Movies set in Ancient Times (4000 BC–500 AD)
The Ancient Period: A Pivotal Era in Human History
The Ancient Period, extending from approximately 4000 BC to 500 AD, represents a foundational epoch in human civilization. This era witnessed the emergence and rise of several great civilizations in Europe and the Ancient Near East, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. It was marked by significant developments in politics, science, arts, and society, laying the groundwork for much of modern culture and knowledge.
Emergence of Agriculture and the First Civilizations (c. 4000 BC-3000 BC)
The development of agriculture during the Neolithic Revolution transformed human societies from nomadic to settled lifestyles. This shift facilitated the growth of communities and the development of writing, art, and religious observance. In Mesopotamia, the Sumerians developed the earliest known form of writing, cuneiform, around 3200 BC. Concurrently, Ancient Egypt was forming along the Nile River, renowned for its monumental architecture, including the Great Pyramids, and its hieroglyphic writing system.
Bronze Age and Early Empires (3000 BC-1200 BC)
The Bronze Age saw the rise and fall of several prominent empires. In Mesopotamia, the Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian empires were notable for their military prowess, legal advancements (such as Hammurabi's Code), and literary achievements (such as the Epic of Gilgamesh). The Aegean region witnessed the emergence of the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations, which were precursors to Classical Greek culture.
Iron Age (1200 BC-500 AD)
The Iron Age brought the widespread use of iron and steel, improving weaponry and tools. The Phoenicians developed the first alphabetic writing system, significantly influencing future scripts, including Greek and Latin. This period also saw the consolidation of empires and the rise of influential leaders and thinkers.
Classical Antiquity (800 BC-500 AD)
Classical Antiquity is characterized by the rise of Greek city-states and the Roman Empire. In Greece, notable developments included the democratic polity of Athens, the philosophical contributions of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and the military achievements of Sparta. The conquests of Alexander the Great spread Hellenistic culture across a vast region. In Italy, Rome evolved from a republic to an empire, reaching its zenith from Britain to the Near East. The Roman Empire significantly influenced Western political thought, law, language, and architecture. The birth of Christianity in the 1st century AD within the Roman Empire marked a profound shift, leading to one of the world's major religions.
Throughout the Ancient Period, advances in philosophy, science, and mathematics flourished. Figures such as Pythagoras, Euclid, and Archimedes made groundbreaking contributions in mathematics; Hippocrates laid foundations in medicine; and Herodotus and Thucydides pioneered historical writing. The arts thrived with the epic poetry of Homer, the tragedies of Sophocles, and the sculptures and architecture of the Greeks and Romans.
By the end of the Ancient Period around 500 AD, the Western Roman Empire had fallen, giving way to the Middle Ages in Europe. However, the Eastern Roman Empire, or Byzantine Empire, continued to preserve Roman governance and Greek culture. In the Near East, the stage was set for the rise of the Islamic Caliphate in the 7th century AD.
In sum, the Ancient Period was a crucial era that saw the formation of some of the world's greatest civilizations. It was characterized by innovative advancements across multiple fields, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the course of human history.
The Ancient Period, extending from approximately 4000 BC to 500 AD, represents a foundational epoch in human civilization. This era witnessed the emergence and rise of several great civilizations in Europe and the Ancient Near East, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome. It was marked by significant developments in politics, science, arts, and society, laying the groundwork for much of modern culture and knowledge.
Emergence of Agriculture and the First Civilizations (c. 4000 BC-3000 BC)
The development of agriculture during the Neolithic Revolution transformed human societies from nomadic to settled lifestyles. This shift facilitated the growth of communities and the development of writing, art, and religious observance. In Mesopotamia, the Sumerians developed the earliest known form of writing, cuneiform, around 3200 BC. Concurrently, Ancient Egypt was forming along the Nile River, renowned for its monumental architecture, including the Great Pyramids, and its hieroglyphic writing system.
