8 Movie and Series Recommendations for Egyptology Students

For thousands of years, Egypt was one of the greatest ancient empires, and its unique culture, art, and architecture continue to fascinate to this day. With such a long-lasting legacy, it can be hard to keep track of everything. Here are 8 movie and series recommendations to inspire your interest in Ancient Egypt.

Movies

Cleopatra (1963)

Cleopatra remains one of the most iconic historical figures, not only as a rare female Pharaoh but also due to her infamous relationships with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. This epic film recounts her life, from her rise to power to her alliances with Rome and ultimately her tragic death, based on historical events and battles.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

This action-packed adventure follows an archaeological team that accidentally resurrects a cursed Pharaoh. Along with battling an ancient curse, they face grave robbers, Egyptian priests, and biblical plagues.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Google Play Movies & Series, Apple TV

Secrets of the Saqqara Tomb (2020)

Unlike the well-known sites of Giza and Thebes, Saqqara remains less prominent. This documentary follows an archaeological team as they unearth a 4,000-year-old untouched tomb, shedding light on modern excavation methods and revealing new insights into Ancient Egyptian history.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix

Asterix and Cleopatra (1968)

Asterix and Obelix is probably one of the most famous comic and movie series. In the animated classic “Asterix and Cleopatra”, the famous Gauls not only meet their archenemy Caesar, but also experience a cultural adventure in Ancient Egypt and are supposed to help Cleopatra’s architect build a palace. A lighthearted take on Egyptian culture, perfect for a break from heavy theory.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Google Play Movies & TV, Apple TV

Series

Tut (2015)

Although he died young, Tutankhamun is one of the most famous Egyptian pharaohs. This three-part miniseries explores his life, and delves into the key people and events that shaped his life.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video

Egypt – Treasures of Archaeology (2019)

Egypt continues to offer archaeologists endless opportunities for discoveries. This documentary showcases ongoing expeditions and the new findings that enhance our understanding of Ancient Egyptian history and culture.

Streaming on: DisneyPlus, ZDF Mediathek

Egypt – World of the Pharaohs (2023)

In eight episodes, this documentary delves into the mysteries of Ancient Egypt through the lens of the latest archaeological discoveries. Topics include the construction of the Great Pyramids of Giza and the role of women in Ancient Egyptian society.

Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, ZDF Mediathek

The Great Mysteries of Ancient Egypt (2019)

Each episode of this documentary series focuses on a specific aspect of Egyptian culture, such as the rise of the empire, the afterlife, gods, inventions, and the fall of the civilization. It provides a broad overview of Ancient Egypt’s complex and fascinating history.