British history offers a wide array of topics for filmmakers to explore, with its many wars, legendary figures, and dramatic societal transformations. These historical moments have been brought to life with gripping storytelling, compelling performances, and stunning visual portrayals. From epic battles to intimate portraits of royal figures, each film on this list is a testament to the art of cinema and its power to shine a light on the past in a way that resonates with modern audiences. Whether it’s through the lens of a monarch’s personal struggles, the realism of war, or the rise and fall of an ambitious individual, these movies offer a thought-provoking journey throughout history. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films about British history.
10. The King’s Speech – Tom Hooper (2010)
“The King’s Speech” portrays the true story of King George VI’s struggle to overcome his stammer, a challenge that becomes increasingly critical with the looming threat of World War II. As the narrative unfolds, the film follows the King’s journey to the throne after the unexpected abdication of his brother, Edward VIII. George VI, played by Colin Firth with remarkable depth, faces the daunting task of addressing the nation, a role that requires him to confront his debilitating speech impediment head-on. In this task, he finds an unconventional ally in Lionel Logue, an Australian speech therapist with unconventional methods, who attempts to help him overcome his stammer,
This film explores themes of duty, friendship, and the pressures of leadership in a time of global crisis. The evolving relationship between King George VI and Lionel Logue is central to the narrative, transitioning from a purely professional therapist-client interaction to one of deep, mutual respect and understanding. The movie balances detailed historical context with an engaging personal drama, offering rare insights into the challenges and vulnerabilities of the royal family. The King’s Speech” received widespread acclaim for its direction, performances, and screenplay, culminating in its recognition at the Academy Awards, where it won Best Picture.
9. Henry V – Kenneth Branagh (1989)
Kenneth Branagh’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s “Henry V” brings to life the period of the Hundred Years’ War, a prolonged series of conflicts between England and France. In this ambitious project, Branagh, who both directs and stars in the title role, portrays King Henry V’s ascension to the throne and his fiercely determined military campaign on French soil. The film portrays the famous Battle of Agincourt, a pivotal moment where Henry’s outnumbered forces achieve a stunning and unlikely triumph against the French army. The narrative combines this grand historical event with a deeper exploration of King Henry’s personal evolution, following his journey from a youthful prince to a seasoned leader.
Branagh’s “Henry V” is widely celebrated for its authentic portrayal of medieval warfare, capturing the gritty reality of battlefields, and its faithful adaptation of Shakespeare’s powerful language. Notably, the film’s visual style, characterized by its stark and gritty realism, immerses the audience in the brutality of medieval combat, while simultaneously providing quieter, more introspective moments that reveal King Henry’s internal struggles. The ensemble cast, featuring actors such as Derek Jacobi, Brian Blessed, and Emma Thompson, fills the Shakespearean dialogue with remarkable depth and emotional resonance. “Henry V” is often hailed as a classic interpretation of Shakespeare’s historical drama, ensuring its place as one of the best films about British history.
8. A Man for All Seasons – Fred Zinnemann (1966)
“A Man for All Seasons” centers around the complex figure of Sir Thomas More, portrayed by Paul Scofield, set against the backdrop of King Henry VIII’s troubled reign. The film expertly navigates the political and religious landscape of 16th-century England, a time rife with upheaval and change, as More ascends to the position of Lord Chancellor. In this environment, he soon finds himself in a precarious position due to the issue of Henry VIII’s desire to divorce his wife Catherine of Aragon and establish the Church of England, a move that fundamentally challenges the existing religious order. The film captures More’s intense moral dilemma, as he grapples with the choice of staying true to his principles or fulfilling his duty to a king known for his ruthless determination.
The movie is a profound exploration of personal integrity and moral conflict, particularly in the context of intense political pressure and shifting allegiances. Scofield’s performance as Sir Thomas More masterfully captures the essence of a deeply principled and intellectual man, caught in an almost impossible situation, torn between his steadfast loyalty to his monarch and his equally unwavering commitment to his faith. The film also stands out due to its detailed and authentic portrayal of the period, from the luxury and extravagant court to the political machinations and scheming that defined the era.
7. Zulu – Cy Endfield (1964)
“Zulu” recounts the historical Battle of Rorke’s Drift in 1879, an event where a modest British garrison, numbering around 150 men, stood valiantly against an overwhelming force of thousands of Zulu warriors. Directed by Cy Endfield, the film features Stanley Baker and a young Michael Caine, in what was one of his breakthrough roles. It portrays the intense and grueling 12-hour battle, showing the bravery and strategic ingenuity of the vastly outnumbered British soldiers along with their palpable sense of desperation and fear. The stark contrast between the disciplined tactics of the British and the Zulu’s traditional warrior beliefs makes for an engaging watch.
