Films About Emperors and Empresses

Description: This historical epic examines the decline of the Roman Empire through the lens of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his son Commodus, showcasing the internal and external pressures that led to Rome's downfall.

Fact: The film was one of the most expensive movies ever made at the time, with a budget of $19 million. It was also one of the last major epics of Hollywood's Golden Age.

Description: This epic biographical drama chronicles the life of Puyi, the last Emperor of China, from his ascension to the throne at age two to his later years in Communist China. It's a poignant look at the end of an era and the personal toll of imperial life.

Fact: The film was shot in the Forbidden City, marking the first time a foreign crew was allowed to film there. It also won nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: A comedic take on the life of an emperor, this animated film follows Kuzco, an Incan emperor turned into a llama, as he learns humility and the value of friendship.

Fact: Originally conceived as a more serious drama, the film was transformed into a comedy during development. It was also the first Disney animated feature to be released under the Walt Disney Pictures banner alone.

Description: While not exclusively about an emperor, this film features Commodus, the Roman Emperor, whose tyrannical rule and the subsequent rise of Maximus provide a dramatic backdrop to explore themes of power, betrayal, and revenge.

Fact: Joaquin Phoenix, who played Commodus, was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. The film's depiction of the Colosseum was built on a backlot in Malta.

Description: A documentary that follows Kenzo Okuzaki, a former Japanese soldier, as he confronts former comrades about their wartime actions, metaphorically challenging the "emperor" of war crimes.

Fact: The film won the International Critics' Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in

Description: This epic drama focuses on the relationship between King Ying Zheng of Qin, who would become the first Emperor of China, and his would-be assassin, exploring themes of ambition, betrayal, and the cost of unification.

Fact: The film was a major production in China, with a budget of over $15 million, and it won several awards at the Golden Horse Film Festival.

Description: While not about a historical emperor, this film explores themes of leadership and legacy through the story of a teacher at an elite prep school who influences his students, much like an emperor would his subjects.

Fact: Kevin Kline was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role as the teacher. The film was inspired by the short story "The Palace Thief" by Ethan Canin.

Description: This Chinese historical drama series focuses on Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history, detailing her rise from concubine to ruler of the Tang dynasty.

Fact: The series was one of the most expensive TV productions in China, with elaborate sets and costumes. It was also adapted into a film version for international release.

Description: Set during the Qin dynasty, this film tells the story of the relationship between the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, and his court musician, exploring themes of power, art, and loyalty.

Fact: The film was one of the first Chinese productions to gain international recognition for its historical accuracy and cinematic quality.

Description: This film portrays the life of Empress Dowager Cixi, who ruled China behind the scenes during the late Qing dynasty, showcasing her political cunning and the challenges she faced.

Fact: The film was one of the earliest to depict Cixi in a somewhat sympathetic light, challenging the traditional negative portrayal of her.