In the mood for a good historical drama? Check out these excellent movies about royals.
As a general rule, Americans are fascinated with royalty, perhaps because we’ve never had any of our own royals. Or maybe the seeds of interest are planted in us by the childhood fairy tales we read. Whatever the case, films about monarchs, both fictional and real, usually do well with viewers.
Now, I do love a good fairy tale princess story. Sadly, real-life royals don’t lead as enchanting lives as their fictional counterparts. History paints most of their lives somewhat differently. For many, their position is a magnet for political turmoil, unhappy state marriages, and even tragedy.
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Still, their lives fascinate us. So, I’ve put together a list of films and a few TV shows about real-life royals. Some adhere more closely to historical facts than others.
I’ve tried to include a more diverse list of movies about royals, but most of these are of European background. This list proves the movie industry still has many more interesting real-life royals to explore. Let’s hope Hollywood gets the memo.
Note: Availability is based on U.S. availability at the time of publication. (UPDATE: Availability was updated in September 2020.) Availability can change at any time.
MOVIES ABOUT ROYALS
(films and shows listed in no particular order)
1. Grace of Monaco (2014)
Though Grace Kelly wasn’t born royal, she became one through marriage. This royal movie shows just a brief slice of her life during the early 1960s and depicts Grace as contemplative and a bit unhappy.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video, Roku, Vudu, Pluto. Rent or buy on digital or DVD.
Content Note: This film is not rated. But other than a few swear words and an off-color joke, there’s nothing offensive in it.
2. Queen Christina (1933)
Queen Christina, a Swedish royal, lived in the 17th century, refused to marry, and eventually abdicated her throne. Greta Garbo plays the queen in one of her more notable performances.
This royal film pairs her with former lover and frequent co-star John Gilbert as a fictional romantic interest. The movie does cover her years on the throne leading up to her decision to give up the throne.
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital or DVD.
Other Film Depictions: The Girl King (2015)
3. The Last Emperor (1987)
This Oscar-winning royal film depicts the life of the last Emperor of China (and of the Qing dynasty). It follows Puyi from his childhood ascension to the throne, to his expulsion as ruler, eventual imprisonment to a puppet of the Communist party
Where to Watch: Stream on HBO, HBO MAX. Rent or buy on Amazon, Apple TV, or VUDU. You can also buy it on DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG-13 for mild violence, sexuality, and language
4. Jodhaa Akbar (2008)
A romanticized portrayal of the marriage between the sixteenth century Mogul Emperor Jalal-ud-din Muhammad Akbar and Indian princess Jodhaa Akbar (aka Mariam-uz-Zamani). Though she was his fourth wife, she was the mother to his succeeding son. International star Aishwarya Rai plays the title character.
Where to Watch: Stream on Netflix or buy on DVD.
Content Note: TV-14
5. William the Conqueror (2013)
For such an important and larger than life figure, it’s shocking that this French film is just about the only one I could find about this pivotal ruler. This famous king is a ripe subject matter for a Hollywood production.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video, Roku, Tubi.
Content Note: This film is unrated but has brief partial nudity.
6. Diana (2013)
No one of my generations will ever forget the people’s Princess. This movie looks at the last couple of years of Princess Diana’s life and her secret relationship with a Pakistani doctor.
Where to Watch: Stream on Hoopla, STARZ, STARZ on Amazon. You can also rent/buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG-13
7. A United Kingdom (2016)
This recent film depicts the interracial, cross-cultural love story between Seretse Khama (king of what would become Botswana) and Ruth Williams, a white British woman. It stars David Oyelowo and Rosamund Pike.
RELATED: A United Kingdom Review: A True and Beautifully Romantic Love Story from the Director of ‘Belle’
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG-13
8. Queen Margot/La Reine Margot (1994)
This French biographical drama focuses on Margaret of Valois, daughter of Catherine Medici, sister to three French kings, sister-in-law to both the King of Spain and Mary, Queen of Scots and wife to Henry III of Navarre, who would eventually become King of France.
