10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Borgias (2011)

Description: Both 'Rome' and 'The Borgias' are epic historical dramas that explore the rise and fall of powerful families amidst political turmoil. The shows share a gritty, realistic portrayal of history, with a focus on the machinations of power and the personal lives of those who wield it. The production values of both series are exceptionally high, with detailed recreations of historical settings and events.

Fact: 'Rome' was one of the most expensive TV series ever made at the time, with a budget of around $100 million for the first season. The series was originally planned to run for five seasons but was cut short due to high production costs. Many of the outdoor scenes were filmed on a massive set built at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, which was one of the largest standing sets in the world.

Description: Like 'The Borgias', 'The Tudors' is a historical drama that delves into the political intrigue, power struggles, and personal dramas of a prominent European family. Both series are known for their lavish costumes, intricate set designs, and a blend of historical facts with dramatic storytelling. The focus on religious and political machinations, as well as the moral ambiguities of its characters, makes 'The Tudors' a fitting companion to 'The Borgias'.

Fact: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who plays Henry VIII, was initially hesitant to take the role because he didn't want to wear a fat suit for the later seasons. The series was filmed in Ireland, utilizing many of the same locations as 'The Borgias'. Despite its historical setting, the show took several creative liberties, such as condensing Henry VIII's six wives into four seasons.

Description: 'Da Vinci's Demons' and 'The Borgias' both explore the Renaissance period, with a mix of historical facts and fictionalized drama. Both series feature brilliant, flawed protagonists who navigate a world of political and religious intrigue. The shows share a visually striking style, with a focus on art, science, and the darker aspects of human nature.

Fact: The series was created by David S. Goyer, who also worked on 'The Dark Knight' trilogy. Tom Riley, who plays Leonardo da Vinci, learned to write left-handed for the role. The show was filmed in Wales, with many sets built specifically for the production.

Description: Though set in a different part of the world, 'Marco Polo' shares with 'The Borgias' a focus on the intrigue and power struggles within a ruling court. Both series are known for their lavish production design and epic scope. The themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the clash of cultures are central to both narratives.

Fact: The series was one of Netflix's most expensive productions at the time, with a budget of $90 million for the first season. Benedict Wong, who plays Kublai Khan, trained in Mongolian horseback riding for the role. The show was canceled after two seasons due to high costs and mixed reviews.

Description: Like 'The Borgias', 'The White Queen' is a historical drama that focuses on the power struggles within a ruling family, this time during the Wars of the Roses. Both series are based on historical events but take creative liberties to enhance the drama. The themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the quest for power are central to both narratives.

Fact: The series is based on Philippa Gregory's historical novels, which are known for their focus on female perspectives. The show was filmed in Belgium, with many scenes shot at the same locations used for 'The Borgias'. Rebecca Ferguson, who plays Elizabeth Woodville, went on to star in the 'Mission: Impossible' films.

Description: 'Reign' and 'The Borgias' both center on young, ambitious figures navigating the treacherous waters of royal courts. While 'Reign' has a more romantic and youthful tone compared to the darker 'The Borgias', both series highlight the challenges of maintaining power and the personal sacrifices it entails. The elaborate costumes and courtly intrigue are common elements in both shows.

Fact: 'Reign' was initially marketed as a historical drama but gradually incorporated more supernatural and fantastical elements. The show's costume designer used a mix of period-accurate and modern designs to appeal to younger viewers. Adelaide Kane, who plays Mary, Queen of Scots, is also known for her role in 'The Purge' series.

Description: 'Wolf Hall' and 'The Borgias' both delve into the political and religious upheavals of the Renaissance, with a focus on the cunning and often ruthless figures who shaped history. While 'Wolf Hall' has a more subdued tone compared to the flamboyant 'The Borgias', both series excel in their portrayal of complex characters and the moral ambiguities of power. The meticulous historical research and high production values are evident in both.

Fact: The series is based on Hilary Mantel's Booker Prize-winning novels. Mark Rylance, who plays Thomas Cromwell, won a BAFTA for his performance. The show was filmed in real historical locations, including Hampton Court Palace.

Description: 'Versailles' shares with 'The Borgias' a focus on the opulence and decadence of a royal court, along with the dark undercurrents of power, betrayal, and ambition. Both series are visually stunning, with meticulous attention to period detail in costumes and settings. The exploration of how absolute power corrupts and the complex relationships within the ruling family are central themes in both shows.

Fact: The series was the most expensive French television production at the time of its release. The Palace of Versailles allowed the production to film on location, a rare privilege. The show's creators aimed to blend historical accuracy with modern storytelling techniques to appeal to contemporary audiences.

Description: A sequel to 'The White Queen', 'The White Princess' continues the story of the Plantagenet and Tudor families, much like 'The Borgias' follows the rise of the Borgia family. Both series explore the personal and political ramifications of marriage alliances and the ruthless tactics used to secure power. The lush production design and strong female leads are also shared characteristics.

Fact: Jodie Comer, who plays Elizabeth of York, later gained fame for her role in 'Killing Eve'. The series was criticized by some historians for its portrayal of Henry VII as a villain. The show was filmed in the same locations as 'The White Queen', maintaining visual continuity.

Description: Part of the same anthology as 'The White Queen' and 'The White Princess', 'The Spanish Princess' shares with 'The Borgias' a focus on the intersection of personal ambition and political strategy. Both series feature strong, complex female protagonists who navigate the male-dominated world of power. The attention to historical detail and the exploration of religious and cultural conflicts are also common themes.

Fact: The series is based on two novels by Philippa Gregory, 'The Constant Princess' and 'The King's Curse'. Charlotte Hope, who plays Catherine of Aragon, learned Spanish for the role. The show was praised for its diverse casting, a rarity in historical dramas.