My Top 10 Favorite Epic Movies

 

From Ancient Times, to the Middle Ages, to Early Modern Periods, the genera of movie Epic’s typically focus on massive events in history, with historical figures at the center stage of sweeping spectacles, and tales of grandeur. While the high-points of the genera seem to come and go with different decades, there’s no mistaking that both early and classic works of cinema were built on the backs of Epic cinema. I’d never try to construct any kind of official best of Epic movies list, but I certainly want to count down my own personal favorites of the genera. These movies aren’t based on any kind of objective quality or achievement … there just the films of the genera that have stuck with me the most, and that I most fondly think back on, or re-watch. 

 

#10 ZULU (1964) 

It’s the epic tale of a final battle against insurmountable odds, as well as the first big acting role of British talent Michael Caine. It’s January 22 1879, and a small South African outpost of British officers prepare for a massive siege, as an army of 4000 Zulu forces march forward to massacre their regiment. The first half of the movie is the tension and build-up, while the second half focuses on the 12-hour long battle. Both an epic tale of a small army holding their ground against overwhelming numbers, as well as a very human tale of the internal battle against one’s hubris, and what it coasts. For an early 1960’s production, this film is a showcase of both tension and spectacle. While the event called for 4000 Zulu, only 500 were available for the shoot, and as such, early practical effects were utilized to make the army as tremendous as it was meant to appear ... and it still impresses all these years later. 

 

#9 THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (1956) 

Okay, how many of you aren’t surprised to see this film on my countdown? Cecil B. Demille’s “The Ten Commandments” set the template for all Biblical Epics to follow, and is often regarded as one of Hollywood’s greatest achievements. The film depicts the story of Moses, from his birth, to his contact with God, to his grand crusade liberating the Hebrew people from Egypt, and ultimately to the construction (and smashing) of the 10 commandments. While it deviates a little from the biblical story of Exodus, the narrative is still consistent, and the result as a cinematic marvel with an all-star cast, and Oscar winning visuals.

 

#8 TROY (2004) 

Oh boy … time for a guilty pleasure of sorts to make it on my list. It’s 1193 B.C., and after the young Queen of Sparta runs off with the youngest Prince of Troy, it sparks turmoil across both kingdoms of Grease and Mycenae, who combine their armies in an epic invasion of the land of Troy. 

The legendary battle of Troy was actually one of the first epic tales I was exposed to at a very young age, and by the time I reached middle school, the 2004 movie staring Brad Pitt hit cinema, marking one of my earliest launching points of the genera. Putting my personal feelings aside for a moment, the 2004 picture “Troy” admittedly doesn’t reach the same objective qualities or even substance of other epics, and is admittedly quite hammy with its delivery … but with that said … the entertainment aspects of the film are undeniable. It’s still awesome to see the famous battle of Troy brought to life in a big budget Hollywood production, with an appealing cast balancing out all the spectacles. It may not be the finest epic movie ever made, but for me, it succeeds as a straight forward, entertainment picture. 

 

#7 THE LAST OF THE MOHICANS (1992) 

Set during the French and Indian war of the early 1750’s, both British soldiers, along with their Indian recruits battle fiercely to claim ownership of the land in upper-state New York. Amidst the fighting is a small Indian family, who are the last in a lineage of Mohican Indians, and they wish to avoid the fighting at all coasts. 

However, when the two doubters of a British General are relentlessly pursued by a sinister Indian, played very effectively by Wes Studi, the Mohican family find themselves roped into the larger conflicts of the war, acting as the surgent protectors of the two British woman. While the historical aspects of the film are admittedly more of a backdrop to a romantic adventure following our principal hero’s, it never the less makes for a breathless action epic, set across gorgeous landscapes, and with just enough emotional punches to balance out all the thrills. The cast is engaging, and director Michael Mann absolutely succeeded in capturing an essence of the era.        

 

#6 BEN-HUR (1959) 

Based on Lew Wallace’s novel “Ben-Hur: A Tale of Christ”, this 1950’s historical drama is largely considered one of the greatest epics of its time. Set during the story of Christ, Ben-Hur tells the tale of a Jewish slave who rebelled against Rome, and sought vengeance against his former best friend, who separated him from his family. 

Throughout his journey, he has several chance meetings with Jesus Christ, which help give him the hope and strength to face all the challenges ahead, and maybe even discover the wisdom to forgive his enemies. Despite being one of the longest movies ever filmed, it’s well worth a viewing, and an unforgettable experience. The movie has been immortalized for its famous Chariot Race, and its star Charlton Heston shined in the title role, making this his second stand-out biblical epic behind “The Ten Commandments”. Not much even needs to be said of this one, as it’s a great classic, well deserving of its acolytes, and walks a perfect balance between being religiously inspiring, and a sheer spectacle to behold.

