Greek mythology provides a wealth of resources, which has led to a long history of the genre in films. The ancient Greek stories share a common thread of tragedy, victory, love, and loss, from Homer’s Odyssey to Sophocles’s Antigone. Even two millennia later, the stories of ancient Greece continue to captivate audiences and serve as the basis for cinematic works. Who can resist the epic tales of flawed heroes, prudent immortals, pompous gods, compelling villains, and cursed creatures?
Even though there are many Greek mythology adaptations, some of them have struck a chord with us and gained a substantial following. The following is a comprehensive list of movies based on Greek mythology, ranked from the worst to the best. It includes some of the most recognized action movies and other timeless hidden gems.
37. Hercules in New York (1970) – IMDb 3.3
If you take the myths and storytelling seriously, Hercules in New York has to be one of the worst adaptations of Greek mythology ever made. This awful film is worth watching only because Arnold Schwarzenegger makes his acting debut in it, and he plays Hercules, a demigod who travels to Earth against his father’s desires, Zeus.
The scenes on the purportedly peaceful haven of Mount Olympus have shallow production qualities. There is no sense of narrative flow, and the story is complete incoherent because it has only been constructed in terms of significant events. Even the films’ attempts at humour fall completely flat. At the very least, the film gives audiences a chance to goggle at Schwarzenegger’s incredible physique.
36. Minotaur (2006) – IMDb 3.7
Minotaur is a slasher movie that tries to fit into the mould of an epic Greek story based on myths and legends. None of the historical facts was attempted to be restored by director Jonathan English. So if you are a highly discerning lover of Greek mythology, it is pretty unlikely that you will enjoy the movie.
A group of young people are rounded up in “Minotaur” and sacrificed to the titular monster. While there is some violence and gore for fans of the genre, they may be left wanting more due to the film’s general lack of depth. The lousy quality of the special effects will frequently pull your attention away from the film, but thanks to Tom Hardy and Rutger Hauer, it can remain watchable for some people throughout its runtime.
35. Hercules (1983) – IMDb 4.0
The legendary Lou Ferrigno plays the title role in this film, written and directed by Luigi Cozzi. The plot of the movie centres on Hercules’ conflict with the sorcerer King Minos (played by William Berger), who employs “science” to seize control of the entire planet. Cassiopeia, played by the stunning Ingrid Andersson in the film, is Hercules’ greatest love, and he must defeat Minos to save her.
This adaptation of the ancient Greek myth is on par with Hercules in New York in terms of production value, plot, script, and performances. Much like Arnold Schwarzenegger and other 80s muscle men who lacked film demeanour, Lou Ferrigno was picked only for his enhanced physique. The special effects are another problem, as they aren’t consistently impressive like the opening sequence. This version of Hercules is not nearly as good as the one starring Steve Reeves, which was produced 25 years earlier.
34. The Legend of Hercules (2014) – IMDb 4.2
This is yet another attempt by Hollywood to capitalize on the popularity of sword-and-sandal epics like Gladiator and 300. The movie fails to capture the spirit of the mythical hero, Hercules, a demigod who accomplishes the impossible. In favour of a plain tale of imprisonment and a gory gladiatorial spectacle, the plot omits the usual trappings of such classics as the Twelve Labors of Hercules.
Although the Olympian gods Zeus and Hera are there, the film does not essentially make any reference to Greek mythology. Adding mythological monsters and other magical beings to the plot would have made it more compelling. Even if it has flaws, “The Legend of Hercules” is not a total bust. It’s just the right length at around 90 minutes and features some spectacular fight sequences, stunning natural and CGI landscapes, and impressive 3D work.
33. Clash of the Titans (2010) – IMDb 5.8
Initially released in 1981, Clash of the Titans has been updated for current audiences. This remake has a lot of plot holes because the writers reworked the story too much. Bad dialogue and excessive exposition are two of the film’s central issues resulting from deviations from the source material.
