Slavery is an evil practice of stripping humans of all their rights and binding them under the will and ownership of another human master.
A slave has to work without any remuneration or respite for their master, who usually gives them little to no human rights.
The practice of slavery has been abolished in all parts of the world since the 20th century. However, throughout history, there were many civilizations and empires where slavery was the backbone and driving force.
Most commonly, the Roman empire, the British empire, American history, the Egyptian empires, etc., were built on the hard work, sweat, and blood of slaves.
This shameful aspect of our history has been recorded and documented through Hollywood movies. Today, ENTOIN brings you a list of all those movies that are based on the theme of slavery or have depicted the life and struggles of slaves.
Although it is a sad and shameful thing, we need to identify and acknowledge it so that we do not repeat it in the future.
Here is the list of the most popular movies on the topic of slavery that have caught the fancy of the audiences or have tugged at our heartstrings and made us take note of them.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Steve McQueen
Release Date:
Fri Nov 8 2013
Star Cast:
Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Kenneth Williams, Michael Fassbender
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$187,733,202
"12 Years a Slave" powerfully recounts the real-life journey of Solomon Northup, a free African American living happily with his family in New York before his life is shattered by betrayal and abduction.
Based on Northup's gripping memoir, the film follows his struggle after being kidnapped and sold into slavery in Washington D.C. Lauded by critics, it earned nine Academy Award nominations and won three, notably including Best Picture.
Spanning twelve torturous years on Southern plantations, Northup faces relentless hardship and brutality as he clings to hope and fights for freedom. His eventual emancipation comes at a heartbreaking price, forever altering his family and life.
Recommended:

DramaRomanceWar
Director:
Victor Fleming, George Cukor, Sam Wood
Release Date:
Wed Jan 17 1940
Star Cast:
Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Thomas Mitchell
Budget:
$3,977,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$402,382,193
"Gone With The Wind" is a landmark American Civil War epic, adapted from Margaret Mitchell's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel. Renowned for its sweeping narrative, the film vividly portrays a nation grappling with war, change, and the enduring complexities of the human spirit.
Directed by Victor Fleming, this cinematic classic not only secured ten Academy Awards—including Best Director—but also left an indelible mark on the history of filmmaking, celebrated for its lavish production and powerful storytelling.
The film centers on the intertwined lives of two Southern plantation families, skillfully depicting their struggle for survival and adaptation during the chaos and transformation brought by the Civil War era.
At its core is Scarlett O'Hara, a headstrong Southern belle whose turbulent love for Ashley Wilkes propels her on a journey of passion, resilience, and heartbreak. While Ashley chooses to marry his cousin, Melanie, Scarlett's longing leads her to wed the enigmatic Rhett Butler—yet her heart remains conflicted.
Set against the sweeping backdrop of war and social upheaval, "Gone With The Wind" explores how personal ambitions and relationships are tested and changed forever by the upheavals of history.
Recommended:

DocumentaryCrimeHistory
Director:
Ava DuVernay
Release Date:
Fri Oct 7 2016
Star Cast:
Melina Abdullah, Michelle Alexander, Cory Booker
Box Office (Worldwide):
$566
"13th," directed by Ava DuVernay, is a groundbreaking documentary that explores the historical and lasting impact of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The film shines a spotlight on the amendment's loophole, which has been manipulated to justify modern-day exploitation and inequality.
With compelling research, the documentary traces how African Americans have been disproportionately affected by the criminal justice system, leading to significant disparities in conviction and incarceration rates.
DuVernay skillfully highlights how the amendment's clause permitting involuntary servitude as punishment for crime enabled injustices such as convict leasing to flourish in post-slavery America.
By examining the evolution of Jim Crow laws, lynching, disenfranchisement, and the war on drugs, "13th" reveals how systemic oppression has been perpetuated in various forms across American history.
Recommended:

AdventureBiographyDrama
Director:
Stanley Kubrick, Anthony Mann
Release Date:
Thu Nov 17 1960
Star Cast:
Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons
Budget:
$12,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,844,917
"Spartacus" is an epic historical drama set at the peak of the Roman Empire, inspired by Howard Fast’s acclaimed novel. The film vividly recreates the dramatic events surrounding the Third Servile War, a significant turning point in ancient history.
The screenplay was penned by Dalton Trumbo, who boldly contributed to the project while enduring blacklisting by the House Un-American Activities Committee, adding deeper significance to the movie's themes of resistance and freedom.
The film delves into the brutal world of Roman slavery, examining the daily ordeals, suffering, and loss of identity endured by the oppressed masses who sustained the empire.
At its heart is the story of Spartacus, a gladiator who, pushed past his breaking point by relentless cruelty, leads a courageous army of slaves in open revolt, sparking the legendary uprising known as the Third Servile War.
Recommended:

AdventureComedyDrama
Director:
Radu Jude
Release Date:
Fri Jan 22 2016
Star Cast:
Teodor Corban, Mihai Comanoiu, Toma Cuzin
Budget:
€1,250,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$350,110
Aferim! is a Romanian film that was submitted as the country's official entry for the 88th Academy Awards in the Best Foreign Language Film category.
The movie is a unique blend of comedy and drama set in medieval times, offering an authentic glimpse into the era's way of life. The story follows Carfin Pandolean, a Romani slave who escapes from the estate of a powerful boyar named Iordache.
To recover his runaway slave, the mayor recruits a police officer, Costandin, to pursue Carfin. Claiming that Carfin had an affair with his wife, the mayor insists the fugitive be captured and brought back for punishment.

