The 18 Best Historical Films to Dive Into
Powerful stories, reimagined.
Sometimes, the best (and most exciting) way to learn about history isn't in a classroom—it's through watching a beautifully shot, creatively reimagined depiction of historical events. From musicals that shed new light on old stories (here's looking at you, Hamilton) to moving films that give unsung heroes the credit they deserve, the best historical films are both faithful retellings of major moments in history and a new way to look at the famous figures and events we thought we knew. For next time you're in the mood for both a dose of history and a new favorite film, allow us to present: The best historical movies ever.
'Hidden Figures'
If Hamilton's life story showed us anything, it’s that the most important and prolific people are often forgotten by history. Much like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson getting the lion’s share of attention, the astronauts at NASA may have gotten the glory of going into space, but they wouldn’t have made it there without the brilliant work of Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn, and Mary Jackson, as shown in Hidden Figures.
'Hairspray'
Sure, Tracy Turnblad is a fictional dancing queen, but no matter if you watch the non-musical John Waters film starring a young Ricki Lake or the musical version, they both tackle a lot of hot topics of the '60s that are still relevant today from fighting against racial injustice to body positivity. Both versions are available on Amazon Prime.
'Amelia'
Everyone learned in school that Amelia Earhart was a female pilot and disappeared mysteriously, but that's not where her story ended. In this movie directed by Indian-American filmmaker Mira Nair, you'll get more insight on Earhart's struggles to become a female pilot in a male-dominated world.
'Betty and Coretta'
If you loved the passionate way Eliza fought to keep Alexander Hamilton's memory alive, you'll enjoy this film about Dr. Betty Shabazz and Coretta Scott King. This film was made for Lifetime, but Mary J. Blige and Angela Bassett bring to life the lesser-told stories of the widows of Malcom X and Martin Luther King, Jr. after their husbands were assassinated.
'Hedwig and the Angry Inch'
Hedwig and the Angry Inch isn't actually based on a real person, but this rock musical captures the 1970s glam rock era perfectly, and is a great option for people who don't typically like "musicals." It also stars John Cameron Mitchell (who wrote and created the show) as a transgender punk performer who had her songs stolen by a former lover.
'We Are Freestyle Love Supreme'
This original Hulu documentary film chronicles the reunion of Freestyle Love Supreme, an improv hip-hop show. If you need more Hamilton in your life, this is probably the closest thing, though you might also want to consider watching Moana (yes, the animated Disney movie, available on Disney+) to hear more tracks written and performed by Miranda.
'Loving'
If you're up for another film about American history, this drama follows the story of interracial couple Mildred (Ruth Negga) and Richard Loving (Joel Edgerton). After they're arrested for being married in 1960s Virginia, the couple enters a legal battle that ends with the landmark Supreme Court case that made interracial marriage legal in all 50 states.
'Glory'
If you haven't already watched it in history class, this Civil War film is definitely worth a watch. Based on the 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment, Glory follows Col. Robert Gould Shaw as he leads an all-Black volunteer regiment, showing how Black soldiers faced prejudice from both the Union and Confederate armies.
'In the Heights'
This film adaptation of Lin-Manuel Miranda's first musical, starring Hamilton cast member Anthony Ramos, is a fun love letter to his NYC neighborhood of Washington Heights, featuring an infectious rap and Latin-infused score. Bonus: If you love the soundtrack, there are even more great songs on the original Broadway album.
