30 Sensual Erotic Period Dramas
30 titles
- 1
From HellMovie · 2001 · 122m · Horror, Mystery, ThrillerIn this adaptation of a graphic novel by the Hughes brothers, Scotland Yard inspector Frederick Abberline, a man struggling with opium addiction, becomes involved with one of Jack the Ripper's victims. The story explores the possibility of the Ripper's true identity.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 2
CamilleMovie · 1984 · 100mIn Paris, Camille is a courtesan who falls passionately in love with the promising young Armand Duval. When Armand's father pleads with her to abandon their relationship for the sake of his son's future, Camille reluctantly leaves him. Years later, facing poverty and a terminal illness, Camille discovers that Armand has not forgotten her.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.3 - 3
The Age of InnocenceMovie · 1993 · 139m · Drama, RomanceSet in 19th-century New York, this period drama explores the complexities of love and social expectations. A young lawyer becomes drawn to a married woman who is separated from her husband but engaged to his cousin. The lawyer and the couple navigate a complicated emotional situation, facing choices about love, loyalty, and honor. The film examines societal pressures, passion, and the desire for connection in an era where rules often govern personal lives. It asks whether people will sacrifice for love and if true happiness is possible within social boundaries.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.0 - 4
Lady MacbethMovie · 2016 · 86m · DramaEngland, 1865. Katherine is trapped in a loveless marriage, controlled by her husband and his domineering father. She discovers a powerful inner strength and becomes determined to achieve her desires, no matter the cost.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.6 - 5
A Harlot's ProgressMovie · 2006 · 99mThis drama explores the life of artist William Hogarth and his connection to the woman who became the inspiration for his most celebrated artwork.IMDb 6.9TMDB 4.7 - 6
Belle de JourMovie · 1967 · 101m · Drama, RomanceSéverine Serizy leads a quiet life as a wife and homemaker, but harbors a secret: a fascination with masochism. Her world changes when her friend Henri introduces her to Madame Anais's exclusive brothel. There, Séverine creates a new persona, Belle de Jour, and finds herself increasingly drawn to the hidden world during the day. As she navigates this double life, one client becomes intensely interested in her, challenging Séverine to reconcile her fantasies with reality, her desires with her obligations, and ultimately, to define who she truly is.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.3 - 7
In the Realm of the SensesMovie · 1976 · 105m · Drama, Romance"Sada Abe" explores the complicated relationship between Sada Abe and her master in early 20th-century Japan. The film shows how their intense affair grew from mutual attraction into an all-consuming passion, with exhilarating and devastating results.
The movie sensitively examines societal expectations, sexual freedom, and the consequences of unchecked desire through the characters' emotions. Expert cinematography captures the sensual atmosphere of the time, and the actors deliver powerful performances that draw viewers into this dark and seductive story.
"Sada Abe" is a thoughtful look at love and lust, and a reminder of the price of giving in to one's deepest desires.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 8
The Man in GreyMovie · 1943 · 116m · Drama, RomanceThis period drama follows a young woman who marries a wealthy but emotionally cold lord for social advancement. Unhappy in her marriage, she finds connection with a passionate stage actor.