This adaptation emphasizes action and special effects more than the original, which centres on Perseus’ feelings for Andromeda. The plot of the updated version from 2010 appears to be an analogy for the fight against terrorism, with the heroes ultimately having to defend themselves from Hades and the terrifying Kraken. One of the advantages of the modifications that were made is that they make it possible to include additional action sequences. While the CGI is impressive as always, this mythology story falls short of being a masterwork.
32. 300: Rise Of An Empire (2014) – IMDb 6.2
Focusing on Themistocles, the greek general of the Athenian warriors who murdered King Darius at the Battle of Marathon, this is a weak sequel to 300. Themistocles organized a group of peasants to prepare for naval fights against the Persian army in the movie. Action-packed and gory, Rise of an Empire aims to please fans of the first film in the series. In fact, it exceeds the original 300 in terms of violence, gore, and bare flesh. Besides, there isn’t much for the viewers to take in regarding the story’s development.
The movie broadens the scope of the “300” universe by introducing additional Greek states and portraying some of Persia, giving the cosmos a grander overall scale. It is not as innovative as the first movie, but it contributes to the continuation of the series and takes a more fascinating approach to the concept of a sequel, given that it is a side tale. If the first was rewarding and you wanted more, you can get it here.
31. Wonder Woman 1984 (2020) – IMDb 5.4
The standalone DC Comics superhero film “Wonder Woman” was released in 2017, and “Wonder Woman 1984” is the follow-up to that film. Gal Gadot reprises her role as the main character in this new film. In 1984, Diana Prince established herself as a curator of “cultural anthropology and archaeology” at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, District of Columbia. War is once again the motivating force behind the events in this instalment, as it was in the last. This time, there isn’t any competition from other gods or metahumans.
Unlike Patty Jenkins’s prior work on Wonder Woman, which was outstanding, this film’s plot was a complete disaster. The most visually striking part of the movie was the opening sequence, which took place on Themyscira; nevertheless, the rest of the film is not quite as visually impressive. Should you see this movie? Yes, if you happen to be a Gal Gadot fan. Gal Gadot, in her second solo excursion as Diana Prince/Wonder Woman, again demonstrates why she is the ideal choice for the part.
30. Wrath of the Titans (2012) – IMDb 5.7
The events in Wrath of the Titans take place ten years after the original film. Out of envy for Perseus, Hades hatches a plan to free Kronos. The plot moves linearly, while the battle sequences are simply and elegantly drawn. Some easter eggs are carried over from the first movie, such as the inclusion of the mechanical owl Bubo and the fact that Pegasus has a bit more personality, even though he is still used for nothing more than flying transportation.
Liam Neeson plays Zeus, Ralph Fiennes plays Hades, Sam Worthington plays Perseus, and Rosamund Pike plays Andromeda in this sequel. The film does delve into the Gods, notably the dynamic between the brothers. Almost every fantastic beast from Greek mythology made an appearance, and many of them fought alongside Perseus. The film’s superior plot and lack of competition from the beautifully nostalgic 1981 original give it an edge over Clash of the Titans.
29. Mighty Aphrodite (1995) – IMDb 7.0
The ancient Greek tragedy “Oedipus Rex” is retold in a contemporary setting in Woody Allen’s film “Mighty Aphrodite,” which manages to be both humorous and touching. Lenny (Allen) is eager to find the biological mother of his adoptive son Max, who has turned out to be an intelligent and extraordinarily gifted young man. Like Oedipus in Sophocles’ play, his obsession with uncovering his birth parents’ identities led to the most horrific results. During his quest, Lenny meets Linda, a former hooker and minor pornographic celebrity, who he befriends in the hopes of inspiring her to make positive changes in her life.
Woody Allen’s exceptional humour is woven throughout the plot, an optimistic story about improving one’s life. There are several amusing characters, including Kevin, the bumbling boxer played by Michael Rapaport and the prostitute played by Mira Sorvino. Allen uses a Greek chorus throughout this entertaining story to provide commentary, expand the plot, and shed light on his intentions.
