Best Sword Movies

From Peter Jackson, starring Elijah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom
Rated PG-13

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is an epic fantasy-adventure film directed by Peter Jackson and based on the novel of the same name by J.R.R. Tolkien. The film follows the quest of Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee to destroy the One Ring in the fires of Mount Doom. Along the way, they encounter many obstacles and allies, including the wizard Gandalf and the elf Legolas. Meanwhile, Aragorn must marshal the forces of Gondor and Rohan to fight against the army of the Dark Lord Sauron, led by the monstrous Witch-King. The film culminates in an epic battle for the future of Middle-Earth, with Frodo and Sam finally destroying the One Ring and Sauron being defeated. The Return of the King received numerous awards and accolades, including 11 Oscar wins and an Academy Award for Best Picture.

From Peter Jackson, starring Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Viggo Mortensen, Orlando Bloom
Rated PG-13

The Lord Of The Rings: The Two Towers is a 2002 epic fantasy adventure film directed by Peter Jackson. The film is the second installment in The Lord of the Rings film series, based on the novel by J. R. R. Tolkien. The story follows the continuing quest of Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee as they attempt to destroy the One Ring in Mordor, while the rest of the Fellowship attempt to protect Middle-earth from the forces of Sauron. Along the way, they are aided by the Ents, who are led by the brave tree-like creature Treebeard, and the Riders of Rohan, led by King Theoden. The film culminates in an epic battle at the fortress of Helm's Deep, where the forces of good triumph over the forces of evil. The film was met with critical acclaim, earning a 93% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and went on to become the 27th highest grossing film of all time.

From Peter Jackson, starring Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Orlando Bloom, Sean Bean
Rated PG-13

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is an epic fantasy adventure movie directed by Peter Jackson. It is the first installment in the Lord of the Rings film series based on J.R.R. Tolkien's novel of the same name. The movie follows hobbit Frodo Baggins as he embarks on an epic quest to destroy the powerful One Ring and save Middle-earth from the dark forces of the Dark Lord Sauron. Along the way, he is joined by a fellowship of nine companions, including the wizard Gandalf, the elf Legolas, the human Boromir, and his loyal hobbit friends Sam, Merry and Pippin. As they journey through the lands of Middle-earth, they must battle orcs, trolls, and the Ringwraiths, bravely battling to keep the Ring out of the hands of Sauron and restore peace to the world.

From Akira Kurosawa, starring Toshirô Mifune, Takashi Shimura, Keiko Tsushima, Yukiko Shimazaki
Rated Not Rated

Seven Samurai is a classic 1954 Japanese film directed by Akira Kurosawa. The story follows a group of seven masterless samurai who agree to help a small village of farmers defend their homes and crops from a group of bandits. The samurai train the farmers in the use of weapons and strategy, and together the makeshift army is able to defeat the bandits and save the village. The film is a commentary on the class struggles in Japan at the time and is considered a masterpiece of Japanese cinema.

From Ridley Scott, starring Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen, Oliver Reed
Rated R

Gladiator is an epic historical drama directed by Ridley Scott, released in 2000. The film stars Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius, a loyal and decorated Roman general who is betrayed when the emperor's ambitious son, Commodus, murders his father and seizes the throne. Maximus is sold into slavery and forced to fight as a gladiator in the arena. He rises to fame through his incredible fighting skills, gaining the support of the Roman people while plotting his revenge. Maximus eventually confronts Commodus in the Colosseum and manages to kill him, restoring justice to Rome before dying of his wounds.

From Mel Gibson, starring Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan, Angus Macfadyen
Rated R

Braveheart is a 1995 epic historical drama film directed by and starring Mel Gibson. The film tells the story of Sir William Wallace, a late 13th-century Scottish warrior who led the Scots in the First War of Scottish Independence against King Edward I of England. The film follows Wallace's relationship with Murron MacClannough (Catherine McCormack), his love for Scotland, his courage and defiance in the face of the English oppressors, and his ultimate victory against enormous odds. Along the way, Wallace rallies the Scottish nobility to fight alongside him and faces bitter betrayal from within his own ranks. After many battles, Wallace is eventually captured and executed for his crimes against the English crown. The film ends with a rallying cry for Scotland's independence.

From Quentin Tarantino, starring Uma Thurman, David Carradine, Daryl Hannah, Michael Madsen
Rated R

Kill Bill: Vol. 1 is a 2003 action film written and directed by Quentin Tarantino. The film follows a former assassin (Uma Thurman) as she embarks on a violent quest for revenge against her former boss and his deadly squad of international assassins. The Bride, as she is known, wakes from a four-year coma and is determined to get payback for the attempt on her life. She is aided by a former colleague, and battles her way through a series of epic showdowns with the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad, including the fearsome O-Ren Ishii (Lucy Liu). Kill Bill: Vol. 1 is an adrenaline-fueled thrill ride that redefines the action movie genre.

