10 Movies & Shows Like The Northman (2022)

Description: Both 'The 13th Warrior' and 'The Northman' are based on historical and legendary Viking tales, with a focus on camaraderie, survival, and supernatural elements. The films share a dark, gritty tone and depict the Vikings' fearsome reputation in battle. The protagonist's journey from outsider to warrior in 'The 13th Warrior' parallels Amleth's transformation in 'The Northman'.

Fact: Based on Michael Crichton's novel 'Eaters of the Dead'. Inspired by the Old English epic 'Beowulf'. Antonio Banderas learned Old Norse for his role.

Description: 'Gladiator' and 'The Northman' share a revenge-driven narrative, with a protagonist seeking vengeance for the murder of his family. Both films are epic in scale, featuring intense battle sequences and a focus on the protagonist's journey from nobility to slavery and back. The emotional tone and visual grandeur of 'Gladiator' are mirrored in 'The Northman'.

Fact: Won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Russell Crowe's performance as Maximus is iconic. Directed by Ridley Scott.

Description: This epic historical drama, like 'The Northman', explores themes of honor, faith, and redemption amidst brutal warfare. Both films feature a protagonist on a personal and spiritual journey, set against the backdrop of a violent, medieval world. The director's cut of 'Kingdom of Heaven' enhances its depth, much like 'The Northman's' layered storytelling.

Fact: Directed by Ridley Scott. The director's cut is significantly different from the theatrical version. Features a young Orlando Bloom in the lead role.

Description: Like 'The Northman', 'Troy' is a historical epic with a focus on legendary warriors, grand battles, and themes of honor and revenge. Both films blend myth and history, with a strong emphasis on the personal struggles of their protagonists. The visual spectacle and emotional intensity of 'Troy' are comparable to 'The Northman's' cinematic style.

Fact: Starring Brad Pitt as Achilles. Based on Homer's 'Iliad'. Features a memorable score by James Horner.

Description: Like 'The Northman', 'Beowulf' is an epic tale of heroism, vengeance, and supernatural forces, rooted in Norse and Anglo-Saxon mythology. Both films feature a flawed protagonist confronting monstrous adversaries, with a strong emphasis on fate and honor. The motion-capture animation of 'Beowulf' creates a stylized yet visceral aesthetic similar to 'The Northman's' realism.

Fact: Directed by Robert Zemeckis, using performance capture technology. Features Angelina Jolie as Grendel's mother. The screenplay was co-written by Neil Gaiman.

Description: This film, like 'The Northman', is a visceral, atmospheric exploration of Viking mythology and existential themes. Both films feature a silent, nearly superhuman protagonist on a journey that blends reality with myth. The stark, brutal visuals and minimal dialogue in 'Valhalla Rising' mirror the primal tone of 'The Northman'.

Fact: Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, known for 'Drive'. The protagonist, One-Eye, is mute throughout the film. Features surreal, dreamlike sequences.

Description: 'Game of Thrones' and 'The Northman' both feature brutal medieval warfare, complex family dynasties, and a mix of historical realism with mythological elements. The Stark family's storyline, in particular, echoes Amleth's quest for vengeance. Both narratives are steeped in a dark, unforgiving tone and explore themes of power, betrayal, and destiny.

Fact: Based on George R.R. Martin's 'A Song of Ice and Fire' series. One of the most expensive TV shows ever made. Features iconic locations like Winterfell and King's Landing.

Description: 'Vikings' shares with 'The Northman' a deep dive into Norse culture, mythology, and the brutal realities of Viking life. Both narratives explore themes of destiny, power, and the supernatural, with a strong emphasis on family and revenge. The visual style of 'Vikings', with its stark landscapes and intense battle scenes, is reminiscent of 'The Northman's' aesthetic.

Fact: Created by Michael Hirst, who also wrote 'The Tudors'. Features the legendary Viking Ragnar Lothbrok. Filmed in Ireland, using many real Viking artifacts.

Description: While 'Outlander' is primarily a romance, it shares with 'The Northman' a historical setting, elements of time travel (or supernatural intervention), and intense, bloody battles. Both stories explore themes of loyalty, revenge, and survival in a harsh, unforgiving world. The depiction of Scottish clans in 'Outlander' mirrors the tribal conflicts in 'The Northman'.

Fact: Based on Diana Gabaldon's best-selling book series. The series is known for its detailed historical accuracy. Filmed on location in Scotland.

Description: Similar to 'The Northman', 'The Last Kingdom' is a historical drama set in the Viking Age, focusing on themes of revenge, honor, and the clash of cultures. Both stories feature a protagonist seeking vengeance for the death of a family member, set against the backdrop of brutal medieval warfare. The series also shares a gritty, realistic portrayal of Viking life and Norse mythology.

Fact: Based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' series. The protagonist, Uhtred, is inspired by a real historical figure. Features authentic Old English and Old Norse dialogue.