The Best Knight Movies Of All Time, Ranked
Embark on a cinematic journey with our collection of the best knight movies, a genre that captivates with tales of valor, courage, and the timeless allure of medieval chivalry. This handpicked selection, crafted by film aficionados, showcases an array of films that not only tell enthralling stories of heroic protagonists but also feature some of the most memorable performances and cinematography in the realm of movies about knights.
From the humor and charm of A Knight's Tale to the thrilling action in Gladiator, and the inspiring narrative of Braveheart, these films offer a unique escape to a period rich in history and adventure. Each knight movie, whether it adheres to the classic hero's journey or boldly subverts it, stands as a testament to the creativity and vision of some of the greatest directors of our time.
But what truly sets this list apart is your involvement. As a dynamic, crowd-ranked collection, your votes and opinions shape the hierarchy of these cinematic treasures. Whether you're drawn to the romanticized tales of knightly heroism, the fantasy knight elements, or the impressive spectacles of medieval battles, your voice matters in crowning the ultimate knight movie. So, immerse yourself in this diverse array of films, from the best movies about knights to new medieval movies, and cast your vote for the knight movie that has captured your imagination the most.
- 1Russell Crowe, Joaquin Phoenix, Connie Nielsen
In Gladiator, the theme of money underpins the power dynamics between the people, the Roman Empire, and the gladiatorial combatants themselves. The film showcases the allure of money and power through the ruthlessness of Commodus, who conspires to claim the throne and control Rome's vast wealth. Maximus, a skilled warrior, is ultimately forced into a life as a gladiator, where monetary gain becomes a part of his struggle for survival. Gladiator brilliantly portrays how individuals can be enslaved and exploited by the power of money, even in a realm where one's fighting prowess is meant to be the ultimate measure of worth.
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- 2Orlando Bloom, Eva Green, Jeremy Irons
Kingdom of Heaven masterfully explores the concept of money and wealth through its depiction of the Crusades, a time when knights sought riches and glory in the Holy Land. The film intertwines financial motives among its characters, as they navigate the political landscape of medieval Europe and the Middle East. The protagonist, Balian, initially inherits a title and land, discovering the responsibilities and expectations that come with his newfound social standing. His actions throughout the film are driven by both a personal sense of honor and a practical understanding of the weight that money carries in determining the fate of entire kingdoms.
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- 3Heath Ledger, Mark Addy, Rufus Sewell
A Knight's Tale uniquely uses money as the driving force of its main character, William Thatcher. Born into poverty, William seeks a better life by posing as a nobleman and entering jousting competitions to win valuable prizes. Through his rise in the world of nobility, the film explores the role of money in exacerbating social divisions during the Middle Ages. A Knight's Tale offers a fresh perspective on knights' stories by centering around a protagonist who is motivated not by honor but by the desire to escape his financial circumstances.
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- 4Nicol Williamson, Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren
Excalibur delves into the complex relationship between power, wealth, and identity within the Arthurian legends. The fabled sword's possession becomes a symbol of prestige and legitimacy, granting its wielder both financial and political authority. As characters like Arthur, Lancelot, and Morgana vie for control, they are driven by competing desires for money, status, and influence. Through this intricate web of ambition and treachery, Excalibur highlights the role that money plays in determining loyalty, love, and destiny in the lives of knights.
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- 5Mel Gibson, Sophie Marceau, Patrick McGoohan
Braveheart, an epic tale of sacrifice and rebellion, explores the role of money in shaping the lives and motivations of its characters. As the powerful English monarchy enforces its rule over Scotland, the film highlights how the accumulation of wealth underpins their authority and ruthlessness. At the same time, Scottish nobles are shown to be swayed by the prospect of financial gain, ultimately hindering their country's fight for freedom. Braveheart showcases how money can corrupt even the noblest intentions, transforming knights from protectors of the realm into agents of greed and self-interest.
- 6Antonio Banderas, Diane Venora, Dennis Storhøi
The 13th Warrior delves into the importance of money in shaping the hierarchical structure of medieval Norse society. Ahmad, an exiled Arab adventurer, encounters the world of the Vikings, where one's wealth and standing is often determined by their prowess as a warrior or by conquests. The film explores the role of monetary rewards in motivating these warriors as they battle supernatural foes, showcasing how financial incentives can drive individuals to undertake dangerous tasks. By blending elements of historical fiction with fantastical elements, The 13th Warrior illuminates the role of money in determining loyalty, courage, and ambition among knights and warriors.