Their interfaith marriage incited the events of the St. Bartholomew’s Day Massacre. The royal movie is based on a book by Alexandre Dumas. It also stars many famous French actors such as Isabelle Adjani, Daniel Auteuil, Vincent Perez, and Virna Lisi.
Where to Watch: Stream on Kanopy. Rent on Rent or buy on Digital.
Content Note: Rated R for nudity, sexuality, and graphic violence.
9. Juarez (1939)
Juarez is the story of the brief reign of Mexico’s Archduke Maximilian I and his wife, Empress Carlotta. These two were well connected to European royals. She was a cousin of Queen Victoria, and he was the brother of the Austrian Emperor. They were installed as monarchs of Mexico by France’s Napoleon III to retain control of the country.
Though their marriage was a love match, it ended in tragedy. This film features an all-star cast with classic Hollywood’s biggest names, including Bette Davis.
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
10. Cleopatra (1963)
Though this is long and at times a bit boring, it is arguably the most famous of films about this ancient Egyptian queen. This royal movie shows her takeover of the throne, her relationships with Julius Caesar and Marc Antony, and her political ambitions, eventually leading to her death.
This movie’s upside is its’ unique settings, beautiful (if historically inaccurate) costumes, and the gorgeous Elizabeth Taylor playing opposite Rex Harrison and real-life lover Richard Burton.
Where to Watch: Rent/buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: This is unrated, but there are quite a few scenes of scantily dressed women.
Other film depictions: Cleopatra (1934), Caesar and Cleopatra (1945), Antony and Cleopatra (1972), Cleopatra (2013)
11. Alexander the Great (1956)
Let’s all just forget about that atrocious version starring Colin Farrell as the Greek king ruling over one of the largest empires in history. This version has much better reviewer ratings and stars the talented actors, Richard Burton and Frederic March.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video, Vudu. Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Other Film Depictions: Alexander (2004), Young Alexander (2010)
12. The Hollow Crown (2012, 2016)
This highly-rated British mini-series based on Shakespeare’s writings features multiple English kings, including; Richard II, Henry IV, Henry V, Henry VI, and Richard III.
It features a star-studded cast with fan favorites like Benedict Cumberbatch, Patrick Stewart, Tom Hiddleston, Tom Sturridge, Ben Whishaw, Jeremy Irons, Michelle Dockery, Keeley Hawes, Judi Dench, and more. I’ve been dying to see this.
Where to Watch: Buy on Digital or DVD.
Content Note: Equates to TV-14 for language, battle violence, and brief nudity.
Other film depictions: Richard II (1978), Richard III (1955), Richard III (1995), Henry V (1944), Henry V (1989)
13. Sofia/Sofiya (2016)
I was very impressed with this eight-part Russian royal series about the Byzantine Princess Sophia’s marriage to Moscow’s Grand Prince Ivan III (history nicknamed him Ivan the Great).
Ivan was the first to use the title Tsar, defeated the Mongolian horde, and consolidated Russia’s city-states’ power under Moscow’s rule. The production values of this series are excellent, as are the subtitles.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime, Tubi, or Hoopla. You can also buy on Amazon and Google Play.
Content Note: This is unrated, but there is battle violence and at least one graphic bedroom scene.
14. Ekaterina (2014)
Of all the adaptations I’ve seen on Catherine the Great, this is my favorite. It’s an opulent, visually sensuous production, rich with jewel tones and beautiful uses of light and shadow. Plus, it has the bonus of providing a focus on Catherine’s predecessor Elizabeth, the daughter of Peter the Great.
RELATED: Ekaterina (2014) Russian Television Series Review – A Rich and Complex Portrayal of Catherine the Great
The talented actress playing her won the Russian equivalent of an Oscar. It also features the most nuanced portrayal of Catherine’s doomed husband, Peter. And who better to produce a series about the Russian empress than Russia itself? The subtitles are good, and the occasional narration gives context for Russia’s place in history at that time.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video, Tubi. You can also buy on Amazon.
