20 Best History Movies on Hulu 2026
Explore history movies on Hulu, from true-story dramas and war tales to documentaries, with picks like Summer of Soul, The Promised Land, and The Woman King.
If you’re searching for the best history movies on Hulu, this lineup gives you a mix of true stories, political intrigue, war, and character-driven drama. You’ll find everything from the 7th-century conflict in Desert Warrior and the royal ambitions of The Promised Land to the Irish-set tension of Small Things Like These and the women-led power of The Woman King. There’s also room for documentaries and history-rich stories like Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised) and Orwell: 2+2=5, plus period pieces such as The Taste of Things and Parkland. Whether you want action, biography, or a quieter historical drama, these picks make it easy to find something that matches your mood.
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01
The Testament of Ann Lee
biography · drama · history · musical
The extraordinary true legend of Ann Lee, founder of the devotional sect known as the Shakers, who preached gender and social equality and was revered by her followers as the female Christ.
Why watch: If you like biography-led dramas with a spiritual or social-history angle, this one stands out. Its mix of history, musical, and drama makes it a fit for viewers open to something a little different from a standard period piece.
Directed by Mona Fastvold, Kevin DeanCast Amanda Seyfried, Lewis Pullman, Thomasin McKenzie, Matthew Beard, Christopher AbbottHuluMore details on IMDb → -
02
The Promised Land
action · biography · drama · history
Denmark, 1755. Captain Ludvig Kahlen sets out to conquer a Danish heath reputed to be uncultivable, with an impossible goal: to establish a colony in the name of the king, in exchange for a royal title. A single-minded ambition that the ruthless lord of the region will relentlessly seek to put down. Kahlen's fate hangs in the balance: will his endevours bring him wealth and honour, or cost him his life...?
Why watch: If you want a survival-and-ambition story set in the 1700s, this is a strong pick. The action, biography, drama, and history blend should appeal to viewers who like historical struggles with high stakes.
Directed by Nikolaj ArcelCast Mads Mikkelsen, Amanda Collin, Simon Bennebjerg, Melina Hagberg, Kristine Kujath ThorpHuluMore details on IMDb → -
03
Desert Warrior
action · adventure · drama · history · war
In 7th-century Arabia, Princess Hind becomes a warrior to defy the ruthless Emperor Kisra. Forged into a warrior and aided by legendary bandit Hanzala, Hind unites warring tribes for a last stand—the historic Battle of Dhi Qar—that will change history.
Why watch: If you enjoy war-focused historical films with action at the center, this may be worth a look. Its premise points to a large conflict story built around leadership, unity, and resistance.
Directed by Rupert WyattCast Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Sami Bouajila, Sharlto Copley, Ben KingsleyHuluMore details on IMDb → -
04
Small Things Like These
drama · history
In 1985, while working as a coal merchant to support his family, Bill Furlong discovers disturbing secrets kept by the local convent and uncovers truths of his own; forcing him to confront his past and the complicit silence of a small Irish town controlled by the Catholic Church.
Why watch: If you prefer quieter historical dramas with moral tension, this one fits well. The 1985 setting and its focus on secrets, silence, and a small town give it a reflective feel.
Directed by Tim MielantsCast Cillian Murphy, Patrick Ryan, Peter Claffey, Ian O'Reilly, Helen BehanHuluMore details on IMDb → -
05
The Wizard of the Kremlin
biography · crime · drama · history
In the chaos of post-Soviet Russia, rising KGB officer Vladimir Putin joins forces with master manipulator Vadim Baranov to reshape life behind the Iron Curtain, using violence and deception to change the world forever.
Why watch: If political history and power struggles interest you, this is a natural choice. The biography, crime, drama, and history labels point to a story shaped by manipulation and the machinery of state power.
Directed by Olivier AssayasCast Paul Dano, Alicia Vikander, Tom Sturridge, Will Keen, Jeffrey WrightHuluMore details on IMDb →
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06
Wicked Little Letters
biography · comedy · crime · drama · history · mystery
When the denizens of Littlehampton – including conservative Edith – begin receiving letters full of hilarious profanities, rowdy Irish migrant Rose is charged with the crime. Suspecting something amiss, the town's women band together to investigate.
Why watch: If you like historical stories with a comic edge, this is a smart pick. The biography, comedy, crime, and mystery mix suggests a period tale that leans into both wit and investigation.
Directed by Thea SharrockCast Jessie Buckley, Olivia Colman, Timothy Spall, Gemma Jones, Malachi KirbyHuluMore details on IMDb → -
07
Amsterdam
1 BAFTA Film Award nomination
comedy · drama · history · mystery · romance · thriller
In the 1930s, three friends—a doctor, a nurse, and an attorney—witness a murder, become suspects themselves and uncover one of the most outrageous plots in American history.