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- 7Timothée Chalamet, Ben Mendelsohn, Joel Edgerton
The King offers a gritty portrayal of power and money in the medieval world, following the story of a young King Henry V as he navigates politics and warfare. The film delves into the financial pressures faced by kings and knights alike, as Henry battles against foreign foes and domestic nobles vying for wealth and influence. The costs of war and the need for economic stability underscore many of the characters' decisions, revealing the delicate balance between honor and pragmatism in this brutal world. The King deftly demonstrates how money shapes not only individual destinies but entire dynasties, creating a captivating exploration of knighthood and power.
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- 8Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman, Mary Elizabeth Mastrantonio
Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves puts a unique spin on the classic tale by emphasizing the relationship between wealth, nobility, and corruption. The film's portrayal of the Sheriff of Nottingham highlights the dangers of unchecked greed, as he endeavors to amass more money and power at the expense of the common people. As Robin Hood and his band of outlaws strive to redistribute this wealth, they encapsulate the struggle between honorable knights and those who were corrupted by money. This version of the Robin Hood legend offers a powerful exploration of the role of money in shaping noble ideals and driving conflict in medieval society.
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- 9Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam
Monty Python and the Holy Grail takes a decidedly comedic approach to examining the role of money in the world of knights and medieval society. Through its satirical lens, the film pokes fun at the concept of nobility, highlighting the absurdity of wealth disparities and the feudal system. The quest for the Holy Grail itself becomes a commentary on the pursuit of financial and social status, with characters showcasing greed and ambition throughout their misadventures. By employing humor and wit, Monty Python and the Holy Grail offers a unique perspective on the impact of money on the lives and motivations of its knightly protagonists.
- 10Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin
The Princess Bride blends romance, adventure, and a satirical view of money's role in defining characters' motivations within the realm of knights and nobility. Merchant Prince Humperdinck, driven by greed and a desire for wealth, schemes to start a war and tighten his grip on power. Meanwhile, the film's heroes, Westley and Inigo Montoya, must navigate a world where money often dictates allegiance and loyalty. This timeless classic showcases the complexities of love, honor, and betrayal, all interwoven with the ever-present influence of money within a fantastical medieval setting.
- 11Clive Owen, Keira Knightley, Ioan Gruffudd
King Arthur dives into the world of medieval Britain by exploring the tensions between the native Celts and Romano-British aristocracy, with money and power serving as key drivers of conflict. The film presents Arthur and his knights as mercenaries, motivated by the promise of land and wealth in exchange for their service. As they confront the invading Saxons, their allegiances shift, and the film demonstrates how financial concerns can challenge a knight's sense of honor and loyalty. King Arthur thoughtfully explores the ways in which money and political power intertwine and ultimately define the lives of these storied warriors.
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- 12Joakim Nätterqvist, Sofia Helin, Stellan Skarsgård
Arn: The Knight Templar delves into the world of the Crusades and the motivations that drive knights to risk their lives in pursuit of Holy Land riches. The film follows Arn, a nobleman's son, as he becomes a warrior in the service of the Knights Templar, an order notorious for its immense wealth and influence. As religious and financial interests collide, the film explores the role of money in shaping the actions and decisions of Arn and his fellow knights. Arn: The Knight Templar provides a fresh perspective on the often-romanticized world of medieval knights by examining the darker, profit-driven side of their exploits.
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- 13Val Kilmer, Joanne Whalley, Warwick Davis
Willow offers a fantastical take on medieval society, where the pursuit of money and power plays a central role in shaping the lives of knights and commoners alike. The film's central character, Willow Ufgood, is thrust into great adventure and danger by forces beyond his control, with wealth and influence driving the machinations of characters both good and evil. Money becomes a powerful motivator for some characters, while others are driven by more altruistic purposes. Willow presents a vivid and imaginative exploration of how money impacts the destinies of knights and the people they protect.
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- 14Christopher Lambert, Sean Connery, Roxanne Hart
Highlander offers a unique take on the world of medieval knights by blending elements of fantasy, science fiction, and history. The film follows the immortal Scottish warrior Connor MacLeod, who exists across centuries, gaining wealth, power, and knowledge as he battles other immortals for ultimate supremacy. Money becomes a crucial element in the story, as well as a symbol of the passage of time, showcasing how wealth can be both a source of strength and corruption for those who possess it. Highlander presents a fantastical exploration of knights' struggles as they balance the pursuit of money with their eternal quest for honor and immortality.