 

#5 GLADIATOR (2000) 

General Maximus Meridius is named “Keeper of Roam” by the dying Emperor, only to be betrayed by Roams new ruler, and after the murder of his family is then forced into a life of slavery. Yet, Maximus wins several admirers as a Gladiator, and his quest for both vengeance and the liberation of his nation has only just begun. Director Ridley Scott aimed high with his $100 Million budgeted production, in hopes to revive the genera of “Ancient Epic’s”. 

Needless to say, under his shinning direction, and bonded by a strong cast … this is the sword and shield classic that made the genera achieve its title of “EPIC”! At face value, it would almost seem that “Gladiator” had an easier time winning over both audiences and critics … but it actually had a lot to prove for itself, as the story is admittedly an amalgamation of various other epics. Yet, through the films approach and presentation, it never once felt like a run-of-the-mile action flick … at least not to me. I’ve seen countless other movies throughout the millennium try to replicate the same crowd pleasing, Oscar approving, adrenaline pumping power of “Gladiator”, and not one of them captured the same effect that both Ridley Scott and lead star Russel Crow delivered in that film. Beyond its brilliantly staged Gladiatorial combat, there’s something at the core of “Gladiator” that’s always felt human, and genuinely inspiring … “are you not entertained!”

 

#4 HAMLET (1996) 

Set in the 19^th Century, Prince Hamlet of Denmark is shaken over the revelation that his father was slain by his uncle Claudius, along with the aid of his mother, in an effort to take ownership of the Kingdom. 

Out for revenge, and eager to reveal the truth of his corrupt family, Hamlet accidently kills the father of his love interest Ophelia … setting a series of events in play, that will eventually culminate in the Princess tragic death. It was only natural for an adaption of William Shakespeare’s most classic story to make it on my list … and among the many different film versions … none have stuck with me more than Kenneth Branagh’s 1996 epic film version. Despite being set in 19^th Centuries Victorian Era, as opposed to the 15^th and 16^th Century Renascence Era of the play, this film version of “Hamlet” never the less was the first unabridged, theatrical movie to follow the events of the source material closer than any other film version … clocking in at 246 minutes as a result … as well as an unmistakable masterpiece all around. 

Under Kenneth Branagh’s brilliant direction, as well as star stealing performance in the lead role, this film hits all the dramatic marks of its source material with finely textured detail, is a visual marvel to behold, and an A-list cast bring all the iconic stage characters to life masterfully. Derek Jacobi in particular brings a complex and even sympathetic dimension to the villain Claudius. It’s all around my favorite Epic theatrical retelling of one of Shakespeare’s greatest Epic tales. 

 

#3 BRAVEHEART (1995) 

Set in 13th century Scotland, freedom fighter William Wallace leads an uprising against the tyrannical reign of Edward the Longshanks. What can be said about one of the 90’s most respected and successful films. Well, let me start by saying that, when I first saw “Braveheart”, I was still very young … in fact, it was one of the very first R ratted movies I ever saw, which intimidated me at the time. 

While I wasn’t one for intensely violent films, there was something powerful and magnetic at the center of “Braveheart” that hooked me in at a young age, and carried me through both the excessive violence and lengthy runtime. While the concept of a rugged hero inspiring a rebellion has always been a favorite of mine, “Braveheart” was the first to introduce me to the epic tragedy of Martyrdom, in which the climax isn’t a massive battle spectacle, but a single man refusing to surrender his beliefs or his freedom as he’s slowly being tortured to death. It’s really no surprise that Mel Gibson would go on to direct “The Passion of the Christ” less than a decade after this. Mel Gibson naturally shines in the leading role, but this was also his first time directing, and I feel it remains the Gold Standard of both his talents on screen and behind the camera. The film also delivers all the sweeping action, compelling drama, and touching romance to match the pictures grand ambitions … even if it’s not a perfect historical retelling. 

It was one of those special movie experiences that left me with chills all over after my first viewing, and the only thing I could think of was … “Wow, I just saw a really good movie!” Even after all these years, and repeated viewings, “Braveheart” still continues to leave an impression on me, and it’s personally my favorite movie to win the Academy Award for Best Picture!

 

#2 HENRY V (1989) 

In a noble effort to end the 100-year war between England and France, King Henry the Fifth is determined to claim the kingdom of France, and with his marriage to the Princess, bring peace to the two waring countries. 

