44 Captivating Period Drama Films
42 titles
- 1
Cold Comfort FarmMovie · 1995 · 95m · Comedy, RomanceThis adaptation of a satirical British novel tells the story of Flora Poste, a spirited nineteen-year-old who moves in with her eccentric relatives, the Starkadders, after her parents die. Flora, used to London society, finds herself in a world of rural traditions and unique problems. With help from her friend Mary, she sets out to modernize the Starkadders' lives, aiming to make them more progressive.
Flora’s determination and the countryside setting revitalize the Starkadders’ world and inspire her own writing. The story is a charming tale about human connection and the power of change, told with wit and warmth.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.8 - 2
The Young VictoriaMovie · 2009 · 105m · Drama, History, RomanceTeenage Victoria, the sole heir to the English throne, finds herself navigating complex family politics. Her mother pressures her to sign a document granting regency powers, while her Belgian uncle plots a marriage between Victoria and Prince Albert, a union destined to be a lifelong love.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.2 - 3
Testament of YouthMovie · 2015 · 129m · History, Drama, War*Testament of Youth* is a powerful story of love, war, and memory, adapted from Vera Brittain's influential memoir, a classic account of World War I from a woman's perspective. The film follows a young woman's journey from hopeful beginnings to facing despair and finding resilience. It explores themes of first love, the senselessness of war, and the struggle to find meaning in the darkest of times.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 4
Albert NobbsMovie · 2011 · 113m · DramaIn late 19th century Ireland, Albert Nobbs faces hardship as a woman is expected to be dependent. To find work as a butler in Dublin's finest hotel, Albert disguises herself as a man. While there, she meets a charming painter and begins to dream of a life beyond her deception.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.3 - 5
The Other Boleyn GirlMovie · 2008 · 115m · Drama, Romance, HistoryThis is a lush story of secrets, love, and deceit, unfolding during a pivotal period in European history. Two stunning sisters, Anne and Mary Boleyn, are caught in a rivalry for the affection of King Henry VIII, a man known for his charm and intensity, all fueled by their family's relentless pursuit of power.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 6
Nicholas NicklebyMovie · 2002 · 132m · Adventure, DramaNicholas Nickleby, a young man hoping for a better future, fights to protect his family and friends from the cruel and greedy actions of his uncle.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 7
Jane EyreMovie · 2011 · 120m · Drama, RomanceFollowing a difficult childhood, Jane Eyre becomes a governess. She finds contentment at Thornfield Hall, where she encounters Mr. Rochester, the estate's reserved and intense owner. Jane and Mr. Rochester develop a close friendship, and Jane falls in love with him. Just as happiness seems within reach, Mr. Rochester's dark secret threatens to shatter everything.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.2 - 8
Mansfield ParkMovie · 1999 · 112m · Romance, DramaFanny Price, a lively young woman, is sent to live with her wealthy cousins on their large estate to learn how to behave in high society. Surrounded by luxury, Fanny’s quick wit and cheerful personality start to change the way her relatives see things. This experience leads to personal growth for both Fanny and her cousins as they learn the value of being themselves.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7 - 9
BelleMovie · 2013 · 105m · DramaDido Elizabeth Bell, born out of wedlock to a Royal Navy admiral and of mixed race, becomes a key figure in the movement to end slavery in England.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 10
Love & FriendshipMovie · 2016 · 94m · Drama, Romance, ComedyLady Susan Vernon, a charming but manipulative woman, goes to live with her in-laws to avoid gossip about her past and to arrange marriages for herself and her daughter. Her plans are disrupted by two attractive young men: the handsome Reginald DeCourcy and the wealthy Sir James Martin.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1 - 11
12 Years a SlaveMovie · 2013 · 134m · Drama, HistoryIn the United States before the Civil War, Solomon Northup, a free Black man from New York, is kidnapped and forced into slavery. He endures cruelty and kindness while fighting to survive and maintain his self-respect. During his twelfth year of captivity, a chance encounter with a Canadian abolitionist will change his life forever.IMDb 8.1TMDB 7.9 - 12
Northanger AbbeyMovie · 2007 · 93m · Romance, Drama, TV MovieA young woman's fascination with dramatic Gothic stories causes confusion and misinterpretations in her romantic relationships.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 13
SuffragetteMovie · 2015 · 106m · Drama, HistoryThis film tells the story of the women who fought for early feminist ideals. Forced to operate in secret, these foot soldiers of the movement engaged in a perilous struggle for survival against a growingly oppressive government.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.2 - 14
Mary Queen of ScotsMovie · 2018 · 124m · Drama, HistoryIn 1561, Mary Stuart, the widow of the King of France, returns to Scotland and becomes its queen. This threatens Queen Elizabeth I of England, who also has a claim to the English throne. Both queens face betrayals, rebellions, and conspiracies, as well as the consequences of their own decisions. They experience the harsh realities of power, ultimately leading to a tragic end.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.5 - 15
