If you were captivated by the dark charisma and political intrigue of 'Richard III' (1995), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores gripping historical dramas, Shakespearean adaptations, and tales of ruthless ambition that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Becket (1964)
Description: This historical drama explores the complex relationship between King Henry II and Thomas Becket, focusing on themes of loyalty, power, and the clash between church and state.
Fact: The film was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning one for Best Adapted Screenplay.


The Lion in Winter (1968)
Description: A gripping portrayal of familial conflict and political scheming within the royal family of Henry II, mirroring the intense power struggles and psychological depth of the reference.
Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Actress for Katharine Hepburn.


Elizabeth (1998)
Description: This film delves into the tumultuous early reign of Queen Elizabeth I, showcasing courtly machinations, religious conflict, and the personal sacrifices made for power.
Fact: The movie won an Academy Award for Best Makeup and was praised for its lavish costumes and sets.


The Merchant of Venice (2004)
Description: A Shakespearean adaptation that delves into themes of justice, mercy, and revenge, with a focus on complex character interactions and moral dilemmas.
Fact: This film version is notable for its modern setting while retaining the original dialogue, offering a fresh perspective on the classic play.


The Other Boleyn Girl (2008)
Description: A tale of sibling rivalry and political maneuvering in the court of Henry VIII, highlighting themes of ambition, betrayal, and the precarious nature of favor in a royal court.
Fact: The film is based on a historical novel by Philippa Gregory, which fictionalizes the lives of Anne and Mary Boleyn.


The Duchess (2008)
Description: A biographical drama that examines the life of Georgiana, Duchess of Devonshire, highlighting the constraints and intrigues of aristocratic life, much like the political and personal struggles in the reference.
Fact: The film's costumes were highly praised and won an Academy Award for Best Costume Design.


Anonymous (2011)
Description: A speculative drama that explores the authorship of Shakespeare's works, set against the backdrop of Elizabethan political intrigue and power struggles.
Fact: The film controversially suggests that Edward de Vere, Earl of Oxford, was the true author of Shakespeare's plays.


The Hollow Crown (2012)
Description: A historical drama series that adapts Shakespeare's plays, focusing on political intrigue, power struggles, and complex character dynamics, much like the themes of ambition and betrayal in the reference.
Fact: The series features a star-studded cast and covers the Wars of the Roses, a pivotal period in English history.


Mary Queen of Scots (2018)
Description: A historical drama that portrays the fraught relationship between Mary Stuart and Elizabeth I, emphasizing themes of power, betrayal, and the personal costs of leadership.
Fact: The film features a meeting between Mary and Elizabeth that is entirely fictional, as the two queens never actually met in person.


The Favourite (2018)
Description: A darkly comedic take on the rivalry between two cousins vying for the favor of Queen Anne, filled with sharp wit, manipulation, and the brutal realities of court life.
Fact: The film received 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won Best Actress for Olivia Colman.
