Historical Films on Mesopotamian Civilisations

Description: D.W. Griffith's silent epic explores the fall of Babylon to the Persians, showcasing the grandeur and tragedy of this ancient city. It's included for its historical significance and its portrayal of Babylonian culture.

Fact: The film was originally part of a larger work, "Intolerance," and was later re-released as a standalone feature. It was one of the most expensive films of its time.

Description: This film adaptation of the ancient Sumerian epic poem follows the adventures of Gilgamesh, the legendary king of Uruk, as he seeks immortality and confronts his own mortality. It's a must-watch for its depiction of one of the earliest known literary works.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Iraq, providing an authentic backdrop to the story. It also features a score composed entirely of ancient Mesopotamian instruments.

Description: This film delves into the life of Hammurabi, the sixth king of Babylon, known for his famous code of laws. It provides insight into the legal and social systems of ancient Mesopotamia.

Fact: The film was produced with the cooperation of the Iraqi government, allowing for extensive use of historical sites for authenticity.

Description: Set during the reign of Ashurbanipal, this film captures the might and cultural zenith of the Assyrian Empire, offering a glimpse into their military prowess and artistic achievements.

Fact: The film's sets were inspired by the detailed reliefs found in the ruins of Nineveh, providing a visually accurate portrayal of Assyrian architecture.

Description: A documentary-style film that explores the rise of Sumer, the world's first civilization, focusing on their innovations in writing, agriculture, and urban planning.

Fact: The film was produced in collaboration with the British Museum, utilizing their extensive collection of Sumerian artifacts.

Description: This film imagines the construction and splendor of one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, blending historical speculation with dramatic storytelling.

Fact: The film uses CGI to recreate the gardens, providing a visual feast that has been praised for its attention to historical detail.

Description: A dramatization of the life of Hammurabi, focusing on the creation of his famous code of laws, which influenced legal systems for millennia.

Fact: The film was shot in the ruins of Babylon, giving viewers an authentic feel of the ancient city.

Description: This film recounts the legendary life of Sargon of Akkad, the first ruler of the Akkadian Empire, known for his military conquests and unification of Mesopotamia.

Fact: The film features a unique narrative style, blending historical events with mythological elements from Sumerian and Akkadian lore.

Description: A fictional story set in ancient Sumer, where a young priestess must navigate the political and religious intrigues surrounding the construction of a ziggurat.

Fact: The film's set design was inspired by the ziggurat of Ur, providing a visually stunning backdrop to the story.

Description: This film explores the mysterious fall of the Akkadian Empire, weaving together historical events with supernatural elements to create a thrilling narrative.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Iraq, including the ruins of Akkad, to capture the essence of the ancient empire.