Movies About Greek History
Movies only infrequently delve into actual Greek history, preferring to concentrate on literature such as "Oedipus Rex" or mythic tales such as "Clash of the Titans." Even when they do present historical Greece, it comes with a heavy dose of "Hollywood history," which means that the facts are often altered to suit the story. Nevertheless, several prominent films have appeared set in historical Greece, though some are decidedly better than others.
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The Guns of Navarone
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J. Lee Thompson directed this 1961 version of Alister McLean's novel, which is now considered a minor classic. It depicts a team of British commandos--led by Gregory Peck and David Niven--who infiltrate Nazi-occupied Greece in an attempt to destroy an impenetrable fortress on the Aegean Sea. Though the circumstances were fictional, the Axis occupation of Greece was a matter of historical fact. "The Guns of Navarone" is also unusual because it's one of the few films depicting comparatively modern Greek history.
Socrates
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The legendary Roberto Rossellini directed this 1971 TV movie, covering the trial and execution of the Greek philosopher Socrates. It focuses strongly on Socrates' philosophy, which deeply affected not only subsequent Greek history, but Western thought in general. French actor Jean Silvére plays Socrates in one of the final performances of his career.
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The 300 Spartans
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The Battle of Thermopylae remains a topic of quasi-legend: a small force of Greek soldiers held out against a massive army of Persians long enough to allow the remainder of the country to rally. Director Rudolph Maté's 1962 version of the story adopts a formal style, stressing the dignity of the Greeks and their firm refusal to give in against overwhelming odds. Richard Egan plays Leonidas, king of the Spartans, whose bodyguard of 300 soldiers forms the basis for the title.
Alexander and Alexander the Great
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Cinema contains several versions of the famous conqueror's life, two of which stand out for entirely different reasons. 1956's "Alexander the Great," directed by Robert Rossen, adopts a respectful (if overly enthusiastic) approach to the man and his achievements. 2004's "Alexander," on the other hand, is widely regarded as one of the worst films of its era. Directed by Oliver Stone and featuring Colin Farrell in the lead, it was roundly condemned for its bombastic tone and extreme liberties with history.
300
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History had little place in director Zack Snyder's 2007 interpretation of the Battle of Thermopylae. Instead, he adopted a deliberately exaggerated tone, depicting 300 Spartans standing alone against a army of Persians more monster than man. Based on a graphic novel by Frank Miller, it became a worldwide box office sensation and made a star out of actor Gerard Butler (who plays King Leonidas in the film).
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