Bronze Age and Early Empires (3000 BC-1200 BC)
The Bronze Age saw the rise and fall of several prominent empires. In Mesopotamia, the Akkadian, Babylonian, and Assyrian empires were notable for their military prowess, legal advancements (such as Hammurabi's Code), and literary achievements (such as the Epic of Gilgamesh). The Aegean region witnessed the emergence of the Minoan and Mycenaean civilizations, which were precursors to Classical Greek culture.
Iron Age (1200 BC-500 AD)
The Iron Age brought the widespread use of iron and steel, improving weaponry and tools. The Phoenicians developed the first alphabetic writing system, significantly influencing future scripts, including Greek and Latin. This period also saw the consolidation of empires and the rise of influential leaders and thinkers.
Classical Antiquity (800 BC-500 AD)
Classical Antiquity is characterized by the rise of Greek city-states and the Roman Empire. In Greece, notable developments included the democratic polity of Athens, the philosophical contributions of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, and the military achievements of Sparta. The conquests of Alexander the Great spread Hellenistic culture across a vast region. In Italy, Rome evolved from a republic to an empire, reaching its zenith from Britain to the Near East. The Roman Empire significantly influenced Western political thought, law, language, and architecture. The birth of Christianity in the 1st century AD within the Roman Empire marked a profound shift, leading to one of the world's major religions.
Throughout the Ancient Period, advances in philosophy, science, and mathematics flourished. Figures such as Pythagoras, Euclid, and Archimedes made groundbreaking contributions in mathematics; Hippocrates laid foundations in medicine; and Herodotus and Thucydides pioneered historical writing. The arts thrived with the epic poetry of Homer, the tragedies of Sophocles, and the sculptures and architecture of the Greeks and Romans.
By the end of the Ancient Period around 500 AD, the Western Roman Empire had fallen, giving way to the Middle Ages in Europe. However, the Eastern Roman Empire, or Byzantine Empire, continued to preserve Roman governance and Greek culture. In the Near East, the stage was set for the rise of the Islamic Caliphate in the 7th century AD.
In sum, the Ancient Period was a crucial era that saw the formation of some of the world's greatest civilizations. It was characterized by innovative advancements across multiple fields, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to shape the course of human history.
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- DirectorJohn HustonStarsMichael ParksUlla BergrydRichard HarrisExtravagant production of the first part of the book of Genesis. Its main highlights are the Garden of Eden, the first brothers, Noah and his family obeying God to build an ark for the Flood and Abraham's attempted sacrifice of Isaac.Set during the creation (mythologically dated to circa 4000 BCE), the antediluvian period (circa 2900 BCE), the postdiluvian patriarchal era (circa 2900-2100 BCE), and the patriarchal period (circa 2100-1700 BCE), this epic film covers several key events from the Book of Genesis, including the stories of Adam and Eve, Noah, Abraham, and more. Directed by John Huston, the narrative dramatizes these foundational biblical narratives, exploring themes of creation, faith, obedience, and divine judgment. The film is noted for its grand scale, ensemble cast, and its attempt to faithfully depict these ancient stories.
- DirectorDarren AronofskyStarsRussell CroweJennifer ConnellyAnthony HopkinsNoah is chosen by God to undertake a momentous mission before an apocalyptic flood cleanses the world.Set during the antediluvian period (dated to around 2900 BCE based on recent research into ancient Mesopotamian flood myths), this film provides a dramatic retelling of the biblical story of Noah and the Great Flood. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the narrative follows Noah as he receives visions from God about the impending flood meant to cleanse the world of human wickedness. Noah builds an ark to save his family and pairs of every animal species. The film explores themes of faith, obedience, and the moral complexities of Noah's mission. It is noted for its epic scale, visual effects, and the intense, introspective portrayal of Noah by Russell Crowe.