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- 15Dennis Quaid, David Thewlis, Pete Postlethwaite
Dragonheart explores the deep-rooted connection between money, power, and corruption in the realm of knights and medieval society. The film follows Bowen, a disillusioned knight who forms an unlikely alliance with a dragon named Draco to scam local villages for profit. This tale of redemption highlights the role money plays in shaping morality and ethics, as characters struggle between the temptations of wealth and the path of heroism. Through its fantastical setting and gripping narrative, Dragonheart delivers a powerful examination of how money informs the motivations and actions of its knightly protagonist.
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- 16Chris Pine, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Florence Pugh
Outlaw King details the struggle of the Scottish warrior Robert the Bruce as he fights for his country's independence from English rule. The film explores how the political and financial pressures of the time influenced the actions of knights and nobles, with King Edward I manipulating and exploiting the Scottish elite for monetary gain. Robert the Bruce's quest to rid his homeland of foreign influence highlights the complex interplay between money, loyalty, and patriotism as he inspires his countrymen to fight for their freedom. Outlaw King showcases the rampant corruption of an era in which knights were often swayed by the allure of money and power.
- 17Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland, Basil Rathbone
The Adventures of Robin Hood is a cinematic classic that offers an enthralling tale of honor, love, and struggle against corruption driven by money and power. The eponymous hero, Robin Hood, wages a relentless battle against the greedy Prince John and his cronies, seeking to redistribute wealth to the poor and disenfranchised. Through daring feats and acts of selflessness, the film showcases how the pursuit of money can lead to the corruption of nobility and knighthood. The Adventures of Robin Hood remains a timeless reminder of the need for knights to stand up against tyranny and fight for justice.
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- 18Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer, Michelle Pfeiffer
Ladyhawke is a captivating blend of romance, adventure, and fantasy, where the themes of love and honor clash with the corrupting influence of money. The film's antagonist, the powerful Bishop of Aquila, pursues wealth and influence with a ruthless determination. Meanwhile, the story's heroes, the knight Etienne Navarre and his lover Isabeau, navigate a world where their fates are governed by the bishop's machinations and the impact of wealth on the lives of knights and commoners alike. Ladyhawke deftly explores the consequences of greed and ambition in a medieval world where honor should be the guiding principle for its knights.
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- 19
Ironclad
Kate Mara, Paul Giamatti, Brian CoxIronclad is a gritty, action-packed tale of knights, mercenaries, and the battle for control of a strategic castle during the English civil war. Money forms the backbone of the film's narrative, with the ruthless King John seeking to regain power and wealth by overthrowing the barons who have risen against him. The ragtag group of warriors defending the castle are driven by various motivations, including some who are lured by the promise of riches. Ironclad provides a fascinating examination of how money drives conflict and shapes the loyalties and ambitions of its knightly characters.
- 20Sebastian Cabot, Rickie Sorensen, Alan Napier
The Sword in the Stone is a lighthearted take on the Arthurian legend that subtly explores the impact of money on the lives and motivations of its characters. As young Arthur, guided by the wise wizard Merlin, learns valuable lessons about life and leadership, he encounters a world in which wealth often dictates social standing and power. The magical sword embedded in stone serves as a metaphor for the equalizing force of true nobility and virtue, transcending the superficial trappings of money and status. This animated classic offers a charming and insightful look at how even the youngest of knights must grapple with the influence of wealth in their quest for greatness.
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- 21Robert Taylor, Elizabeth Taylor, Joan Fontaine
The 1952 adaptation of Sir Walter Scott's classic novel, Ivanhoe, expertly explores themes of money, power, and chivalry in medieval England. The eponymous character, a Saxon knight, seeks to restore the rightful king, Richard the Lionheart, to the throne while also navigating the complexities of an oppressive social hierarchy driven by wealth. As Ivanhoe battles against corruption and injustice, he demonstrates the importance of honor and loyalty over monetary gain. This sweeping tale serves as an enduring examination of the role money plays in shaping the knights and nobles of its era.
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- 22Sean Connery, F. Murray Abraham, Elya Baskin
The Name of the Rose offers a gripping tale of mystery and intrigue set against the backdrop of a medieval monastery, showcasing the corrupting influence of money and power even within religious institutions. The film follows the intelligent Franciscan friar William of Baskerville, who uncovers a series of murders linked to a hidden manuscript that challenges the Church's teachings on wealth and poverty. As he delves deeper into the mystery, the film explores the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their interests and maintain their financial influence. The Name of the Rose is a powerful exploration of how money and greed can corrupt even the most sacred institutions.