28. Agora (2009) – IMDb 7.1
With its depiction of theological warfare between the various parties in Alexandria, Agora gives viewers a glimpse into a complex ancient culture that is largely unknown to us. The film’s hundreds or thousands of extras, elaborate sets, and meticulously designed costumes attest to its high production value. Alejandro Amenábar, the film’s director, tries to divert the audience’s attention to other aspects of the story by introducing a love triangle among the characters Orestes, Davus, and Hypatia. This strategy is successful at moments but might have been explored much further.
This film is not for people who refuse to rethink their most deeply held convictions even when presented with compelling evidence to the contrary. But those willing to examine and consider historical or scientific data will probably be astounded by this explicit depiction of a time and place.
27. The First King (2019) – IMDb 6.5
The legendary Roman twins Romulus and Remus are among the most pivotal figures in history. Many people have been fascinated by the adventures of these legendary twins, and their stories continue to be told in media such as books, comics, TV shows, movies, and video games. Director Matteo Rovere reimagines these legend brothers who founded Rome.
The First King is an insightful and historically reliable film about the rise of the Roman Empire in the year 750 BC. The film portrays the squalor that existed in the eighth century BC. Italy, during the dawn of the Iron Age. The violence is nonstop and intense, like any solid peplum, and there are several graphic depictions of tight proximity, no holds barred, ancient fighting. Without breaking the flow of the story, the film builds momentum and becomes compelling throughout.
26. Black Orpheus (1959) – IMDb 7.4
Directed by Marcel Camus and based on a play, “Black Orpheus” (1959) is a retelling of the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. The film stays true to the tragedy of the source material while introducing new elements and exciting new beats. It’s an interesting attempt to reimagine Greek mythology for contemporary audiences. The “Best Foreign Language Film” award at the 1960 Academy Awards went to “Black Orpheus.”
The film isn’t just an adaptation of the Greek myth; it also celebrates that myth and its culture. It is breathtaking in its beauty, full of vibrant scenes of carnival life and beautiful performances from stunning actors.
25. Oedipus the King (1968) – IMDb 6.3
Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex,” the first play in his Theban trilogy, has earned its reputation as a literary masterpiece thanks to its intricate plot and vividly realized characters. Perhaps the most satisfying aspect of this movie is that it stays true to Sophocles’ original story without making any changes or cuts. Rarely do we get the opportunity to watch a cinematic adaptation of a Greek drama that is so true to the spirit of the original works.
Christopher Plummer does a fantastic job portraying a seemingly self-assured, strong king whose life starts to fall apart when a prediction made by a drunken visitor years ago turns out to be a terrifying reality. The cinematography was done by Walter Lassally, who had previously worked with Michael Cacoyannis on the production of “Electra”; he is undoubtedly not a stranger to the Greek landscape.
24. Hercules (2014) – IMDb 6.0
Hercules is an excellent piece of action cinema, and how the filmmakers treat the well-known mythical figure they’ve chosen to depict is really endearing. By cutting all ties to this mythology, Brett Ratner’s Hercules convinces viewers that the hero they’ve known and loved since childhood is not the demigod they were led to believe he was. Hercules has branded a mercenary who agrees to assist Lord Cotys in preparing his Thracian soldiers to repel a threat posed by barbarian hordes and Centaurs.
The film’s production values are high; the settings and locations are believable, and the action scenes stand out. Dwayne Johnson gives his job just the right amount of charisma and charm to make people believe he was born to play it. Despite not having any fantasy aspects, the movie offers a thrilling and engaging action spectacle. However, some viewers may be turned off by the film’s unique perspective on the Hercules myth.
23. O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000) – IMDb 7.7
Homer’s epic Greek tragedy “The Odyssey” is replayed in “O Brother, Where Art Thou?,” but this time it’s set in Dustbowl-era Mississippi. The film follows three fugitives travelling to the 1930s Deep South searching for a hidden treasure. The terrain gives birth to legendary figures from our own time and place, blending ancient Greek mythology with contemporary American myth. Like Homer’s Odyssey, this film builds wonderfully to a thrilling climax.
The characters are developed to a satisfactory degree and grow on the audience to the point where they are genuinely likeable, elevating the film above the typical superficiality of comedies. Throughout the film, there is an excellent sense of what life was like in the Deep South during that period, which is depicted in long shots, and there is incredible attention to detail paid to both the set design and costume design. The movie received an Academy Award nomination for best-adapted screenplay.
