Here Are the Best Historical & Period Films of the 21st Century According to Fans

History comes alive on the big screen, and we have a list of the best historical films of the 21st century, as voted by readers of The New York Times. These movies span different eras, from the oil boom of early 20th-century America to the vibrant music scene of 1960s Hollywood, offering gripping stories and unforgettable characters.

Each film on this list captures a slice of the past, blending drama, romance, and intrigue with real or imagined historical settings. From epic tales of vengeance to intimate portraits of love, these movies have resonated with audiences for their storytelling and historical depth. Let’s dive into the top picks, starting from the bottom of the list.

15. Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

This Martin Scorsese-directed epic dives into the 1920s Osage Nation in Oklahoma, where a series of mysterious murders unfolds. Leonardo DiCaprio and Lily Gladstone deliver powerful performances, exposing a chilling conspiracy rooted in greed and betrayal.

The film’s meticulous attention to the Osage culture and the era’s details makes it a haunting look at a lesser-known chapter of American history. Its slow-burn narrative builds to a devastating climax, leaving audiences reflecting on justice and loss.

14. Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000)

Directed by Ang Lee, this martial arts masterpiece set in Qing Dynasty China blends breathtaking action with a heartfelt story of love and duty. Chow Yun-fat and Michelle Yeoh star as warriors caught in a web of honor and forbidden romance.

The film’s stunning choreography and lush visuals earned it critical acclaim, including four Academy Awards. It’s a timeless tale that balances historical context with poetic storytelling, captivating viewers with its emotional depth.

13. The Prestige (2006)

Set in late 19th-century London, Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Prestige’ follows two rival magicians, played by Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale, whose obsession with outdoing each other spirals into tragedy. The film weaves historical elements of Victorian-era stage magic with a gripping tale of deception.

Its intricate plot and shocking twists keep audiences guessing until the final frame. The period costumes and atmosphere add authenticity, making it a standout historical thriller.

12. Spotlight (2015)

This gripping drama chronicles the Boston Globe’s investigation into the Catholic Church’s cover-up of abuse in the early 2000s. Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, and Rachel McAdams lead a stellar cast, portraying journalists uncovering a shocking scandal.

‘Spotlight’ captures the tension of real-world reporting while staying true to the early 21st-century setting. Its focus on truth and accountability earned it the Best Picture Oscar, resonating with viewers for its unflinching honesty.

11. Little Women (2019)

Greta Gerwig’s adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel brings the March sisters to life in 19th-century New England. Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, and Florence Pugh shine in this heartfelt story of family, ambition, and love.

The film’s nonlinear storytelling and vibrant costumes breathe new life into the Civil War-era tale. It’s a warm, empowering take on a timeless story, celebrated for its emotional resonance and strong performances.

10. The Zone of Interest (2023)

This chilling film, directed by Jonathan Glazer, explores the domestic life of a Nazi officer’s family living next to Auschwitz during World War II. Sandra Hüller delivers a haunting performance as a wife ignoring the horrors nearby.

The film’s stark contrast between mundane family life and unspeakable atrocities creates a powerful commentary on complicity. Its unsettling sound design and historical accuracy make it a unique and unforgettable entry.

9. Pride & Prejudice (2005)

Joe Wright’s take on Jane Austen’s classic novel brings early 19th-century England to life with romance and wit. Keira Knightley and Matthew Macfadyen spark as Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy in this lush adaptation.

The film’s sweeping cinematography and period details immerse viewers in Regency-era society. Its enduring appeal lies in the chemistry between the leads and the timeless exploration of love and social class.

8. Phantom Thread (2017)

Set in 1950s London, Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘Phantom Thread’ follows a meticulous dressmaker, played by Daniel Day-Lewis, whose life unravels after falling for a young waitress. The film blends romance and psychological drama in a post-war setting.

Its exquisite costumes and attention to the fashion world ground the story in its era. The slow-burning tension and Day-Lewis’s final performance make it a captivating historical gem.

7. Gladiator (2000)

Ridley Scott’s epic brings ancient Rome to life, following Maximus, a betrayed general turned gladiator, played by Russell Crowe. The film blends brutal action with a tale of vengeance and honor in the 2nd century AD.

Its grand Colosseum battles and detailed Roman settings earned it five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Crowe’s commanding performance makes it an enduring historical classic.

6. Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood (2019)

Quentin Tarantino’s love letter to 1960s Hollywood reimagines the Manson Family era through the lives of a fading actor and his stuntman, played by Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt. The film captures the glamour and grit of the time.

With its vibrant recreation of 1969 Los Angeles, from neon signs to classic cars, it’s a nostalgic yet thrilling ride. The bold alternate history twist keeps viewers hooked until the end.

5. Portrait of a Lady on Fire (2019)

This French drama, directed by Céline Sciamma, is set in 18th-century Brittany, where a painter falls in love with her reluctant subject. Noémie Merlant and Adèle Haenel deliver raw, emotional performances in this tale of forbidden love.

The film’s minimalist style and stunning coastal visuals evoke the era beautifully. Its focus on female perspectives and quiet intensity makes it a standout historical romance.

4. Oppenheimer (2023)

Christopher Nolan’s ‘Oppenheimer’ dives into the life of J. Robert Oppenheimer, the physicist behind the atomic bomb. Cillian Murphy’s gripping performance anchors this intense look at World War II’s scientific and moral dilemmas.

The film’s nonlinear structure and detailed recreation of 1940s America immerse viewers in the Manhattan Project’s high stakes. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of science, power, and consequence.

3. Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Quentin Tarantino’s bold World War II fantasy follows a group of Jewish-American soldiers hunting Nazis in occupied France. Christoph Waltz steals the show as a chilling SS officer in this alternate history thriller.

The film’s sharp dialogue, tense set pieces, and period details create a gripping wartime saga. Its blend of historical grit and Tarantino’s signature flair makes it a fan favorite.

2. The Social Network (2010)

Directed by David Fincher, this film charts the rise of Facebook and its founder, Mark Zuckerberg, played by Jesse Eisenberg, in the early 2000s. It’s a modern historical drama about ambition and betrayal in the digital age.

The sharp script by Aaron Sorkin and Fincher’s sleek direction capture the tech world’s early days. Its relevance to today’s social media landscape keeps it compelling and timeless.

1. There Will Be Blood (2007)

Paul Thomas Anderson’s epic follows Daniel Plainview, a ruthless oilman played by Daniel Day-Lewis, in early 20th-century America. The film explores greed and ambition against a backdrop of the California oil boom.

Its stark cinematography and haunting score immerse viewers in a brutal historical world. Day-Lewis’s towering performance makes this a gripping study of power and obsession.

Which historical film from this list is your favorite, or is there another gem we missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!