Content Note: Unrated, but I would give it a TV-14 rating for battle scenes and non-explicit bedroom scenes.
Other Film Depictions: The Scarlett Empress (1934), Young Catherine (1991), Catherine the Great (1995), Catherine the Great (2015)
15. Sissi Film Series; Sissi (1955), Sissi: The Young Empress (1956), Sissi: The Fateful Years of an Empress (1957)
This set of German royal films cover the life of Elisabeth of Bavaria, wife of Franz Joseph I, Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary. The first film is one of the most successful in German history and is televised on Christmas every year in Europe. They portray her journey from an obscure country princess to an elegant, poised woman of importance.
Where to Watch: Sissi – Stream on Kanopy. Rent or buy on Digital or on DVD. Sissi: The Young Empress & Sissi: The Fateful Years of an Empress – Stream on Kanopy. Buy on Digital or DVD.
16. Marie Antoinette (1938)
The ill-fated queen of Louis XVI who became the last queen of France due to the French Revolution. She is a fascinating historical subject whose actions are much debated. Oscar-winning actress Norma Shearer gives a moving portrayal of her in this film, also starring Tyrone Power and John Barrymore. The celebrated Adrian designed the fantastic and gorgeous costumes.
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Other Film Depictions: Marie Antoinette (2006)
17. The Last King/Birkebeinerne (2016)
I know almost nothing about medieval Norwegian history. So this film about a group of loyalists protecting King Haakon III’s illegitimate infant son after his death sounds intriguing. Although I can’t vouch for its’ historical accuracy.
Where to Watch: Stream on Tubi and Hoopla. You can also rent/buy on Digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated R for brutal war violence, language, and sexuality
18. Mary of Scotland (1936)
One of many things royals are famous for is conflict with other royals. Katharine Hepburn stars as the title queen of this film, finding herself locked into a political battle with Queen Elizabeth of England. Sadly history proves that things do not end well for her. But she gets the last laugh because her son eventually inherits the throne of both Scotland and England.
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Other Film/TV Depictions: Mary, Queen of Scots (1971), Mary Queen of Scots (2013), (2018), Reign (2013-2017)
19. The Favourite (2018)
The Protestant Queen Anne inherited the English throne after her Catholic father was deposed in the Glorious Revolution. During her reign, the nations of England, Scotland, and Ireland unite under the banner of Great Britain. Instead of focusing on the events of her reign, this film chooses to depict the relationships she has with her ladies in waiting.
Where to Watch: Stream on Max Go, Cinemax Amazon Channel. Rent/buy on Digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated R for strong sexual content, nudity, and language
20. Nicholas and Alexandra (1971)
I’ve always been fascinated by the last Tsar of Russia and his English born wife. Many productions focus on Rasputin and his relationship with him or their daughter Anastasia. This three-hour film focuses more on their private and political lives and the tragic events leading to their deaths.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime Video, Tubi, Pluto TV. Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: PG
21. Outlaw King (2018)
Robert the Bruce is one of the most influential figures in Scottish history. He accomplished the nearly impossible, uniting the clans under his leadership and won Scotland’s independence from England. This film’s title accurately hints at the subject matter, the years that Bruce lived as an outlaw before defeating the English and claiming the Scottish throne.
Where to Watch: Netflix
Content Note: Rated R for sequences of brutal war violence, some sexuality, language, and nudity.
Other Film Depictions: The Bruce (1996), Robert the Bruce (2019)
22. The King’s Speech (2010)
The current Queen’s father, George, was never meant to be king. But upon the abdication of his older brother Edward, his life changed. The King’s Speech is a fantastic royal movie about his unique relationship with the man responsible for helping him control his speech impediment while he prepares to assume the role of king. It’s a touching and inspiring story. Colin Firth stars as the king in an Oscar-winning performance.
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated R mostly for brief strong language.