22. Hercules (1958) – IMDb 5.4
In the late ’50s, Italian filmmaker Pietro Francisci sought to adapt the legend of Hercules, the strongman, into a film.
After its initial run in theatres, it received mostly negative reviews from major US studios. However, a film producer eventually purchased all the rights necessary to re-release the movie in the United States. The appearance of Steve Reeves as Hercules was no doubt a significant factor in the film’s success and helped propel it to the top of the box office.
Though it attempts to pay tribute to a classic Greek hero, the film ultimately falls short of the mark. The other Italian film based on a Homeric Greek myth, Ulysses (1954), was a much better adaptation. Nonetheless, there are still enough entertaining moments throughout the film that will likely win over a new generation who like the classics.
21. Antigone (1961) – IMDb 7.1
The political, ethical, and philosophical questions raised by Sophocles in his play “Antigone,” first performed in 441 BC, making it relevant even today. This highly accomplished adaption was written and directed by Yorgos Tzavallas and featured a beautiful score by Argyris Kournadis. The film’s narrative is meant to make viewers reconsider their assumptions about justice and wisdom from an ancient Greek point of view.
Antigone, the film’s protagonist, is put in a challenging situation when her king, Creon, orders that her brother’s body should not be buried. Antigone ultimately concludes by believing her brother’s death without a burial was unfair, and she questions Creon’s authority to prohibit the burial of her brother by carrying out the ceremony herself. Thebes and significant historical figures are prominently featured in this exceptionally well-acted film.
20. The 300 Spartans (1962) – IMDb 6.5
‘300 Spartans,’ released in 1962, depicts the Persian invasion of ancient Greece and the subsequent Battle of Thermopylae. King Leonidas (Richard Egan) organizes the Greek defences by leading 300 of his bodyguard to the pass. The Persians can sneak up on the Greeks by taking a hidden mountain path revealed by a traitor. As the Spartans retreat, Xerxes offers to release them in exchange for the body of Leonidas.
Even though the battle scenes aren’t as impressive as those in 300, “The 300 Spartans” is far more historically accurate than the later one. The film successfully establishes a complicated historical and political context, depicts cultural contrasts, and crystallizes the military and tactical concerns at hand. However, the scriptwriters failed to adequately capitalize on the intense emotional stakes inherent in these moments of ancient Greek history.
19. Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters (2013) – IMDb 5.7
The second movie in the Percy Jackson series, Sea of Monsters, is more faithful to the novel than the first, The Lightning Thief, although there are still some minor changes. Previously, Percy and his best friends, Grover and Annabeth, prevented Luke from destroying Olympus. Here, the demigods’ safe haven of Camp Half-Blood is in jeopardy due to the poisoning of Thalia’s tree, which serves as a barrier to the camp. Only the Golden Fleece, hidden on a remote island in the Bermuda Triangle (or the Sea of Monsters), can cure it.
Most of the cast of characters who comprised the deities in the previous film is noticeably gone from the sequel. Though some parts of the plot were changed, the resulting movie nevertheless felt like it could have been based on the book because of how faithfully it portrayed its characters. It’s the perfect example of how a cinematic adaptation of a novel ought to be done with its own identity while remaining true to the series’ core elements and the film’s chronology. For fans of the franchise, this movie gives a glimpse of what’s to come.
18. Medea (1969) – IMDb 6.9
Medea, the witch of the barbarians, falls from grace due to her own arrogance and her passionate love for Jason. She is still unaccepted and unable to adapt to Greek culture after having given birth to two boys for Jason in Greece. Medea calls upon her inner demons to exact revenge on those who have harmed her. Her anger led her to send a dress and coronet laced with poison to Glauce and her father, resulting in their deaths. After being pushed to the breaking point, Medea sets their home on fire and murders her sons.