Drama
Director:
Haile Gerima
Release Date:
Fri May 28 1993
Star Cast:
Kofi Ghanaba, Oyafunmike Ogunlano, Alexandra Duah
Budget:
$1,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$2,198,984
"Sankofa" is a powerful Ethiopian film directed and written by the acclaimed filmmaker Haile Gerima. It earned a nomination for the prestigious Golden Bear award at the Berlin International Film Festival and is widely recognized as an essential film that broadens viewers’ cinematic horizons.
The title "Sankofa" comes from the Ghanaian Akan language and means to "go back to the past to gain wisdom and strength." The film follows the journey of a modern-day model who, initially self-absorbed, suddenly finds herself reliving the life of a West Indian slave.
Through this transformative experience, she comes to truly understand and appreciate the freedoms and opportunities she once took for granted.

AdventureDrama
Director:
William Wyler
Release Date:
Wed Nov 18 1959
Star Cast:
Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Stephen Boyd
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$74,437,720
"Ben-Hur" (1959) stands as a monumental achievement in cinematic history, adapted from Lew Wallace’s classic novel, Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ. The film's sweeping scale and riveting storytelling captivated audiences worldwide, making it a blockbuster phenomenon during its release.
The movie broke records by winning eleven Academy Awards, dominating all major categories at the Oscars. This remarkable feat firmly established its legendary status in Hollywood lore.
At the heart of the story is Judah Ben-Hur, a noble Jewish prince in Jerusalem, whose deep faith defines his peaceful existence. His life takes a dramatic turn when his childhood friend, Messala—now a powerful Roman general—demands his allegiance to Rome’s oppressive rule.
When Ben-Hur refuses to betray his beliefs, Messala punishes him by sentencing him to a brutal life of slavery and condemning his family to suffering. The narrative follows Ben-Hur’s relentless pursuit of justice and freedom, guided by hope and perseverance.
Ultimately, encounters with Jesus inspire Ben-Hur to seek forgiveness and redemption, allowing him to reclaim not just his freedom but also his purpose in life.

DramaWestern
Director:
Quentin Tarantino
Release Date:
Tue Dec 25 2012
Star Cast:
Jamie Foxx, Christoph Waltz, Leonardo DiCaprio
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$426,074,373
"Django Unchained" is a bold and gripping spaghetti western crafted by Quentin Tarantino. Although the film isn’t set during the Civil War, it vividly exposes the brutal realities of slavery in the Antebellum South through its captivating storytelling and dynamic visual style.
This acclaimed film garnered widespread praise, earning several nominations and awards at major ceremonies like the Oscars, BAFTAs, and Golden Globes. The story centers on Django and his wife, both enslaved, until Dr. King Schultz, a bounty hunter, intervenes by purchasing Django for his critical knowledge about a notorious outlaw.
After forming an unlikely partnership with Schultz and mastering the craft of bounty hunting, Django sets out on a relentless quest to rescue his wife. The journey leads them to the ruthless plantation owned by Calvin Candie, where Django must confront danger and orchestrate a daring rescue mission.

ActionDramaSci-Fi
Director:
Ridley Scott
Release Date:
Fri Jun 25 1982
Star Cast:
Harrison Ford, Rutger Hauer, Sean Young
Budget:
$28,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$41,712,525
Blade Runner is a visionary science fiction film set in a dystopian future, where humans have created androids known as replicants to serve as slaves performing hazardous and menial labor.
Inspired by Philip K. Dick's novel "Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?", the story follows four highly advanced replicants who illegally return to Earth in search of their creator and purpose.
These intelligent replicants—Roy Batty, Pris, Zhora, and Leon—were engineered to help build colonies on Mars and aid in space exploration. Their journey explores their longing to experience life and humanity beyond their programmed existence.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Edward Zwick
Release Date:
Fri Feb 16 1990
Star Cast:
Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, Cary Elwes
Budget:
$18,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$26,979,166
"Glory" is an acclaimed historical war drama, inspired by the books Lay This Laurel by Lincoln Kirstein and One Gallant Rush by Peter Burchard, as well as the real-life letters written by Colonel Robert Gould Shaw during the American Civil War.
The film tells the compelling story of the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, the first all-black regiment to serve in the Union Army. Led by Colonel Shaw, these soldiers bravely fought in the pivotal and brutal Second Battle of Fort Wagner, challenging both their enemies and deep-seated prejudices of the era.
"Glory" garnered widespread critical acclaim, earning five Academy Award nominations and securing three wins. It endures as an inspiring tribute to the unwavering courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who helped shape the course of American history.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Steven Spielberg
Release Date:
Fri Nov 16 2012
Star Cast:
Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn
Budget:
$65,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$275,293,450
"Lincoln" is a compelling historical drama directed by Steven Spielberg, focusing on the leadership of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, during one of the nation's most crucial periods.
Inspired by Doris Kearns Goodwin’s acclaimed biography, "Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln," the film offers a richly detailed and authentic portrayal of historical events.
The story follows Lincoln’s tireless mission to unite a divided nation and secure the passage of the 13th Amendment, a pivotal act that aimed to abolish slavery across the United States.
The film skillfully explores Lincoln’s personal and political struggles, emphasizing the fierce resistance he faced from Confederate lawmakers and the enormous stakes involved in ending slavery.

AdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Franklin J. Schaffner
Release Date:
Wed Apr 3 1968
Star Cast:
Charlton Heston, Roddy McDowall, Kim Hunter
Budget:
$5,800,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$32,599,488
"Planet of the Apes" is a landmark science fiction film that inspired a hugely successful franchise and was later reimagined by Tim Burton in 2001.
Adapted from the French novel "La Planète des Singes" by Pierre Boulle, the original 1968 movie captured audiences with its thought-provoking themes and storytelling.
The film achieved widespread acclaim and was ultimately added to the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, recognizing its cultural importance.
"Planet of the Apes" opens with a crew of astronauts crash-landing on an unfamiliar planet that resembles Earth. As they explore, they discover a society where mute humans are enslaved and oppressed, while intelligent apes rule as the dominant species, turning the social order upside down.

DramaFamily
Director:
Martin Ritt
Release Date:
Thu Apr 26 1973
Star Cast:
Cicely Tyson, Paul Winfield, Kevin Hooks
"Sounder" is a powerful drama adapted from the acclaimed novel by William H. Armstrong. The film received critical acclaim, earning four Academy Award nominations in prestigious categories, and has become noted for its emotional impact and remarkable storytelling.
In addition to its critical success, "Sounder" was a box office hit. The narrative centers on the Morgan family, sharecroppers struggling to survive during the Great Depression in Louisiana's Deep South, where they labor on a sugarcane farm.
The family's strength is tested when the father is imprisoned for stealing food. Their young son is then compelled to leave school and help work the land, highlighting their resilience and the challenges faced during this era.

AnimationSci-Fi
Director:
René Laloux
Release Date:
Sat Dec 1 1973
Star Cast:
Barry Bostwick, Jennifer Drake, Eric Baugin
Fantastic Planet is a groundbreaking adult animated film resulting from a French-Czech collaboration. Directed by René Laloux and inspired by a story co-written with Roland Topor, the film stands out for its experimental animation style and thought-provoking narrative.
This acclaimed movie received the Grand Prix special jury prize at the Cannes Film Festival, highlighting its powerful impact. The story unfolds on a distant planet dominated by the towering Draags, a race of intelligent humanoids who exercise absolute control over the land.
Within this strange world, humans are enslaved, subjected to cruelty, and kept under harsh population controls, including periodic mass killings. Faced with relentless oppression and bullying, the humans ultimately band together and rise up in rebellion against their alien overlords.

ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Ridley Scott
Release Date:
Fri May 5 2000
Star Cast:
Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen
Budget:
$103,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$503,162,313
"Gladiator," directed by Ridley Scott, is a powerful historical epic that transports viewers to the heart of the Roman Empire. The film vividly captures the harsh realities faced by slaves, showcasing both their struggles and resilience within a brutal ancient world.
Upon its release, "Gladiator" became the second highest-grossing film of 2000 and garnered widespread acclaim, winning five Academy Awards as well as numerous other accolades. At its core, the movie tells the gripping tale of a respected Roman general whose life is shattered by betrayal when the emperor's jealous son seizes power.
Stripped of his freedom and forced into slavery, the general must fight for his survival. Through sheer determination, he climbs the ranks to become a legendary gladiator, all while plotting his revenge against the ruthless Emperor Commodus.

BiographyDramaRomance
Director:
Amma Asante
Release Date:
Fri Jun 13 2014
Star Cast:
Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Matthew Goode, Emily Watson
Budget:
$10,900,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$16,607,575
"Belle" (2013) is a historical drama inspired by the true story of Dido Elizabeth Belle, depicted in the famous painting alongside her cousin, Lady Elizabeth Murray, at Kenwood House.
This artwork marked a significant moment as it was the first time a person of color was portrayed on equal footing with a woman of fair skin in British portraiture.
Dido Elizabeth Belle was the biracial daughter of naval officer Sir John Lindsay. Following her mother’s death, Lindsay entrusted her care to his uncle, William Murray, the 1st Earl of Mansfield and then Lord Chief Justice of England.
Despite societal norms, Lord Mansfield raised Belle as an equal to her cousin, challenging contemporary attitudes about race and class. During this period, he was also responsible for a landmark legal judgment concerning the Zong Massacre, a notorious case involving the killing of enslaved Africans aboard a British ship for insurance compensation.

