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20 Best Sword-and-Sandal Films, From ‘The Odyssey’ to ‘Gladiator’
Variety has published a ranked list of the 20 best "sword-and-sandal" films, timed to the release of Christopher Nolan's new adaptation of Homer's "The Odyssey," starring Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Tom Holland. The piece argues Nolan's film reinvigorates a genre that has produced few major titles in recent decades, and uses it as a springboard to survey the classics and cult favourites that define the historical-epic genre, from ancient Greece and Rome to biblical epics.
Entries discussed include Troy (2004), starring Brad Pitt and Eric Bana, which Nolan was once attached to direct before taking on "Batman Begins" instead; Darren Aronofsky's Noah (2014), starring Russell Crowe, which caused controversy over its departures from scripture and was banned in several countries; the notorious Caligula (1980), recut with explicit content by Penthouse founder Bob Guccione against director Tinto Brass's wishes; and Conan the Barbarian (1982). The full ranking runs to 20 films, concluding with Gladiator.
In short
- Variety ranks the 20 best sword-and-sandal films, prompted by Nolan's "The Odyssey"
- List spans Troy, Noah, Caligula, Conan the Barbarian and Gladiator
- Nolan's Homer adaptation stars Matt Damon, Anne Hathaway and Tom Holland
Explained simply
Sword-and-sandal films are historical epics set in ancient civilizations, depicting stories from ancient Greece, Rome, and biblical eras. The genre produced many celebrated films throughout cinema history, though major releases became less frequent in recent decades.
Variety has published a ranked list of the 20 best films in this tradition, surveying both established classics and lesser-known works that have shaped the genre. The list includes well-known titles such as Gladiator and Troy, alongside more controversial or unconventional entries that have nonetheless influenced cinema.
These films vary widely in their storytelling approach, from action-driven adventures to more historically-focused dramas, reflecting different interpretations of ancient narratives. The genre encompasses a range of styles and subjects, with films achieving varying degrees of critical acclaim and commercial success.