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- 23Michael Fassbender, Dominic West, Olga Kurylenko
Centurion delves into the brutal world of Roman Britain, where the power dynamics between the Roman Empire and the native Picts are heavily influenced by money and resources. The film follows Roman soldier Quintus Dias as he navigates the harsh terrain and dangerous enemies that seek to undermine the empire's wealth and authority. Centurion brilliantly showcases how the characters are driven by their desire to protect and expand the empire's financial interests, even at the cost of their own lives. Through its intense action and gripping narrative, Centurion unravels the complex relationship between money, empire, and individual ambition in the world of ancient warriors.
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- 24Sean Connery, Richard Gere, Julia Ormond
First Knight delves into the complexities of love, honor, and duty within the backdrop of the legendary fabled city of Camelot, where wealth and power are intrinsically linked. The film explores the clashes between the noble knights of the Round Table, led by King Arthur, and the treacherous Sir Malagant, who seeks to amass greater power through ruthless ambition. First Knight highlights the central role of money in driving conflict and shaping the destinies of its complex characters, including the legendary love triangle between Arthur, Lancelot, and Guinevere. This skillful adaptation of the Arthurian tale offers a thought-provoking examination of the impact of wealth and power on the world of knights and chivalry.
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- 25Channing Tatum, Jamie Bell, Donald Sutherland
The Eagle is an enthralling tale of honor, loyalty, and the quest for a lost symbol of Roman power. The film's protagonist, Marcus Aquila, embarks on a perilous journey to recover the golden emblem of the lost Ninth Legion, underscoring the significance of wealth and prestige in determining the fate of entire armies. As Marcus and his slave Esca venture into enemy territory, the film explores the tensions between Rome's imperial ambitions and the fierce resistance of the native tribes, which are inextricably linked to the quest for resources and hegemony. The Eagle serves as a powerful reminder of the role money plays in driving conflict and shaping the destiny of Rome and her warriors.
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- 26Cary Elwes, Richard Lewis, Roger Rees
Robin Hood: Men in Tights takes a comedic approach to the classic story of the legendary English hero, satirizing the role of money in the world of knights and nobility. The film pokes fun at the extravagance and greed of the wealthy and powerful, who seek to suppress and exploit the common people for their own gain. Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men fight against these injustices, using wit and humor to redistribute wealth and restore balance. Through its irreverent take on the classic tale, Robin Hood: Men in Tights offers a lively exploration of the age-old struggle between greed and generosity in the realm of knights and outlaws.
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- 27
The Last Duel
Matt Damon, Adam Driver, Jodie ComerThe Last Duel provides a riveting exploration of honor, loyalty, and the impact of money on the lives of knights in 14th-century France. The film follows the story of two knights, Jean de Carrouges and Jacques Le Gris, as they engage in a deadly duel to settle a contentious accusation involving wealth, power, and betrayal. As the narrative unfolds, it becomes increasingly evident that money is a driving force behind the characters' motivations and actions, revealing the dark underbelly of medieval society. The Last Duel masterfully showcases the consequences of greed and ambition in a tale that challenges notions of chivalry and honor.
- 28Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett, William Hurt
Robin Hood offers a fresh take on the timeless tale of the legendary archer-turned-outlaw, once again emphasizing the struggle against greed and corruption fueled by wealth and power. The film delves into the character's origin story, portraying Robin as a nobleman-turned-crusader who returns home only to find his lands taken and his people oppressed by the cruel Sheriff of Nottingham. As Robin rallies his band of Merry Men, the film highlights the intersection of money, politics, and injustice that drives the conflict in medieval England. This reinterpretation of the classic story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of fighting for social equity and justice in the face of an inherently flawed system driven by financial interests.
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- 29Clive Owen, Cliff Curtis, Aksel Hennie
Last Knights is a gripping tale of honor and sacrifice set against a backdrop of political intrigue and betrayal, where the primary motivation for many characters is money and power. The story follows a loyal knight who leads a band of warriors in a quest for vengeance after their noble master is unjustly executed by a corrupt ruler. As the plot unfolds, the influence of money on the characters' motivations and actions becomes increasingly apparent, demonstrating the pervasiveness of greed and corruption in the world of knights and nobility. Last Knights serves as an engrossing examination of the dark side of wealth and the lengths individuals will go to secure their own prosperity.
- 30Kenneth Branagh, Derek Jacobi, Brian Blessed
Henry V serves as an epic exploration of the life and reign of the young English king, delving into themes of war and politics that revolve around the pursuit of money and the defense of national wealth. As the film follows Henry's conquests in France, it exposes the harsh reality of the economic factors fueling warfare and the lengths to which rulers will go to preserve their wealth and power. Featuring memorable performances and a captivating narrative, Henry V provides valuable insight into how money shapes the decisions and actions of knights and kings during times of strife and conflict.
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