The 10 Greatest Historical Epic Movies

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So you just saw Gladiator 2, or you’re planning to see Gladiator 2, and you just want to see more movies like that. Of course you would. Why wouldn’t you!? Anything in the same genre; you know, Epics, historical epics, sword and sandal epics or whatever you’d call them. I have a dope list for you today. I’m gonna rank my favorite Gladiator-esque movies. A lot of these are even from the same director as Gladiator. So what I did was I ranked my favorite movies in the genre based on their rotten tomatoes score. Let’s get started!


10. Troy (2004)

Tomato Meter: 53%
Popcorn Meter: 73%

Brad Pitt in Troy

If you love epic battles, Troy delivers stunning large-scale combat sequences that bring the legendary Trojan War to life. Featuring standout performances from Brad Pitt and Eric Bana, Directed by Wolfgang Peterson. Its sweeping cinematography and evocative score immerse you into one of history’s greatest legends. Critics thought this one was just alright. It’s tomato meter kinda low but the audience score is better. Its worth checking out our you haven’t seen it.


9. 300 (2006)

Tomato Meter: 61%
Popcorn Meter: 89%

I’ve been quoted many times calling this the toughest movie ever made. Directed by one of my favorite directors Zack Snyder. This is him at his most, Snydery. It was shot beautifully with many iconic scenes, moments, lines and characters. This is my favorite movie on this list and one that you should definitely check out if you haven’t seen it. It stars Gerard Butler whose performance is worth the price of admission alone. I’m pissed to see it only at 61% on rotten tomotoes. How could some critics you not like this!?


8. The Last Samurai (2003)

Tomato Meter: 66%
Popcorn Meter: 83%

Based in 19th-Century Japan, the Last Samurai feature a clash between tradition and more modern combat methods. Tom Cruise stars, giving a great performance as a soldier who finds redemption and purpose among the samurai. It features breathtaking battle sequences and a moving story. Plus Hans Zimmer does his thing with the score. Who doesn’t love a good samurai movie!?


7. Braveheart (1995)

Tomato Meter: 76%
Popcorn Meter: 85%

Released in ’95, Braveheart is another classic showcasing epic battles, this time in a Scottish setting. It features Mel Gibson dong double-duty as both the film’s star and director. The film’s sweeping landscapes, iconic battle scenes, and unforgettable score make it a cinematic masterpiece. Braveheart remains an inspiring and unforgettable experience loved by audiences and critics alike.


6. Gladiator (2000)

Tomato Meter: 79%
Popcorn Meter: 87%

Gladiator

The first Gladiator movie, also directed by Ridley Scott is a classic. It features Russell Crowe delivering a commanding performance as Maximus, a betrayed general turned gladiator fighting for justice and honor. The film’s stunning battle sequences, emotional depth, and unforgettable score by Hans Zimmer create a gripping cinematic experience. And I had forgot Joaquin Phoenix was in this. He kills it too!

I think it deserves a higher tomato meter score than 79% and audiences agree with me because the audience score is 87%.


5. The Last Duel (2021)

Tomato Meter: 85%
Popcorn Meter: 81%

Matt Damon in the Last Duel

I know what you’re thinking, Ridley Scott is dominating this section of the list. He dropped this gem, The Last Duel a little while back in 2021. Starring Matt Damon, Ben Aflek and Adam Driver acting their hearts out in a mediëval France setting, Its based on a true story from three distinct viewpoints. We get a lot of intense battle scenes and intricate courtroom drama. Ridley’s doing what he does best here. But it unfortunately debuted with the worst opening of his career so far at the box office.


4. Last of the Mohecans (1992)

Tomato Meter: 88%
Popcorn Meter:88%

This one is as classic as it gets. It dropped in 92 directed by the great Michael Mann, Stars Daniel day Lewis who delivers a powerful performance as Hawkeye, a man caught between two worlds, fighting for love and survival. The movie depicts an epic story set during the French and Indian War. Must see for sure.


3. Red Cliff (2009)

Tomato Meter: 89%
Popcorn Meter: 78%

Red Cliff

Based on the epic clash at the Battle of Red Cliffs in ancient China. John Woo’s Red Cliff masterfully recreates thrilling, large-scale combat. He weaves a richly detailed narrative with tons of cinematic spectacle. Its no wonder this movie has so much aclaim.


2. The Northman (2022)

Tomato Meter: 90%
Popcorn Meter: 64%

The Northman

Directed by Robert Eggers, 2022’s The Northman is a visceral and visually stunning Viking epic that delves deep into themes of revenge, fate, and honor. Alexander Skarsgård gives a ferocious performance in this one as a warrior prince on a brutal quest to avenge his father’s murder. It features plenty of authentic Norse mythology, haunting imagery and intense action. When you look at the score it got it obviously resonated with critics a lot more than the average viewer. But if you made it this far in this list, I bet its your kind of movie.


1. Woman King (2022)

Tomato Meter: 94%
Popcorn Meter: 99%

The Woman King

In the number 1 spot … According to Rotten Tomatoes score we have the Woman King. Here Viola Davis drops off a commanding performance as leader of an all-female warrior unit defending their kingdom. This is an action-packed historic epic adored by critics and audience alike. Lashana Lynch is in this too and kills it, John Boyega is great. It has breathtaking battle sequences, a compelling story, and an emotional core. The film shines as both an action spectacle and a heartfelt drama. Plus its Inspired by true events! I really enjoyed this one and I think its a must-see.


So let me know what you thought of the list. What movies did I miss. What are you planning to check out. Tell me about it in the comments.