in the film.

Troy is based on the epic poem, Iliad, written by Homer. It is about the war between the Greek and the Trojan empires.

This medieval romance, war, and betrayal story is part of Greek and Roman mythology. But, the director Wolfgang Petersen and writer, David Benioff, ensured that the mythology aspect was maintained at a minimum.

Thereby, the story was dealt with as a simple story of warring kingdoms. Paris, the son of King Priam, falls in love with Helen and abducts her from under the nose of Menelaus, the King of Sparta.

This angers him, and he takes the help of his brother King Agamemnon to attack Troy.

Since Troy is a strong kingdom with warriors like Hector and Paris, Agamemnon gathers many heroes like Achilles, Ajax, Odysseus, and more to launch the attack.

According to Iliad, each hero had a deity, who supported them, so Gods intervened in every fight.

But for this movie, the director removed the preternatural angle and presented it as a war between nations.

The film was nominated for Best Costumes at the Academy Awards, but the critics felt that the story lacked depth and an emotional angle.

Conan The Barbarian is a character from Pulp Magazine with the same name. He was created by Robert E. Howard and adapted into the movie based on the script from Oliver Stone and John Milius.

Conan is an orphan who witnesses the destruction of his family and tribe at the hands of Thulsa Doom and his followers.

Although he is turned into a slave, Conan retains his need for revenge and builds muscle and strength as he grows.

Soon he becomes an unstoppable warrior, and with his best pal Sabotai, he sets out to end the sect of Thulsa Doom.

The film received mixed reviews from critics and audiences too. The screenwriting and acting were panned by all quarters, yet the production design and overall presentation appealed to them.

Despite the odds, the film was a success and pushed Arnold Schwarzenegger into international stardom.

Kingdom of Heaven is a film about the crusades. The film is set in Jerusalem, in the 12th century.

Sultan Ayyubid sultan Saladin and the Christian ruler Baldwin IV are fighting for control over the holy land and for peace in the Kingdom of Heaven.

The film chronicles the efforts of Balian of Ibelin, along with the templar knights who fight to defend Jerusalem from the Muslim invaders.

Even though they lose sight of the end goal of peace and brotherhood, the leper king Baldwin enforces his will and maintains a brief period of tentative peace and brotherhood between the knights and the Muslim ruler, Saladin.

The film has been praised for the performances of its cast. Critics highly praised Edward Norton, Jeremy Irons, Ghassan Massoud, Eva Green, etc., for their stellar performances.

Yet critics felt that the film lacked depth of emotion and faith.

Solomon Kane is a collaboration between British-French-Czech companies, and it is based on a character with the same name from Pulp Magazine.

Solomon Kane was created in 1928 by Robert E. Howard for the magazine and was adapted into a film in 2009.

Kane was a ruthless mercenary whose life was forfeited to Lucifer after a life of sin.

When he returns to England, Kane renounces violence and joins a monastery. The only way for him to earn redemption is if he can save a puritan girl.

So, he sets out to become a puritan avenger. This film by MJ Basset received average reviews, and critics felt that the script was a little formulaic.

The narrative, however, was overcome with entertaining and exciting gore with a solid performance from Purefoy.

The movie won the Audience Jury Award at Fantasporto 2010.

Andrei Rublev is a Russian film based on the 15th-century icon painter. The film is directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, and it is a historical biography of the life and times of Andrei Rublev.

The film is a realistic portrayal of Russian society, politics, religion, and artistic freedom. The story follows the turbulent period of medieval Russia that witnessed endless fighting between Princes and an invasion from the Tatar people.

The film sought to portray Christianity as an axiom of Russian historic identity as per Andrei Tarkovsky.

He drew heavily from his own religious experiences while making this film. The film faced a lot of difficulties in getting released in Russia.

It was also not allowed to be shown abroad. The heavy censorship during the Brezhnev era sought to repress the film.

The Return of Martin Guerre is a French movie about identity theft during medieval times.

The film is based on the case of Martin Guerre, who was a French peasant.

It is the earliest recorded case of Identity Theft in France. Martin Guerre had left his hometown, wife, and child to serve in the French army.

He was away for many years and finally returned one day. As he was able to accurately recognize his family, friends, and recount childhood stories, everybody believed him despite rumors from neighboring villages.