- DirectorLesley KeenIshu PatelStarsTamara KennedyMichael MacKenzieThe first part of the film is given over to the Egyptian Genesis. The Egyptians had many gods and goddesses and creation myths. Ra brings these myths together in a single version and concentrates on the story of Osiris and Isis and their battle with their evil brother Set. Part two shows the intertwining of the world of the gods with that of the Divine Pharaoh, whom the ancient Egyptians believed to be the son of the Sun God Ra. The life of the Divine Pharaoh is depicted as a journey through the rituals which surround his initiation into temple life. In death, the Pharaoh continues his journey in the Underworld in the boat of the Sun God Ra, travelling through the twelve hours of night and conquering the powers of darkness before being resurrected at the dawn of the new day.Set during the Mythological period in Ancient Egypt, typically associated with the Old Kingdom (circa 2700-2200 BCE), this animated film focuses on the sun god Ra. It depicts Ra's nightly journey through the underworld, where he faces various challenges and enemies before being reborn each morning to bring light to the world. The film explores themes of life, death, and rebirth, central to ancient Egyptian beliefs, and provides a vivid portrayal of the rich mythology and cosmology of ancient Egypt.
- DirectorViktor TourjanskyStarsLinda CristalPierre BriceArmando FrancioliA beautiful girl and a young physician fall in love in the midst of a family, and power struggle between rival princes of Upper and Lower Egypt. When all seems to turn to the better, a dejected woman gets her revenge, and the couple's destruction.Set during the Early Dynastic Period of Egypt (around 3100 BCE), this film tells a love story set against the backdrop of the power struggle between a prince of the former ruling dynasty of Lower Egypt and the new overlords from Upper Egypt. The narrative follows a romance that unfolds amidst political turmoil and the consolidation of power following the unification of Upper and Lower Egypt. Themes of love, power, and political intrigue are central to the story. The film is noted for its historical setting, romantic plot, and depiction of ancient Egyptian culture.
- DirectorHoward HawksStarsJack HawkinsJoan CollinsDewey MartinA captured architect designs an ingenious plan to ensure the impregnability of the tomb of a self-absorbed Pharaoh, obsessed with the security of his next life.Set during the Fourth Dynasty of Egypt (circa 2580-2560 BCE), this film tells the story of Pharaoh Khufu (also known as Cheops) and the construction of the Great Pyramid of Giza. The narrative follows the immense effort to build the pyramid, the political intrigue within the royal court, and the relationships that shape the destiny of the Egyptian empire. Themes of ambition, power, and legacy are central to the story. The film is noted for its epic scale, historical setting, and depiction of ancient Egyptian architecture and culture.
- StarsRichard HarrisBarbara HersheyMaximilian SchellAbram a tribal leader denies all the local deities and finds the true God. Through many trials and tribulations he strengthens his faith.Set in the biblical patriarchal period (circa 2100-2000 BCE), this TV miniseries follows the life of Abraham, the patriarch of the Israelites. The story begins with Abraham's early life in Ur, his calling by God to leave his homeland, and his journey to the land of Canaan. The narrative explores Abraham's unwavering faith, his covenant with God, and the promises made to him regarding his descendants. Key events depicted in the film include the birth of Isaac, the near-sacrifice of Isaac, and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Themes of faith, obedience, and divine promise are central to the story, providing a profound portrayal of one of the most significant figures in biblical history.
- DirectorRobert AldrichSergio LeoneStarsStewart GrangerPier AngeliStanley BakerSex, torture, and betrayal in Biblical Sodom and Gomorrah. Lot, leader of the Hebrews, believes that his people can co-exist with the Sodomites--a disastrous decision.Set in the biblical patriarchal period (circa 2000 BCE), this film portrays the story of the ancient cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, known for their moral depravity and ultimate destruction by God. The narrative follows Lot, Abraham's nephew, who chooses to live in Sodom, drawn by its wealth and opportunities. As the cities' inhabitants engage in increasingly corrupt and sinful behavior, Lot tries to maintain his righteousness amidst the chaos. The story culminates in the divine judgment upon the cities, resulting in their complete annihilation by fire and brimstone. Themes of morality, divine justice, and the consequences of sin are central to the narrative, offering a dramatic depiction of one of the most well-known stories in the Bible.
