W European History

I like watching a good historical flick almost as much as reading a historical novel. My DVD collection is made up of motley assortment of historically based movies from all over Western Europe. Some are based on actual historical events, while others are fictional stories that take place in the past.

So, in no particular order, here are some of my favorite movies from Western European History.

Marie Antoinette (2006)

Directed by Sophia Coppola and starring Kirsten Dunst as Marie Antoinette

This contemporary take on the rise and fall of the last Queen of France is beautifully done. The costuming is absolutely magnificent.

A Lion in Winter (1968)

Starring Peter O’Toole as Henry II and Katherine Hepburn as Eleanor of Aquitaine

I am not a big classic film buff, but this one is a must for any fan of Western European History.

Elizabeth (1998)

Starring Cate Blanchett as Elizabeth I. I love Cate Blanchett as a young Queen Bess. But my secret delight with this Renaissance film is the portrayal of Marie de Guise by French actress Fanny Ardent.

Life is Beautiful (1997)

Starring Roberto Benigni as a Jewish Italian suffering through the Nazi invasion. It is a provocative and unique way to look at one history’s darkest chapters.

Tea With Mussolini (1999)

Starring Cher, Judy Dench and Maggie Smith

This movie flew under the radar, but is absolutely awesome. It is loosely based on true events of a group of English ladies who remain in Florence during WWII. The settings are beautiful and the characters wonderfully flawed.

Immortal Beloved (1994)

Starring Gary Oldman and Isabella Rosellinni

Tells the story of Romantic composer Ludwig Van Beethoven. Even if you aren’t a big classical music fan, this movie is rich and compelling.