Top 10 Historical Films on African Kingdoms

Description: Set during World War I, this film follows a British missionary and a riverboat captain through German East Africa, showcasing the colonial context and the interaction with local African communities.

Fact: The film was shot on location in the Belgian Congo, now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, providing a real sense of the African environment.

Description: Set during the Anglo-Zulu War, this film captures the Battle of Rorke's Drift, showcasing the bravery and military tactics of the Zulu Kingdom against British forces. It's a classic depiction of African resistance and resilience.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use the Zulu language extensively, with many of the extras being actual Zulu warriors.

Description: This comedy-drama, while not historical, offers a satirical look at the clash between modern civilization and traditional African life, set in Botswana, which has a rich history of kingdoms like the Tswana.

Fact: The film was a huge international success, becoming one of the highest-grossing foreign films in the U.S. at the time.

Description: Set in Kenya during the construction of the Uganda-Mombasa Railway, this film explores the historical event known as the Tsavo maneaters, where two man-eating lions terrorized workers, reflecting the challenges faced by colonial powers in African territories.

Fact: The film is based on a true story, and the actual skulls of the lions are on display at the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago.

Description: Although primarily about British imperialism, the film includes significant scenes in Sudan, showcasing the Mahdist War and the resistance of the Sudanese against foreign rule, reflecting the spirit of African kingdoms.

Fact: The film was shot in the Sudanese desert, providing an authentic setting for the story.

Description: This film, while not strictly about an African kingdom, delves into the tumultuous reign of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, offering insights into the political landscape of Uganda in the 1970s. It's included for its portrayal of a significant African leader and the impact on his kingdom.

Fact: Forest Whitaker won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Idi Amin. The film was shot on location in Uganda, providing an authentic backdrop.

Description: This biopic chronicles the life of Nelson Mandela, focusing on his fight against apartheid and his role in the transformation of South Africa, which was once a collection of independent African kingdoms.

Fact: Idris Elba, who played Mandela, spent time with Mandela's family to prepare for the role, and the film was endorsed by the Nelson Mandela Foundation.

Description: Though an animated film, it draws heavily from African folklore and the imagery of African kingdoms, particularly the Swahili culture, making it a cultural touchstone for African history.

Fact: The film was inspired by Shakespeare's "Hamlet" and features authentic African animal behaviors and landscapes.

Description: While not about a historical kingdom, this film tells the true story of Phiona Mutesi, a Ugandan girl who becomes a chess prodigy, reflecting the cultural and social dynamics of contemporary Uganda, which has roots in its historical kingdoms.

Fact: The film was shot in Katwe, a slum in Kampala, Uganda, where the real Phiona Mutesi grew up.

Description: This film, set during the Rwandan genocide, highlights the leadership and heroism of Paul Rusesabagina, reflecting the resilience and community spirit of African societies in times of crisis.

Fact: Don Cheadle was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Paul Rusesabagina.