From Gore Verbinski, starring Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley
Rated PG-13

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl is a 2003 American action-adventure fantasy film directed by Gore Verbinski. The film follows protagonist Will Turner (Orlando Bloom) as he attempts to save his beloved Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley) from the cursed crew of the Black Pearl, led by Captain Barbossa (Geoffrey Rush). Along the way, he teams up with the eccentric yet charming Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) to defeat the pirates. With swashbuckling action, rolling sea battles, and supernatural elements, the film is a mix of fate, action, and adventure. In the end, Will and Elizabeth defeat the curse and claim victory.

From Quentin Tarantino, starring Uma Thurman, David Carradine, Michael Madsen, Daryl Hannah
Rated R

Kill Bill: Volume 2 is the second installment of Quentin Tarantino's martial arts revenge saga. The film follows The Bride (Uma Thurman) as she continues her quest for revenge against the Deadly Viper Assassination Squad, led by her former lover Bill (David Carradine). After dispatching O-Ren Ishii (Lucy Liu) and her minions in Volume 1, The Bride now sets her sights on Bill and the remaining members of the Squad. The Bride's journey takes her from Tokyo to Mexico, with a few stops in Texas and California. Along the way, she encounters a variety of characters, including Budd (Michael Madsen), Elle Driver (Daryl Hannah), and Esteban Vihaio (Michael Parks). In an epic finale, The Bride finally comes face to face with Bill for an explosive showdown.

From Rob Reiner, starring Cary Elwes, Mandy Patinkin, Robin Wright, Chris Sarandon
Rated PG

The Princess Bride is a classic comedy/romance that follows the story of Buttercup, a beautiful young woman from the fictional country of Florin. She is in love with the farmhand, Westley, but is forced to marry the evil Prince Humperdinck. With the help of a colorful cast of characters, including a giant, a witch, and a very clever Spaniard, Westley embarks on a quest to save Buttercup and reunite with her. Along the way, they encounter danger and adventure, but also find friendship and true love.

From Ang Lee, starring Chow Yun-Fat, Michelle Yeoh, Ziyi Zhang, Chang Chen
Rated PG-13

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a martial arts epic set in 19th century China, directed by Ang Lee. The film follows the story of two warriors, Li Mu Bai and Yu Shu Lien, as they search for a fabled and powerful sword, the Green Destiny. Along their journey, they encounter the mysterious and deadly Jen Yu, an aristocratic warrior who is determined to prove her worth as a master of martial arts. As the two warriors battle each other, they uncover an ancient secret that could threaten the balance of power in the region. With stunning action sequences and beautiful cinematography, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is a visually stunning and emotionally powerful exploration of honor, loyalty, and martial arts.

From Directors: Michael Curtiz, William Keighley, starring Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Basil Rathbone, Claude Rains
Rated PG

The Adventures of Robin Hood is a 1938 American swashbuckler film directed by Michael Curtiz and William Keighley. The film stars Errol Flynn as Robin Hood, Olivia de Havilland as Lady Marian, Basil Rathbone as the Sheriff of Nottingham, and Claude Rains as Prince John. The plot follows Robin Hood, who has been outlawed by Prince John, as he leads a band of merry men to rob from the rich to give to the poor. In the process, they must defeat Prince John and the Sheriff of Nottingham in a series of adventures and daring escapades. Along the way, they must also win the love of Lady Marian and the people of England. The film culminates with a grand archery tournament that will determine the fate of Sherwood Forest and Robin Hood's place in it.

From Stanley Kubrick, starring Kirk Douglas, Laurence Olivier, Jean Simmons, Charles Laughton
Rated PG-13

Spartacus is an epic historical drama film directed by Stanley Kubrick and starring Kirk Douglas in the title role. The story is based on the actual slave revolt of 73–71 BC led by Spartacus. In the film, Spartacus, a Thracian slave, is trained as a gladiator and rises up against the Roman Republic. With the help of his army of fellow slaves, he wages a heroic battle against the forces of the Roman Empire in order to secure freedom for his people. The film also stars Laurence Olivier, Tony Curtis, Jean Simmons, Charles Laughton, Peter Ustinov, and John Gavin. It is an inspiring tale of courage, strength, and determination.