BiographyDramaRomance
Director:
Mervyn LeRoy, Anthony Mann
Release Date:
Tue Dec 25 1951
Star Cast:
Robert Taylor, Deborah Kerr, Leo Genn
Budget:
$7,623,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$101,486
Quo Vadis is a grand historical epic adapted from Henryk Sienkiewicz’s celebrated 1896 novel. The Latin title, translating to “Where are you going?”, alludes to the film’s profound exploration of faith, destiny, and transformation among its richly drawn characters.
Acclaimed for its breathtaking visuals and epic scope, the film received widespread critical praise and garnered eight Academy Award nominations, cementing its place as a classic.
Set against the backdrop of Emperor Nero’s chaotic rule, Quo Vadis delves into the dramatic events that prefaced the Roman Empire’s decline. The film vividly portrays Nero’s ruthless persecution of Christians, who were enslaved and oppressed as part of the emperor’s campaign to suppress their rising faith throughout Rome.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Steven Spielberg
Release Date:
Thu Dec 25 1997
Star Cast:
Djimon Hounsou, Matthew McConaughey, Anthony Hopkins
Budget:
$36,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$44,229,441
Amistad is a riveting historical drama that brings to life the incredible true story of a slave revolt aboard the Spanish ship La Amistad. Inspired by Professor Howard Jones' acclaimed book, "Mutiny on the Amistad: The Saga of a Slave Revolt and Its Impact on American Abolition, Law, and Diplomacy," the film offers a profound portrayal of courage and the struggle for justice.
The narrative follows a group of Mende tribesmen who, in a daring bid for freedom, seize control of the ship from their oppressors. Their actions ignite a powerful chain of events that challenge the very foundation of the era's legal and moral codes.
The ensuing battle for their liberation unfolds within the United States courts, ultimately leading to a historic Supreme Court ruling. Amistad not only examines an extraordinary quest for freedom but also highlights the broader fight against slavery in America.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Michael Apted
Release Date:
Fri Feb 23 2007
Star Cast:
Ioan Gruffudd, Albert Finney, Michael Gambon
Box Office (Worldwide):
$32,120,360
"Amazing Grace" is a moving portrayal of the historic campaign that brought an end to the slave trade and eventually slavery itself in Great Britain.
At the heart of the film is William Wilberforce, whose unyielding work within the British Parliament becomes the driving force behind pivotal legislation against the slave trade.
Motivated by the haunting experiences shared by John Newton—a former slave ship officer turned abolitionist—Wilberforce becomes ever more resolute in his mission to end such inhumanity.
Despite overwhelming challenges and setbacks, Wilberforce, alongside dedicated allies in government and law, tirelessly campaigns for over two decades. Their unwavering commitment eventually leads to the landmark passage of the abolition bill, reshaping the course of history.

ActionBiographyDrama
Director:
Kasi Lemmons
Release Date:
Fri Nov 1 2019
Star Cast:
Cynthia Erivo, Janelle Monáe, Leslie Odom Jr.
Budget:
$17,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$43,347,017
"Harriet" (2019) tells the powerful true story of Harriet Tubman, chronicling her extraordinary life and groundbreaking achievements in the fight against slavery. The film spent years in development, attracting significant interest from several renowned actresses eager to portray the iconic role.
Upon release, "Harriet" earned widespread acclaim from both critics and audiences. Its impact was recognized by nominations for prestigious awards, including the Academy Awards, Black Reel Awards, Golden Globe Awards, and even the Grammy Awards.
The story opens with Minty Ross—Tubman's birth name—the daughter of a freed father and an enslaved mother. When Minty's mother's owner breaks a previous promise of freedom, Minty faces the threat of being sold and separated from her family.
Determined to escape this fate, Minty flees the plantation and makes a daring journey to Pennsylvania. There, she encounters a group of abolitionists who support her quest and bestow her new name: Harriet, in honor of her mother, and Tubman, after her husband.
Harriet's courage does not end with her own escape. She joins the abolitionist cause, risking her life as a conductor on the Underground Railroad and later serving as a Union spy. Through her heroic efforts, she secures freedom for more than 750 enslaved people.

AdventureDrama
Director:
Werner Herzog
Release Date:
Thu Dec 3 1987
Star Cast:
Klaus Kinski, King Ampaw, José Lewgoy
Budget:
DEM 800,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$12,702
"Cobra Verde" is a German film inspired by Bruce Chatwin's novel, "The Viceroy of Ouidah." This compelling movie explores the dark and complex history of the transatlantic slave trade.
Directed by Werner Herzog, the film stars Klaus Kinski in their final collaboration, marking a memorable end to the director-actor partnership. Set in the 1800s, the story centers on Cobra Verde, a notorious bandit who is paroled by a Brazilian count.
Tasked with traveling to West Africa, Cobra Verde becomes the count's personal slave trader, embarking on a harrowing journey to capture and smuggle slaves for the plantation. The film powerfully captures the brutality and moral complexities of its era.