- DirectorPeter HallStarsMatthew ModineLara Flynn BoyleSean BeanIn the foreign land of Canaan lives Isaac, son of Abraham, with his clever, strong-willed wife Rebekah and his twin sons Esau and Jacob. The first-born, Esau, is a strong and fearless hunter with a voracious appetite for sensual pleasures. Jacob is a shepherd, more tender and compassionate han Esau. Just as Esau is the pride of his father, so is Jacob the apple of his mother's eye. Rebekah is convinced that Jacob, though the second born son, is the chosen one and the rightful heir of Isaac and Abraham. And she tells him that when she was with child, God announced to her: "Two nations are within thy womb. Two manner of men shall be delivered to you. The one shall be stronger than the other and the elder shall serve the younger". One day Esau returns from a hunt to find Jacob preparing a lentil porridge. Famished, he asks Jacob for some food. Jacob agrees, but on one condition: that Esau sell him his birthright. Since Esau ascribes little value to its meaning, he readily agrees and they conclude the pact. Time has passed. Isaac has grown old and nearly blind. It is time to pass on his paternal blessing to the firstborn. He asks Esau to hunt and prepare some game for him, after which he will give him his blessing. Rebekah knows she must act now. Cornering Jacob, she pressures him into deceiving Isaac so that he obtains the blessing instead of Esau. Jacob resists, but when Rebekah vows to take the blame for this ploy, he finally consents. And thus does Jacob trick his father. When Esau returns from the hunt and appears before his father, he explodes in anger when he learns of the scheme. Having obtained only a lesser blessing from Isaac, he vows to kill Jacob as soon as his father passes away. Isaac, following Rebekah's suggestion, advises Jacob to flee to Harran, to the home of Laban - Rebekah's brother, and to ask him to marry one of his daughters. Laden with gold, silver, skins, spices and oils, Jacob sadly leaves his home and his loved ones. Soon, however, he realizes that he is being followed: a Canaanite, one of Esau's brothers-in-law, robs him of the treasure that was to be his dowry. One night, as he is asleep, Jacob has a vision of a stairway with angel-like figures on it. During this vision God promises him protection and prosperity. The next morning, Jacob swears to remain faithful and devoted to God. After an arduous journey, Jacob arrives in Harran. Haggard and drained of his strength, he immediately forgets his fatigue when he sees a pretty young girl at the fountain. The girl is Rachel, the youngest daughter of his uncle Laban. And Jacob falls head over heels in love with her. Though Laban greets his nephew heartily, he cannot conceal his disappointment that Jacob has arrived without any gifts. Laban's two sons, Morash and Be'or, are less delighted by Jacob's arrival. Jacob soon asks Laban to let him marry Rachel, and he even accepts Laban's rigorous conditions: that Jacob become his indentured servant for a full seven years. Jacob proves to be a singularly successful herdsman and contributes mightily to the welfare of Laban's people. Thus after seven years, Laban is unwilling to let him leave and devises a cunning scheme... When Jacob awakens on the morning following the consummation of his marriage with Rachel, he is horrified to discover that he has slept with Rachel's older sister Leah instead. Laban forced Leah to take her sister's place in the dark tent. As Jacob rages, Laban claims that according to the law of the land, a father must marry off his older daughter first. He is willing, however, to make Jacob another offer: for another seven years in his service, he can take Rachel as his wife in one week's time. And again, Laban and his people enjoy seven more years of rich harvests and expanding flocks, all thanks to Jacob's superior abilities. But while the unloved Leah bears Jacob many children, Rachel, his one and only love, remains barren for many years, until Joseph finally sees the light of day. After his second period of indenture is over, Jacob strikes another deal with Laban, whereby he is allowed to assemble his own herd. His prosperity soon sparks the envy of Laban's sons Morash and Be'or, who accuse Jacob of deceiving them and of stealing their