449 Essential Costume Drama Films
438 titles
- 401
I, TonyaMovie · 2017 · 120m · Drama, ComedyTonya Harding is a rising star in U.S. competitive ice skating. However, her career faces a crisis when her former husband becomes involved.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 402
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 - 403
DetroitMovie · 2017 · 143m · Drama, Thriller, HistoryIn 1967, a police raid in Detroit sparks one of the most significant civil unrests in U.S. history.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 404
CleopatraMovie · 1963 · 251m · Drama, History, RomanceCleopatra, the clever Egyptian queen, uses both political maneuvering and charm to gain power. She first wins the favor of Julius Caesar, forming an important partnership with Rome. After Caesar's death, she cleverly aligns herself with the powerful and passionate Mark Antony. Together, they fight for control, but their plans are threatened by Caesar’s heir, leading to a difficult conflict that tests their bond and determines the future of Egypt and Rome.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.0 - 405
Becoming JaneMovie · 2007 · 120m · Romance, DramaFacing financial hardship, young Jane Austen is expected by her parents to marry Lady Gresham's wealthy nephew. However, Jane realizes this marriage would stifle her spirit and artistic identity. She develops a connection with Tom Lefroy, an engaging but impoverished lawyer's apprentice, who provides her with the understanding of human emotions essential to her future as a novelist.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.3 - 406
The Elephant ManMovie · 1980 · 124m · Drama, HistorySet in Victorian London, this drama tells the story of a man with severe disfigurement who is rescued from a life as a sideshow attraction by a kind surgeon. Based on the true story of Joseph Merrick, the film reveals his surprising intelligence and emotional depth beneath his appearance. As John Merrick struggles with societal challenges in 19th-century England, the story is a moving portrayal of strength and how compassion can conquer hardship. The film is a thoughtful look at an exceptional life and the prejudices prevalent during that time.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 407
Swept from the SeaMovie · 1998 · 113m · Drama, RomanceIn the late 1800s, Russian emigrant Yanko Goorall is the only survivor of a shipwreck. Weak and desperate, he finds refuge on a remote farm. The farm's residents are suspicious of him, but Amy Foster, a kind servant, offers him compassion. As Yanko recovers and becomes part of the family, he forms a close relationship with Dr. James Kennedy, who cares for him deeply. Amidst hardship, a romance develops between Yanko and Amy, offering a glimmer of hope.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 408
Enola HolmesMovie · 2020 · 123m · Adventure, Mystery, CrimeTeenager Enola Holmes searches for her missing mother, using her sharp detective skills to outwit her famous brother Sherlock and assist a lord who has run away.IMDb 6.7TMDB 7.2 - 409
The House of MirthMovie · 2000 · 135m · Drama, RomanceIn early 1900s New York City, a poor but privileged young woman is determined to marry well. However, she experiences a series of betrayals from her friends, leading to her ostracism from upper-class society.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.1 - 410
Lawrence of ArabiaMovie · 1962 · 228m · Adventure, History, WarCHEYENNE was an American television western that aired on ABC from 1955 to 1963, comprising 108 black-and-white episodes. The series follows Cheyenne Bodie, a former army scout who becomes a cowboy and lawman in the Wild West after the Civil War. Known for its larger-than-life hero, CHEYENNE was a pioneering hour-long format with ongoing characters, influencing future television dramas. It was the first hour-long western and the first drama series with recurring characters to run for more than one season, marking Warner Brothers' debut in original TV series. William T. Orr, a key figure in studio television production, oversaw the show, which became a model for many subsequent Warner Brothers series.IMDb 8.3TMDB 8.0 - 411
GeniusMovie · 2016 · 104m · History, DramaNew York, 1920s. Max Perkins, a renowned literary editor, is responsible for launching the careers of iconic authors like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald. When a massive, 1,000-page manuscript by an unknown writer arrives on his desk, Perkins believes he has found a true literary prodigy.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 412
JezebelMovie · 1938 · 103mIn 1850s Louisiana, a headstrong Southern woman's impulsive nature puts everyone around her in danger.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 413