BiographyDramaHistory
Director:
Nate Parker
Release Date:
Fri Oct 7 2016
Star Cast:
Nate Parker, Armie Hammer, Penelope Ann Miller
Budget:
$8,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$16,779,212
"The Birth of a Nation" (2016) is a powerful American historical drama that tells the compelling true story of Nat Turner, an enslaved man who became a preacher and led a significant slave rebellion in 1831.
Nate Parker, who co-wrote, directed, and co-produced the film, took on the challenging role of bringing this complex narrative to the screen. The film encountered controversy due to allegations from Parker's past, which brought significant public scrutiny.
The movie explores Nat Turner's transformation from an uneducated slave into an inspiring spiritual leader for his community. Through his passionate sermons, Turner empowers other enslaved people to seek freedom and resist oppression.
Despite relentless efforts by slave owners to silence him, Nat Turner's leadership and unwavering faith ignite a daring quest for liberation.

ActionDramaHistory
Director:
Roland Emmerich
Release Date:
Wed Jun 28 2000
Star Cast:
Mel Gibson, Heath Ledger, Joely Richardson
Budget:
$110,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$215,294,342
The Patriot is a historical fiction drama that was written by Robert Rodat. It was made by Roland Emmerich with a star cast made up of Mel Gibson, Chris Cooper, Heath Ledger, Jason Isaacs, etc.
The film has been criticized for the unnecessary use of violence perpetrated against colonists. The film has very little truth in relation to the Revolutionary War.
The patriot tells about the family of Benjamin Martin, who is a colonist and is against a war with Great Britain.
In the American War of Independence, he, along with other plantation owners, decided to join the war after seeing the cruelty of the British army.

DramaHistoryHorror
Director:
Jonathan Demme
Release Date:
Fri Oct 16 1998
Star Cast:
Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Yada Beener
Budget:
$80,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$22,852,487
Beloved is a psychological horror film set in the period after the American Civil War. The film is based on a novel by Toni Morrison of the same name.
The film was a box office failure, yet it garnered critical acclaim for the acting performance, especially of Danny Glover and Kimberly Elise.
A newly liberated slave, Sethe, arrives in a home along the outskirts of the town. However, the house is haunted, and the poltergeist starts traumatizing Sethe and her daughter.
An old friend from her plantation comes to help, but he too is turned away after learning the true story of Sethe and her struggles as a slave.

ActionBiographyDrama
Director:
Angelina Jolie
Release Date:
Thu Dec 25 2014
Star Cast:
Jack O'Connell, Miyavi, Domhnall Gleeson
Budget:
$65,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$161,459,297
Unbroken is a film about the triumph of the human spirit over a situation. The film is not a slave movie, but it is a movie about the Japanese prisoner of war camp and the sub-human conditions meted out to the Americans at the hands of the Japanese Imperial Army.
The film was directed by Angelina Jolie and the story was written by the Coen brothers. It is based on the biography, Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption by Laura Hillenbrand.
Unbroken was nominated for three Academy Awards among several more nominations.

ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
John Milius
Release Date:
Fri May 14 1982
Star Cast:
Arnold Schwarzenegger, James Earl Jones, Max von Sydow
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$68,851,475
Conan the Barbarian is a sword and sorcery film set in an imaginary world of Cimmerians. The film is based on the works of Robert E. Howard’s pulp magazine, titled Conan. Oliver Stone used the characters of this fictional world to make a successful film series of Conan.
When Conan was a child, his father, a blacksmith, forges a sword for him. Later, the raiders of the evil Thulsa Doom invade the land of Cimmerians and kill his parents.
Conan is sold into slavery and made to work at a large mill on the wheel of pain. Conan uses this pain to become stronger and revolt against his slave masters and escape. Now, he seeks revenge from Thulsa Doom.

ActionBiographyDrama
Director:
Gary Ross
Release Date:
Fri Jun 24 2016
Star Cast:
Matthew McConaughey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Mahershala Ali
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$25,035,950
Free State of Jones is a gripping film based on real events during the American Civil War. Written and directed by Gary Ross, the story centers on Newton Knight and the people of Jones County, Mississippi.
The movie spotlights Knight's transformation from a Confederate soldier to a staunch opponent of the Confederacy's ideals. Disillusioned by the actions of his leaders, Knight ultimately deserts the army.
Returning to his home, Knight organizes a group of fellow deserters and local slaves to challenge Confederate control. Their courageous rebellion leads to the establishment of the "Free State of Jones," attempting to create a new, just community amid the chaos of war.

DramaRomance
Director:
Rob Marshall
Release Date:
Fri Dec 23 2005
Star Cast:
Ziyi Zhang, Ken Watanabe, Michelle Yeoh
Budget:
$85,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$162,242,962
Memoirs of a Geisha (2005) is a captivating cinematic masterpiece that delves into the alluring and intricate world of geishas, set against the backdrop of pre-World War II Japan.
The film follows the extraordinary journey of Chiyo Sakamoto, a young girl from an impoverished fishing village, who is sold to an okiya, a geisha house, at the tender age of nine. Through rigorous training and unwavering determination, Chiyo transforms into Sayuri.
She is a renowned geisha who captivates the hearts of men with her grace, elegance, and artistic talents. However, beneath the surface of her dazzling success lies a deep longing for love and freedom, a yearning that is constantly tested by the demands of her profession and the societal pressures of her time.
Memoirs of a Geisha serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and struggles that lie behind the exquisite façade of geisha culture, offering a glimpse into a world of beauty, tradition, and complex unspoken emotions.

