47 Period Drama Films: The Baroque Era

Morgan Adams and her slave, William Shaw, search for three pieces of a treasure map. The final piece is in the possession of her murderous uncle, Dawg. Her crew doubts her command, so she must succeed in finding the map's…

In 1700s Scotland's highlands, Rob Roy strives to better his community's lives. He plans to use borrowed money from wealthy landowners to buy cattle and sell them for profit, hoping to create prosperity for everyone. But when the funds are…

1099 A.D.: After years of war, a weary knight returns home with his troops from the Holy Land. However, the sacred artifact he carries is afflicted by a terrible curse.

This drama explores the conflict between Native Americans and English settlers in 17th-century America, focusing on the experiences of explorer John Smith.

A princess sets out to restore the rightful heir – a young prince – to the throne of her homeland. Along the way, she develops feelings for him.

Artemisia Gentileschi, born in 1593, was a significant figure in art history, known for her challenging life and rise to become one of the first famous female painters. The film follows her life, beginning with her early years under the…

This touching film explores the love story of Tom and Sophie, whose different social classes create obstacles for their relationship. Though deeply in love and connected, they face challenges from societal expectations and class differences. As they struggle with these…

Louis XIV, the French Sun King, is driven by two powerful desires: to establish absolute rule over France after years of religious and civil wars, and to achieve renown through his exceptional talent as a dancer.

In 1629, as Sweden invades Poland, Andrzej Kmicic, a celebrated warrior, is wrongly accused of treason. He journeys across war-torn Poland to clear his name, defend his country from invaders, and find love. Facing danger on the battlefield, Andrzej's resolve…

This is the story of Henry Purcell.

Set during a turbulent period in French history, the film follows young King Louis XIV as he seeks to assert his authority following the death of Cardinal Mazarin. Financial advisor Colbert warns Louis about the ambitious Superintendent Fouquet, who has…

Cyrano de Bergerac is a story about a celebrated swordsman and poet whose confidence is hurt by his prominent nose, making it difficult for him to express his feelings for his cousin Roxane. Unable to confess his love directly, Cyrano…

Maria, a talented costume designer for London's leading actor Ned Kynaston, remains in the shadows of his fame. In 17th-century England, women are barred from acting, preventing Maria from pursuing her own aspirations. However, with the backing of influential figures,…

Following the death of the Russian czar, the country plunges into a period of instability known as "The Time of Troubles." Numerous false claimants emerge, but the true heir is Tsarina Kseniya Godunova. She is married to a Polish military…

While robbing the wealthy to help the less fortunate, a highwayman falls for an aristocratic woman. He must now decide whether to follow his heart or remain true to his ideals.

In 17th-century Boston, Hester Prynne, a talented seamstress, is ostracized after giving birth to a child whose father is a prominent minister. Refusing to reveal the father's identity, she is publicly punished with a scarlet letter. As conflict between the…

"Ancient Discoveries," a History Channel series that began in December 2003, explores the possibility that many modern inventions have roots in ancient technologies. The show suggests some advancements may have been lost, rediscovered, and redeveloped throughout history, rather than solely…

In 18th century Europe, ambitious and intelligent German noblewoman Sophia Frederica is betrothed to Grand Duke Peter of Russia in a planned marriage. She soon discovers that her marriage to the emotionally unstable and intellectually limited heir to the Russian…

France, 18th century. The King dispatches Chevalier de Fronsac and his Native American companion Mani to the Gevaudan province. Their mission: to investigate the mysterious killings of hundreds of people attributed to a beast.

A young German princess is forced into a loveless arranged marriage with the immature future Czar. She navigates the treacherous world of the Russian court with shrewd political skill, ultimately ascending to become Catherine the Great.

After her mother's execution, Moll is sent to a nunnery. However, her life takes a turn when she is abused by a priest and is forced to flee to the streets of London as a teenager. She becomes a prostitute…

In 1680s Spain, under the oppressive rule of the Grand Inquisitor, a young man emerges with the ability to heal the sick and seemingly raise the dead. Whispers spread that he is the Messiah. He is brought before the Inquisitor,…

The film is based on Tracy Chevalier's novel and recounts the story of how Johannes Vermeer painted "Girl With A Pearl Earring" in 17th-century Holland. A young peasant girl working as a servant in Vermeer's household becomes his assistant and…

In 1671, as war with Holland looms, a poor prince invites Louis XIV to a lavish three-day celebration at his chateau in Chantilly. The prince hopes to gain a general's commission through the spectacle. Overseeing everything is Vatel, a steward…

The film explores the complex relationship between General Fairfax and Oliver Cromwell in the aftermath of King Charles I's execution. It details their struggles to navigate the challenges and repercussions of the monumental political shift they helped bring about.