Bitter HarvestMovie · 2017 · 103m · War, Drama, HistoryBitter Harvest, based on true events between the World Wars, tells the story of the Holodomor, the famine engineered by Joseph Stalin. The film depicts a powerful story of love, honor, rebellion, and survival as Ukraine struggles against the expanding Soviet Union's territorial control.IMDb 6.0TMDB 6.0 - 414
Enchanted AprilMovie · 1991 · 89m · Romance, DramaFour women, feeling trapped by their everyday lives, escape to a beautiful Italian villa seeking a fresh start. Surrounded by the vibrant Italian culture, they confront personal struggles and find emotional growth. The villa becomes a setting for them to explore love, friendship, and who they truly are. As they face their fears and past, they learn that happiness comes from within. This story explores the power of connection and finding oneself in a stunning Mediterranean setting.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.7 - 415
Pawn SacrificeMovie · 2015 · 115m · Thriller, DramaAt the peak of the Cold War, American chess genius Bobby Fischer challenges the Soviet Union, becoming a pawn in the struggle between the two superpowers.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 416
NewsiesMovie · 1992 · 121m · Drama, Music, HistorySet in New York City at the beginning of the 20th century, this drama follows the difficult lives of child newspaper sellers striving to survive. Their publisher, Joseph Pulitzer, pushes them to work even harder for greater profit. A determined group of these young sellers decide to strike for fair treatment. The story explores themes of resilience and social injustice, highlighting the strength of youth during a time of great change. Facing hardship and opposition, the children's fight for better conditions shows the power of working together and the courage found in the most vulnerable.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 417
A Handful of DustMovie · 1988 · 118m · Romance, DramaAristocrat Tony Last's quiet life is disrupted when he invites the mysterious John Beaver to his estate. A dangerous attraction develops between Beaver and Tony's wife, Brenda, leading to secret meetings in London while Tony remains unaware. Brenda's sudden request for a divorce shatters Tony's world, sending him on a journey to South America in search of answers and a way to heal.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.0 - 418
Mr. TurnerMovie · 2014 · 150m · History, DramaIn his final 25 years, the unconventional British painter J.M.W. Turner embraces life with passion. He secretly develops a relationship with a woman who runs a seaside inn, while his devoted housekeeper harbors a hidden affection for him.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 419
Persian LessonsMovie · 2020 · 127m · War, DramaFrance, 1942, under Nazi occupation. Gilles is arrested with other Jews and transported to a German concentration camp. To avoid immediate execution, he convinces the SS guards he is Persian. This deception earns him a dangerous assignment: to teach the camp commander, Koch, Farsi. Koch harbors dreams of opening a restaurant in Iran after the war. Gilles survives by creating new "Farsi" words each day and teaching them to Koch.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.5 - 420
Christopher RobinMovie · 2018 · 104m · Adventure, Comedy, FamilyChristopher Robin, who once had countless adventures in the Hundred Acre Wood, has grown up and lost his way. Now, it’s up to his spirited stuffed animal friends – Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, and the others – to rekindle their friendship and remind him of the endless days of childlike wonder when doing nothing was the best thing of all.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.3 - 421
In the Heart of the SeaMovie · 2015 · 122m · Thriller, Drama, AdventureIn the winter of 1820, the New England whaling ship Essex encounters a whale of unprecedented size and apparent malice. The whale seems driven by a vengeful intelligence, attacking the ship with relentless force.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.8 - 422
BrimstoneMovie · 2016 · 148m · Thriller, Western, DramaIn the harsh, unforgiving Old West, Liz is a resilient woman relentlessly pursued by a vengeful preacher who believes she is guilty of a crime she did not commit.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2 - 423
At Eternity's GateMovie · 2018 · 111m · DramaVincent van Gogh, a celebrated yet deeply troubled artist, spends his last years in Arles, France, creating iconic paintings of the landscapes around him.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.0 - 424
The Taming of the ShrewMovie · 1967 · 117m · Comedy, RomanceIn 16th century Italy, Petruchio, a hot-headed landowner from Verona, travels to Padua seeking wealth and a wife. Meanwhile, Baptista, a wealthy merchant in Padua, announces that his youngest daughter, Bianca, must wait to marry until his headstrong eldest daughter, Katherina, finds a husband.
