Epic Tales of Conquest: 10 Historical Films About Conquistadors

Description: This film follows the ill-fated expedition of Lope de Aguirre, a Spanish conquistador, as he leads his men in search of El Dorado, the legendary city of gold. The film's portrayal of the madness and ambition of conquest makes it a cornerstone of this collection.

Fact: The film was shot in the Amazon jungle with a minimal crew, and many of the extras were local indigenous people. Klaus Kinski's intense performance as Aguirre is legendary.

Description: While not exclusively about conquistadors, this film captures the spirit of the era through the story of Jesuit missionaries in South America, clashing with Portuguese and Spanish colonial forces. It's a poignant look at the impact of European expansion.

Fact: The film's score by Ennio Morricone won the Golden Globe for Best Original Score, and the movie itself was nominated for several Academy Awards.

Description: This film chronicles Christopher Columbus's voyage to the New World, focusing on his ambition and the subsequent impact on the indigenous peoples he encountered.

Fact: The film was released to coincide with the 500th anniversary of Columbus's first voyage.

Description: This film tells the story of the founding of Jamestown, Virginia, and the relationship between Captain John Smith and Pocahontas, offering a broader look at European exploration and colonization.

Fact: Terrence Malick's film was shot on location in Virginia and England, providing a visually stunning backdrop to the story.

Description: While not a traditional historical film, it includes a narrative thread set during the Spanish conquest of the Maya, exploring themes of immortality and conquest through a conquistador's quest for the Tree of Life.

Fact: The film's narrative spans over a thousand years, intertwining three different stories, one of which is set during the conquistador era.

Description: Although primarily about the Maya civilization, the film's climax involves the arrival of Spanish conquistadors, symbolizing the end of an era. It's a visceral depiction of the pre-Columbian world on the brink of change.

Fact: Mel Gibson directed this film, which was shot in the Yucatec Maya language, making it one of the few films to use an indigenous language extensively.

Description: This film focuses on the aftermath of the Spanish conquest of Mexico, particularly the spiritual and cultural clash between the Aztecs and the Spanish. It's a unique perspective on the conquistador narrative.

Fact: The film was directed by Salvador Carrasco, who also played the role of Topiltzin, the Aztec protagonist.

Description: This film explores the myth of El Dorado through the eyes of a young Spanish boy who dreams of finding the legendary city of gold. It's a coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of conquest.

Fact: The film was shot in Venezuela, providing a lush and exotic setting for the story.

Description: This adventure film follows two young explorers in search of the fabled city of gold, El Dorado, encountering various historical figures and events from the era of the conquistadors.

Fact: The film was part of the "Road to El Dorado" series, which aimed to educate young audiences about historical exploration.

Description: Based on the real-life journey of Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, this film explores his survival and exploration of the American Southwest after being shipwrecked. It's a tale of endurance and cultural exchange.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Mexico, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.