One day, after an argument with his uncle about an old debt, the case of identity theft was brought before the court.

Just when the verdict was to be given in favor of Martin Guerre, the real guy returned and claimed the identity.

The film was nominated as Best Foreign Language film by the US National Board of Review of Motion Pictures.

The movie was also remade in Hollywood with Richard Gere and Jodie Foster, set during the American Civil War.

Willow is a dark fantasy movie about a quest to stop an evil queen who aims for world domination.

The story was conceived by George Lucas, who worked with Bob Dolman to create the script for Willow.

He then contacted Ron Howard to direct the film. A prophecy is made that a baby of the ‘tall people’ will bring the downfall of the evil sorceress queen Bevmorda.

The baby from the prophecy is rescued from the river. She was set adrift on the river, away from the hounds of the evil queen.

This baby lands in the arms of a farmer from the ‘little people's village, and it becomes his quest to help the baby fulfill its destiny.

The film was a success at the box office, but the critics were hard on the direction of Ron Howard.

They opined that the director paid more attention to special effects, and the pace of the story was slow.

Despite the commendable performance from Warwick Davis and the scintillating special effects, the story could not reach its full potential.

The Lion in Winter is another movie about the rule of Henry II of England.

This story is about the latter years of Henry II when he has to choose a successor to his throne.

It is based on the play of the same name, written by James Goldman. In the winter of 1183, during the Christmas celebrations, Henry II was engulfed by personal and political turmoil regarding the heir to the throne.

He had released Eleanor of Aquitaine from house arrest for this Christmas, and her children came with many schemes and plots to pressure Henry II to choose one.

The film was very successful, both commercially and critically. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Actress.

This was the third Academy Award for Katherine Hepburn, who played Eleanor of Aquitaine.

Highlander is a dark fantasy movie made by the British filmmaker Russell Mulcahy. It is based on the story by Gregory Widen.

Set in the highlands of Medieval Scotland, the film moves forward to New York in 1985 for its climax.

In medieval Scotland, a highlander, Conner Macleod, is killed but gets resurrected the next day. Thinking that he is a demon, his highland clan banishes him.

He meets Ramirez, who enlightens him about his immortality and about other immortals like him.

He also teaches Macleod sword fighting and how to kill an immortal. After surviving all these centuries, Macleod is informed about the Gathering.

That is where immortals fight to the death for a prize. During these fights, Macleod also meets his arch-nemesis Kurgan who killed Ramirez and raped his wife.

You need to watch the film to see who wins and what the prize is.

The film is a cheesy, cliched movie about revenge, good and evil. These were the reasons the critics didn't praised the movie.

Surprisingly, the audience loved it for these same reasons too.

DragonHeart is a fantasy adventure movie about a boy whose life was saved by a dragon’s heart, hoping to make him into a great and benevolent king.

The boy, however, proves to be more vicious and evil than his father. This prompts his mentor to become a dragonslayer to avenge the loss of an innocent heart.

The film received mixed reviews, although it was a box-office success. The audience loved the engaging drama and the special effects.

However, the critics complained that the movie was, in a way, childish. They said it is for kids who believe in dragons, with light-hearted joy and cheerfulness.

The film received particular praise for its special effects. The dragon was very believable, and the voice of Sir Sean Connery as the dragon was great.

The production team took over 200 photographs of Connery to make the dragon look and feel like him when he speaks.

Here is another adaptation of Macbeth that was made in 1948. This is also based on the play of the same name by William Shakespeare.

This version was written, directed, and produced by Orson Welles. The story was the same as the play, but this version was plagued by many difficulties.

To name a few troubles, there were budget constraints and rerecording of dialogues. The studios only gave Welles $700,000 to make the movie.

At the time of release, they pulled it back as the timing coincided with another Shakespearan movie of Hamlet by Laurence Olivier.

The studios were also not happy with the Scottish accent used in the movie. However, now the film has garnered rave critical reviews. 

Macbeth is another Shakespearan play that was adapted into a movie. Roman Polanski suffered a major tragedy when his wife and unborn child were killed by the Manson family.

He used his grief to create this film making it particularly gory and violent. The film follows the tragic story of betrayal and greed for power in the court of the Scottish monarchy during the middle ages.