Unfortunately, the road to peace is barbed with many obstacles and hardships, which fill the King with self-doubt, and diminish the morale of his army. As such, Henry dose all in his power to raise the spirits of his troops, by getting to know them under the disguise of a commoner, and later boosting their moral with his motivational speeches. Everything builds to the climactic battle on St. Crispin's Day, which will determine the fate of both king and kingdom. Kenneth Branagh returns on my countdown, both directing and staring in yet another adaption from William Shakespeare … but this time around, it’s an adaption of my personal favorite of all Shakespeare’s work. Ever sense I was a teenager, I found the tale of Henry V to be a powerful story of valor, honor, courage … and this 1989 version is about as perfect an adaption as you can get. While there have certainly been other great versions of the story, Kenneth Branagh … 

only 28 years old at the time … brings a sense of grandeur and passion both in front of and behind the camera, that I feel can’t be replicated. His speech before the eve of battle on St. Crispin’s day is the stuff of legend, and still conveys something meaningful for everyone to hear. It’s plain and simply my favorite of Shakespeare’s written work, brought to life in my favorite of Shakespeare’s Epic movies.    

 

Before I reveal my personal, number one favorite, here are some quick honorable mentions that I regrettably couldn’t fit on my list …

GONE WITH THE WIND (1939)

THE ROBE (1953)

LAWREENCE OF ARABIA (1962)

THE MISSION (1986)

JOAN OF ARC (1999)

 

#1 THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST (2004) 

The early 2000’s marked a resurgence of sorts for epic movies, and in 2004, we saw the long-awaited return of biblical epics, with the biggest event of all being "The Passion of the Christ".  

I don’t think any other biblical movie has had more controversial debate or mixed reception then Mel Gibson’s epic drama revolving around the drawn-out death and crucifixion of Christ. It’s admittedly hard to watch Jesus suffer for two and a half hours, but it also highlights how honorable Christ was as he willingly sacrificed himself through lots of suffering and pain, in order to save everyone else from their sins. It’s basically the essential film to watch on “Good Friday”, as it’s a time to reflect on his passionate death, and what Christ had to endure in order to save his fellow man. If you can look past how brutal and relentless the violence gets, you may notice some truly beautiful moments that are among some of the most inspiring scenes I’ve ever viewed in a motion picture. Definitely not a film for the faint of heart, but a powerful and moving experience all the same, and despite all the controversies surrounding the film … I feel it's the most impactful Epic movie I’ve ever seen … and truly deserving of the title.

Thanks for reading my countdown … and continue to enjoy the epic stories you love!

A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973) (TV Special Review)

   When it comes to specials that are annually watched around Thanksgiving, there’s barely even a handful that come to mind. Thus, the select specials we do have to watch for the holiday are all the more … well … special. It’s a safe bet that one of the most celebrated and well preserved is the 1973 TV classic “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”, which for my family always makes the rounds during the Fall season. This marked the Peanuts tenth TV special, and third in their line-up of holiday classics. In many respects, their Thanksgiving special marks the end of an iconic trilogy of Charlie Brown holiday offerings, with the other two obviously being their first Christmas and Halloween specials. While Charlie Brown and friends would continue to have further Holiday themed TV specials down the road, some better than others … none were quiet as impactful as those first three. So, for the occasion, lets take a trip back to the early 70’s, to see just how well this Emmy Award Winning Thanksgiving special holds up.

   Unlike the previous Christmas and Halloween specials, “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” was not based on a pre-existing Comic-Strip, with the only exception being the cold-opening, in which Lucy teases Charlie Brown with her football. As such, Charles Schulz and team had to work a little harder to come-up with original material for the special. While a Turkey dinner was obvious, Charles Schulz decided to base this special around the anxieties of getting things ready for gusts, and all the mishaps one might have in the kitchen. This also marked to first special to have two directors, with Bill Melendez returning, and Phil Roman making his debuted. As the special unfolds, it’s the eve of Thanksgiving, and the Brown family have special dinner plans to leave, and visit their grandmother. What Charlie Brown didn’t count on was his friend Peppermint Patti inviting herself, along with a small group of friends over for the occasion. Thus, Charlie Brown, along with his resourceful dog Snoopy, scramble to put a pre-Thanksgiving dinner together before his friends arrive.

   While it’s a very simple premise to summaries, it’s also one of the tightest, and most linear narratives of the Peanuts line-up, without any side-stories. With that said, there is undeniably filler, with lengthy scenes dedicated to the dog Snoopy and his little bird friend Woodstock preparing the meal. This was arguably the most screen time Snoopy had in any Peanuts special up-to this point, and for me, it made this outing a lot of fun to watch as a kid. 