Director Pasolini creates a visually compelling universe for Medea and Jason, skillfully blending the breathtaking scenery of Cappadocia and southern Italy with buildings from every age imaginable. Overall, this adaptation of Medea is quite well done and faithfully reproduces vital elements of the source material. However, prior knowledge of the plot is required since the events in Passolini’s version pick up a little before those in Euripides’. Running through a series of primarily non-verbal sequences, he sets the stage for the film’s setting and emotional core.
17. Ulysses (1954) – IMDb 6.6
Ithaca’s King Ulysses was banished to the high seas for a decade as punishment for challenging the sea god Poseidon over his role in the Greek victory at Troy, thanks to his invention of a massive wooden horse. After that time passed, he could return home to his devoted wife, Queen Penelope, and the island of Ithaca. Since the hero has been gone for so long, several powerful men have taken up residence in his palace, hoping to win the hand of the “widow” Queen and co-rule Ithaca with her. The film chronicles Ulysses’ journey, the various challenges he faces on his way back home, and his struggles with his potential successors once he arrives.
It’s important to remember that this movie was produced back in 1954, so some of the plot points might be hard to understand. The filmmakers made an effort to portray a scenario in which love triumphs over adversity. This movie has had a surprisingly low budget for what it does, and it’s worth watching at least once to understand why Kirk Douglas is considered a film industry classic.
16. Wonder Woman (2017) – IMDb 7.4
In “Wonder Woman,” Diana’s journey to becoming the comic book’s superhero is reimagined during World War I. The story is told by Amazon Queen Hippolyta (Connie Nielsen), and director Patty Jenkins pays magnificent respect to Greek mythology through her work. Hippolyta, Diana’s mother, didn’t want her daughter to experience the same kind of sacrifice that she did as a warrior. Diana’s aunt Antiope, aware that she is destined to lead the Amazons, has secretly trained her niece to become a fierce warrior. Diana brings the Amazon shield and the holy “God Killer” sword along when she embarks on the voyage to defeat Ares.
“Wonder Woman” is a remarkable film in every aspect, from the stellar performances of its cast to the film’s satisfying harmony of narrative and action. The movie combines ancient mythology with human history and gives it a contemporary spin.
15. Alexander (2004) – IMDb 5.6
Colin Farrell, Anthony Hopkins, and Angelina Jolie star in the film, which is based on the life of Alexander the Great. Since no egregious inaccuracies have been brought to light, it may be said that the film is historically accurate. Although he has his share of problems, Alexander comes out as a likeable and dynamic individual. The film distorts and dramatizes the most significant moments of the figure’s life.
Like a Greek tragedy befitting an operatic masterpiece, the gay subculture of modern Greece is on full display, complete with its illegal connections and internal disputes. In a society where male couples are stigmatized, Oliver Stone has shown guts by depicting a classic love story between two men.
The combat scenes are tense, erratic, and of a big enough size. The settings are beautiful and varied, but the focus is on the actors because they are the ones that are featured in the scenes. The film’s subtle depiction as a Greek tragedy will likely resonate with audiences. To enjoy Alexander, you must abandon whatever expectations you may have had for a traditional historical epic.
14. Orpheus (1950) – IMDb 7.9
The Greek story of Orpheus and his journey to the underworld to reclaim his love Eurydice is retold in this French adaptation in an accurate and contemporary manner. Orpheus (Jean Marais) is a well-known but disillusioned poet in post-war France in this film’s retelling of the myth. After death’s minions’ murder Eurydice, Heurtebise offers to guide him towards the underworld.
The film walks a tightrope between inventiveness and mystery, giving you just enough to keep you guessing but not so much that you lose interest. As we deal with the potentially heavy subject matter and concepts, every scene feels authentic and unfiltered regarding its emotional impact. The movie successfully juggles the severe themes of an allegory with the lighter elements of amusement, making it both profound and enjoyable.
13. Immortals (2011) – IMDb 6.0
The Immortals were the second tier of gods, following the Primordials and before the Olympians. The oldest pantheon of Greek gods was made up of the titans, enormous gods of extraordinary strength who were said to have ruled during the mythical Golden Age. During the Titanomachy, they were dethroned by younger gods, many of whom were their own offspring in the shape of the Olympians.
