If you were captivated by 'Colosseum: The Whole Story' (2015), a gripping documentary that delves into the history and grandeur of Rome's iconic amphitheater, you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores titles that bring ancient history to life, offering thrilling narratives, stunning visuals, and deep dives into legendary events. Whether you're a history buff or just love epic storytelling, these recommendations will keep you engaged.

Ben-Hur (1959)
Description: This epic historical drama features grand chariot races, Roman oppression, and a personal quest for justice, embodying the spectacle and drama of ancient Rome.
Fact: The film holds the record for the most Academy Awards won by a single movie, with 11 Oscars. The chariot race scene took months to film.


The Fall of the Roman Empire (1964)
Description: This epic historical drama portrays the decline of Rome through political intrigue, betrayal, and large-scale battles, offering a sweeping narrative of empire and downfall.
Fact: The film's massive set of the Roman Forum was one of the largest ever built at the time. It was a financial failure but later gained cult status.


Gladiator (2000)
Description: A cinematic masterpiece that immerses viewers in the brutal world of Roman gladiators, showcasing grand battles, political intrigue, and the struggle for vengeance and honor.
Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The Colosseum scenes were recreated using CGI and practical effects.


Centurion (2010)
Description: A gritty tale of survival and warfare as a group of Roman soldiers battles against Pictish warriors, capturing the relentless and brutal nature of ancient conflicts.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the legend of the Ninth Legion's disappearance in Scotland. It was shot in the Scottish Highlands for authenticity.


The Eagle (2011)
Description: Centered on a Roman soldier's quest to recover a lost emblem of his legion, this film highlights the tension between Romans and native tribes, echoing themes of honor and conquest.
Fact: Based on Rosemary Sutcliff's novel 'The Eagle of the Ninth.' The film was shot in Scotland and Hungary to depict ancient Britain.


Pompeii (2014)
Description: Set against the backdrop of the infamous volcanic eruption, this movie combines gladiatorial combat with a catastrophic natural disaster, blending historical drama with intense action.
Fact: The eruption of Mount Vesuvius was recreated using extensive CGI. The film's production design aimed to accurately depict ancient Pompeii.


Vikings (2013)
Description: This series captures the raw intensity of Viking raids, exploration, and their clashes with other civilizations, reflecting the same visceral and large-scale historical warfare seen in ancient epics.
Fact: The show was initially planned as a miniseries but was expanded due to its popularity. It features a mix of historical and legendary figures like Ragnar Lothbrok.


The Last Kingdom (2015)
Description: Set during the Viking Age, this show delves into the clash of cultures and the brutal warfare between Saxons and Danes, mirroring the intense historical conflicts and strategic battles of ancient times.
Fact: Based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' novels. The protagonist, Uhtred, is a fictional character inspired by historical figures.


Barbarians Rising (2016)
Description: This series explores the epic battles and struggles of various barbarian tribes against the Roman Empire, focusing on historical conflicts and the fight for freedom, much like the grand historical narratives of ancient warfare.
Fact: The series combines documentary-style storytelling with dramatic reenactments to bring history to life. It covers the stories of iconic leaders like Hannibal and Spartacus.


Roman Empire (2016)
Description: A docudrama series that chronicles the rise and fall of Rome's most infamous emperors, blending historical reenactments with expert commentary to explore the grandeur and brutality of the empire.
Fact: The series uses a unique format, combining dramatic scenes with documentary-style narration. It focuses on figures like Commodus and Julius Caesar.
