Best Historical Films About the Crusades

Description: This epic historical drama directed by Ridley Scott captures the essence of the Crusades through the story of Balian of Ibelin, a blacksmith who becomes a knight and defends Jerusalem against Saladin. It's a must-watch for its portrayal of the clash of cultures and religions.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, with the city of Ait Benhaddou standing in for Jerusalem. Also, the director's cut adds nearly an hour of additional footage, providing a more comprehensive narrative.

Description: Another entry for its extended director's cut, this film delves deeper into the political and religious complexities of the Crusades, offering a more nuanced view of the conflict.

Fact: The director's cut includes additional scenes that flesh out characters and provide more historical context, making it a different viewing experience from the theatrical release.

Description: Based on Jan Guillou's novels, this Swedish film follows Arn Magnusson, who becomes a Templar knight and fights in the Holy Land. It's notable for its detailed depiction of the Templar order and the Crusades' impact on individuals.

Fact: The film was shot in Sweden, Morocco, and Scotland, with the latter providing the backdrop for the Holy Land scenes. It was one of the most expensive Swedish films ever made.

Description: While not exclusively about the Crusades, this film features the aftermath of the Crusades with the story of the siege of Rochester Castle by King John's forces. It provides a gritty look at the political and military turmoil following the Crusades.

Fact: The film was shot in Wales, with the real Rochester Castle used for exterior shots. It also stars Paul Giamatti as King John, delivering a memorable performance.

Description: This classic film directed by Cecil B. DeMille offers a sweeping, if somewhat dramatized, account of the Third Crusade, focusing on Richard the Lionheart's quest to recapture Jerusalem from Saladin.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use Technicolor, showcasing the grandeur of the Crusades with vibrant colors. It also features a massive cast of extras for battle scenes.

Description: This TV miniseries offers a detailed narrative of the Crusades, focusing on the lives of key figures like Richard the Lionheart and Saladin. It's praised for its historical accuracy and character development.

Fact: The series was filmed in various locations across Europe and the Middle East, striving for authenticity in its portrayal of the era.

Description: The sequel to "Arn: The Knight Templar," this film continues Arn's story, focusing on his return to Sweden and the political intrigue that follows. It's a compelling conclusion to his journey.

Fact: The film was shot in Sweden and Norway, with the latter providing stunning landscapes for the Swedish settings.

Description: This TV miniseries offers a detailed narrative of the Crusades, focusing on the lives of key figures like Richard the Lionheart and Saladin. It's praised for its historical accuracy and character development.

Fact: The series was filmed in various locations across Europe and the Middle East, striving for authenticity in its portrayal of the era.

Description: This documentary by the History Channel provides a balanced view of the Crusades, exploring both the Christian and Muslim perspectives. It's essential for understanding the broader historical context.

Fact: The documentary uses re-enactments and expert interviews to bring the history to life, making it accessible and engaging for viewers.

Description: This documentary by the History Channel provides a balanced view of the Crusades, exploring both the Christian and Muslim perspectives. It's essential for understanding the broader historical context.

Fact: The documentary uses re-enactments and expert interviews to bring the history to life, making it accessible and engaging for viewers.