If you were captivated by the dark, brooding intensity of 'Macbeth' (2015), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share its themes of ambition, betrayal, and tragedy, offering a similar cinematic experience. Whether you're a fan of Shakespearean adaptations or gripping historical dramas, this list has something for you.

Julius Caesar (1953)
Description: A classic Shakespearean tragedy about power, conspiracy, and betrayal, featuring dramatic performances and a focus on the psychological depth of its characters.
Fact: Marlon Brando's performance as Mark Antony was highly praised and is considered one of his early standout roles.


Richard III (1995)
Description: A dark and visually striking adaptation of Shakespeare's play, featuring themes of ambition, betrayal, and political intrigue, set in a stylized historical period.
Fact: The film transposes the story to a fictional 1930s fascist England, blending historical drama with dystopian aesthetics.


Hamlet (1996)
Description: A lavish and moody adaptation of Shakespeare's classic, exploring themes of revenge, madness, and moral decay, with a strong emphasis on atmospheric cinematography.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on 70mm film, giving it a grand and epic visual quality.


Elizabeth (1998)
Description: A gripping portrayal of Queen Elizabeth I's rise to power, filled with political intrigue, betrayal, and the challenges of ruling in a male-dominated world.
Fact: The film's success led to a sequel, 'Elizabeth: The Golden Age,' continuing the story of the iconic queen.


Elizabeth: The Golden Age (2007)
Description: A visually sumptuous sequel exploring the later years of Elizabeth I's reign, with themes of power, loyalty, and the burdens of leadership.
Fact: The film's elaborate costumes and sets earned it an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.


The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)
Description: A tale of rivalry and ambition within the Tudor court, focusing on the Boleyn sisters' fight for power and favor, with lush period detail and dramatic tension.
Fact: The story is based on Philippa Gregory's novel, which fictionalizes the lives of Anne and Mary Boleyn.


The Duchess (2008)
Description: A historical drama centered on a noblewoman's struggle for autonomy in a patriarchal society, with themes of betrayal, power, and personal sacrifice.
Fact: The film's costumes won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design, reflecting the opulence of the 18th century.


Coriolanus (2011)
Description: A modern retelling of Shakespeare's tragedy, focusing on a warrior's downfall due to pride and political manipulation, with intense performances and a gritty visual style.
Fact: This was the directorial debut of Ralph Fiennes, who also starred in the titular role.


The Hollow Crown (2012)
Description: A series of Shakespearean history plays adapted for television, with a focus on political machinations, royal ambition, and the consequences of power.
Fact: The series covers the Henriad, including 'Richard II,' 'Henry IV,' and 'Henry V,' and features an ensemble cast of British actors.


Mary Queen of Scots (2018)
Description: A historical drama depicting the fierce rivalry between Mary Stuart and Elizabeth I, highlighting themes of power, gender, and political survival.
Fact: The film emphasizes the personal and political tensions between the two queens, despite them never meeting in real life.