Other Film Depictions: Bertie and Elizabeth (2002)
23. Elizabeth (1998)
Elizabeth is arguably the definitive film on Queen Elizabeth I, thanks to a brilliant portrayal by Cate Blanchett. Known as the Virgin Queen, she survived political maneuverings to become one of the longest-reigning monarchs in English history. This movie portrays her rise to power.
Where to Watch: Starz or Starz Amazon Channel. Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated R for violence and sexuality.
Other Film Depictions: The Private Lives of Elizabeth and Essex (1939), The Virgin Queen (1955), Elizabeth I (2005) Elizabeth the Golden Age (2007), The Virgin Queen (2007)
24. The Young Victoria (2009)
Though there are many films and shows about Queen Victoria, this is my favorite due to the sensitive performance by Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend as Victoria and Albert. As the title suggests, this film focuses on the years before becoming queen and those directly following her ascension to the throne.
RELATED: The Young Victoria (2009) Film Review: An Adorable Bildungsroman
Where to Watch: Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG
Other Film/TV Depictions: The Mudlark (1950), The Story of Vickie (1958), Victoria & Albert (1997), Mrs. Brown (1997), Victoria (2016 -)
25. The Lion in Winter (1968)
Powerhouse performances by Peter O’Toole and Katherine Hepburn as bickering couple King Henry II and his wife Eleanor of Aquitane make this a must-see royal film.
The Lion in Winter depicts an explosive family gathering during Christmas 1183. Henry allows his imprisoned wife to join him for the holiday where they argue over which one of their three sons is fit to succeed him. This movie also features the debuts of Timothy Dalton and Anthony Hopkins (as Richard the Lionheart).
Where to Watch: Rent/buy on Digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG
Other Film Depictions: Becket
26. The Madness of King George (1994)
I bet you can’t guess what this one is about. The bloodlines of many royal families were often rife with health issues, including madness. That’s what comes from centuries of inbreeding. England’s George III is one of the more famous examples of this. His eldest son, the Prince of Wales (George IV), served as Regent during the last year of George III’s life since he was unable to rule.
This award-nominated film features an outstanding cast including; Nigel Hawthorne, Helen Mirren, Rupert Graves, Rupert Everett and Jim Carter (aka Carson of Downton Abbey)
Where to Watch: Stream on Roku, Hoopla, Vudu, Pluto TV, Tubi. Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG-13
27. A Royal Scandal (1997)
Speaking of the Prince of Wales, this royal film focuses on the famously disastrous marriage between him and the German princess Caroline. The marriage produced one child and eventually led to a trumped-up public trial of Caroline’s purported unfaithfulness to a man flaunting his mistress in her face.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime and Hoopla.
Content Note: TV-14
28. The Crown (2016)
It has to be challenging to portray a living historical figure with honesty while also protecting their public image. This royal series does a good job balancing that line. It gives us all a glimpse into the early years of the current Queen Elizabeth’s reign.
RELATED: The Crown (2016) Review – Netflix’s Sweeping Biographical Drama About Queen Elizabeth
The Crown also shows the demands upon her as a wife and mother and as the political figurehead of England.
Where to Watch: Netflix or buy on DVD.
Content Note: TV-MA for brief strong language, brief nudity, and an explicit sex scene in season two.
Other Film Depictions: A Royal Night Out (2015), The Queen (2006)
29. Wolf Hall (2015)
Henry VIII is a popular choice for productions about royals. He is famous for his relationships with his wives and also for his rebellion against the Catholic Church. During his reign, he separated England from the spiritual influence of Rome. This royal series is one of the better portrayals of this controversial monarch.
RELATED: Wolf Hall Review – A Fascinating Historical Drama About the Tudor Court
Where to Watch: Stream on PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel and Hoopla. Buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: TV-14
Other Film Depictions: The Private Life of Henry VIII (1933) Anne of The Thousand Days (1969), A Man for All Seasons (1966), The Tudors (2007), Henry VIII (2003)
30. Anna and the King (1999)
English woman Anna Leonowens really did serve as a tutor to the children of the King of Siam (now Thailand). However, the story has been embellished a bit over the years for film audiences. Still, this version seems to give a more balanced view of the king, the nation, and his relationship with Anna. Not to mention it has some spectacular scenery.
