Greatest Films of the 19th Century

Description: Martin Scorsese's adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel provides a detailed look at New York's high society in the 1870s, focusing on the rigid social codes and the personal sacrifices they entail.

Fact: The film was nominated for five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Scorsese meticulously recreated the period's fashion and decor.

Description: This film, set in the 1930s but reflecting on the earlier part of the century, examines the life of a butler and his unexpressed love, set against the backdrop of political and social changes.

Fact: Anthony Hopkins and Emma Thompson both received Academy Award nominations for their performances. The film was shot at Dyrham Park, which served as Darlington Hall.

Description: Another Austen adaptation, this film explores the lives of the Dashwood sisters, highlighting the societal norms and economic pressures of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Fact: Emma Thompson won an Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay for her work on this film. The film was shot in various locations in England, including the National Trust's Saltram House.

Description: This adaptation of Jane Austen's novel captures the essence of the Regency period, focusing on themes of love, class, and societal expectations. Its inclusion in this list is due to its faithful portrayal of early 19th-century England.

Fact: The film was shot on location at Chatsworth House, which served as Mr. Darcy's Pemberley estate. Keira Knightley was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Elizabeth Bennet.

Description: While not strictly historical, this film captures the essence of the late 19th-century magic scene, exploring themes of obsession, rivalry, and the dark side of ambition.

Fact: The film features real magic tricks, some of which were developed specifically for the movie. Nikola Tesla's character, played by David Bowie, is based on the real-life inventor.

Description: This biographical drama about Georgiana Cavendish, Duchess of Devonshire, provides insight into the life of an influential woman in late 18th-century England, touching on themes of politics, fashion, and personal freedom.

Fact: Keira Knightley's performance was critically acclaimed, and the film was shot at Chatsworth House, the real-life home of the Duke of Devonshire.

Description: This adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's novel delves into themes of love, independence, and social class, set against the backdrop of a brooding Gothic estate in the mid-19th century.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in England, including Haddon Hall, which provided an authentic setting for Thornfield Hall. Mia Wasikowska was praised for her portrayal of Jane Eyre.

Description: Based on Victor Hugo's novel, this musical drama vividly portrays the struggles of the French working class during the 1832 June Rebellion, making it a poignant reflection of the 19th century's social issues.

Fact: The film was shot in sequence to capture the actors' live singing performances. Hugh Jackman lost significant weight to portray Jean Valjean's transformation.

Description: Thomas Hardy's novel comes to life in this adaptation, which explores rural life, love, and independence in the mid-19th century, offering a vivid portrayal of Victorian England.

Fact: The film was shot in Dorset, where Hardy set many of his novels. Carey Mulligan's performance as Bathsheba Everdene was widely praised.

Description: This Merchant Ivory production captures the essence of Edwardian England, focusing on the personal and societal constraints of the time, making it a quintessential 19th-century film.

Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Adapted Screenplay. It was shot in Florence, Italy, and various locations in England.