DramaFamilyRomance
Director:
William Wyler
Release Date:
Sun Nov 25 1956
Star Cast:
Gary Cooper, Dorothy McGuire, Anthony Perkins
Budget:
$3,000,000 (estimated)
"Friendly Persuasion" presents a poignant account of the American Civil War through the perspective of a pacifist Quaker family, the Birdwells. Based on Jessamyn West's 1945 novel of the same name, the film brings their story to life with heart and authenticity.
Directed by William Wyler, the film follows the Birdwell family as they uphold their deep commitment to nonviolence amid growing conflict. Their convictions are rooted in the belief that every individual has an inner light deserving of respect and understanding.
The Birdwells enjoy a peaceful farm life until the arrival of Union soldiers, who warn them of impending threats from Confederate forces. This confrontation forces the family members to face difficult choices as their dedication to peace is tested like never before.
As the war intensifies, each member of the Birdwell family must reconcile personal values with the harsh realities of conflict, resulting in a moving exploration of conscience, courage, and compassion.

ActionThriller
Director:
Antoine Fuqua
Release Date:
Fri Dec 9 2022
Star Cast:
Will Smith, Ben Foster, Charmaine Bingwa
Budget:
$120,000,000 (estimated)
"Emancipation" is a historical drama film directed by Antoine Fuqua and released in 2022.
Set during the American Civil War, the film follows the true story of a runaway slave named Peter, portrayed by Will Smith.
Peter's escape from a Louisiana plantation is captured in a photograph that becomes a symbol of the brutal realities of slavery. As the image circulates,
Peter becomes a target of relentless pursuit by plantation owners and bounty hunters. The movie explores Peter's harrowing journey to freedom and his fight to survive in a hostile environment.
Will Smith delivers a powerful performance, showcasing the emotional and physical struggles of his character.
"Emancipation" received critical acclaim for its intense storytelling, compelling performances, and its examination of the dark chapters in American history.

DocumentaryHistory
Director:
Pritchett Cotten
Release Date:
Fri Jan 13 2012
Star Cast:
C.L. Bryant, Christian Adams, Lem Anderson Jr.
Budget:
$100,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$71,737
"Runaway Slave" is a documentary film released in 2012, directed by Pritchett Cotten. The film follows the journey of conservative activist Rev. C.L. Bryant as he delves into the history and present-day realities of African Americans in the United States.
Rev. Bryant examines the impact of entitlement programs and government policies on the African American community, aiming to challenge the prevailing narrative of victimhood and dependency.
Through interviews with various individuals, including civil rights leaders, politicians, and everyday citizens, the film explores topics such as the role of government, personal responsibility, and the importance of economic freedom.
"Runaway Slave" features passionate performances by its cast, including Rev. C.L. Bryant himself, as they share personal stories and engage in thought-provoking discussions.
The film presents a thought-provoking perspective on race and politics, sparking conversations about individual empowerment and self-reliance.

ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Kevin Macdonald
Release Date:
Fri Feb 11 2011
Star Cast:
Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Donald Sutherland
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$37,989,684
The Eagle is a British-American film adapted from Rosemary Sutcliffe’s adventure novel, The Eagle of the Ninth. There is no proof of historical accuracy in the story.
However, it is based on the quest of a Roman centurion during the Roman occupation of Britain. The Eagle standard of the Ninth Legion fell into the hands of the barbaric Northern tribes during their ill-fated mission.
This has been a point of dishonor for the family of Marcus Flavius Aquila. So he sets out to reclaim his family's honor and the missing Eagle standard.
Marcus’ slave Esca is very helpful and instrumental in his mission.

DramaHistoryWar
Director:
Ron Maxwell
Release Date:
Fri Oct 8 1993
Star Cast:
Tom Berenger, Martin Sheen, Stephen Lang
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$10,769,960
"Gettysburg" (1993) is an epic war film that vividly portrays the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg during the Civil War. The story is adapted from Michael Shaara's acclaimed novel "The Killer Angels," capturing the strategies and emotions of both the Union and Confederate armies.
The film boasts a remarkable ensemble cast, whose performances bring to life the famous generals and soldiers on both sides of the conflict. Acclaimed for its realism and attention to historical detail, "Gettysburg" originally aired as a miniseries on TNT, earning widespread praise from critics and viewers alike.
This decisive Union victory marked a significant turning point in the war, altering the course of American history. The film skillfully conveys the magnitude of the battle and its lasting impact on the nation.

