5 Thrilling Historical Adventures to Stream Now on Netflix

With Gladiator 2 already hitting theaters, it's only a matter of time before it makes its way to streaming platforms. But if you can't wait to experience the thrill of epic battles and tales of honor, Netflix has plenty to offer. From fierce warriors to grand conflicts and gripping stories of revenge, there's a selection of films available that will satisfy your craving for drama and adventure until the sequel arrives online.

Gladiator

"Are you not entertained?" If you’re craving Gladiator 2 but can’t wait for it to hit streaming, start with (or rewatch, more likely) the iconic original. A betrayed general seeks revenge in the brutal world of Roman gladiators, basically. Currently, it’s only available on Netflix in Canada, Lithuania, South Korea, and Thailand, so you might need a VPN to catch it.

Pompeii

Kit Harington stars as a slave-turned-gladiator just trying to survive, but Mount Vesuvius has other plans. Between the volcano erupting and a love story, it’s a lot for one film to handle - but hey, at least the lava’s dramatic.

The Eagle

A young Roman officer (Channing Tatum) heads to Scotland to recover the lost emblem of the Ninth Legion. Along the way, as you might imagine, things happen. This one is less about conquest and more about surviving hostile tribes and freezing weather. Same as Gladiator, it isn't available on Netflix USA so you'll have to tune in using your preferred VPN.

Troy

Set in ancient Greece rather than Rome, Troy brings the legendary Trojan War to life with epic battles and intense rivalries. Achilles, played by Brad Pitt, fights for glory, while Hector defends his city and family from the Greek invaders. With huge battle sequences and a star-studded cast, the film offers a dramatic and action-packed take on the fall of Troy. It’s a clash of heroes, gods, and armies — and Brad Pitt's abs probably deserve their own credit.

Outlaw King

The only movie on this list that isn't set in ancient times, but we included it because we think it's cool (and it has Chris Pine). Robert the Bruce fights to free Scotland from England in this gritty historical epic. Think Braveheart, but with more mud and less yelling. It’s all about the battles and the swords - no speeches, just swinging.