Snoopy was always my favorite character, and his little mis-adventures in this one always seemed to harken back to the days of classic cartoons, in which there’s little dialog, and all the appeal comes from the visuals and music. As such, it's kind of an acquired taste if your on board with just watching the animation be itself, with only the simplest thread of a narrative holding it all together. For me, it works for a twenty-minuet short … although, I do need to be in the proper mind set to enjoy this for what it is. Still, when my mind is set right, I do find myself enjoying all these little moments, leading-up to the big meal. The one scene that always comes to mind first is Snoopy and Woodstock dressing-up in costumes for the occasion … not so much for the scene itself, but for the music score composed by the late Vince Guaraldi. Whenever Thanksgiving comes around, this score always sneaks its way into my subconscious.

   I also like the change-up of characters, with more focus on secondary players like Marcy and Franklin, while regulars like Lucy are reduced to a cameo. This is also the only holiday special that omits any detours with Schroeder and his piano, which is fine by me. Also, while this wasn’t the first TV special to feature Peppermint Patti, it was the first time she was voiced by a boy, which for me always fit with Patti’s tom-boyish nature. Also, following after Linus's fantasies of the Great Pumpkin in the previous holiday special, I’m glad Thanksgiving brought him back to the boy who seemed smarter beyond his years, and versed in history. Speaking of the Halloween special, it always amused me how in that holiday outing, Charlie Browns little sister Sally threatened Linus that “If you try to hold my hand, I’ll slug you” … yet in this Thanksgiving special, she playfully suggests to Linus that they “Could hold hands under the table”. I’m just the kind of guy who would notice something like that.

   Eventually, all the kids come over for their pre-Thanksgiving dinner, which leads into misunderstandings, arguments, and close friends making-up. In the end, it’s a story about togetherness, and that the greatest thing about any holiday … beyond material possessions, or a magnificent feast … is simply family and friends being there for one another. While predictable, and even reminiscent of the moral in the previous Christmas special … it still really works here, and it’s a great message for kids. In fact, back when I watched this special during my childhood years, I felt this one had the easiest message to both listen to and take to heart. As the special comes to a close, we get that classic epilogue with Snoopy and Woodstock having a private turkey dinner together, which is all around a great scene … but it also makes Snoopy look like a jerk for keeping his special turkey dinner a secret from the kids when they needed it. Also, it's kind of surreal that Snoopy’s bird friend Woodstock is … well … eating a bird for dinner … that always amused me.  

Without going into a full review, I quickly wanted to comment on Charlie Browns second Thanksgiving special in 1988 titled …    

“The Mayflower Voyagers”

This was actually the first episode of an eight-part TV miniseries titled “This is America, Charlie Brown”. In this series, Charlie Brown and friends are present during the events in early American History, from the Mayflowers arrival at Plymouth Rock, to the creation of the Constitution, and so forth. For their first episode, the Peanuts are seen among the 30 children of the original Mayflower Voyage. We follow both the kids, and the Pilgrims over the course of a year, as they battle the harsh treatment of the journey, rapidly changing weather, and even a deadly plague. In the end, Charlie Brown and the gang meet Native Americans Samoset and Squanto, who teach them how to utilize the land … which leads into the first Thanksgiving. 

It’s kind of a neat change-up to see the Peanuts gang acting out parts in American history, as well as finally seeing adult’s … who can all speak with real voices, and not just a Tuba sound effect. Speaking of voices, this marked the first time that Charlie Brown was voiced by a girl, which is certainly different … and apparently, it’s a trend for these Thanksgiving outings. The animation in this special is splendid, with some of the brightest colors, and more details on display then any of their previous TV offerings at that point. It’s also cool to see all the people Linus previously spoke of during his prayer back in the original Thanksgiving special. Honestly, while “The Mayflower Voyages” isn’t a classic like the original, I find myself liking it just as much, if not more so.

   For my money, both “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” and “The Mayflower Voyagers” are great specials to watch around the fall season. There’s just a simple charm and appeal from Charlie Brown and friends that I always feel completes any holiday event. With our short number of Thanksgiving specials to select from, I’m glad the Peanuts gang provide us with two excellent options to go along with the festivities. If you haven’t seen either of them in a while, or at all, I’d say check them out this Thanksgiving season.

Thanks for reading my review of the 1973 TV special “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” … and continue to enjoy the Holiday specials you Love!