property. Jacob decides it is time to move back to Canaan, and flees with his wives, children and servants. As soon as Laban hears about their escape, he rounds up his sons and his men and gives chase. He finally meets up with Jacob on Mount Gilead. But before he can reach Jacob, God appears to Laban and warns him not to harm Jacob or his people. Jacob's most grueling ordeal, however, still awaits him: his meeting with his brother Esau. Fearing that Esau still intends to kill him, Jacob sends messengers with gifts to his brother to announce his coming. The messengers return sooner than expected, reporting that Esau is already on his way to meet him - with 400 armed men. Jacob sets up camp on the banks of the river Jabbok. That night, while his people await Esau with fear and trembling, Jacob withdraws to collect himself on the other side of the river. There Jacob is attacked by a mysterious being whom he cannot identify. It is an angel. As the struggle intensifies and the angel realizes that he cannot subdue Jacob, he strikes him fiercely on the hip. But Jacob, who gradually realizes who his adversary is, continues to grapple with him and refuses to relinquish his hold until the angel has blessed him. Ultimately the angel yields and gives Jacob the blessing together with the new name of "Israel". He thus confirms Jacob's right to the blessing which he originally obtained by deceit. The following morning, as Esau's army approaches, Jacob gathers his people behind him and awaits his brother. As Esau arrives at the head of his troops, Jacob humbly throws himself at his brother's feet. Esau breaks the tension by coming towards Jacob with open arms and welcoming him home. Reconciling their past differences, Jacob and Esau embrace.Set in the biblical patriarchal period (circa 1900-1800 BCE), this TV film follows the life of Jacob, the grandson of Abraham and the son of Isaac. The narrative begins with Jacob's early life, his rivalry with his twin brother Esau, and the deception that leads to Jacob receiving his father's blessing. The film explores Jacob's journey to Haran, his marriages to Leah and Rachel, his struggles and successes, and his eventual return to Canaan. Key events include Jacob's dream of a ladder to heaven, his wrestling with an angel, and the reconciliation with Esau. Themes of faith, family, and divine destiny are central to the story, providing a detailed portrayal of one of the patriarchs of the Israelite nation.
- StarsMinnie DriverIain GlenWill TudorThe story of the twelve tribes of Israel is told through the eyes of Jacob's only daughter, Dinah.Set in the biblical patriarchal period (circa 1900-1800 BCE), this TV miniseries tells the story of Dinah, the daughter of Jacob and Leah, as well as the women in her family. The narrative unfolds through Dinah's perspective, offering insights into the lives, traditions, and struggles of the women in Jacob's household. Key events include Dinah's close relationship with her mother and aunts, her romance with the prince of Shechem, and the subsequent tragedy that befalls her. Themes of womanhood, resilience, and the bonds of family are central to the story, providing a nuanced portrayal of biblical times from a female perspective.
- StarsBen KingsleyPaul MercurioMartin LandauThe Biblical story of Joseph, who was sold to slavery by his brothers who were jealous of his prophetic abilities to analyze dreams and of his being their father's favorite.Set in the biblical patriarchal period (circa 1700-1600 BCE), this TV film follows the life of Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and Rachel. The story begins with Joseph's early life and his father's favoritism, which incites jealousy among his brothers. Joseph is sold into slavery by his brothers and taken to Egypt, where he faces numerous trials and tribulations. Despite his hardships, Joseph's ability to interpret dreams earns him favor with Pharaoh, leading to his rise as a powerful administrator in Egypt. The narrative culminates in a famine that brings his brothers to Egypt, seeking aid, and ultimately leads to a dramatic reconciliation with his family. Themes of forgiveness, divine providence, and resilience are central to the story, providing a compelling portrayal of one of the most beloved figures in biblical history.
