If you were captivated by the opulence, drama, and intrigue of 'Catherine the Great' (2019), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that delve into historical power struggles, royal romances, and political machinations. Whether you're a history buff or simply love a gripping period drama, these recommendations will keep you enthralled.

Elizabeth (1998)
Description: This film portrays the early reign of a queen who must navigate treacherous political waters and establish her authority in a male-dominated world. The visual grandeur and themes of power consolidation are central to the story.
Fact: The film won an Academy Award for Best Makeup. Many scenes were shot in the actual locations where the historical events occurred.


Marie Antoinette (2006)
Description: A visually stunning portrayal of a young queen navigating the complexities of court life and political expectations. The film's emphasis on the isolation of power and the clash between personal desires and public duty mirrors the challenges faced by many royal figures.
Fact: The costumes were created using a mix of period-accurate designs and modern fashion influences. Much of the film was shot on location at the Palace of Versailles.


The Tudors (2007)
Description: Focusing on the court of a powerful monarch, this series combines political intrigue with personal drama. The lavish production design and exploration of royal relationships create a similar atmosphere of power and passion.
Fact: Despite its historical setting, the series took several creative liberties with timelines and character appearances. It was one of Showtime's most successful original series.


The Great (2020)
Description: A satirical take on the rise of a formidable female ruler, blending historical drama with dark humor. The show highlights the protagonist's intelligence, political maneuvering, and efforts to modernize a traditional society.
Fact: The series intentionally plays fast and loose with historical accuracy for comedic effect. It features anachronistic dialogue and modern sensibilities in a period setting.


The White Queen (2013)
Description: This series dramatizes the War of the Roses through the perspectives of powerful women influencing the throne. The political intrigue, battles for succession, and strong female characters create a similar dynamic to stories of ambitious monarchs.
Fact: The series was based on Philippa Gregory's historical novels. It was filmed in Belgium to stand in for medieval England.


Reign (2013)
Description: A historical drama centered around a young queen's struggle to maintain power and navigate complex political alliances. The mix of romance, betrayal, and courtly machinations parallels the challenges faced by many female rulers.
Fact: The show incorporated modern music into its soundtrack despite the period setting. It was criticized for its historical inaccuracies but praised for its strong female lead.


Wolf Hall (2015)
Description: This miniseries offers a gritty, realistic portrayal of political maneuvering in a royal court. The focus on power dynamics, strategic alliances, and the consequences of ambition creates a similar tension to stories of monarchs consolidating their rule.
Fact: The series was shot entirely by candlelight to achieve historical authenticity. It won three BAFTA Television Awards including Best Drama Series.


Victoria (2016)
Description: This series explores the life of a powerful female monarch, delving into her political struggles, personal relationships, and the challenges of ruling an empire. The lavish production and focus on court intrigue mirror the themes of power and ambition.
Fact: The series was filmed at many real historical locations, including Kensington Palace and Hampton Court Palace. It was praised for its attention to historical detail in costumes and sets.


The White Princess (2017)
Description: Continuing the story of royal power struggles, this series focuses on a queen who must balance political alliances with personal loyalties. The themes of legitimacy, power consolidation, and the cost of ambition are central to the narrative.
Fact: The series was a sequel to The White Queen but featured an entirely new cast. It explored the often-overlooked perspective of Elizabeth of York in English history.


The Spanish Princess (2019)
Description: This series follows a foreign princess navigating the dangerous waters of the English court to secure her position as queen. The focus on political strategy, cultural clashes, and the assertion of female power creates parallels with other royal dramas.
Fact: The production used authentic locations in Spain and England. It was notable for its diverse casting in a historical drama.