RELATED: Vintage Review: Anna and the King – A Sweeping Old Fashioned Epic
Where to Watch: Rent/buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG-13
Other Film Depictions: Anna and the King of Siam (1946), The King and I (1956)
31. Lady Jane (1987)
Perhaps the shortest reigning monarch in history, Lady Jane Grey assumed the throne of England after the death of Edward VI. She was a pawn of political machinations by influential power players who cared little that she bore the consequences of their actions.
Like many other monarchs involved in power struggles, things didn’t end well for her. See a young Helena Bonham Carter in the role of Lady Jane.
RELATED: Vintage Period Drama Review: Lady Jane Starring Helena Bonham Carter and Cary Elwes
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime, Crackle. Rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG-13
32. Mayerling (1957)
It can be argued that the events that happened at Mayerling contributed to the end of the Austrian-Hungarian empire. The tragic deaths of Crown Prince Rudolph (son of Emperor Franz Joseph and the previously mentioned Sissi) and his young mistress left the empire in turmoil.
Further muddying matters are the unresolved events behind the deaths. Was it a murder/suicide or a political assassination? This adaptation stars the beloved Audrey Hepburn and her real-life husband, Mel Ferrer.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime. Rent or buy on Amazon and DVD.
Other Film Depictions: Mayerling (1936), Mayerling (1968), The Crown Prince (2006)
33. A Royal Affair (2012)
This Danish film is heavy on romantic drama. It stars Alicia Vikander as the British princess Caroline Matilda. She carries on an affair with the German doctor overseeing her insane husband’s care, which eventually leads to tragedy and changes the nation.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime, Hoopla, Tubi, Crackle, and Pluto TV. You can also rent/buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated R for sexual content and violence
Other Film Depictions: The Dictator (1935)
34. Princess Ka’iulani (2009)
This is the story of the last Hawaiian princess who finds her throne usurped by American corporate and government interests. It’s a beautiful film about a brave young woman fighting a losing battle with little support. It also features a younger Shaun Evans (Endeavour) as a love interest.
Where to Watch: Stream on Kanopy, Pluto TV. You can also rent or buy on digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated PG
35. Charles II: The Pride and the Passion (2003)
This king’s story is rather unique in English history. His father was beheaded in the English Civil War led by Oliver Cromwell, and Charles was exiled. Eventually, he was able to return to England and regain his birthright.
He is also the uncle of the previously mentioned Queen Anne. This royal film focuses on both his private affairs and his political battles after he’s restored to this throne. It features a standout performance by the yummy Rufus Sewell as the complex king.
Where to Watch: Stream on Prime, Hoopla, or Britbox. Buy on Digital and DVD.
Content Note: Rated TV-14. Very much a soap opera portrayal, Charles II has multiple bedroom scenes with some brief nudity.
Other Film Depictions: Restoration (1995)
What are some of your favorite movies about royals? Who is your favorite historical monarch? Let me know in the comments.
(Featured image credit: BBC, BBC Films, Columbia Pictures, Gramercy Pictures, Sony Pictures)
This is a fantastic list with some amazing movies! Wolf Hall is my especial favorite, though The Hollow Crown is right next to it.
Only one film about William the Conquerer? Very surprising, especially given the amazing circumstances that allowed him to take over. IIRC, Norway was trying to invade at the same time because they also thought they had a claim to the English throne. King Harold had to hoof it over to William’s invasion after defeating them, meaning the English army was tired and worn by the time it faced William’s fresh Norman troops. Really fascinating stuff and worth more than just one French movie (though I’m sure the movie is a very good one…the poster looks wonderful).
Great list! I have enjoyed movies I hadn’t heard of before…well researched and not repetitive as other lists I’ve found on the internet.