- DirectorRob LaDucaRobert C. RamirezStarsBen AffleckMark HamillRichard HerdA prophet who has the ability to interpret dreams is sold into slavery in Egypt, where people learn of his gifts.This animated film is set during the Biblical Patriarchal Period (circa 1700-1600 BCE) and tells the biblical story of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. The narrative follows Joseph's journey from being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, to rising to become a powerful figure in Egypt due to his ability to interpret dreams. The film explores themes of jealousy, forgiveness, and divine providence. It is noted for its family-friendly presentation, musical score, and the inspirational story of Joseph's resilience and faith.
- DirectorTony MitchellStarsStephanie LeonidasReece RitchieLangley KirkwoodTells the story of the greatest natural disaster of the ancient world, an event that experts believe inspired the legend of Atlantis.Set around 1620 BCE, this docudrama focuses on the advanced Minoan civilization on the island of Thera (modern-day Santorini). The film dramatizes the catastrophic volcanic eruption that led to the island's destruction. This event had far-reaching consequences for the surrounding regions and may have inspired the legend of Atlantis, as described by the ancient philosopher Plato. The film explores themes of natural disaster, human resilience, and the intersection of history and myth, providing a vivid portrayal of one of the ancient world's most significant events.
- DirectorMichael CurtizStarsJean SimmonsVictor MatureGene TierneyIn ancient Egypt, a poor orphan becomes a genial physician and is eventually appointed at the Pharaoh's court where he witnesses palace intrigues and learns dangerous royal secrets.Set during the 18th Dynasty of Egypt (circa 1350 BCE), this film tells the story of Sinuhe, an orphan who rises to become the personal physician to Pharaoh Akhenaten. The narrative follows Sinuhe's journey through the opulent and often treacherous world of ancient Egyptian society, exploring themes of power, faith, and personal discovery. The film is noted for its rich depiction of Egyptian culture, political intrigue, and the dramatic historical backdrop of Akhenaten's religious revolution.
- DirectorPhilippe LeclercStarsCoralie VanderlindenDavid ScarpuzzaArnaud LéonardAkhesa, lovely Princess 14, is far from imagining that one day reign over Egypt ... When this adventure begins, the impetuous young girl rebels against her father, Pharaoh Akhenaton. She refuses to live confined within the precincts of the royal palace and wants to discover why her mother, Queen Nefertiti, has been exiled to the island of Elephantine. Akhesa fled with the help of Prince Tut, hoping to find her mother. Regardless of danger, the two teenagers travel the banks of the Nile to the burning desert dunes, and bravely confront the mercenary Zannanza and priests who conspire to overthrow the pharaoh. With innocence their only weapon, and Akhesa Thout overcome many hardships and encounter an extraordinary destiny ...Set during the 18th Dynasty of Egypt (circa 1350 BCE), this animated film follows the story of Akhesa, the daughter of Pharaoh Akhenaten and Queen Nefertiti. Akhesa grows up in a time of religious and political upheaval as her father attempts to shift Egyptian worship to the monotheistic cult of Aten. The film explores Akhesa's life in the royal court, her relationship with her parents, and her eventual marriage to Tutankhamun. Themes of power, religion, and political intrigue are central to the narrative, providing a vivid portrayal of one of ancient Egypt's most fascinating periods.
- StarsBen KingsleyAvan JogiaSibylla DeenA largely fictional mini-series based on a legendary teenage Pharaoh of Ancient Egypt.Set during the 18th Dynasty of Egypt (circa 1332-1323 BCE), this miniseries dramatizes the life and reign of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, one of Egypt's most famous pharaohs. The narrative follows Tutankhamun's rise to power, his efforts to restore traditional Egyptian polytheism after the religious revolution of his predecessor Akhenaten, and the political intrigues and challenges he faces. Themes of power, legacy, and the complexities of ruling a kingdom are central to the story. The series is noted for its historical setting, detailed character portrayals, and dramatic interpretation of Tutankhamun's life.