Voice from the StoneMovie · 2017 · 91m · Mystery, Thriller, DramaVerena, a nurse, travels to an Italian estate to care for a young boy who has stopped speaking after his mother's unexpected death.IMDb 5.2TMDB 5.6 - 16
AgoraMovie · 2009 · 127m · Adventure, Drama, HistorySet in Roman Egypt, this historical drama explores the connection between philosopher Hypatia of Alexandria and Davus, her slave. Davus finds himself conflicted as he grapples with his feelings for Hypatia and the potential for freedom offered by the growing popularity of Christianity.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 17
The Little StrangerMovie · 2018 · 111m · Mystery, HorrorDuring a hot summer in post-war Warwickshire, a doctor is summoned to Hundreds Hall, a remote house with a long history belonging to the Ayres family. The Georgian mansion, which has been their home for over two centuries, is falling into disrepair. But is the family facing something more troubling than just the decline of their traditions?IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.7 - 18
The Railway ManMovie · 2013 · 116m · Drama, HistoryA survivor of the infamous "Death Railway" during World War II embarks on a quest to locate those who inflicted unimaginable torture upon him. Based on a true story.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 19
Great ExpectationsMovie · 2012 · 128m · Drama, RomanceOrphan Pip learns from lawyer Mr. Jaggers that a mysterious benefactor is funding his transformation into a gentleman. He is reunited with his childhood guardian, Miss Havisham, and Estella, the beautiful but emotionally distant woman he once loved. Pip discovers that Miss Havisham is mentally unstable, a result of being abandoned at her wedding, and has molded Estella into a cold, heartless figure.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.4 - 20
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 - 21
Sunset SongMovie · 2015 · 135m · Drama, HistoryIn the early 1900s, a young woman growing up on a Scottish farm navigates the complexities of adulthood.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 22
Anna KareninaMovie · 2012 · 130m · Drama, Romance, HistoryIn Imperial Russia, Anna Karenin travels to Moscow to see her brother. There, she encounters the captivating cavalry officer Vronsky and is instantly drawn to him. However, pursuing a relationship of this nature poses a severe threat to a woman's standing within St. Petersburg's elite social circles.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 23
Woman Walks AheadMovie · 2018 · 103m · Drama, History, WesternThis true story is a gripping western about a determined New York widow who travels west to meet Sioux chief Sitting Bull. She finds herself in opposition to an army officer determined to wage war against Native Americans.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.7 - 24
The Scandalous Lady WMovie · 2015 · 90m · Drama, TV Movie, RomanceThis 18th-century drama tells the scandalous story of Lady Seymour Worsley, who defied societal expectations by leaving her husband to run away with his close friend, Captain George Bisset. Seeking freedom from a difficult marriage, Lady Seymour finds herself embroiled in a highly publicized legal battle initiated by her influential husband, Sir Richard Worsley.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 25
EmmaMovie · 1996 · 107m · Comedy, Drama, RomanceThis period drama centers on Emma Woodhouse, a woman determined to control the romantic lives of others, particularly her friend Harriet. Though well-intentioned, Emma's matchmaking often backfires. Facing the fallout, she confronts challenges from figures like Mr. Knightley and Mrs. Elton, which gradually force her to reconsider her own views. The story follows Emma's quiet transformation as she learns important lessons about love, friendship, and understanding herself.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 26
The FavouriteMovie · 2018 · 120m · History, Comedy, DramaEngland, early 1700s. Queen Anne's close bond with Sarah Churchill is challenged by the arrival of Abigail Hill, Sarah's cousin. This sparks a sharp rivalry between the two women as they both compete for the Queen's favor.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 27
The Princess of MontpensierMovie · 2010 · 139m · Action, Drama, HistoryDuring the religious wars of 16th-century France, Marie de Mézières, a beautiful young noblewoman, is deeply in love with Henri de Guise. However, she is betrothed to the Prince of Montpensier. The story unfolds within the backdrop of the French high courts, amidst the ongoing conflict between Catholics and Protestants.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 28
Woman in GoldMovie · 2015 · 109m · DramaMaria Altmann, an 80-year-old Jewish refugee, sued the Austrian government to reclaim a highly valued painting that belonged to her aunt and was stolen by the Nazis during World War II. Her motivation was not simply to recover a family heirloom, but also to seek justice for the Nazis' atrocities, including the widespread destruction and theft of art.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 29
Jane EyreMovie · 1996 · 112m · Drama, RomanceJane Eyre follows an orphaned young woman's challenging path as she strives for independence and love. After being wrongly rejected by her aunt, Jane experiences a difficult childhood at a strict girls' school where she finds her calling in teaching. Later, she takes a position at Thornfield Hall after seeing an advertisement and becomes involved with the mysterious Mr. Rochester, befriending Mrs. Fairfax. As their connection deepens, Jane confronts difficult choices, societal pressures, and concealed truths that challenge her strength and ultimately reveal her true self in a story rich with emotion.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9 - 30
