10 Movies and Shows Similar to The Last of the Mohicans (1992)

Description: This film shares with 'The Last of the Mohicans' the theme of a man finding his place in the wilderness, away from civilization. Both protagonists are skilled frontiersmen who form bonds with Native Americans and must navigate the dangers of the untamed land. The films also share a meditative pace and a respect for the natural world.

Fact: Robert Redford performed many of his own stunts, including riding horses and climbing mountains. The film was shot on location in Utah, often in extreme weather conditions. It was based loosely on the life of a real mountain man, John 'Liver-Eating' Johnson.

Description: Sharing with 'The Last of the Mohicans' a setting in the colonial Americas and themes of cultural conflict and redemption, 'The Mission' tells the story of a Jesuit priest trying to protect a South American tribe from slave traders. Both films feature powerful scores (Ennio Morricone for 'The Mission') and explore the moral complexities of colonialism.

Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Robert De Niro learned to play the oboe for his role as a mercenary turned missionary. The stunning waterfall scenes were shot at the Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil.

Description: Similar to 'The Last of the Mohicans' in its portrayal of a white protagonist who becomes deeply involved with a Native American tribe, 'Dances with Wolves' explores themes of cultural assimilation, respect for nature, and the tragic displacement of indigenous peoples. Both films feature breathtaking cinematography of untamed landscapes and a strong emotional core centered around the protagonist's personal transformation.

Fact: Kevin Costner directed, produced, and starred in the film, which was his directorial debut. The film won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The Lakota dialogue in the film was translated by a native speaker, and the actors had to learn their lines phonetically.

Description: This film, like 'The Last of the Mohicans', explores the complex and often violent interactions between Europeans and Native Americans in the 17th century. Both films are grounded in historical detail and present a nuanced view of cultural and religious conflict, with stunning depictions of the North American wilderness.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Brian Moore, who also wrote the screenplay. It was shot in Quebec, with the Mohawk and Algonquin tribes playing the indigenous roles. The film was praised for its authentic portrayal of Native American languages and customs.

Description: While set during the American Revolution, 'The Patriot' shares with 'The Last of the Mohicans' a focus on a reluctant hero drawn into a larger conflict to protect his family. Both films blend historical drama with intense action sequences and explore themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the personal costs of war.

Fact: Mel Gibson's character was loosely based on several real-life figures from the Revolutionary War. The film's battle scenes were choreographed by the same team that worked on 'Saving Private Ryan'. Heath Ledger, who played Gibson's son, was only 20 years old during filming.

Description: Though set in Japan, 'The Last Samurai' mirrors 'The Last of the Mohicans' in its story of a disillusioned warrior who finds honor and purpose among a traditional culture facing extinction. Both films feature epic battles, a deep respect for the warrior ethos, and a tragic view of cultural displacement in the face of modernization.

Fact: Tom Cruise trained for months in samurai sword techniques and horseback riding for his role. The film was shot in New Zealand and Japan, with many scenes filmed in historically accurate locations. Ken Watanabe, who played Katsumoto, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: Terrence Malick's 'The New World' shares with 'The Last of the Mohicans' a poetic and visually lush portrayal of early America and the encounters between Native Americans and European settlers. Both films emphasize the beauty of the natural world and the tragic consequences of cultural collision, with a strong romantic subplot.

Fact: The film underwent multiple edits, with Malick releasing a shorter theatrical cut and a longer extended version. Colin Farrell, who played John Smith, lived in the woods for weeks to prepare for his role. The score by James Horner (who also scored 'The Last of the Mohicans') was replaced by a new one from Malick's frequent collaborator, Hans Zimmer.

Description: While set in a different time and place, 'Apocalypto' shares with 'The Last of the Mohicans' a focus on a protagonist fighting against overwhelming odds to protect his family and survive in a hostile environment. Both films are intense, visually stunning, and explore themes of civilization versus savagery, with a strong emphasis on action and survival.

Fact: The entire film was shot in the Yucatán Peninsula, using local indigenous actors speaking in the Yucatec Maya language. Mel Gibson directed the film, continuing his interest in historical epics after 'Braveheart' and 'The Passion of the Christ'. The film's chase sequences were inspired by classic action films, but with a unique historical twist.

Description: Like 'The Last of the Mohicans', 'The Revenant' is a survival epic set against the backdrop of the American wilderness, featuring intense, visceral action sequences and a focus on the brutal realities of frontier life. Both films explore themes of revenge, resilience, and the complex relationships between settlers and Native Americans, with stunning natural cinematography that immerses the viewer in the environment.

Fact: Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar for his performance in this film. Director Alejandro González Iñárritu insisted on using only natural light for filming, which limited shooting to a few hours each day. The film's bear attack scene took months to choreograph and was achieved through a combination of CGI and practical effects.

Description: Like 'The Last of the Mohicans', 'Hostiles' is a gritty, emotionally charged Western that deals with themes of enmity and reconciliation between Native Americans and whites. Both films feature a journey through dangerous territory, complex characters, and a critical view of the violence inherent in westward expansion.

Fact: Christian Bale prepared for his role by spending time with Native American consultants to understand their perspective. The film was shot in New Mexico, with many scenes filmed on historic Native American lands. Director Scott Cooper was inspired by classic Westerns but wanted to tell a more nuanced story about the era.