10 Historical Films Set in the Medieval Middle East

Description: Although not strictly historical, this film's setting in the Middle East during the early 20th century provides a backdrop for a timeless story of friendship and adventure.

Fact: The film was shot in locations like Morocco and Italy to capture the exotic feel of the Middle East.

Description: While set in the 20th century, this film explores the resistance against Italian colonization in Libya, reflecting themes of Middle Eastern resistance that can be traced back to medieval times.

Fact: The film was banned in Italy due to its portrayal of the Italian military.

Description: Based on the novel "Eaters of the Dead," this film tells the story of an Arab ambassador who joins a group of Viking warriors to fight against a mysterious enemy in medieval Scandinavia, offering a unique cross-cultural narrative.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a direct adaptation of "Beowulf" but was changed to incorporate the historical account of Ahmad ibn Fadlan's journey.

Description: This epic historical drama follows the life of Balian of Ibelin during the Crusades, offering a nuanced look at the clash between Christian and Muslim forces in the Holy Land. It's a film that explores themes of faith, honor, and the complexities of war.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, with many scenes filmed in the historic city of Ait Benhaddou, which has been used in numerous other films set in the Middle East.

Description: While more fantasy than historical, this film is inspired by the medieval Persian Empire, offering a visually stunning depiction of ancient Middle Eastern architecture and culture.

Fact: The film was based on the popular video game series, bringing a new audience to Middle Eastern settings through a familiar narrative.

Description: Although not strictly Middle Eastern, this silent film explores the life of Buddha, which has significant cultural overlap with the Middle East during the medieval period, particularly through the spread of Buddhism.

Fact: This film was one of the earliest attempts to bring Eastern philosophy to Western audiences through cinema.

Description: This classic film dramatizes the Third Crusade, focusing on the conflict between Richard the Lionheart and Saladin, providing a Hollywood take on historical events.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use Technicolor, showcasing the vibrant costumes and settings of the Middle East.

Description: This fantasy adventure film, set in a mythical version of Baghdad, captures the essence of Middle Eastern tales with its story of a thief who becomes a prince.

Fact: The film's special effects were groundbreaking for its time, influencing many fantasy films that followed.

Description: This Egyptian film offers a perspective from the Muslim side during the Crusades, focusing on the life of Saladin, the great Kurdish leader who united the Muslim world against the Crusaders.

Fact: It was one of the most expensive Egyptian films ever made at the time, reflecting the national pride in Saladin's legacy.

Description: This film, also known as "Mohammad, Messenger of God," chronicles the life and times of the Prophet Muhammad, focusing on the early spread of Islam. It's one of the few films to depict this period with such detail and reverence.

Fact: The film was banned in several Muslim countries due to its depiction of the Prophet, but it was later allowed with certain edits.