Madame BovaryMovie · 2015 · 118m · DramaSet in 19th-century France, the story follows Emma Bovary, a beautiful woman married to a doctor in a small town. She seeks to improve her social standing through affairs outside of her marriage.IMDb 5.7TMDB 5.7 - 31
The Girl KingMovie · 2015 · 106m · Drama, History, RomanceThis is the story of Kristina, the gifted and flamboyant queen of Sweden, who ascended to the throne at just six years old. She champions modernizing Sweden, but faces opposition from conservative factions who disapprove of her evolving personal life.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.2 - 32
Beloved SistersMovie · 2014 · 180mThe story centers on the complex relationships of the 19th-century writer Friedrich Schiller, caught between two sisters. One sister is his wife, while the other is tasked with writing his biography. This creates a tangled love triangle between them.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.7 - 33
Mansfield ParkMovie · 2007 · 93m · Drama, TV MovieFanny Price is sent to live with her wealthy relatives, the Bertrams, and finds herself largely unwelcome, except by her cousin Edmund. Her life becomes more complicated with the arrival of the charming Mary and Henry Crawford.IMDb 6.2TMDB 6.1 - 34
Far from the Madding CrowdMovie · 2015 · 119m · Drama, RomanceIn Victorian England, the strong-willed Bathsheba Everdene finds herself pursued by three very different men: Gabriel Oak, a diligent young sheep farmer; Frank Troy, a charming but impulsive Sergeant; and William Boldwood, a wealthy and established bachelor.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 35
The DuchessMovie · 2008 · 110m · Drama, History, RomanceThis is the story of Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, an 18th-century aristocrat who faced public scorn for her lavish lifestyle and involvement in politics.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 36
EverAfterMovie · 1998 · 121m · Drama, Romance, ComedyDanielle, a lively young woman, is forced into servitude after her father's death. Her cruel stepmother, Rodmilla, makes Danielle do all the housework and pushes her eldest daughter to marry a prince. But everything changes when Danielle meets Prince Henry, who is pretending to be an ordinary person. They fall in love, offering a chance for happiness despite her difficult circumstances.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.4 - 37
The Invisible WomanMovie · 2013 · 111m · Drama, History, RomanceIn 1857, renowned novelist and social critic Charles Dickens develops a deep affection for teenage stage actress Nelly Ternan. She becomes his primary inspiration, but their relationship demands a life of hiddenness and sacrifice for both of them.IMDb 6.1TMDB 5.9 - 38
EmmaMovie · 1996 · 121m · Romance, Comedy, DramaIn 19th-century England, Emma Woodhouse enjoys a privileged life and takes it upon herself to guide the romantic lives of others. Confident in her matchmaking abilities, she overlooks her own lack of romantic experience. Witty and charming, Emma is convinced she knows what's best for everyone around her – often without considering her own feelings. As she navigates love and her complex relationship with the thoughtful Mr. Knightley, Emma begins to understand herself and the complexities of human relationships in this charming story about growing up.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.6 - 39
PersuasionMovie · 1995 · 104m · Drama, RomanceAnne Elliot and Captain Frederick Wentworth were once deeply in love, but their relationship ended when Anne's family lost money and they were separated. Years later, Anne's father rents out their estate to Admiral Croft, bringing Anne and Frederick back into each other's orbits. Anne discovers that Frederick has become successful and wealthy, leading her to question his feelings for her. This touching story examines love, societal pressures, and the impact of past choices as Anne and Frederick try to rekindle their connection.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.1 - 40
Jane EyreMovie · 1997 · 108m · Drama, Romance, TV MovieThis adaptation tells the classic story of Jane Eyre, an orphaned girl who becomes a governess to a young French girl named Adele at the imposing manor of Mr. Rochester, the estate's enigmatic master. The film captures the novel's familiar romance, but the central chemistry between Jane and Mr. Rochester feels less compelling than in the original. While it includes typical romantic moments, some viewers may find the lack of spark between the leads disappointing.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 41
Pride & PrejudiceMovie · 2005 · 127m · Drama, RomanceThis is a story of love and life within the English aristocracy during the Georgian period. Mr. Bennet, a gentleman in Hertfordshire, lives with his domineering wife and five daughters. However, if he were to die, their home would pass to a distant relative they've never met. Therefore, the family's future well-being hinges on the daughters finding suitable husbands.IMDb 7.8TMDB 8.1 - 42
PersuasionMovie · 2007 · 93m · Drama, Romance, TV MovieAnne Elliot lives with her wealthy but snobbish family as they face financial ruin. Anne is a woman with forward-thinking ideas. Her life changes when Frederick Wentworth, a man she previously rejected, returns. Anne must decide whether to remain focused on societal expectations or embrace the possibility of a renewed romance.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