- DirectorCecil B. DeMilleStarsCharlton HestonYul BrynnerAnne BaxterMoses, raised as a prince of Egypt in the Pharaoh's household, learns of his true heritage as a Hebrew and his divine mission as the deliverer of his people from slavery.Set in ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom (circa 13th century BCE), this epic film follows the life of Moses from his infancy, when he is saved from death and adopted by the Egyptian royal family, to his later years as the leader of the Hebrew people. The story portrays Moses' realization of his true heritage, his confrontation with Pharaoh Ramses II, and his mission to free the Hebrews from slavery. The film culminates in the dramatic parting of the Red Sea and Moses receiving the Ten Commandments on Mount Sinai. Themes of faith, liberation, and divine justice are central to the narrative, offering a grand portrayal of one of the most significant stories in biblical history.
- DirectorBrenda ChapmanSteve HicknerSimon WellsStarsVal KilmerRalph FiennesMichelle PfeifferEgyptian Prince Moses learns of his identity as a Hebrew and his destiny to become the chosen deliverer of his people.Set in ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom (circa 13th century BCE), this animated musical film follows the life of Moses from his early years as a prince in Pharaoh's palace to his destiny as the leader of the Hebrew people. The story begins with Moses being adopted by Pharaoh's family after being saved from the Nile River, his upbringing alongside his adoptive brother Ramses, and his eventual realization of his true heritage. The film depicts Moses' confrontation with Ramses, the ten plagues of Egypt, and the miraculous parting of the Red Sea as he leads the Hebrews to freedom. Themes of faith, identity, and liberation are central to the narrative, offering a visually stunning and emotionally powerful retelling of one of the most significant stories in biblical history.
- DirectorRidley ScottStarsChristian BaleJoel EdgertonBen KingsleyThe defiant leader Moses rises up against Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses II, setting six hundred thousand slaves on a monumental journey of escape from Egypt and its terrifying cycle of deadly plagues.Set in ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom (circa 13th century BCE), this epic film follows the story of Moses from his early life as a member of the Egyptian royal family to his destiny as the leader of the Hebrew people. The narrative begins with Moses being raised alongside Pharaoh Ramses II and eventually discovering his true heritage. The film portrays Moses' struggle with his identity, his confrontation with Ramses, the ten plagues of Egypt, and the dramatic exodus of the Hebrew slaves across the Red Sea. Themes of faith, leadership, and divine intervention are central to the narrative, offering a visually striking and intense retelling of one of the most significant stories in biblical history.
- DirectorDon ChaffeyStarsTodd ArmstrongNancy KovackGary RaymondThe legendary Greek hero leads a team of intrepid adventurers in a perilous quest for the legendary Golden Fleece.Set in the mythological past of Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this film follows the epic journey of Jason, who is tasked with finding the legendary Golden Fleece to claim his rightful throne. With the help of the goddess Hera and accompanied by a crew of brave Argonauts, including Hercules and Orpheus, Jason embarks on a perilous voyage. The journey is fraught with challenges, including battles with harpies, a giant bronze statue named Talos, and the many-headed Hydra. The film explores themes of heroism, destiny, and the interplay between gods and mortals, drawing heavily on classical Greek myths to deliver an adventurous and fantastical portrayal of ancient mythology.
- StarsDerek JacobiOlivia WilliamsAngus MacfadyenOne of the most legendary adventures in all mythology is brought to life in an epic saga of one man's quest for the Golden Fleece, a gift from the gods.Set in the mythological past of Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this TV miniseries follows Jason's epic quest to find the Golden Fleece. Assembling a crew of Greece's bravest warriors, including Hercules, Orpheus, and Atalanta, Jason embarks on a perilous voyage aboard the Argo. The series covers famous episodes such as the encounter with the Harpies, the challenge of the clashing rocks, and the battle with the dragon guarding the Golden Fleece. Themes of heroism, leadership, and the struggle against insurmountable odds are central to the narrative, offering a comprehensive portrayal of one of Greek mythology's most enduring tales.
