5 Best Historical Epics to Watch While Waiting for Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey
From epic battles and dramatic conflicts to majestic chambers and sumptuous costumes.
It was recently announced that Christopher Nolan 's next project will be The Odyssey. The poem was written around the 8th century BC. According to the plot, the king of Ithaca, Odysseus, sets out on a great journey after the end of the Trojan War to return home to his wife Penelope.
The upcoming historical epic already has a release date set for July 17, 2026. While you wait for the new movie from one of the most outstanding directors of our time, we suggest you watch other outstanding historical films.
1. Cleopatra, 1963
The movie tells the story of the life and reign of Egyptian Queen Cleopatra, her relationship with the Roman Empire, and her romance with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
Cleopatra is famous for its epic scope, lavish costumes, incredible sets and visual effects. The film is remembered for its large-scale scenes that recreate the atmosphere and customs of ancient Egypt and Rome.
The film won several Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design, and became a commercial success despite significant budget problems during production.
2. Hero, 2002
Hero is set in ancient China during the Warring States Period. A nameless warrior tells the future emperor the story of his victories over three legendary swordsmen. Through a series of memorable events and battles, the movie explores topics of honor, loyalty, love, and strength.
Hero features excellent fight choreography, elegant visual style and aesthetic beauty. It is known for its meditative atmosphere and philosophical undertones.
3. The Last Emperor, 1987
This epic movie, a magnum opus of the recognized classic of Italian cinema, Bernardo Bertolucci, is based on the autobiography of the last emperor of China, Puyi.
We follow the main character from the age of three, when he becomes Emperor of China, and his entire subsequent life unfolds against the backdrop of the turbulent history of the 20th century.
The film was nominated for Oscars in nine categories and won them all. Bertolucci himself admitted that The Last Emperor is his most Italian film, even though the action takes place in China.
4. Ben-Hur, 1959
The movie tells the story of Judah Ben-Hur, who is accused of treason and sent into slavery with his family. He survives and returns to the Roman Empire determined to take revenge on his tormentors.
The film was one of the biggest productions of its time because of its impressive battle scenes, grandiose sets, and stunning visual effects. It is also known for its famous chariot race sequence, which is considered one of the most exciting and suspenseful scenes in the history of cinema.
5. RRR, 2022
A fictional and very charming story about the legendary Indian revolutionaries Rama Raju and Komaram Bheem. The movie tells about their travels around the world and the beginning of the fight for the freedom of their country.
The story is set in colonial India in the 1920s. Rama is a policeman in the service of the colonialists who instills fear in the Indians. Bheem is a simple man who goes to Delhi to look for a little girl who has been kidnapped by the governor.
However, the Governor learns of Bheem's plans and announces a reward for his capture. Rama rushes to find the rebel. However, a chance meeting between Rama and Bheem leads to friendship.