This film is celebrated for its portrayal of a relatively obscure yet pivotal battle in British colonial history. The authenticity of the period costumes and weaponry adds to the film’s historical accuracy, immersing the viewer in the era. The battle scenes are carefully crafted, showcasing a blend of intense realism and dramatic tension, capturing the frenetic chaos of combat as well as the remarkable courage and resilience displayed by the British soldiers, making this one of the best films about British history. Michael Caine’s performance as the inexperienced yet determined Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead is particularly noteworthy, marking the early stages of his acclaimed acting career.
6. Dunkirk – Christopher Nolan (2017)
“Dunkirk” portrays the harrowing and intense events of the Dunkirk evacuation during World War II. Directed by Christopher Nolan, the film offers a unique portrayal of the evacuation, presenting it through the perspectives of the land battles on the beaches, the sea journey across the English Channel, and the air engagements overhead. Over the course of one tension-filled week, it tracks the experiences of young British soldiers stranded on the beaches of Dunkirk, desperately awaiting rescue while facing relentless German attacks. In a parallel narrative, civilian boats manned by both seasoned sailors and ordinary citizens bravely crosses the English Channel to aid in the evacuation, while Royal Air Force pilots, outnumbered and outgunned, engage in intense dogfights above.
Christopher Nolan’s innovative storytelling approach, characterized by the film’s non-linear narrative structure, immerses viewers in the intensity and chaos of the evacuation. The film is particularly noted for its sparse dialogue, which allows the powerful visual storytelling, underscored by the expansive cinematography and the film’s immersive sound design, to effectively convey the magnitude of the ordeal faced by the soldiers and civilians alike. “Dunkirk” has been widely praised for its realistic and visceral depiction of war, particularly its ability to capture the sheer scale of the evacuation operation, as well as the indomitable human spirit of resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity. The film’s critical acclaim is evidenced by its multiple Academy Awards, solidifying its status as a seminal and influential work in the genre of war cinema.
5. Chimes at Midnight – Orson Welles (1965)
“Chimes at Midnight”, directed by and starring the legendary Orson Welles, combines elements from several of William Shakespeare’s plays to tell the story of Sir John Falstaff, a complex character featured in multiple Shakespearean works. Set during the time of 15th-century England, the film explores the relationship between Falstaff and Prince Hal, who is destined to rise to power as King Henry V. Throughout the narrative, the film explores a range of themes, including loyalty, honor, and the inevitable passage of time, particularly as it showcases the contrast between Falstaff’s spirited, carefree lifestyle and the significant political and personal transformations that accompany Prince Hal’s journey towards the throne.
Orson Welles’s portrayal of Falstaff is filled with wit and a sense of pity, capturing the character’s essence as a man increasingly out of sync with the rapidly changing era. His performance is a balance of humor and sadness, revealing the depth and complexity of a character caught in the midst of a shifting world. The film is widely acclaimed for its innovative and dynamic use of Shakespeare’s language, integrating segments from “Henry IV,” “Henry V,” and “The Merry Wives of Windsor” to create a cohesive and engaging narrative. “Chimes at Midnight” is celebrated for its ability to offer a unique and memorable interpretation of Shakespeare’s timeless works, solidifying its place as one of the best films about British history.
4. The Lion in Winter – Anthony Harvey (1968)
“The Lion in Winter,” set during the time of Christmas in 1183 in the court of King Henry II, is a historical drama directed by Anthony Harvey. The film features standout performances from Peter O’Toole as the formidable King Henry II and Katharine Hepburn as the astute and determined Eleanor of Aquitaine. The plot centers on the king’s crucial decision regarding which of his sons should inherit the throne, a decision fraught with political implications and intrigue. Throughout the film, viewers are drawn into the family’s complex web of manipulative dynamics, where each member pursues their own agenda and forms strategic alliances to advance their interests.
