Movies

Best Spanish historical drama films

Discover the best Spanish historical drama films that transport viewers to past eras of Spain's rich and complex history. From the Reconquista to the Civil War, these productions offer deep insights into the events and characters that shaped the nation. Explore captivating narratives that combine historical accuracy with thrilling dramatic development, ideal for fans of historical cinema and Spanish culture. Immerse yourself in epic stories and unforgettable characters that will help you better understand Spain's legacy through the silver screen.

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  1. 1

    Society of the Snow (La sociedad de la nieve) (2023)

    174 Global Votes
    • Brutally realistic depiction of a plane crash

      (+4)

    Critically acclaimed and highly popular, this Spanish-language production offers a powerful and harrowing historical survival drama. It was Spain's submission for the Academy Awards.

  2. 2

    Elisa y Marcela (2019)

    54 Global Votes
    • Based on a true love story

      (+2)

    This significant historical drama sheds light on a pioneering moment for LGBTQ+ rights in Spain, based on the true story of the first recorded same-sex marriage.

  3. 3

    El fotógrafo de Mauthausen (The Photographer of Mauthausen) (2018)

    37 Global Votes
    • Masterful production

      (+4)

    A harrowing and important historical film that highlights the role of Spanish citizens in WWII and the Holocaust, based on a true story.

  4. 4

    Giant (Handia) (2017)

    27 Global Votes
    • Visually stunning Basque fable

      (+4)

    A visually stunning and poignant film that explores a unique historical figure and the social context of 19th-century Basque Country, based on a true story.

  5. 5

    Coven (Akelarre) (2020)

    26 Global Votes
    • Astounding acting from the entire cast

      (+4)

    This film offers a visually striking and dramatic look into a dark chapter of Spanish history, focusing on the persecution of women during the Basque witch trials.

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  7. 6

    El Niño (2026)

    22 Global Votes
    • Thriller about narcotics trade between Morocco and Spain

      (+4)

    This upcoming Netflix film is based on a significant historical event in recent Spanish history, offering a poignant and dramatic exploration of its impact. It's expected in the first half of 2026.

  8. 7

    The Endless Trench (La trinchera infinita) (2019)

    19 Global Votes
    • Effective prison drama element

      (+4)

    Critically acclaimed, this film offers a powerful and claustrophobic look at the long-lasting fear and consequences of the Spanish Civil War and dictatorship.

  9. 8

    Prison 77 (2022)

    18 Global Votes
    • Grippingly reconstructs post-Franco years

      (+4)

    This critically praised film energetically depicts a significant collective spirit and a pivotal moment in recent Spanish history. It's based on a true story of prisoners fighting for amnesty.

  10. 9

    She Walks in Darkness (Un fantasma en la batalla) (2025)

    13 Global Votes
    • Spanish political thriller film

      (+4)

    This film became an instant Netflix global hit upon its release in late 2025. It offers a gripping and historically accurate portrayal of the sensitive ETA conflict in Spain.

  11. 10

    1898, Our Last Men in the Philippines (1898, Los últimos de Filipinas) (2017)

    11 Global Votes
    • Spectacular film for history lovers

      (+3)

    A compelling and intense war drama that explores a significant, often overlooked, event in Spanish colonial history: the Siege of Baler.

  12. 11

    Boundless (Sin límites) (2022)

    7 Global Votes
    • Makes us feel the joy and emotion of discovering new lands

      (+4)

    This historical drama miniseries, also released as a film, offers an epic portrayal of a monumental event in Spanish and world history: the first circumnavigation of the world.

  13. 12

    Gold (Oro) (2017)

    1 Global Votes
    • Based on a short story by Arturo Pérez-Reverte

      (+2)

    This film offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of the brutal and ambitious era of Spanish conquest in the 16th century, directed by Agustín Díaz Yanes.

  14. 13

    The Black Ball (2025/2026)

    0 Global Votes
    • Inspired by Federico García Lorca's play

      (+4)

    This upcoming film promises a unique perspective on Spanish history through a queer lens, covering multiple significant periods. Filming began in August 2025, making it a highly anticipated release.

  15. 14

    Ana No (2026)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features Ana de Armas

      (+3)

    This upcoming film offers a personal and historical look at post-Civil War Spain and the 1960s. It aims to shoot in the first quarter of 2026.