Studying history often means dealing with countless dates, facts, and significant events. How about a change from dry theory with a historical movie? Whether biography, drama, or thriller, there’s something for everyone here. However, keep in mind that actual events are often supplemented or intertwined with fictional characters and narratives.
Biographical movies
1. Alexander (2004)
Alexander the Great is one of the most renowned and charismatic figures in human history. “Alexander” tells the story of his childhood and his campaigns in Persia, Egypt, and India, as narrated by his former companion Ptolemy. The movie is based on the biography of Alexander by historian Robin Lane Fox.
Where to stream? Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
2. Gandhi (1982)
Mahatma Gandhi is one of the most significant figures in Indian history. This movie highlights his life from his law studies to his death, focusing primarily on his efforts for the peaceful liberation of India from British colonial rule and his role as a leader of the Indian independence movement.
Where to stream? Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
3. The Imitation Game (2014)
This movie is based on Andrew Hodges’ biography “Alan Turing – Enigma” and explores the life of British mathematician Alan Turing. It emphasizes the challenges he faced due to his homosexuality and his efforts to crack the Enigma cipher machine, used extensively by Germany during World War II.
Where to stream? Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
World Wars I and II
1. All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)
In 1929, Erich Maria Remarque published the war drama “All Quiet on the Western Front”, depicting the horrors of World War I through the eyes of a young soldier. This classic was reimagined last year, gaining renewed relevance amidst ongoing conflicts in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Where to stream? Netflix
2. The King’s Speech (2010)
George VI unexpectedly became King of Great Britain, but he had one issue: a stutter. “The King’s Speech” chronicles his struggle to overcome his speech impediment with the help of a compassionate therapist. The movie culminates in a historic radio address at the onset of World War II, regarded as one of the most important in broadcasting history.
Where to stream? Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
3. Schindler’s List (1993)
Presented in evocative black-and-white, this movie tells the story of German entrepreneur Oskar Schindler, who saved the lives of many Auschwitz-Birkenau prisoners during World War II by employing them in his factory.
Where to stream? Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
4. Naked Among Wolves (2015)
Set in a concentration camp, “Naked Among Wolves” is based on Bruno Apitz’s 1958 novel. It follows a group of communist prisoners in Buchenwald planning an uprising as the war nears its end. When a new prisoner arrives with a suitcase containing a three-year-old boy, their plans are jeopardized as they prioritize saving the child.
Where to stream? Amazon Prime Video
5. Pearl Harbor (2001)
The Japanese attack on the Pearl Harbor military base was a pivotal moment leading to the U.S. entry into World War II. The movie portrays this event through the eyes of two military pilots, blending war drama with a romantic subplot amidst the chaos.
Where to stream? Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
Other Notable Movies
1. Last Samurai (2003)
Japan, 1876: Rebel samurai attempt to resist Japan’s Westernization, with American support aiding the Japanese government. During a battle, American soldier Nathan Algren is captured by the samurai and begins to understand their culture and philosophy, eventually joining their cause. The movie draws inspiration from the historical Satsuma Rebellion.
Where to stream? Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
2. The Lives of Others (2006)
Even today, thousands of files from East Germany’s Ministry for State Security (Stasi) remain in Berlin. “The Lives of Others” tells the story of Stasi agent Gerd Wiesler, tasked with spying on playwright Georg Dreymann. Over time, Wiesler grows a conscience and covers up Dreymann’s activities. After the fall of the Berlin Wall, Dreymann discovers the files about him and writes a novel dedicated to Wiesler upon realizing his sacrifice.
Where to stream? Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV
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