Documentaries & Movies

Where to Watch: Netflix US

Date of Release: 2015

This two season docu-series gives the history of some of Britain's greatest castles. Each episode describes a separate castle, and the host, Dan Jones, paired with dramatic reenactments, shows the greatest events that occurred there. I recommend this for anyone who is particularly interested in specific castles, and for anyone who doesn't like to watch full movies. Dan Jones is a great host who speaks clearly and provides detailed accounts of the events at each castle. You can watch this documentary on Netflix US, or on Youtube

Where to Watch: Amazon Prime

Date of Release: 2013

This documentary is a detailed description of the history of the Tower of London and some of the prisoners who spent time there. I particularly enjoyed watching this documentary because of the interesting fun facts dispersed throughout. The hosts interview various people who work at the Tower of London, and various interesting facts about the prison's history. I recommend this documentary for anyone, because it has extensive information that almost everyone would find interesting. Unfortunately, this documentary was taken off of Netflix but in addition to Amazon Prime, you can also watch it on YouTube.

Click here to view on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xoEWsaQ5e7A

Where to Watch: Netflix US

Date of Release: 2019

A historical drama about King Henry V, this is a very historically accurate film with an engaging script and fantastic acting. The sets are detailed and make the audience feel immersed in the story. I enjoyed watching this movie particularly because of the sets, props, and costumes. An interesting note for this movie is that the entire cast felt very accurate to the times, which really helped place me in the story (for example: Princess Catherine of Valois' actress matched the beauty standards of the time period in a very impressive way). I was extremely impressed by the set and also by the script. I recommend this for any young adult or adult who is interested in history, or someone who enjoys historically accurate action/drama films.  

Where to Watch: Netflix US, Amazon Prime, iTunes

Date of Release: 1975

Not historically accurate in any way, but is a recommended watch for people who are interested in medieval times and are not concerned with accuracy. This movie is funny and entertaining, and is a fun movie to watch with families or with friends, especially with those who have limited knowledge on medieval times, as it is not based on reality. Although this movie is not technically a historical film, it is an entertaining parody of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table that I find worth it to watch for the laughs. 

Where to Watch: Youtube

Date of Release: 2013

My favorite documentary of all time, this documentary gives a tour of Hampton Court and various interesting facts about the castle as well as its history and the monarchs that lived there. I recommend that everyone watch this, because it provides something interesting for all. My favorite part of the documentary is when King Henry VIII's diet is discussed. The hosts give a comprehensive look at the major events at Hampton Court, and the significance and history of the palace in regards to Henry VIII. This movie would be particularly interesting to anyone interested in the Tudor family. Unfortunately, this documentary was taken off Netflix US, but is still available to watch on Netflix UK or Youtube. 

Click the link to view on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgQ_JGFbufM