Henry Cavill plays Theseus in the film, featuring a cast including Luke Evans as Zeus, Mickey Rourke as King Hyperion, Freida Pinto as Phaedra and Kellan Lutz as Poseidon. There’s a surprising amount of depth to the plot, especially when it comes to its treatment of spirituality. Hyperion, the film’s antagonist, is a ruthlessly evil warlord who, while nominally religious, shows no reverence for the gods. This epic production combines CGI images of Greek gods engaged in combat and other heroic deeds. Every scenario has been meticulously planned, down to the last detail in terms of costumes, scenery, and set design.
12. The Trojan Women (1971) – IMDb 6.8
Ancient Athens is the setting for Michael Cacoyannis’ adaption of Euripides’ drama during the Peloponnesian War, which would ultimately enslave the city and put its Golden Age to a disgraceful end. The film does not fit the traditional mould of a “sword-and-sandal” movie, and it’s about the women left behind by the historic 10-year battle between the Trojans and the Greeks. Cacoyannis made an admirable effort to spread awareness of how the conflict affected the women of Troy.
All the female actors are fantastic, but Katharine Hepburn especially shines in her role as Hecuba, Queen of the ruined city of Troy. The Greek actress, Irene Pappas, performed spectacularly as the story’s driving figure, Helen. The film is not to be missed by anyone with even a passing interest in Greek tragedy.
11. Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010) – IMDb 5.8
The Lightning Thief kicks off a series of movies adapted from Rick Riordan’s novels for young adults. It is directed by Chris Columbus, who also directed the first two Harry Potter films. The adventure of the movie takes place in New York, where the gods Zeus and Poseidon are on the verge of going to war over Zeus’ lightning bolt. Medusa and other well-known figures from Greek mythology are incorporated into modern American culture.
Percy Jackson, portrayed by Logan Lerman, is the son of Poseidon, one of the three major deities of Mount Olympus; the other two beings are Zeus and Hades. After being falsely accused of stealing the lightning bolt, he is sent to a summer camp for demigod kids.
The book and the movie are based on the same story, but they approach it from quite different perspectives. Half a dozen humanoid monsters stand in Percy’s way as he tries to accomplish his purpose in the book. The film updates the ancient order with various clever or noticeable changes for modern audiences. Any viewer with even a passing interest in mythology will be thrilled by the abundance of mythological monsters and events depicted in the film.
10. Spartacus (1960) – IMDb 7.9
Spartacus marks Stanley Kubrick’s first effort into the genre of epic historical drama. As opposed to the popular belief that Spartacus was an enslaved person bought from a Greek province, the reality is that he was probably a Roman legionnaire sent to gladiator training. The film follows the story of this real-life historical figure, played by Kirk Douglas. He gets caught up in a political battle between Sempronius Gracchus and Licinius Crassus, two Roman senators. Alarmed by the growing anarchy in Italy, he decides to lead a rebellion and rallies a large number of supporters behind him.
Even though the film is longer than three hours, you won’t even notice the time passing. The performances, the sets, and the cinematography, in general, are all of an extremely high calibre. The film has been praised for its accurate recreations of the arena and daily life in ancient Rome, such as the saunas, gladiator school, and clothing used by the fighters. Roman antiquity rarely appeared so vibrant, grand, and gorgeous as it does here.
9. Hercules (1997) – IMDb 7.3
Disney’s first foray into Greek mythology was the retelling of the legend of Hercules, in which the god’s birth was interrupted when Hades, lord of the underworld, abducted the baby and turned him into a mortal. In order to regain his immortality and return to the hallowed halls of Mount Olympus, he must first prove himself to be a true hero. Ron Clements and John Musker, who are well known for their work on “Aladdin” and “The Little Mermaid,” respectively, directed this movie.
In the Greek myth, Hercules is not the son of Zeus and his wife Hera; instead, he is the offspring of Zeus’ affair with a mortal woman named Alcmene. This plot point was changed in the Disney version of the narrative. The tale of “Hercules” is only a pale reflection of the original myth, but the film pays excellent tribute to Greek mythology, especially the legend of Heracles.
