10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Wolf Hall (2015)

Description: This film, like 'Wolf Hall', delves into the political and personal struggles of Tudor England, focusing on Elizabeth I's reign. Both works are characterized by their strong performances, particularly by their leads, and their lush, atmospheric depictions of the period. The themes of power, religion, and loyalty are central to both.

Fact: Cate Blanchett received an Academy Award nomination for her portrayal of Elizabeth I. The film is a sequel to 'Elizabeth' (1998), also starring Blanchett. It was criticized for historical inaccuracies but praised for its visual grandeur and Blanchett's performance.

Description: 'The Tudors' shares with 'Wolf Hall' a focus on the reign of Henry VIII and the tumultuous political and religious changes of the period. Both series explore the machinations of the Tudor court, though 'The Tudors' is more sensationalized while 'Wolf Hall' is more introspective. The portrayal of Thomas Cromwell in 'Wolf Hall' contrasts with his depiction in 'The Tudors', offering different perspectives on the same historical figure.

Fact: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, who played Henry VIII, was significantly younger than the king was during the events depicted. The series was filmed in Ireland, utilizing many of the same locations as 'The Tudors'. Despite historical inaccuracies, the show was praised for its engaging storytelling and strong performances.

Description: 'The White Queen' is similar to 'Wolf Hall' in its depiction of the Wars of the Roses, a period of intense political conflict and familial rivalry. Both series are based on historical novels and emphasize the personal and political struggles of their characters. The storytelling is rich with intrigue, and the production values are high, with a focus on historical authenticity.

Fact: 'The White Queen' is based on Philippa Gregory's 'The Cousins' War' series of novels. The series was a co-production between the BBC and Starz, blending British and American production styles. It features strong female leads, focusing on the women who shaped history behind the scenes.

Description: While 'Reign' is more of a romanticized and youthful take on history compared to the gritty realism of 'Wolf Hall', both series explore the lives of powerful historical figures navigating the treacherous waters of court politics. 'Reign' focuses on Mary, Queen of Scots, and her struggles, much like 'Wolf Hall' centers on Thomas Cromwell's rise and fall.

Fact: 'Reign' was initially marketed towards a younger audience, blending history with modern elements like contemporary music. The show's costumes were a mix of historical accuracy and modern fashion, creating a unique visual style. Adelaide Kane, who played Mary, Queen of Scots, was only 23 when the series began.

Description: 'Outlander' and 'Wolf Hall' both feature protagonists who are outsiders navigating dangerous political landscapes. While 'Outlander' incorporates time travel and romance, it shares with 'Wolf Hall' a deep engagement with history and the personal costs of political conflict. Both series are known for their strong character development and immersive settings.

Fact: 'Outlander' is based on Diana Gabaldon's bestselling book series. The show is filmed in Scotland, using many historical locations. It has a passionate fanbase known as 'Outlanders'.

Description: While 'The Last Kingdom' is set in a different time period (the Viking Age), it shares with 'Wolf Hall' a focus on the rise of a central character navigating a world of shifting loyalties and political intrigue. Both series are based on historical novels and blend action with deep character development.

Fact: 'The Last Kingdom' is based on Bernard Cornwell's 'The Saxon Stories' series. The show was initially produced by BBC Two before moving to Netflix. It features a mix of historical and fictional characters, creating a rich tapestry of the era.

Description: Similar to 'Wolf Hall', 'Versailles' is a historical drama that delves into the political intrigue and power struggles of a royal court. Both series are known for their meticulous attention to historical detail, lavish production design, and complex character portrayals. The themes of ambition, loyalty, and betrayal are central to both narratives.

Fact: 'Versailles' was the most expensive French television series ever produced at the time of its release. The series was filmed at the actual Palace of Versailles, adding to its authenticity. It was created by Simon Mirren and David Wolstencroft, who aimed to blend historical facts with dramatic storytelling.

Description: 'Victoria' parallels 'Wolf Hall' in its exploration of a monarch's early reign and the political challenges they face. Both series highlight the human side of historical figures, showing their vulnerabilities and strengths. The production design and attention to historical detail are standout features in both.

Fact: Jenna Coleman, who plays Queen Victoria, also starred in 'Doctor Who'. The series was filmed at various historic locations, including Harewood House. It was created by Daisy Goodwin, who also wrote the novel on which it is loosely based.

Description: As a sequel to 'The White Queen', 'The White Princess' continues the story of the Wars of the Roses and the rise of the Tudors. Like 'Wolf Hall', it explores the consolidation of power and the personal costs of political ambition. The series shares a similar tone of dark, brooding drama and complex character relationships.

Fact: 'The White Princess' focuses on the marriage of Elizabeth of York and Henry VII, which united the warring houses of York and Lancaster. The series was criticized for some historical inaccuracies but praised for its strong performances. It was the second collaboration between Starz and Philippa Gregory.

Description: 'The Spanish Princess' continues the story of the Tudor dynasty, much like 'Wolf Hall', but from the perspective of Catherine of Aragon. Both series highlight the political marriages and alliances that shaped European history. The attention to detail in costumes and settings is a shared strength, immersing viewers in the period.

Fact: 'The Spanish Princess' is based on two novels by Philippa Gregory. The series features a diverse cast, challenging traditional portrayals of historical figures. It was filmed in various locations across the UK, including Bristol and Gloucester.