Father LaForgue travels to the New World with a strong desire to convert the Algonquin Indians to Catholicism. Initially welcomed by the native people, he lives among them while quietly trying to introduce his strict religious beliefs. The film examines…

In this historical drama, young physician Robert Merivel gains favor with King Charles II by saving a life important to the monarch. He enters the King's luxurious court but becomes entangled in political schemes and personal conflict when ordered to…

The film explores the life of Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, a celebrated 17th-century painter famous for his dramatic Baroque style and controversial themes. It follows his artistic triumphs and his complicated connections with the less savory side of life. The…

Amidst political turmoil and oppressive policies, the story follows Oliver Cromwell, who is deeply dissatisfied with King Charles I's reign. Planning to leave England with his family for the New World, their departure is disrupted by unforeseen events. On the…

In 1692 Salem, where witchcraft accusations have gripped the town, a local woman becomes consumed by hatred for her former lover. Seeking revenge, she plots to frame his new wife as a witch, aiming to destroy their marriage and ruin…

Based on Miguel de Cervantes' novel, the story follows a nobleman obsessed with chivalry tales who becomes convinced he is a knight, Don Quixote de La Mancha. He sets off on fantastical adventures with his loyal squire, the humble farmer…

In Ireland, young knight Tristan is wounded in battle and nursed back to health by the captivating Isolde. He develops feelings for her, oblivious to her true identity as the king's daughter.

The film explores the life of Farinelli, an Italian opera singer who became a celebrated castrato in 18th-century Europe. It portrays his career and personal life, revealing his musical talent and the social pressures of his era. The story follows…

This is a rich and deeply human story exploring Rembrandt's personal relationships and career, and the debate sparked by his depiction of a murderer in the famous painting, The Night Watch.

A young artist receives a special commission: to sketch the estate of a wealthy landowner while he's away. The landowner's wife, impressed by the artist's work, requests detailed drawings of the property. As the artist explores the estate, they begin…

On a remote island, tribal groups fiercely compete to build the largest moai statue. The competition isn't just about pride; the winning tribe gets to rule the island for a year. The arrival of a rare Sooty Tern egg intensifies…

Early 16th century Central Europe. Martin and Georg, who were close as children, become enemies due to a religious war. Both men grapple with their conscience as they try to do what they believe is right.

In Robert Louis Stevenson's timeless story, young Jim Hawkins embarks on a thrilling adventure with the enigmatic Long John Silver, a pirate with a wooden leg. The tale unfolds with swashbuckling heroes, a quest for buried treasure, and a young…

In 1649, as England struggles after the overthrow of its king by Cromwell, a dangerous plot threatens the peace between France and England. Cardinal Mazarin recruits the poor but courageous D'Artagnan to reunite the legendary musketeers: Porthos, Aramis, and Athos.…

This historical adventure follows Aramis, Athos, and Porthos as they reunite with D'Artagnan. The formidable swordsmen haven't fought together in a while, but King Louis XIV's oppressive rule forces them to come back together. Driven by his hunger for power,…

Ginny moves with her family to the large, unsettling Canterville Hall in England. She is unhappy in her new home, especially disturbed by the house's ghost and a persistent bloodstain on the fireplace. Missing her old life, Ginny wants to…

A young and ambitious D'Artagnan travels to Paris determined to become a musketeer for the King. He soon meets Athos, Porthos, and Aramis, and their challenges lead to a series of duels. To his surprise, D'Artagnan discovers they are the…

France, 17th century. Under Louis XIII, betrayal is commonplace. Henri de Lagardère's close friend, the Duke of Nevers, is murdered by a powerful relative. Driven by grief and a sense of justice, Henri, a skilled swordsman, seeks revenge. He must…

A married woman seeks excitement as a highway robber, concealing her identity with a mask.

A man hires a young architect to design and construct an elaborate garden, with the intention of financially ruining the husband of the woman he used to love.

In 17th century England, Gerrard Winstanley leads a religious community dedicated to communal land ownership. This belief puts him at odds with both the government and the established church.

This is the story of John Wilmot, the Earl of Rochester, a 17th-century poet known for his excessive drinking and scandalous lifestyle, which contributed to his premature death. Despite his controversial life, he later gained recognition for the quality of…