10 Historical Films About Civil Wars

Description: This epic film depicts the decline of Rome through internal strife, corruption, and the eventual fragmentation of the empire, leading to its fall.

Fact: The film was one of the most expensive of its time, with a budget of over $20 million, equivalent to over $170 million today.

Description: While not strictly a civil war, this film captures the Algerian War of Independence, showcasing the internal conflict within Algeria and the brutal tactics used by both sides.

Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style, using real locations in Algiers, which adds to its gritty realism. It was banned in France for several years due to its controversial portrayal of the conflict.

Description: This film tells the story of Puyi, the last Emperor of China, and the internal conflicts within China as it transitions from monarchy to republic, and later to communist rule.

Fact: It was the first Western film ever to be allowed to shoot inside the Forbidden City in Beijing. The film won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: While not a historical war, this film uses the metaphor of the War of the Roses to depict a bitter divorce, showcasing the internal battle within a marriage that turns into a full-blown civil war of sorts.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by Warren Adler, and the title is a play on the historical conflict between the Houses of Lancaster and York.

Description: Mel Gibson stars as William Wallace, leading the Scots in their fight for independence from English rule. The film highlights the internal divisions among the Scots and the brutal civil war that ensued.

Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Mel Gibson. The battle scenes were filmed with thousands of extras, many of whom were actual Scottish clansmen.

Description: Set during the Crusades, this film explores the internal conflicts within the Christian kingdom of Jerusalem, as well as the external threats from the Muslim forces. It's a tale of honor, duty, and the struggle for control of the Holy Land.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, which provided an authentic backdrop for the medieval setting. Ridley Scott, the director, also used real historical figures like Balian of Ibelin and Saladin.

Description: This film captures the Boshin War in Japan, where traditional samurai clash with the forces of modernization. It's a poignant look at the end of an era and the internal conflict within Japan as it transitions into the Meiji era.

Fact: Tom Cruise trained for months to learn sword fighting for his role. The film was shot in New Zealand, which doubled for 19th-century Japan.

Description: Set in Roman Britain, this film explores the civil unrest and the struggle for power between the Romans and the native tribes, particularly focusing on the disappearance of the Ninth Legion.

Fact: The film was shot in Scotland and Hungary, with many scenes filmed in the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.

Description: Based on Philippa Gregory's novels, this series covers the Wars of the Roses, focusing on the women who played pivotal roles in the conflict between the Houses of Lancaster and York.

Fact: The series was filmed at various historic locations in the UK, including Berkeley Castle and Dover Castle, adding authenticity to the setting.

Description: This film focuses on Henry V of England, exploring his rise to power and the civil unrest that follows, including the Battle of Agincourt. It's a modern take on Shakespeare's historical plays.

Fact: Timothée Chalamet, who plays Henry V, underwent extensive training in medieval combat for the role. The film was shot in England and Hungary.