This period drama follows Petruchio's pursuit of fortune and love as it clashes with Baptista’s rules about marriage. The film explores tradition, personal desires, and family relationships, offering a glimpse into 16th-century Italian life. As Petruchio and Katherina grapple with their own wants, they develop an unusual relationship that challenges societal expectations. The story balances humor with deeper themes, creating an engaging and insightful film.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.9 - 425
InvincibleMovie · 2001 · 133m · Drama, WarIn 1930s Berlin, a Jewish strongman takes on the stage, portraying the iconic Aryan hero Siegfried.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.2 - 426
Victoria & AbdulMovie · 2017 · 112m · Drama, HistoryQueen Victoria develops an unexpected friendship with Abdul Karim, a young clerk from India.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9 - 427
RagtimeMovie · 1981 · 155m · Drama, HistoryThe film follows a young Black pianist as he navigates the social scene of early 1900s New York City. Set against a backdrop of racial tension and hardship, he becomes connected to a wealthy white family whose lives involve secrets, conflict, and memories. The story depicts the era's complexities, showing both the good and bad in people within a diverse society. As the pianist's talent draws him closer to the family, he struggles to pursue his music while facing prejudice. The film examines identity, social standing, and how discrimination affects relationships during a time when these issues were deeply felt.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 428
Kate & LeopoldMovie · 2001 · 118m · Romance, Comedy, FantasyA scientist's ex-girlfriend, Kate, is forced to show a time-traveling nobleman from the 1800s, named Leopold, the modern world. As Kate spends time with Leopold, she finds herself increasingly drawn to him. However, his failure to return to his own era could have devastating consequences for the timeline.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.3 - 429
The Secret GardenMovie · 1993 · 101m · Drama, Family, FantasyThis period drama follows a young British girl who travels from the lively streets of India to her uncle's quiet English castle after her parents die in an earthquake. Feeling neglected in this unfamiliar place, she discovers a forgotten garden on the estate and finds purpose restoring it. Forming a friendship with a servant boy, she works to revive the garden while uncovering hidden secrets within the castle. The film explores themes of grief, strength, and how love and friendship help her heal and find a new home.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 430
HidalgoMovie · 2004 · 136m · Western, AdventureIn 1890, a Pony Express rider journeys to Arabia to race his horse, Hidalgo, in a high-stakes competition for a large prize. The adventure takes them across the globe.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.9 - 431
Cold WarMovie · 2018 · 88m · Romance, Music, DramaIn the aftermath of World War II in Poland, a man and a woman encounter one another. Despite their contrasting personalities and origins, they find themselves inexplicably drawn together, even though their connection seems destined for tragedy.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 432
LoreMovie · 2012 · 109m · Drama, War, ThrillerAt the close of World War II, five German siblings are abandoned by their Nazi parents and must navigate a devastated homeland. The children, guided by their 14-year-old eldest sister Lore, face the consequences of their parents' choices and the harsh realities of a changed world. They are compelled to confront the legacy of their family and find their way forward.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 433
Snow Falling on CedarsMovie · 1999 · 127m · Drama, RomanceSet in a 1950s coastal town, the film follows a Japanese-American fisherman suspected of murdering his neighbor after an incident at sea. Local reporter Ishmael's investigation becomes complicated when he learns his former lover is involved. As he digs deeper, Ishmael uncovers surprising clues leading to an unexpected truth. The story explores betrayal, guilt, and complicated relationships amidst mid-century social tensions. Through Ishmael’s search for answers, the film examines how personal histories connect with larger societal issues.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.0 - 434
Operation FinaleMovie · 2018 · 124m · Drama, History, ThrillerIn 1960, a group of Israeli secret agents is sent to Argentina on a mission: to locate Adolf Eichmann, the key figure in the Holocaust, and bring him to Israel for trial.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.7 - 435
Great ExpectationsMovie · 1946 · 118m · Drama, RomanceThis adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic follows orphan Pip as he unexpectedly journeys toward becoming a gentleman, aided by a mysterious benefactor. With the help of lawyer Mr. Jaggers, who uncovers the secret, Pip learns the customs of Victorian England. He later meets Miss Havisham, a woman broken by a past heartbreak and now living in isolation. This tragedy has shaped Miss Havisham's view of the world and turned her ward, Estella, into a cold, beautiful woman. The story explores themes of identity, social expectations, and human emotion as Pip adjusts to his new life and tries to repair damaged relationships.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.3 - 436
MoliereMovie · 2007 · 115m · Romance, Drama, ComedyMolière, a struggling actor and playwright burdened by debt, finds an unexpected solution when the wealthy Jourdain offers to pay off his debts. In return, Molière will use his talents to help Jourdain win the affection of a widowed marquise, leading to a series of comedic events.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.4 - 437
Downton AbbeyMovie · 2019 · 122m · Drama, Romance, HistoryThe Crawleys and their dedicated household staff brace themselves for a pivotal moment. A visit from the King and Queen of England promises to spark scandal, romance, and political complications, threatening the future of Downton Abbey.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 438
A Room with a ViewMovie · 1986 · 117m · Drama, RomanceIn Florence, Englishwoman Lucy Honeychurch and her chaperone Charlotte Bartlett find their hotel rooms don't have the views they hoped for. Mr. Emerson and his son George offer to upgrade them. While in Tuscany, Lucy begins to see the world differently, leading her to question what she thought she knew and what society expects of her. Back in England, she must consider how these experiences change her plans for marriage and her own future. This warm and charming period drama gently examines self-discovery, societal expectations, and how travel can shape a person's life.IMDb 7.2TMDB 6.9