This film is known for its sharp, clever dialogue and the intense performances of its lead actors. The narrative explores themes of power, betrayal, and familial conflict, combinig elements of historical drama with a subtle undertone of dark comedy. The dynamic relationship between Henry and Eleanor, both characterized by their strong wills and cunning minds, is a driving force behind much of the film’s tension and intrigue. Their intellectual sparring and strategic maneuvering add layers of complexity to the story, making it not just a historical drama but a study of human ambition and relationships. “The Lion in Winter” has been widely acclaimed for its ability to bring historical figures to life, earning widespread recognition including several Academy Awards.
3. Braveheart – Mel Gibson (1995)
“Braveheart” tells the inspiring story of William Wallace, a legendary 13th-century Scottish warrior renowned for his leadership in the First War of Scottish Independence against King Edward I of England. Mel Gibson, in a dual role as director and lead actor, portrays Wallace’s transformation from a young man originally seeking a simple, peaceful life to becoming a fierce and impassioned leader, fighting for Scotland’s freedom and sovereignty. The film is particularly famous for its grand, epic battle scenes, with the Battle of Stirling Bridge standing out as a notable example, where it showcases the historical tactics employed in medieval warfare with gritty realism and intense detail.
“Braveheart” is widely celebrated for its powerful portrayal of the struggle for Scottish independence, immortalizing the heroic and enduring figure of William Wallace. The film tells a dramatic story that is both emotionally charged and visually stunning, featuring grand-scale production and exceptional performances, especially by Gibson, who plays the character of Wallace. It explores themes of freedom, love, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of liberty. “Braveheart” not only captivated audiences worldwide but also received critical acclaim, as evidenced by its winning of five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Gibson’s outstanding direction, solidifying its status as one of the best films about British history.
2. 1917 – Sam Mendes (2019)
“1917”, directed by Sam Mendes, presents a gripping and intense portrayal of two young British soldiers, Lance Corporals Schofield and Blake, in the midst of the harrowing realities of World War I. Set during the peak of the conflict, the film follows their perilous and urgent mission to deliver a critical message that holds the fate of 1,600 men, including Blake’s own brother, potentially saving them from advancing into a lethal ambush. This high-stakes journey unfolds in real-time, adding a heightened sense of immediacy and suspense, as the audience is taken alongside the soldiers while they navigate the dangers of no man’s land and enemy territory to complete their crucial task.
This film is known for its innovative use of a continuous, unbroken shot technique, which fills the narrative with an unparalleled layer of intensity and immersive realism. The exceptional cinematography not only captures the haunting beauty of the war-ravaged landscapes but also conveys the relentless tension and urgency of the soldiers’ mission. “1917” has been widely lauded for its technical excellence, emotional depth, and the compelling performances of its cast. It has garnered significant critical acclaim and a host of accolades, including various awards for Visual Effects, and Sound Mixing, affirming its status as a standout achievement in the world of war cinema.
1. Barry Lyndon – Stanley Kubrick (1975)
“Barry Lyndon”, directed by the renowned Stanley Kubrick, is an exquisite period drama adapted from the novel by William Makepeace Thackeray. The film chronicles the life and ambitions of Redmond Barry, an Irishman fueled by a relentless desire to ascend the social ladder in 18th-century Europe. His transformative journey from a naive and impulsive young man to the affluent and refined aristocrat, Barry Lyndon, is told through a series of duels, military campaigns, and romantic entanglements. The narrative captures Barry’s unyielding pursuit of wealth and societal position, alongside the consequences his actions have on his own life and those entangled in his quest.
Stanley Kubrick’s film is widely celebrated for its distinctive visual style, which painstakingly recreates the aesthetic and atmosphere of the 18th century, employing natural lighting techniques and highly detailed set designs to achieve an unparalleled authenticity. The film’s sprawling, episodic narrative is full of character development and immersive historical context, drawing the viewer into the Age of Enlightenment. “Barry Lyndon” is widely celebrated as a significant achievement in cinema for its artistic direction, remarkable historical accuracy, and thoughtful exploration of themes such as social ambition, human morality, and the unstable nature of fortune, ensuring its place as one of the best films about British history.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films about British history:
- The King’s Speech – Tom Hooper (2010)
- Henry V – Kenneth Branagh (1989)
- A Man for All Seasons – Fred Zinnemann (1966)
- Zulu – Cy Endfield (1964)
- Dunkirk – Christopher Nolan (2017)
- Chimes at Midnight – Orson Welles (1965)
- The Lion in Winter – Anthony Harvey (1968)
- Braveheart – Mel Gibson (1995)
- 1917 – Sam Mendes (2019)
- Barry Lyndon – Stanley Kubrick (1975)
