10 Movies & Shows Like God of War (2017)

Description: A classic tale of a lone warrior seeking vengeance against those who destroyed his people. The film's raw brutality, mythical undertones, and focus on a physically imposing protagonist align closely with the themes of strength and retribution.

Fact: Arnold Schwarzenegger performed most of his own stunts, including the famous camel punch scene. The film's score by Basil Poledouris is considered one of the greatest in fantasy cinema.

Description: A blend of historical fiction and fantasy, this film follows an outsider who joins a group of Vikings to battle a mysterious enemy. The camaraderie, brutal combat, and mythological undertones reflect themes of survival and heroism.

Fact: The film is based on Michael Crichton's novel 'Eaters of the Dead,' which itself is a retelling of the Beowulf legend. The Viking dialogue was created using Old Norse language experts.

Description: A story of a fallen warrior seeking revenge against those who betrayed him, set against the backdrop of ancient Rome. The film's themes of loss, redemption, and brutal combat echo the journey of a relentless avenger.

Fact: The Colosseum scenes were partially filmed using a reconstructed set in Malta. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This epic retelling of the Trojan War emphasizes heroism, divine intervention, and the cost of war. The grand-scale battles, tragic heroes, and mythological elements create a narrative rich in conflict and honor.

Fact: The film's massive wooden horse prop was later donated to a museum in Malta. Brad Pitt trained for six months to perform his own stunts as Achilles.

Description: An animated adaptation of the Old English epic poem, focusing on a hero's battles against monstrous foes. The film's dark tone, supernatural elements, and exploration of legacy and mortality align with mythological storytelling.

Fact: The movie was filmed using motion capture technology, with actors performing in a studio. Angelina Jolie's character, Grendel's mother, was designed to be eerily flawless and otherworldly.

Description: A tale of a Viking boy raised by Native Americans who must defend his adopted people from his own kin. The film's focus on cultural conflict, survival, and fierce battles mirrors the struggle between identity and destiny.

Fact: The movie is a loose adaptation of a 1987 Norwegian film of the same name. Many of the action sequences were inspired by samurai films to create a unique combat style.

Description: A visually striking and brutal story of a mute warrior leading a group of Crusaders through a mysterious land. The film's atmospheric tension, sparse dialogue, and emphasis on physical and spiritual trials resonate with themes of endurance and myth.

Fact: The movie was shot in Scotland, with the rugged landscape standing in for the New World. Director Nicolas Winding Refn described it as a 'psychedelic Viking film.'

Description: A visceral revenge saga steeped in Norse mythology and brutal realism. The film's unrelenting violence, mystical elements, and protagonist's quest for vengeance align closely with the themes of fate and retribution.

Fact: The film's production involved extensive research into Viking culture, including the use of authentic costumes and weapons. Many scenes were shot using natural light to enhance the raw, primal feel.

Description: This historical drama series explores Norse mythology, brutal combat, and the warrior ethos, much like the themes of vengeance and honor found in the reference. The show's depiction of Viking culture, battles, and the struggle for power resonates deeply with similar narratives.

Fact: The series was initially planned to be a miniseries but was expanded due to its popularity. Many of the battle scenes were filmed using real weapons and minimal CGI to maintain authenticity.

Description: Centered on a warrior torn between two worlds, this series blends historical events with personal vengeance and loyalty. The intense battles, exploration of Norse and Saxon cultures, and the protagonist's journey mirror the themes of identity and conflict.

Fact: The show is based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' novels. The protagonist, Uhtred, is inspired by a real historical figure from 9th-century England.