10 Romantic Films Set in the 18th Century

Description: Stanley Kubrick's epic tale of an Irish rogue who schemes his way into high society, this film captures the grandeur and the pitfalls of 18th-century European aristocracy through its protagonist's romantic and social ambitions.

Fact: The film is known for its pioneering use of natural light, with many scenes lit only by candles. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning four.

Description: Set in pre-revolutionary France, this film explores the manipulative games of seduction and revenge among the aristocracy, highlighting the decadence and moral decay of the time.

Fact: The film was nominated for seven Academy Awards, winning three, including Best Adapted Screenplay. Glenn Close and John Malkovich both received Oscar nominations for their performances.

Description: While primarily a historical drama, this film includes elements of romance as it explores the relationship between King George III and Queen Charlotte during his bouts of mental illness.

Fact: Nigel Hawthorne received an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of King George III. The film was adapted from the play "The Madness of George III" by Alan Bennett.

Description: This film recounts the infamous scandal involving Marie Antoinette and a diamond necklace, weaving a tale of intrigue, romance, and political machinations in pre-revolutionary France.

Fact: Hilary Swank stars as Jeanne de la Motte, and the film was one of the last major roles for Christopher Walken before his semi-retirement.

Description: Johnny Depp stars as the notorious Earl of Rochester, whose life of debauchery and love affairs in the court of Charles II provides a gritty look at the darker side of 17th and 18th-century romance.

Fact: The film was based on the play by Stephen Jeffreys. It was shot in locations that authentically reflected the period, including Burghley House.

Description: This film follows the legendary lover Giacomo Casanova in his quest for true love, set against the backdrop of Venice's opulent 18th-century society.

Fact: Heath Ledger's performance was critically acclaimed, and the film features a vibrant score by Alexandre Desplat. The film was shot on location in Venice, adding authenticity to its setting.

Description: Sofia Coppola's visually stunning portrayal of the life of Marie Antoinette, from her betrothal to Louis XVI at 14 to her reign as queen of France, captures the opulence and the loneliness of royal life, with a modern twist on the classic tale.

Fact: The film's soundtrack features contemporary bands like The Strokes and New Order, blending the past with the present. Kirsten Dunst won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role.

Description: This film tells the story of Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, whose life was filled with scandal, politics, and an unconventional love triangle. It's a perfect blend of historical drama and romance, showcasing the complexities of love in the 18th century.

Fact: Keira Knightley was nominated for a Golden Globe for her role as Georgiana. The film was shot at Chatsworth House, the actual home of the Devonshire family.

Description: A darkly comedic take on the relationship between Queen Anne, her close friend Sarah Churchill, and an ambitious servant, Abigail Masham, this film delves into the politics of love and power in early 18th-century England.

Fact: Olivia Colman won the Best Actress Oscar for her portrayal of Queen Anne. The film was shot in chronological order to capture the evolving dynamics between the characters.

Description: This film, directed by Josef von Sternberg, tells the story of Catherine the Great, focusing on her rise to power and her tumultuous love life, offering a stylized view of 18th-century Russia.

Fact: Marlene Dietrich's performance as Catherine was both controversial and iconic, with the film's sets and costumes being particularly lavish.