Her life becomes more complicated by a passionate affair between her best friend and her husband. The film explores themes of social class, desire, betrayal, and the search for happiness within societal expectations. It examines how love can unexpectedly emerge and how relationships are changed by difficult choices.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.9 - 9
The ConcubineMovie · 2012 · 122m · DramaStruggling with extreme poverty, Hwa-yeon chooses to become a concubine for the king. Inside the palace, she quickly captures the attention of two men: Grand Prince Seong-won, a powerful and obsessive ruler, and Kwon-yoo, whose position could be ruined if his feelings for her become known.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.9 - 10
CasanovaMovie · 2005 · 112m · Adventure, Comedy, DramaA notorious womanizer, known for his success with women, encounters someone who doesn't fall for his usual tactics. He persists in his pursuit, and unexpectedly begins to develop genuine feelings for her.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.4 - 11
A Royal AffairMovie · 2012 · 137m · Drama, History, RomanceA young queen develops feelings for her royal physician, and together they ignite a revolution that fundamentally alters their country.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 12
Perfume: The Story of a MurdererMovie · 2006 · 147m · Crime, Fantasy, DramaIn 18th century Paris, Jean-Baptiste Grenouille is born with an extraordinary sense of smell. He becomes a master perfumer, crafting unparalleled fragrances. But driven by an obsessive quest for the perfect scent, his pursuit leads him down a dark and dangerous path as he seeks to capture and preserve the very essence of life.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 13
Forbidden QuestMovie · 2006 · 142mIn 18th century Korea's Chosun dynasty, a respected scholar unexpectedly begins writing erotic novels. He develops a romantic relationship with a woman who belongs to the king's court.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.5 - 14
The LibertineMovie · 2004 · 114m · Drama, RomanceThis is the story of John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester, a 17th-century poet known for his excessive drinking and scandalous lifestyle, which contributed to his premature death. Despite his controversial life, he later gained recognition for the quality of his poetry.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9 - 15
Dangerous LiaisonsMovie · 1988 · 119m · Drama, RomanceThis drama is set in 18th century France and centers on the complicated relationship between the Marquise de Merteuil and the Vicomte de Valmont. The Marquise suggests a seduction game to her former lover: he must charm her friend's bride as a condition for one last night with her. But as they pursue this scheme, unexpected problems occur, and their choices have lasting effects. The film examines power, manipulation, and desire within the luxurious setting of high French society.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 16
Pretty BabyMovie · 1978 · 110m · DramaThis drama unfolds in the hidden world of New Orleans, following Hattie, a prostitute, who forms an unexpected connection with photographer Bellocq after a chance encounter at her workplace. Bellocq becomes fascinated by Hattie’s daughter, Violet, photographing her innocence. When Hattie leaves to marry someone she hopes will improve Violet's life, the girl is drawn into prostitution under her mother's madam.
As Violet struggles in this new environment, she hopes Bellocq can save her. But when Hattie unexpectedly returns, the fragile bond between Violet and her potential rescuer is threatened. The story explores the vulnerability and human connection of a young girl caught between difficult circumstances, yearning for a better future while facing the harsh realities of life in New Orleans' underworld.IMDb 6.5TMDB 7.0 - 17
Portrait of a BeautyMovie · 2008 · 108m · Drama, RomanceYoon-jeong, born into a family of renowned court painters, possesses a natural talent for art. However, tradition dictates her brother must uphold the family name, as painting is forbidden for women. While he trains for his role in the court, Yoon-jeong secretly assists him by painting for him. Her life changes dramatically when her brother takes his own life. To protect the family's reputation, she assumes his identity and lives as a man. As Yun-bok, her talent attracts the attention of Kim Hong-do, a leading artist. But her bold portrayals of women are deemed scandalous by the royal court. Yun-bok falls in love with Kang-mu, sparking a desire to shed her disguise and embrace her true self. Kang-mu, in turn, dedicates himself to supporting her.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2 - 18
The Chinese Botanist's DaughtersMovie · 2006 · 95m · DramaAt the home of a renowned Chinese botanist, his daughter and a visiting female intern develop a love for each other—a relationship they must keep hidden.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.3 - 19
