10 Best Movies About the French Revolution, Ranked
The French Revolution was a period of far-reaching social and political upheaval in France and its colonies beginning in 1789. The revolution overthrew the monarchy, established a republic, and culminated in a dictatorship under Napoleon who brought many of its principles to areas he conquered in Western Europe. The French Revolution has been the inspiration for a multitude of films, many of which have captured the complexity, drama, and spectacle of that period. Here is a list of the 10 best movies about the French Revolution, ranked:
1.A Tale of Two Cities (1935) – Based on the Charles Dickens novel set in London and Paris before and during the French Revolution, this film captures the turmoil that led to such an impactful historical event.
2.Danton (1983) – Starring Gérard Depardieu as Georges Danton, a leading figure in the early stages of the French Revolution, this movie focuses on Danton’s opposition to the growing power of Maximilien Robespierre.
3.La Révolution française (1989) – A two-part film made for the bicentennial celebration of the Revolution; it provides an extensive look at the years from the last days of King Louis XVI to The Terror.
4.Marie Antoinette (2006) – Though not focused solely on the Revolution, Sofia Coppola’s stylistic portrayal of Marie Antoinette brings to life the extravagance that contributed to widespread frustration leading up to the revolution.
5.The Scarlet Pimpernel (1982) – This adaptation portrays a heroic Englishman saving aristocrats from Madame Guillotine during the Reign of Terror and showcases elements of romance and adventure amid historical events.
6.Farewell, My Queen (2012) – Set during the final days inside Versailles against the backdrop of escalating events outside, this movie provides an intimate look at Marie Antoinette’s relationship with one of her readers during the initial phase of Revolution.
7.Orphans of the Storm (1921) – A silent epic directed by D.W. Griffith about two sisters caught up in the whirlwind of revolutionary France while seeking to find each other amidst chaos.
8.Jefferson in Paris (1995) – This movie delves into Thomas Jefferson’s time as American ambassador to France before and at the onset of the French revolution providing insight into his complex character during a tumultuous time.
9.Les Misérables (various versions) – While not directly centered on the French Revolution itself, Victor Hugo’s story unfolds against a backdrop that includes revolutionary themes and follows revolutionary France through different periods including echoes from 1832 June Rebellion.
10.The Lady and the Duke (2001) – Based on memoirs from Grace Elliott, an Englishwoman caught in revolutionary Paris who witnessed many key moments while maintaining a relationship with Duke Philippe II, Duke of Orléans who had sympathies with Revolutionary causes.