10 Must-Watch Historical Films About the Aztecs

Description: This film, while focusing on the Spanish conquistadors, indirectly reflects the impact of European exploration on Aztec civilization through the portrayal of the madness and ambition of the explorers.

Fact: Directed by Werner Herzog, the film was shot on location in the Amazon jungle, providing a raw, unfiltered look at the era's exploration.

Description: Although primarily about Jesuit missions in South America, 'The Mission' touches on the broader context of European colonization, which includes the Aztecs' fate in the north.

Fact: The film was shot in Colombia and Brazil, with some scenes reflecting the cultural clash similar to what occurred in Aztec territories.

Description: This film, while centered on Christopher Columbus, touches on the broader theme of European exploration and its impact on indigenous civilizations like the Aztecs.

Fact: The film was released to coincide with the 500th anniversary of Columbus's arrival in the Americas.

Description: Although set in a different region and time, this film captures the essence of the cultural clash between European settlers and native tribes, paralleling the Aztec experience.

Fact: The film's score by Trevor Jones and Randy Edelman became iconic, often associated with themes of exploration and conflict in the New World.

Description: Although an animated film, 'The Road to El Dorado' takes inspiration from the legend of El Dorado, which was sought by the Spanish in Aztec lands. It humorously portrays the clash of cultures and the quest for gold.

Fact: The film was originally planned as a more serious historical drama but was transformed into a comedy during production. It features the voices of Kevin Kline and Kenneth Branagh.

Description: Terrence Malick's epic drama focuses on the Jamestown settlement but includes themes of cultural collision and the impact of European settlers on native cultures, akin to the Aztec experience.

Fact: The film was shot in Virginia, with some scenes recreating the initial encounters between Europeans and indigenous peoples.

Description: While not directly about the Aztecs, 'The Fountain' explores themes of immortality and the quest for eternal life, themes that resonate with Aztec mythology and their reverence for life and death.

Fact: The film spans multiple timelines, one of which is set in a Mayan/Aztec-like civilization, showcasing the director's vision of ancient Mesoamerica.

Description: While not exclusively about the Aztecs, Mel Gibson's 'Apocalypto' captures the essence of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, including the practices and societal structures that were similar to those of the Aztecs. It's a visceral journey through the eyes of a young man on the run from human sacrifice.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in the Yucatec Maya language, with dialogue written by linguists. It also features stunning, authentic sets built in the Mexican jungle.

Description: This film explores the aftermath of the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, focusing on the cultural clash and the forced conversion to Christianity. It provides a poignant look at the psychological and spiritual conquest of the indigenous people.

Fact: The film was shot in Mexico City, using many historical locations to maintain authenticity. It was also nominated for several Ariel Awards, Mexico's equivalent of the Oscars.

Description: This film tells the story of Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, a Spanish explorer who lived among the indigenous peoples of the Americas, including the Aztecs, after being shipwrecked. It provides a unique perspective on the interactions between Europeans and Native Americans.

Fact: The film was shot in Mexico and uses a mix of Spanish and indigenous languages to reflect the historical setting accurately.