Based on the prophecy from three witches and spurred by his wife, Macbeth rebels against the sovereign and usurps the throne.

The film was a box-office bomb, and many felt that Shakespearan adaptations were not a viable option anymore.

The film received mixed reviews due to the excessive violence and nudity in the film.

The movie was the first time Playboy Productions made a Shakespearean movie.

King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is a retelling of the famous story of the discovery of King Arthur from the Arthurian legend.

The film is set in a time before the Saxon invasion from the south. The story is steeped in myths of wizards, mages, and warlocks.

Uther Pendragon, the King, sets out to kill the evil warlock Mordred with the help of Merlin’s sword.

Though he successfully kills Mordred, Uther and his wife also died. They are betrayed by Vortigern, his brother, who covets the throne.

Arthur escapes and lives in Londinium with the prostitutes in a brothel. Despite this, Arthur cannot escape his destiny, and when he pulls out the sword from the stone, Vortigern is aware the rightful heir is back for the throne.

The critics had mixed reviews of the film. They felt that Arthur was portrayed as a “death metal warrior-king”, a deviation from the legendary wise warrior king who saved Britain.

The audiences also did not dig this Arthur, and the film did not do well at the box office.

Warrior’s End is a story of bravery and valor in the face of difficulty, set in Medieval times.

The film was written and directed by first-time director Bjorn Anderson. The movie was made on a shoestring budget of just $50,000.

Prince Andreas of Midea has been sent on a tour of the country with his friends and escorts.

While surveying the land, the prince stumbles upon an invading army from the neighboring country of Kilea.

He is far from the capital, and he does not have time to wait for the army to reach them.

He has to take quick and decisive action if he wants to save his kingdom.

The film premiered at Seattle’s True Independent Film Festival and won the Mt. Rainier award.

The director quit his day job at the age of 26 due to his love for filmmaking.

He made the movie with a lot of volunteer work from the Seattle Knights troupe.

Heaven and Earth is a Japanese film set in feudal Japan during the battles of Kawanakajima.

During the Sengoku period in Japan, the daimyo Kagetora, later known as Uesugi Kenshin, was challenged in a series of conflicts for control over the plains of Kawanakajima.

Uesugi Kenshin was the daimyo or warlord of the Uesugi clan and protected his family and lands in the province of Echigo with an iron fist.

However, Warlord Takeda Shingen of the Kai province attacked the nearby province of Shinano and triggered an epic battle with Kenshin that lasted for eleven years.

This film was the highest-grossing movie in Japan in 1990, and it earned over 5 billion yen in the domestic market itself.

The film set a Guinness Book of World record for using more than 800 horses in a single set.

The film was nominated for six awards at the Award of the Japanese Academy and won the Best Film at Mainichi Film Concours.

Arn: The Knight Templar is a Swedish movie that chronicles the life of a young man who is sentenced to become a Knight Templar.

Arn is the son of the Folkung dynasty, and he grows up in a monastery under the tutelage of a Knight Templar.

As he assists his friend, Knut, in his quest for the throne, Arn is accused of premarital relations with his fiance.

As a punishment, Arn is sentenced to serve in the Holy Land crusades as a Knight Templar.

The film was one of the most costly films from Sweden. Critics were appreciative of the movie and praised the exciting plot and convincing acting.

However, they found the role of the Knight Templar was not handled correctly. The Templars were not known as being tolerant towards crusaders from different ethnicities, nor were they forgiving people.

Romeo and Juliet are one of William Shakespeare's most famous plays. This medieval tragedy is set in the Italian town of Verona between the warring noble families of Montague and Capulet.

This version of the play is the most successful production at that time by Franco Zeffirelli.

Two of Verona’s top noble families, Montague and Capulet, are feuding with each other while their children, Romeo and Juliet, are falling in love.

Despite the stiff opposition from everyone around them, Romeo and Juliet continue to meet and remain devoted.

Yet, in a bizarre tale of confusion, they both end up dying, thinking that the other is dead.

Laurence Olivier was so impressed with the work of Franco Zeffirelli that he agreed to work in this film, uncredited.

He is the narrator and the voice of Antonio Pierfederici. The film won an Academy Award for Best Cinematography and Best Costume Design.

It also won Golden Globe for Best Lead Actor and Actress.