W2TCH

21 British Period Dramas Starring Queen Elizabeth

21 titles

Default orderPopularityIMDb ratingTMDB ratingRelease dateRuntimeTitleBudgetBox officeAscending
  1. 1The Execution of Mary, Queen of ScotsMovie · 1895 · 1m · HistoryThis historical short film depicts the execution of Mary, Queen of Scots. As she is led to the block, she is forced to kneel with her neck on a stone. As the executioner prepares to behead her, a surprising event occurs: Mary is replaced by a dummy. The executioner then swiftly beheads the dummy, shocking the onlookers. A unique camera trick shows the executioner displaying the severed head, highlighting history's brutality. This short film demonstrates cinema's early power to manipulate reality.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.2
  2. 2The Private Lives of Elizabeth and EssexMovie · 1939 · 106m · Drama, History, RomanceThis period drama centers on the passionate relationship between Queen Elizabeth I and a man driven by ambition to become King of England. The story unfolds in the opulent world of Tudor England, exploring their complicated romance and the power struggles that shaped their lives. As love and politics become entangled, the film reveals a time when personal feelings and royal duty were often at odds, leaving a lasting impact on history. It's a moving story about the complexities of a queen's heart and the sacrifices she made for her country.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.3
  3. 3The QueenMovie · 2006 · 103m · Drama, History"The Queen" offers a close look at the relationship between Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Tony Blair as they navigate the aftermath of Princess Diana's death. The film portrays their efforts to find common ground between the Royal Family's private grief and the public's expectation of a visible expression of mourning.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9
  4. 4The King's SpeechMovie · 2010 · 118m · Drama, HistoryThe King's Speech is the story of Prince Albert, who becomes King George VI, father to Queen Elizabeth II. When his brother steps down, Albert ('Bertie') unexpectedly inherits the throne. Struggling with a severe stutter and deemed unready to rule, Bertie seeks help from an unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue. Through surprising methods and a growing friendship, Bertie learns to speak confidently and bravely guides his nation through war.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.7
  5. 5The 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. 6The 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
  7. 7The Other Boleyn GirlMovie · 2003 · 90m · TV Movie, Drama, History"The Other Boleyn Girl" tells the story of Lady Mary Boleyn, a fictionalized portrayal of a woman who becomes King Henry VIII's mistress, initially overshadowed by her sister Anne. After being dismissed from the court, Mary marries a commoner. However, she returns to court when Anne makes a dangerous decision to avoid disgrace.IMDb 6.1TMDB 7.3
  8. 8Mary of ScotlandMovie · 1936 · 123m · Drama, History, RomanceFollowing her husband's death, Mary Stuart, a determined young woman, enters a world of dangerous politics as she claims the Scottish throne. She faces opposition from her half-brother, who strongly opposes her, and from those within her own supporters who are divided between loyalty to her and the existing power structure. The film portrays the ruthless power struggles and betrayals of 16th century Scotland. It follows Mary's unwavering determination to become Queen despite facing constant challenges. The story explores themes of power, sacrifice, and the difficulties women faced when their rights were limited by societal expectations. This historical drama is a compelling story of a woman striving to regain her throne against overwhelming obstacles.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2
  9. 9Elizabeth: The Golden AgeMovie · 2007 · 114m · Drama, History, RomanceAs Queen Elizabeth faces threats from treacherous family members and a Spanish invasion, she and her perceptive advisor must work together to protect her kingdom.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.7
  10. 10ElizabethMovie · 1998 · 123m · Drama, HistoryThis historical drama follows Queen Elizabeth I as she comes into power, showing her growth from a young ruler dealing with political schemes to a confident leader. The film highlights the constant pressure from her advisors to marry for political gain, and the strong opposition from Catholics who distrust her. A significant element is her relationship with Lord Robert Dudley, a personal connection amidst intense power struggles and religious conflict. The movie depicts Elizabeth's resilience as she overcomes challenges and establishes herself as a highly respected queen.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2
  11. 11Young BessMovie · 1953 · 112mFollowing her mother's death by execution, young Bess grows up to become England's most celebrated queen: the intelligent and resourceful Queen Elizabeth I. Jean Simmons stars as Bess in this sweeping film, depicting the challenging and perilous years of her life leading up to her surprising rise to power at the age of 25. Charles Laughton returns as her powerful father, Henry VIII, in his Academy Award®-winning role. Deborah Kerr plays Catherine Parr, Henry's final wife and Bess's stepmother. And Stewart Granger, Simmons’ then-husband, portrays Lord Admiral Thomas Seymour as a heroic figure. Set against a backdrop of adventure, romance, and courtly schemes, Young Bess tells the story of a queen in the making.IMDb 6.7TMDB 5.7
