10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to The Great (2020)

Description: 'Blackadder' and 'The Great' both use humor to explore historical periods, though 'Blackadder' is more overtly comedic. Both shows feature clever, scheming protagonists who must outwit their rivals. The witty dialogue and satirical take on history are common to both.

Fact: Rowan Atkinson created the character of Blackadder. The show spanned four series, each set in a different historical period. Hugh Laurie and Stephen Fry got their start on the show.

Description: Sofia Coppola's 'Marie Antoinette' shares with 'The Great' a focus on a young, outsider queen navigating the complexities of a foreign court. Both films blend historical drama with modern sensibilities, using anachronistic elements to make the story more relatable. The visual style is similarly lush and vibrant.

Fact: Kirsten Dunst learned French for the role. The film was shot at the Palace of Versailles. Coppola used contemporary music to underscore the youth and energy of Marie Antoinette.

Description: Both 'The Tudors' and 'The Great' delve into the personal and political lives of monarchs, with a focus on the intrigue and scandal that surround them. While 'The Tudors' is more dramatic and less comedic, it shares 'The Great's' willingness to take creative liberties with historical facts for the sake of storytelling.

Fact: Jonathan Rhys Meyers lost 20 pounds to play Henry VIII. The series was filmed in Ireland. Natalie Dormer, who played Anne Boleyn, later starred in 'Game of Thrones'.

Description: 'The White Queen' and 'The Great' both focus on powerful women in historical settings who must navigate the treacherous politics of royal courts. Both series blend historical fact with fiction, creating compelling narratives that highlight the challenges faced by women in power.

Fact: The series is based on Philippa Gregory's novels. It was filmed in Belgium. Rebecca Ferguson, who played Elizabeth Woodville, went on to star in 'Mission: Impossible'.

Description: 'Reign' and 'The Great' both center around young, ambitious women in historical settings who must navigate the complexities of court life. While 'Reign' leans more towards romance and drama, it shares 'The Great's' blend of historical and fictional elements, creating an engaging narrative that prioritizes entertainment over strict accuracy.

Fact: The show was initially criticized for its historical inaccuracies. Adelaide Kane, who played Mary, Queen of Scots, is Australian. The series was filmed in Ireland, not Scotland.

Description: While 'Outlander' is more of a romantic drama with time-travel elements, it shares with 'The Great' a strong female lead who must navigate a foreign and often hostile environment. Both shows blend historical events with personal drama, creating a rich, immersive world.

Fact: The series is based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling novels. Caitriona Balfe was a former model before landing the role of Claire. The show is filmed in Scotland, where much of the story is set.

Description: 'Wolf Hall' and 'The Great' both offer a nuanced look at the politics of royal courts, though 'Wolf Hall' is more somber and historically rigorous. Both series feature intelligent protagonists who must outmaneuver their rivals in a dangerous political landscape. The attention to period detail in both is exceptional.

Fact: The series is based on Hilary Mantel's Booker Prize-winning novels. Mark Rylance won a BAFTA for his role as Thomas Cromwell. The show was filmed in real Tudor locations.

Description: 'Versailles' shares with 'The Great' a focus on the opulence and excess of royal courts, along with the political machinations that underpin them. Both series explore the personal and political struggles of young monarchs trying to assert their authority. The lavish production design and costumes are a visual feast, much like in 'The Great'.

Fact: The series was one of the most expensive French TV productions ever. It was filmed at the actual Palace of Versailles. The show's creator wanted to modernize the period drama by incorporating contemporary music and themes.

Description: Like 'The Great', 'The Favourite' is a darkly comedic take on historical royalty, blending sharp wit with political intrigue. Both shows feature strong female leads navigating the treacherous waters of power in a male-dominated world. The visual aesthetics are similarly opulent, with lavish costumes and sets that bring the period to life.

Fact: Olivia Colman won an Oscar for her role as Queen Anne. The film was shot using natural light to enhance its authentic feel. It was inspired by the real-life rivalry between two cousins vying for the queen's favor.

Description: 'Harlots' and 'The Great' both explore the lives of women in historical settings who must use their wits to survive in a patriarchal society. While 'Harlots' is grittier and more focused on the lower classes, it shares 'The Great's' feminist perspective and dark humor.

Fact: The show was inspired by the real-life memoirs of a 18th-century brothel owner. Samantha Morton and Lesley Manville star as rival madams. The series was praised for its diverse casting.