AdventureDramaRomance
Director:
John Ford
Star Cast:
John Wayne, William Holden, Constance Towers
The Horse Soldiers is a film about the conquest of the Union cavalry brigade during the American Civil War.
It is an adventure war film that mixes real events with fictionalized accounts to tell the events of the Grierson Raid in Mississippi and the novel by Harold Sinclair.
A Union Cavalry Brigade is sent to destroy the railway lines and supply station of the confederate army. Along the way, the unit commander faces trouble with a soft-hearted medical officer and a soldier who second guesses all his orders.
They are also forced to pick up a plantation mistress and her slave, who eavesdrop on their conversation.

ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Ridley Scott
Release Date:
Fri Dec 12 2014
Star Cast:
Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, Ben Kingsley
Budget:
$140,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$268,175,631
Exodus: Gods and Kings, directed by Ridley Scott, is a visually stunning biblical epic that recounts the legendary journey of the Jewish people from slavery in Egypt to freedom at Mount Sinai.
The film features a talented ensemble cast and was both a critical and commercial success. It opens with the early life of Moses, highlighting his close relationship with Ramses in their youth.
As Moses discovers his true heritage and purpose, he embraces his faith and becomes the leader who guides the Jews out of Egypt. Ultimately, it is at Mt. Sinai where Moses receives the Ten Commandments from God, marking a pivotal moment in this timeless story.

BiographyDramaThriller
Director:
Gabriel Range
Release Date:
Mon Jan 10 2011
Star Cast:
Wunmi Mosaku, Isaach De Bankolé, Lubna Azabal
I Am Slave is a television film about slavery in modern society, more shockingly in Britain. The film is the true story of Mende Nazer, who was brought into London as a slave to serve in the home of a family.
I Am Slave throws light on a situation that is widely prevalent, with close to 5000 slaves working in Britain today.
The story begins in a village in Sudan when young girls are kidnapped by Arab militia and sold into slavery in Khartoum.
Here they are treated as animals, and beaten and harshly punished for the slightest mistake. Slaves trained like this are sold elsewhere with their passports seized, and identities changed to discourage escape.

ActionFantasyThriller
Director:
Patrick Tatopoulos
Release Date:
Fri Jan 23 2009
Star Cast:
Rhona Mitra, Michael Sheen, Bill Nighy
Budget:
$35,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$92,158,961
Underworld: The Rise of the Lycans is a fantasy action-horror film that talks about the beginning of the feud between Vampires and Lycans.
It is the third installment in the Underworld film franchise and is directed by Patrick Tatopoulos. Vampires lived as the lords of darkness and subjugated the Lycan race to slave status.
They are treated as animals who protect the Vampires during the day but have no power or rights. Lucian, the most powerful Lycan, falls in love with Sonja, the daughter of Vampire Lord Victor.
Infuriated by this, Victor forces them apart and kills Sonja. This pushes Lucian to begin a blood feud that carries on for centuries.

AdventureComedyDrama
Director:
Stephen Sommers
Release Date:
Fri Apr 2 1993
Star Cast:
Elijah Wood, Courtney B. Vance, Robbie Coltrane
Budget:
$6,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$24,103,594
The Adventures of Huck Finn is a Disney adventure film based on the highly acclaimed novel of the same name by Mark Twain.
The film covers only three-quarters of the novel, and the story has been adapted into movies and Tv series multiple times.
Yet the film got good reviews. The film starts with Huckleberry Finn, a young child who is sent to foster care to save him from his drunkard father.
Despite the love shown by his foster parents, Huck Finn yearns for adventure and thus runs away from home.
Along the way, he meets a runaway slave Jim. Together, they travel along the Mississippi River and encounter all the challenges.

ActionFantasyHorror
Director:
Timur Bekmambetov
Release Date:
Fri Jun 22 2012
Star Cast:
Benjamin Walker, Rufus Sewell, Dominic Cooper
Budget:
$69,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$116,471,580
Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter is a supernatural action film that fictionalized the American civil war and the life of the 16th American president.
The film is based on the novel of the same name by Seth Grahame-Smith. The film gives a fictional account of Abe Lincoln as a secret Vampire Hunter.
He uncovers a plot by the 5000-year vampire who uses the slave trade to maintain a steady supply of food and plantation workers.
The plot is to take over America and make it a Vampire nation with slaves providing constant food and labor.

CrimeDramaHistory
Director:
James Franco
Release Date:
Fri Feb 17 2017
Star Cast:
Nat Wolff, James Franco, Vincent D'Onofrio
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$213,982
In Dubious Battle is a film that was based on the John Steinbeck novel of the same name. The film was directed by James Franco and received mixed reviews, with critics accepting that the movie was watchable and the movie has a subtle message that makes us think.
The film is set in the 1930s during the Great Depression. The film is not particularly about slavery. However, it showcases the living conditions that come close to living like a slave.
The laborer’s pay was reduced from $3 per day to just $1 per day, and they decided to go on a strike, but to what end is the question.

