History backdrop

History movies

Period pieces that transport you back in time, recreating the events and figures that shaped our past.

Subgenres include: Historical Event, Biographical History, Political History.

Flamin' Hot

1. Flamin' Hot

Drama History Historical Drama Biographical History
6.8
20231h 39min

Overview

The inspiring true story of Richard Montañez, the Frito Lay janitor who channeled his Mexican American heritage and upbringing to turn the iconic Flamin' Hot Cheetos into a snack that disrupted the food industry and became a global pop culture phenomenon.

Themes

Based on true story framing, Biography authenticity aspiration, Janitor mobility through opportunity, Woman director leadership dynamics, Mexican american heritage leverage, Branding through multicultural marketing

Available on

Disney Plus
Amazon Prime Video
Hulu
Data provided by JustWatch.Availability may vary by region.

Mixed by Erry

2. Mixed by Erry

Comedy History Music Satire Historical Event
7.1
20231h 53min

Overview

The rise and fall of the pirate mixtape empire of three brothers from Naples, Italy, during the '80s.

Themes

Family dynamics under pressure, Illegal markets under scrutiny, Illicit entrepreneurship through piracy, Risk and reward through crime, Copyright infringement consequences, Enforcement pressure and asset seizure

Available on

Netflix
Netflix Standard with Ads
Data provided by JustWatch.Availability may vary by region.

Jesus Revolution

3. Jesus Revolution

Drama History
7.1
20232h

Overview

In the 1970s, aimless teenager Greg Laurie searches for all the right things in all the wrong places until he meets Lonnie Frisbee, a charismatic hippie/street preacher. Together with local pastor Chuck Smith, they open the doors of a languishing church to an unexpected revival.


BlackBerry

4. BlackBerry

Comedy Drama History Historical Drama Satire
7.3
20232h

Overview

Two mismatched entrepreneurs – egghead innovator Mike Lazaridis and cut-throat businessman Jim Balsillie – joined forces in an endeavour that was to become a worldwide hit in little more than a decade. The story of the meteoric rise and catastrophic demise of the world's first smartphone.

Themes

Ambition and collaboration, Workplace culture under pressure, Tech startup dynamics, Market disruption risk, Leadership and governance, Legacy of innovation

Available on

Amazon Video
Apple TV
Hulu
Data provided by JustWatch.Availability may vary by region.

True Spirit

5. True Spirit

Adventure Drama History Maritime Adventure Coming-of-Age Drama
6.8
20231h 49min

Overview

When the tenacious young sailor Jessica Watson sets out to be the youngest person to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around the world, many expect her to fail. With the support of her sailing coach and mentor Ben Bryant and her parents, Jessica is determined to accomplish what was thought to be impossible, navigating some of the world’s most challenging stretches of ocean over the course of 210 days.

Themes

Based on true story, Solo endurance under pressure, Sailing trip, Public scrutiny and doubt, Loneliness and perseverance, Risk management and decision making

Available on

Netflix
Netflix Standard with Ads
Data provided by JustWatch.Availability may vary by region.

No Dogs or Italians Allowed

6. No Dogs or Italians Allowed

Animation Drama History
7.3
20231h 10min

Overview

Early 20th century, in the Ughetto family's home village, Ughettera, Northern Italy. Life in the region had become very difficult and the Ughettos dreamed of a better life abroad. Legend has it that Luigi Ughetto crossed the Alps and started a new life in France, thus changing his beloved family's destiny forever. His grandson retraces their story.


Full River Red

7. Full River Red

Mystery Comedy Thriller History
6.4
20232h 37min

Overview

During China's Song Dynasty, a mysterious murder occurs at Chancellor Quin Hui's palace after meeting delegates from the neighboring Jin Dynasty. The members become embroiled not just in a murder mystery, but a larger conspiracy concerning the fate of the empire.


Hidden Blade

8. Hidden Blade

Drama Mystery History Action
6.3
20232h 8min

Overview

Follows the story of underground workers who risked their lives to send intelligence and defend the motherland, set after Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor when the Wang Jingwei regime declared war on Britain and the U.S.


Narvik

9. Narvik

War Drama History Action
6.6
20221h 48min

Overview

April, 1940. The eyes of the world are on Narvik, a small town in northern Norway, a source of the iron ore needed for Hitler's war machine. Through two months of fierce winter warfare, the German leader is dealt with his first defeat.


Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody

10. Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance with Somebody

Music History Drama Music Biopic Biographical History
6.6
20222h 24min

Overview

The joyous, emotional, heartbreaking celebration of the life and music of Whitney Houston, the greatest female R&B pop vocalist of all time. Tracking her journey from obscurity to musical superstardom.

Themes

Addiction and rehab, Identity under public gaze, Fame and burnout, Parental control and independence, Money mismanagement and control, Public scrutiny and criticism, Romantic entanglements and loyalty

Available on

Amazon Video
Apple TV
Hulu
Data provided by JustWatch.Availability may vary by region.