8. Iphigenia (1977) – IMDb 7.7
Oscar-nominated director Michael Cacoyannis’s adaptation of Euripides’ play is a stunning ode to the splendour of ancient Greece. The movie has a fantastic feeling of location and time, despite having a start that could be considered off-putting because it shows both full-frontal male nudity and the massacre of animals. The film transports us to a staggering raw Greece, seemingly unchanged since the days of Homer.
Iphigenia, who develops from a carefree young woman to a hopeful bride, experiences bewilderment and desperation at what awaits her before finally emerging as a brave martyr. This rendition of the story meticulously reconstructs the events and arranges them in a linear, absolutely chronological order.
7. 300 (2006) – IMDb 7.6
The 300 is the account of a pivotal event in ancient Greek history, as it has been repeated for thousands of years by Europeans. At the Battle of Thermopylae, which took place in 480 BC, 300 Spartans and Arcadians fought off hundreds of thousands of Persians who were part of Xerxes’ troops. And the Persians were left trembling in their boots as a direct result of their actions.
The mythical tale of the battle of Thermopylae is rife with philosophical and allegorical insights, and the film does a great job of bringing them to life. Obviously, this narrative has been exaggerated quite a bit. You’ll appreciate this film if you like action flicks with many muscle-bound men parading around brandishing swords, spears, and shields in gory ways. This isn’t the movie for you if you’re hoping for a raw, grounded take on Greek mythology in the context of a gripping war drama.
6. Helen of Troy (1956) – IMDb 6.1
“Helen of Troy” is a fantastic adaptation of Homer’s “The Iliad” and a thoroughly enjoyable romantic adventure. The movie follows Helen (Rossana Podesta), who marries a Spartan King, Menelaus (Niall MacGinnis). When the Trojan ship carrying “Paris” (Jacques Sernas) ran aground near Sparta, he was able to take the princess and bring her back to Troy. As a result, the independent Greek states banded together to lay siege to Troy to rescue Helen.
There is never a dull moment in this picture; action or drama is constantly taking place. The film has received high marks for its nuanced and contemporary treatment of the subject and its commendable deference to Homer and historical sources. Robert Wise skillfully bridges the gap between the story’s ancient setting and the current description of the events, tailored to the audience’s requirements. The supporting cast gives us crystal-clear depictions of their characters, helping to ensure that they stick out in our minds. It’s no exaggeration to say that Helen of Troy is a cinematic masterpiece from the golden period.
5. Electra (1962) – IMDb 7.6
Electra is the first Greek film ever to be considered for a nomination for the Academy Award in the category of Best Foreign Language Film. Written by Euripides around 420 bc, Electra is a work of genius that will endure through the ages, just like ‘Hamlet,’ ‘Phaedra,’ and other such pieces of the human mind. It is difficult to find a better adaption of a Greek play that is two thousand years old than “Electra” by Michael Cacoyannis.
The movie’s ability to subtly convey its themes is the most essential aspect to take away from it. The film doesn’t have a lot of dialogue because it focuses so much on the acting. Irene Papas and Giannis Fertis lead a fantastic cast that includes the music of Mikis Theodorakis and the cinematography of Walter Lassally, and the result is a breathtaking and hypnotic film.
4. Troy (2004) – IMDb 7.3
As everyone knows, “Troy” is based on Homer’s epic poem “The Iliad.” It depicts the story of Paris, a prince from the Kingdom of Troy, and his love for Helen. Naturally, some adjustments from the original story will be made in retelling a piece of adapted literature. The Greek gods, who were supposed to play a significant part in the narrative, were cut out of the story’s original version, which is considered the most significant alteration. As a result, a lot of the supernatural components are left out in “Troy” in an effort to tell the story from a more realistic angle.
The gods’ absence is understandable and adds realism to the storyline. In the role of Achilles, Brad Pitt leads a star-studded cast in this action-adventure film. Eric Bana brings Hector to life as a brave warrior and transforms him into a character you’ll want to cheer for. In terms of epic greek mythology movies, “Troy” is a solid option because it does a great job adapting the Iliad.
