It was a time of enlightenment, royalty, and rebirth. It was an age of corsets, collars, and pantaloons, where some of the greatest thinkers and artistic imaginations prospered. The Renaissance was a world-shifting era for history, so it makes sense that this era would be visually explored through the medium of film.
From dark political thrillers to light and heartfelt costume dramas, the period is nothing but flexible when it comes to genre, and while it’s not the most-explored setting, there are more than a few Renaissance/Elizabethan films to satisfy the armchair historians and drama club alumni out there.
10 The Other Boleyn Girl (2008) (6.7)
Royalty, romance, and ruthless deception, these are the catalysts that fuel The Other Boleyn Girl. A highly-romanticized account of King Henry VIII, Anne Boleyn, and Mary Queen of Scots is the borderline stereotypical example of a costume drama, but it’s not without some serious merit. It is very interesting to see gender roles reversed as two women fight for the affections (and the crown) of one man in this tale of seduction, betrayal, and sinister sibling rivalry.
9 Anonymous (2011) (6.9)
Fans of the bard have all been played in this 2011 drama concerning the world’s most famous writer. This film might have a 6.9 rating, but it is inspired by one of the most scandalous conspiracy theories concerning a historical figure. Anonymous asks the question “Was Shakespeare a fraud?”
What if the most beloved and beautiful plays and poems were actually a secret collaboration between a punk playwright and British royalty?
8 The Merchant of Venice (2004) (7.0)
Speaking of William Shakespeare, the Renaissance genre wouldn’t even exist without adaptations of his plays. While this film version of Shakespeare’s Merchant of Venice only sports a 7.0 rating, it’s two leading talents are 10/10 in the realm of theatre. Jeremy Irons and Al Pacino star in this dramatic tale of greed, persecution, and pounds of flesh, and their performances drip with a passion that Shakespeare himself could admire.
7 The Taming of the Shrew (1967) (7.1)
For those looking for something more lighthearted and comical, look no further than Taming of the Shrew. Before it received the more modern and arguably more beloved adaptation, 10 Things I Hate About You, Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Michael York starred in this colorful comedy.
Viewers will gasp with laughter as the Wily and brutish Pertrucio tames the shrewd and shrewish Kathrina, proving that while the script may be a few centuries old, the story is timeless.
6 Shakespeare in Love (1998) (7.1)
There are few films about Shakespeare himself as iconic and well-known as Shakespeare in Love. In this fanciful account of the conception of one of the author’s most famous plays, a struggling William Shakespeare falls for the lovely Viola de Lesseps and pursues her as his muse. With two patrons impatiently waiting for his next play, yet to be written, the writer finds inspiration and more in his new romantic interest.
5 The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965) (7.2)
Stepping back from the Globe Theatre, the next film takes viewers to the Sistine Chapel during the construction and creation of one of the most famous pieces of art during the Renaissance.
The Agony and the Ecstacy is the tumultuous story of Michaelangelo and Pope Julius II, two fiery personalities who forged one of the greatest works of art ever conceived during the era. With Charlton Heston as the passionate artist and Rex Harrison as the strong-willed pontiff, the energy between the two is absolutely astounding.
4 Elizabeth (7.4)
How could anyone talk about the Renaissance without mentioning one of it’s most prominent figures, Queen Elizabeth I? While most are familiar with the royal and regal image of the queen with her ruffles and frocks, Elizabeth pulls back the curtain and shines a light on a younger queen as she gains the throne amidst brewing unrest with France and Spain, as well as a selection of men in her life. Perfect for anyone wanting a political thriller.
3 Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead (7.5)
Although the title might use Shakespeare’s greatest play as its backdrop, this is unquestionably a farce of both the bard and theatre in general.
Essentially, the film is the story of Hamlet, but told from the point of view of the minor characters, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, and seen through their eyes as they try to save their friend and keep from (inevitably) losing their heads in the process. A comedy of errors if there ever was one, definitely a must-watch for theatre-buffs everywhere.
2 Romeo and Juliet (1968) (7.6)
To say that Romeo and Juliet isn’t the most famous love story ever put to paper would be an outright lie. That being said, it’s been done and redone so many times it’s almost a cliche. While there are dozens to choose from, the 1968 classic still holds up as one of the most romantic adaptations of the star-crossed lovers of fair Verona. It’s nothing groundbreaking, but a Shakespeare-seasoned comfort food of a flick that’s ideal for a couple’s night in.
1 A Man for All Seasons (1966) (7.7)
Based on the award-winning play of the same name, A Man for All Seasons concerns the account of Sir Thomas More and his involvement during the scandalous divorce of King Henry VIII. Those who are unfamiliar with the play will certainly know the legion of talent that brings this drama to life, including the likes of Paul Scofield, Orson Welles, and even an early screen appearance from John Hurt. It’s a bit of an acquired taste but will satisfy those wanting political drama, scandals, and treachery.
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