Untold ScandalMovie · 2003 · 124m · Drama, RomanceIn late 18th century Korea, Lady Cho provokes Lord Jo-won into seducing her husband’s young, inexperienced concubine. She proposes a dangerous bargain: she will share a bed with him if he succeeds in the task.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 20
Lust, CautionMovie · 2007 · 158m · Action, Drama, RomanceIn World War II, a secret agent is tasked with a dangerous mission: gain the trust of a high-ranking official in the Japanese-controlled government of Shanghai, with the ultimate goal of assassinating him.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 21
AffinityMovie · 2008 · 120m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryFollowing a personal tragedy, a wealthy woman takes on the role of "Lady Visitor" at Millbank prison. She seeks solace and purpose by offering guidance to the female inmates. Among the prisoners, she forms a close bond with Selina, a spiritual medium, and finds herself particularly drawn to her.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.8 - 22
Women in LoveMovie · 1969 · 131m · Drama, RomanceIn a 1920s English coal mining town, Gudrun and Ursula, two sisters, seek lives beyond their limited prospects. Their paths cross with a wealthy playboy and an intellectual educator, both men drawn to their captivating presence. As intense desires develop, the sisters' pursuit of freedom from societal norms leads to unexpected outcomes, revealing the precarious relationship between liberation and ruin.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 23
The HandmaidenMovie · 2016 · 145m · Thriller, Drama, RomanceKorea, 1930s. During Japanese occupation, Sookee takes a job as a handmaiden to Hideko, a Japanese heiress living in isolation on her family's estate, ruled by her controlling Uncle Kouzuki. However, Sookee hides a secret: she's a skilled pickpocket recruited by a con man pretending to be a Japanese Count. His plan is to seduce Hideko and steal her wealth.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.2 - 24
Black BookMovie · 2006 · 145m · Drama, Thriller, WarDuring World War II in Nazi-occupied Netherlands, a Jewish singer goes undercover at the local Gestapo headquarters, working with the Dutch resistance.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.4 - 25
The Secret Diaries of Miss Anne ListerMovie · 2010 · 90m · Drama, Romance, TV MovieIn the 1800s, a woman living as a lesbian meticulously documents her life in coded diaries. She strives for independence while navigating a secret relationship with a married woman.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.5 - 26
The Pillow BookMovie · 1995 · 126m · Drama, RomanceThis film follows a woman whose longing for intimacy is closely linked to her passion for calligraphy. She sets out to find a romantic partner who is also skilled in the art of beautiful writing. The story explores themes of self-discovery, desire, and the connection between love and art as she navigates this unusual search. The audience witnesses her journey, set against a backdrop that emphasizes the beauty and complexity of both written words and human relationships.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 27
Summer with MonikaMovie · 1953 · 98m · Drama, RomanceSet in Stockholm, the film follows Monika as she falls for Harry during a holiday visit. Their quick romance results in an unexpected pregnancy, leading them to marry. Adjusting to married life and living together in a small space presents difficulties for the couple. The story explores love, compromise, and the challenges of building a life together, offering a realistic look at the joys and struggles of early marriage.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.3 - 28
The Blue LagoonMovie · 1980 · 104m · Adventure, Drama, RomanceAfter a shipwreck, young Emmeline and Richard are stranded on a beautiful tropical island. Initially frightened, they adjust to their surroundings, living among exotic animals and plants. Over time, they learn to survive and build a life in this wild place.
When the ship's cook, their only adult, dies, Emmeline and Richard must grow up quickly without help. They face challenges as they navigate life far from civilization, relying on each other. This story is about survival, friendship, and resourcefulness, as they balance the island's beauty with their desire for connection to the outside world.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.1 - 29
QuillsMovie · 2000 · 124m · DramaEarly 19th-century France. The Marquis de Sade is imprisoned in an asylum, but his controversial writings spread widely. As authorities increase control, a conflict arises between Sade's powerful imagination, the Abbé's desire for reform, and a doctor determined to suppress him. The story explores the struggle for freedom of expression amidst themes of desire, power, and censorship.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 30
Crimson PeakMovie · 2015 · 119m · Horror, Mystery, RomanceFollowing a family tragedy, a young writer struggles between her feelings for a longtime friend and the allure of a captivating stranger. Seeking refuge from her painful history, she finds herself drawn to a house with a strange, living presence – a house that seems to hold onto the past.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.7