Why watch: If you’re drawn to historical mysteries with an ensemble feel, this should be on your list. Its 1930s setting and blend of comedy, romance, thriller, and drama offer a lot of different tones in one film.
Directed by David O. RussellCast Christian Bale, Margot Robbie, John David Washington, Alessandro Nivola, Andrea RiseboroughHuluMore details on IMDb → -
08
The Convert
action · drama · history · war
Munro, a soldier turned lay preacher, comes to New Zealand to minister to the first British colonists, but he is converted by the powerful chief Maianui to serve a different purpose.
Why watch: If you enjoy frontier-era historical dramas with action and war elements, this one may suit you. The story’s setup suggests a clash of loyalties and cultures in an unfamiliar setting.
Directed by Lee TamahoriCast Guy Pearce, Tioreore Ngatai-Melbourne, Antonio Te Maioha, Jacqueline McKenzie, Te Kohe TuhakaHuluMore details on IMDb → -
09
Parkland
drama · history · mystery · thriller
November 22nd, 1963 was a day that changed the world forever — when young American President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. This film follows, almost in real time, a handful of individuals forced to make split-second decisions after an event that would change their lives and forever alter the world’s landscape.
Why watch: If you want a historical drama built around a major moment in American history, this is a solid option. The thriller and mystery elements may also appeal if you like stories that follow multiple people under pressure.
Directed by Peter LandesmanCast Marcia Gay Harden, Matt Barr, Zac Efron, Mallory Moye, Paul GiamattiHuluStarzMore details on IMDb → -
10
The Legend of Molly Johnson
drama · history · thriller · western
In 1893, heavily pregnant Molly Johnson and her children struggle in isolation to survive the harsh Australian landscape after her husband left to go droving sheep in the high country. One day, she finds a shackled Aboriginal fugitive named Yakada wounded on her property. As an unlikely bond begins to form between them he reveals secrets about her true identity. Realizing Molly’s husband is actually missing, new town lawman Nate Clintoff starts being suspicious and sends his constable to investigate.
Why watch: If you like Western-tinged historical drama with suspense, this is a good match. Its setting and mystery elements suggest a story of survival, secrets, and rising suspicion.
Directed by Leah PurcellCast Leah Purcell, Malachi Dower-Roberts, Amahlia Olsson, Jobe Zammit-Harvey, Nash Zammit-HarveyHuluMore details on IMDb → -
11
Harbin
action · biography · crime · history · thriller
In 1909, several years after Korea is forced into becoming a Japanese colony, freedom fighters plot the daring assassination of Japan's prime minister during their quest for independence.
Why watch: If resistance stories and wartime tension appeal to you, this historical thriller is a fit. The action and biography elements suggest a factual backdrop with plenty of urgency.
Directed by Woo Min-hoCast Hyun Bin, Park Jeong-min, Jeon Yeo-been, Jo Woo-jin, Lee Dong-wookHuluMore details on IMDb → -
12
The History of Sound
drama · history · music · romance
In 1917, two young music students attending the Boston Conservatory bond over a mutual love of folk music. They reconnect a few years later, embarking on a song-collecting trip in the backwaters of Maine.
Why watch: If you enjoy period dramas with music woven into the story, this one may stand out. Its focus on folk music and a relationship that spans years gives it a reflective, personal feel.
Directed by Oliver HermanusCast Leo Cocovinis, Raphael Sbarge, Molly Price, Paul Mescal, Josh O'ConnorHuluMore details on IMDb → -
13
The Arctic Convoy
action · drama · history · thriller · war
In 1942, a convoy of 35 civilian ships, carrying vital supplies from Iceland to the Soviet Union, faces deadly challenges in the Arctic. Despite Allied naval escort, catastrophic intelligence errors expose the convoy to relentless German air and naval attacks. In the brutal conditions, inexperienced civilian sailors fight for survival, with only 12 ships making it to their destination.
Why watch: If you want a World War II survival story, this is one of the stronger options here. The action, thriller, and war mix makes it a fit for viewers who like high-pressure historical stakes at sea.
Directed by Henrik Martin DahlsbakkenCast Tobias Santelmann, Anders Baasmo, Heidi Ruud Ellingsen, Preben Hodneland, Adam LundgrenHuluMore details on IMDb → -
14
Orwell: 2+2=5
documentary · biography · history
George Orwell was one of the most visionary authors of the 20th century, whose novels 1984 and Animal Farm foretold a chilling, authoritarian future. Acclaimed director Raoul Peck interweaves clips, readings from Orwell's diary, cinematic references, and modern-day footage to craft not only a portrait of the writer, but a fresh take on how prophetic his work has become.
Why watch: If you’re interested in history documentaries about ideas and political warning signs, this is a great pick. Its biography and documentary angle should appeal to viewers who want a thoughtful, discussion-friendly watch.