From Edward Zwick, starring Tom Cruise, Ken Watanabe, Billy Connolly, William Atherton
Rated R

The Last Samurai is a period action drama movie set in Japan in the late 19th century. It tells the story of Captain Nathan Algren, a veteran of the American Civil War and Indian wars, who is hired by the Emperor of Japan to train the country's first modern army. Algren finds himself unexpectedly drawn to the ancient samurai code of honor and way of life and is eventually immersed in a battle between the emperor's forces and the traditionalist samurai. The movie follows Algren's transformation from a jaded soldier to a loyal samurai warrior. Along the way, he learns the importance of honor, courage, and sacrifice and discovers a strength he never knew he had. Ultimately, the movie is an inspirational story of courage and redemption.

From Kevin Reynolds, starring Jim Caviezel, Guy Pearce, Christopher Adamson, JB Blanc
Rated PG-13

The Count of Monte Cristo is an action-packed adventure drama, based on the famous novel by Alexandre Dumas. Directed by Kevin Reynolds, the film stars James Caviezel as Edmond Dantes, a young sailor wrongfully accused of treason and imprisoned without trial in the notorious Chateau d'If. After years of incarceration and plotting his escape, Edmond finds his freedom and sets out to seek revenge on those who betrayed him. He reinvents himself as the mysterious, wealthy Count of Monte Cristo and begins a complex plan of revenge, using his cunning and charm to manipulate those around him. Along the way, he uncovers several secrets and discovers the power of true love. In the end, Edmond finds justice, redemption, and a new beginning.

From Zack Snyder, starring Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, David Wenham, Dominic West
Rated R

300 is a 2006 American epic historical fantasy war film directed by Zack Snyder, based on the 1998 comic series of the same name by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley. The film is based on the Battle of Thermopylae of 480 BC and tells the story of King Leonidas (Gerard Butler) and his 300 Spartan warriors as they fight against the Persian "God-King" Xerxes (Rodrigo Santoro). After being betrayed by the traitor Ephialtes (Andrew Tiernan), the Spartans battle insurmountable odds as they fight to defend their freedom against the massive Persian army. With their superior battle tactics, the Spartans are able to defeat their enemies, but ultimately fail in their mission to save Greece from the powerful Persian forces. The film is a visual masterpiece and was praised for its stunning visuals, action sequences, and re-creation of the Battle of Thermopylae.

From Takashi Miike, starring Kôji Yakusho, Takayuki Yamada, Yûsuke Iseya, Ikki Sawamura
Rated R

13 Assassins is a thrilling Japanese samurai movie directed by Takashi Miike. It follows the story of Shimada Shinzaemon, a retired samurai who assembles a group of thirteen assassins to kill Lord Naritsugu, an evil and sadistic lord who is on his way to becoming the Shogun's advisor. The assassins must battle nearly 200 of Naritsugu's samurai in a violent and bloody showdown in a remote mountain village. In the end, it is up to the thirteen assassins to prevent Naritsugu from gaining power and wreaking havoc on Japan. The film is full of intense fight scenes and riveting moments that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats.

From Kenneth Branagh, starring Kenneth Branagh, Derek Jacobi, Simon Shepherd, James Larkin
Rated PG-13

Henry V is a 1989 British historical drama film adapted for the screen and directed by Kenneth Branagh, based on William Shakespeare's play of the same name. The film stars Branagh in the title role of Henry V of England, as well as Emma Thompson, Derek Jacobi, Paul Scofield, Ian Holm, Alec McCowen, Judi Dench, Robbie Coltrane, Christian Bale, and Michael Keaton. The plot follows King Henry V of England as he attempts to unite England and France by invading France and claiming the French throne. Along the way, Henry must overcome several obstacles, including a rebellion led by his rival, the Duke of York. Henry ultimately succeeds in his mission by defeating the French at the Battle of Agincourt. Henry's victory is celebrated by his supporters and he is hailed as a great leader. At the same time, Henry must grapple with the consequences of his actions and learn to be a better king by understanding the perspectives of his people. The film concludes with Henry's coronation as King of England.

From Roland Joffé, starring Robert De Niro, Jeremy Irons, Ray McAnally, Aidan Quinn
Rated PG

From Wolfgang Petersen, starring Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, Julian Glover
Rated R

From John Boorman, starring Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, Nicholas Clay, Cherie Lunghi
Rated PG

From Ridley Scott, starring Orlando Bloom, Eva Green, Liam Neeson, Martin Hancock
Rated R

From Ron Howard, starring Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley, Warwick Davis, Jean Marsh
Rated PG

From Brian Helgeland, starring Heath Ledger, Mark Addy, Rufus Sewell, Shannyn Sossamon
Rated PG-13

From Michael Caton-Jones, starring Liam Neeson, Jessica Lange, John Hurt, Tim Roth
Rated R