With the resurgence of interest in historical romance movies, television shows, and literature, I decided to research this genre of content. Consumers of historical romance content, including old and new alike, are generally familiar with the Bridgerton saga on Netflix or the classic tale told in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, whether the Keira Knightley film version (2005) or—in my opinion—the far superior BBC multi-episode version (1995). In this article, I will rank my top five must-see (and lesser-known) historical romance films.
#5 – Dangerous Beauty (1998)
This unique biographical film follows the life of Veronica Franco, a poet and successful courtesan—a high-class prostitute for rich men—in sixteenth-century Venice. Despite what viewers might suspect, the film is not without a classic love story. Before becoming a courtesan, Veronica fell in love with a man who she could never marry, the soon-to-be senator of Venice, Marco. Despite his marriage to a suitable woman, as the film progresses, Veronica and Marco fight the physical and psychological tension between them—before they later succumb to their passions. While I am not often a person to enjoy films or other media with themes of infidelity, I even found it hard not to root for Veronica and her lover. I loved this film particularly because of the power that Veronica’s character is given—her poetic voice and wit commands rooms throughout the film, even when she is on trial for being a witch.
Warning: For those who are not lovers of poetry, this film is not for you.
#4 – Emma (2020)
Before the recent revival of Jane Austen’s Emma, I was the biggest hater of this story because of the unlikeability of Emma’s character. However, Anya Taylor-Joy’s performance turned this rather annoying character into a comedic and dimensional person. Set in early 19th-century England, the movie follows Emma, a rich, spoiled girl who enjoys meddling in the lives of others. But, the presence of the loyal and chivalrous Mr. Knightley turns Emma’s life upside-down—once she realizes her true feelings for him—and by the end of the film she has become a new woman. It would be unfair not to mention the beautiful costuming in this film—which quite literally brightens the screen—as well as the immersive performances by the supporting actors.
#3 – Rosaline (2022)
This hilarious rewrite of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is perfect for any chill movie night—either with the girlfriends or the boyfriend (mine thoroughly loved this movie). This movie centers itself around Rosaline, the woman whom Romeo was obsessed with days before his earth-shattering meeting with Juliet. The adaptation adds a comedic twist to this classic tragedy, alters Shakespeare’s original ending, and even weaves Rosaline her own love story into this infamous story set in 14th-century Verona.
#2 – Mr. Malcolm’s List (2022)
My mother managed to not fall asleep during this movie (an insane feat), which is a testament to this film’s intriguing plot, dynamic characters, complex triangle, and—of course—the presence of Theo James. Set in 19th-century England, the film follows the journey of Selina Dalton and her goal of exposing Mr. Malcolm as a plague on London society. Selina’s help is enlisted by Julia Thistlewaite, an old school friend who was scorned by Malcolm. Julia’s plan does not go as planned, for there is an obvious attraction between Malcolm and Selina, but this does not stop Julia from trying to enact her revenge.
This movie felt like right out of Shondaland and is my top recommendation for Bridgerton lovers!
#1 – Ever After (1998)
Ever since I was a little girl, Ever After, a Cinderella retelling starring Drew Barrymore, was one of my favorite movies. Set in Renaissance-era France, this film contains a beautiful and emotional narration by Jeanne Moreau and includes historical figures such as the Brothers Grimm and Leonardo da Vinci. As the film progresses, the character of Danielle (or Cinderella) is developed not simply as a girl who dreams of going to a masked ball, but rather as a strong well-read woman who dreams of Utopia and is not afraid to speak her mind. Anjelica Huston provides an interesting juxtaposition, for she plays the evil stepmother, who refuses to show Danielle motherly love and even commits atrocities that the King and Queen of France shun.
This movie is for lovers of historical romances and fairy-tale retellings alike!
I hope you enjoyed my list—now please… go watch some historical romances!