- DirectorPier Paolo PasoliniStarsMaria CallasMassimo GirottiLaurent TerzieffAfter his quest to retrieve the fabled Golden Fleece, Jason returns to Greece with powerful sorceress Medea. However, when the king banishes her, it's only human that Medea plots her furious revenge. Can they escape her wrath?Set in the mythological past of Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this film adaptation of Euripides' classical tragedy follows the story of Medea, a powerful sorceress who falls in love with Jason and helps him obtain the Golden Fleece. After abandoning her homeland and making numerous sacrifices for Jason, Medea is betrayed when Jason decides to marry another woman for political gain. Consumed by grief and rage, Medea enacts a devastating revenge that culminates in the murder of their children. The film explores themes of passion, betrayal, and the consequences of vengeance, offering a haunting portrayal of one of Greek mythology's most complex and tragic characters.
- DirectorPietro FrancisciStarsSteve ReevesSylva KoscinaFabrizio MioniThe muscular Hercules performs his Labors, sails with the Argonauts, and romances the fair Iole.Set in the mythological past of Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this film follows the legendary hero Hercules as he embarks on a series of adventures. The story begins with Hercules' arrival in Iolcus, where he is tasked with training Prince Iphitus and aiding in the search for the Golden Fleece. Along the way, Hercules encounters various mythical creatures and challenges, showcasing his superhuman strength and heroic qualities. The film explores themes of heroism, destiny, and the interaction between gods and mortals, providing a classic depiction of Hercules' legendary feats.
- DirectorMario BavaStarsReg ParkChristopher LeeLeonora RuffoHercules must journey into Hades itself to retrieve the magic stone that will free his love from the powers of darkness.Set in the mythological past of Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this film follows Hercules as he ventures into the underworld to rescue his beloved Princess Deianira from the clutches of the evil sorcerer Lico. To save Deianira, Hercules must retrieve the Stone of Forgetfulness from Hades, facing numerous supernatural challenges and undead foes along the way. The film blends elements of horror and fantasy, exploring themes of love, bravery, and the battle against dark forces, highlighting Hercules' role as a protector and hero.
- DirectorDesmond DavisStarsLaurence OlivierHarry HamlinClaire BloomPerseus must battle Medusa and the Kraken to save the Princess Andromeda.Set in the mythological past of Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this film follows the adventures of Perseus, the mortal son of the god Zeus. Tasked with saving Princess Andromeda from a terrible fate, Perseus embarks on a perilous journey that involves slaying the Gorgon Medusa and facing the monstrous Kraken. The film explores themes of heroism, fate, and the interplay between gods and mortals, drawing heavily on classical Greek myths. Through its depiction of legendary creatures and divine interventions, the film offers a fantastical portrayal of ancient Greek mythology.
- DirectorPhilip SavilleStarsChristopher PlummerLilli PalmerRichard JohnsonThis classic (Greek) tale tells how a noble youth accidentally marries his own mother, kills his own father (deliberately) and ends up paying a terrible price for invoking the wrath of the Gods.Set in Mycenaean Greece (circa 1300-1200 BCE), this film adaptation of Sophocles' classical tragedy follows the story of Oedipus, the king of Thebes. Oedipus is determined to rid Thebes of a devastating plague and discovers through a series of revelations that he has unwittingly fulfilled a prophecy that foretold he would kill his father, King Laius, and marry his mother, Queen Jocasta. The film explores themes of fate, free will, and the pursuit of truth, highlighting the inevitable and tragic consequences of Oedipus's quest for knowledge. Through its powerful narrative, the film provides a profound reflection on human nature and the limits of understanding.