DramaHorrorMystery
Director:
Gerard Bush, Christopher Renz
Release Date:
Fri Sep 18 2020
Star Cast:
Janelle Monáe, Eric Lange, Jena Malone
Box Office (Worldwide):
$7,792,716
Antebellum (2020) is an American thriller film that follows the story of Veronica Henley, a successful African-American author who finds herself trapped in a horrifying reality that forces her to confront the past, present, and future.
Veronica's modern-day life takes a dark turn when she wakes up on a Southern slave plantation, forced to endure the brutality of the antebellum era. As she desperately tries to escape and uncover the truth behind her predicament, she realizes that her experiences are intertwined with a deadly conspiracy that threatens to expose a shocking connection between the past and the present.
The film explores themes of racial injustice, historical trauma, and the enduring legacy of slavery, weaving a suspenseful narrative that challenges viewers to confront the complexities of American history.

ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Paul W.S. Anderson
Release Date:
Fri Feb 21 2014
Star Cast:
Kit Harington, Emily Browning, Kiefer Sutherland
Budget:
$100,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$117,831,631
Pompeii is another movie that explores the world of slaves during the Roman empire. The film Pompeii is a disaster film that focuses on the romance between an English slave gladiator from England who falls in love with the daughter of a senator.
The romance blossoms in the doomed city of Pompeii, and they are caught in the middle of the most violent volcanic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius and the ensuing tsunami that obliterates all chances of escape.

ActionDramaFantasy
Director:
Carl Rinsch
Release Date:
Wed Dec 25 2013
Star Cast:
Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Kô Shibasaki
Budget:
$175,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$151,783,839
47 Ronin is a Japanese- American fantasy adventure movie based on a very famous tale of the forty ronin who avenge the assassination of their daimyo.
The film was made by a debutant director Carl Rinsch and borrows heavily from the Japanese mythology of kitsune.
In medieval Japan, a mixed heritage child, Kai is sheltered by a kind daimyo, Lord Asano. Despite the ostracization of his samurai and the society, Lord Asano gave him a home.
When a rival daimyo, Lord Kira poisons the mind of their Shogun and assassinates Lord Asano, he also sells Kai into slavery and declares his 47 samurais as ronin (masterless fighters).

ActionCrimeThriller
Director:
Godfrey Ho
Release Date:
Fri Mar 5 1993
Star Cast:
Cynthia Rothrock, Don Niam, John Miller
Queen, also known as Alex Haley’s Queen, is a biographical tale of a biracial woman in Early American society.
The film was telecast as a miniseries over three episodes, and it is based on the novel Queen: The Story of an American Family by Alex Haley and David Stevens.
Queen is the biracial daughter of Col. James Jackson and his slave Easter. She was born on the Jackson Plantation, and after the civil war, she became a free woman.
However, due to her biracial status, she was neither accepted by her father’s family nor the African American community.

DramaRomanceWar
Director:
Edward Dmytryk
Release Date:
Fri Dec 20 1957
Star Cast:
Montgomery Clift, Elizabeth Taylor, Eva Marie Saint
Budget:
$5,000,000 (estimated)
"Raintree County" is a sweeping historical drama that explores themes of love, madness, and moral conviction, set amid the turmoil of the American Civil War.
Adapted from Ross Lockridge Jr.'s acclaimed novel, the film immerses viewers in the Antebellum South, highlighting the growing abolitionist sentiments among the younger generation.
John Shawnessey, an idealistic schoolteacher with fervent anti-slavery beliefs, dreams of marrying his childhood sweetheart, who shares his progressive views. But John's life takes a dramatic turn when he is captivated by the enigmatic Susanna Drake, a Southern belle with a complicated past.
Entangled in a passionate relationship, John finds himself coerced into marriage. The story then unfolds through his struggles with Susanna's instability and his own ideals as he is swept into the chaos of war.
Ultimately, the journey forces both John and Susanna to confront their deepest emotions and loyalties, making "Raintree County" a poignant exploration of love and belief during one of America's most turbulent eras.

ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
Renny Harlin
Release Date:
Fri Jan 10 2014
Star Cast:
Kellan Lutz, Gaia Weiss, Scott Adkins
Budget:
$70,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$61,279,452
The Legend of Hercules is a story about the demigod before he gains fame. It is a Greek mythological story made by Renny Harlin.
The film was released the same year as another movie about Hercules. As a result, the other movie overshadowed this version.
Queen Alcmene gives birth to Hercules, the son of Zeus, who will be the savior of the people. King Amphitryon and the elder brother Iphicles plot against Hercules and send him away on a mission to Egypt.
There, he is sold into slavery and bids his time till he has to return to Crete to avenge his mother.

DramaHistory
Director:
Harry A. Pollard
Release Date:
Sun Sep 2 1928
Star Cast:
Margarita Fischer, James B. Lowe, Arthur Edmund Carewe
Budget:
$1,500,000 (estimated)
Uncle Tom’s Cabin is a TV movie that was based on a book of the same name. It was written by Harriet Beecher Stowe.
The film received praise and acclaim when it was telecast on television. The film is about the life of an aging black slave by the name of Tom.
It was a look into the everyday living conditions of a slave during the 1800s. The novel, when it was released, had a profound impact on the perception of slavery and the African American community.