  12. 12A Man for All SeasonsMovie · 1966 · 120m · Drama, HistoryThis historical drama explores the difficult relationship between King Henry VIII and his advisor, Sir Thomas More. More, a devout Catholic and family man, is forced to choose between loyalty to the crown and his faith when he's required to swear an oath recognizing Henry as the head of the Church of England. This new law clashes directly with More's beliefs. The film examines themes of loyalty, conviction, and the conflict between personal principles and political power during the turbulent 16th-century English court.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.3
  13. 13Bloody Queens: Elizabeth and MaryMovie · 2016 · 59mThis film dramatizes the correspondence between Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I, revealing the deep-seated hatred and obsession fueling their prolonged rivalry. Historians analyze the motives behind the queens' animosity, exploring how their decades-long conflict threatened to destabilize Elizabeth's reign and kingdom.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.8
  14. 14Mary, Queen of ScotsMovie · 2013 · 120mThis film chronicles the life and death of a Scottish king.IMDb 5.4TMDB 5.1
  15. 15Mary 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
  16. 16The Private Life of Henry VIIIMovie · 1933 · 97m · History, DramaThe film depicts King Henry VIII's eventful reign, marked by his many marriages. After Anne Boleyn's execution, he quickly marries Jane Seymour, but faces further heartbreak. The king then pursues Anne of Cleves, a German noblewoman, as his next wife. Their marriage is brief and annulled, adding to the king’s history of spouses. The film explores the political maneuvering and personal drama surrounding these relationships, examining the motivations of Henry and his wives. It presents a detailed view of this historical period, considering themes of power, loyalty, and the impact of ambition. The film also offers glimpses into the lives of the women caught in Henry's relationships, portraying their experiences within this historical setting. It’s not simply about a man seeking love, but also about human strength and survival in difficult circumstances.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.4
  17. 17The DealMovie · 2003 · 90mAs a UK election nears, Labour leader John Smith dies after suffering a heart attack. Gordon Brown, a Scottish politician, is widely expected to succeed him. However, Tony Blair also emerges as a strong contender, potentially appealing to voters in the South who might be wary of Brown. Blair contacts Brown to arrange a meeting to discuss their paths to leadership. The film then flashes back to the beginning of their careers, when they shared an office in Westminster after being elected to Parliament for the first time.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.7
  18. 18Mary, Queen of ScotsMovie · 1971 · 128m · Drama, History"Teppan" is a touching Japanese television drama that aired on NHK from 2010 to 2011 as their 83rd Asadora series. The story follows Miori Takimoto, a rising actress who plays a young woman raised in Onomichi by adoptive parents. After learning about her real family and meeting her biological grandmother, she decides to move to Osaka to open her own okonomiyaki restaurant. The title refers to the teppan grill used to make this dish. Despite disruptions from the Tohoku Earthquake, "Teppan" achieved a strong 17.2% rating, becoming one of the most successful Asadora dramas in recent years. This moving story about finding yourself, family, and cooking will appeal to audiences of all ages.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6
  19. 19Anne of the Thousand DaysMovie · 1969 · 145m · Drama, History, RomanceThis historical drama explores the political intrigue of Tudor England as Henry VIII strives to divorce Katharine of Aragon and secure his place in history. Katharine faces betrayal with dignity, her strength contrasting with the allure of Anne Boleyn, who becomes Henry's new queen. The film examines the consequences of power and passion, as the future of the Tudor dynasty rests on the intertwined fates of two women and the kingdom they influence.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1
  20. 20The Special RelationshipMovie · 2010 · 93m · TV Movie, Drama, HistoryThis film chronicles Tony Blair's rise from a behind-the-scenes political figure to Prime Minister. It explores the relationships that shaped his career: the dynamic between Blair and Bill Clinton, the bonds within their respective couples, and the complexities of marriage.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4
  21. 21BecketMovie · 1964 · 148m · Drama, HistoryIn 12th century England, King Henry II exploits the death of the Archbishop of Canterbury to install his close friend, Thomas Becket, as the new Archbishop. Initially a jovial man, Becket takes his new role with unexpected seriousness and begins to openly challenge the King's authority on church matters. This strains their friendship, turning Becket into an unforeseen opponent. King Henry II must then deal with the repercussions of his impulsive choice. The story examines loyalty, power, and personal change against a backdrop of political turmoil and religious conflict in medieval England.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.1