Directed by Raoul PeckCast Damian Lewis, Eric RufHuluMore details on IMDb → -
15
The New Boy
drama · fantasy · history
In 1940s Australia, when a 9-year-old Aboriginal boy arrives in the dead of night at a remote monastery run by a renegade nun, his presence disturbs a delicately balanced world.
Why watch: If you prefer historical drama with a touch of fantasy, this one may be your speed. The remote monastery setting and cultural tension suggest a story that is quiet, unusual, and symbolic.
Directed by Warwick ThorntonCast Aswan Reid, Nathan Lawson, Peter Jupiter, Kit Fortune, Kenneth RadleyHuluMore details on IMDb → -
16
Ip Man 4: The Finale
action · biography · drama · history
Following the death of his wife, Ip Man travels to San Francisco to ease tensions between the local kung fu masters and his star student, Bruce Lee, while searching for a better future for his son.
Why watch: If martial-arts history films are your thing, this is an easy pick. The biography and action mix makes it a good option for viewers who want a character-driven fight story with a historical backdrop.
Directed by Wilson YipCast Donnie Yen, Scott Adkins, Danny Kwok-Kwan Chan, Vanness Wu, Jim LiuHuluPeacock PremiumMore details on IMDb → -
17
The Woman King
2 BAFTA Film Award nominations
action · drama · history
The story of the Agojie, the all-female unit of warriors who protected the African Kingdom of Dahomey in the 1800s with skills and a fierceness unlike anything the world has ever seen, and General Nanisca as she trains the next generation of recruits and readies them for battle against an enemy determined to destroy their way of life.
Why watch: If you like action-heavy historical drama centered on women warriors, this belongs on your list. Its story of the Agojie and General Nanisca should appeal to viewers who want a strong battle-focused period film.
Directed by Gina Prince-BythewoodCast Viola Davis, Thuso Mbedu, Lashana Lynch, Sheila Atim, John BoyegaHuluMore details on IMDb → -
18
The Taste of Things
drama · history · romance
Set in 1889 France, Dodin Bouffant is a chef living with his personal cook and lover Eugénie. They share a long history of gastronomy and love but Eugénie refuses to marry Dodin, so the food lover decides to do something he has never done before: cook for her.
Why watch: If you enjoy romantic historical dramas with food at the center, this is an appealing choice. The 1889 France setting and the blend of romance, history, and drama make it feel intimate and elegant.
Directed by Tran Anh HungCast Juliette Binoche, Benoît Magimel, Emmanuel Salinger, Patrick d'Assumçao, Galatéa BellugiHuluAMC+More details on IMDb → -
19
Summer of Soul (...Or, When the Revolution Could Not Be Televised)
Won 1 Oscar Best Documentary Feature (2022)
documentary · history · music
During the same summer as Woodstock, over 300,000 people attended the Harlem Cultural Festival, celebrating African American music and culture, and promoting Black pride and unity. The footage from the festival sat in a basement, unseen for over 50 years, keeping this incredible event in America's history lost — until now.
Why watch: If you want a documentary that connects music and history, this is the standout pick on the page. Its focus on the Harlem Cultural Festival makes it ideal for viewers who like cultural history told through performance footage.
Directed by Questlove, Hal TulchinCast Stevie Wonder, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Chris Rock, Tony Lawrence, Nina SimoneHuluMore details on IMDb → -
20
The Book of Clarence
adventure · comedy · drama · history
Streetwise but down-on-his-luck, Clarence is struggling to find a better life for his family, while fighting to free himself of debt. Captivated by the power and glory of the rising Messiah and His apostles, he risks everything to carve his own path to a divine life, and ultimately discovers that the redemptive power of belief may be his only way out.
Why watch: If you’re curious about historical stories with humor and faith themes, this one may interest you. The adventure, comedy, drama, and history mix suggests a playful but thoughtful period tale.
Directed by Jeymes SamuelCast LaKeith Stanfield, Omar Sy, Anna Diop, RJ Cyler, David OyelowoHuluMore details on IMDb →
Wrapping Up
This list brings together historical films that range from intimate drama to large-scale conflict, with biographies, documentaries, mysteries, and action stories all in one place. If you want a starting point, begin with the highest-rated titles that fit your taste, then branch out to the more adventurous picks for a broader view of the genre. Bookmark this page so you can come back when you want a fresh period film without scrolling forever. It’s updated regularly, so the selection can change over time as new options are added and others rotate in or out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often is this list updated?
We refresh this list regularly as titles are added or removed from streaming catalogs, so rankings and availability stay current.
Do I need a Hulu subscription to watch these?
Yes. Every title on this list is currently available on Hulu. Availability can change, so we recommend checking the streaming link on each title before you start watching.
How are these history movies ranked?
We rank by a combination of audience rating and current popularity, so you're seeing the history titles people are actually watching right now, not just an old fixed list.