5 films about history that you and your children will love!
Fun and educational is the best combo!
History lessons in the UK focus on individuals (such as Elizabeth I and Queen Victoria) and ancient civilisations (such as the Roman Empire and Vikings) in Primary. In secondary school, students progress through from Medieval to Modern History. With the curriculum in mind, we have created a shortlist of blockbuster films that you can enjoy with your children, to make the subject matter come alive and spark some compelling conversations around the dinner table.
Snuggle up, dim the lights and grab a bowl of popcorn!
The Prince of Egypt | Best for age 7+
Let’s start with the obvious, The Prince of Egypt is visually stunning. Listed as one of the best animated musical dramas from DreamWorks, The Prince of Egypt is beautifully animated, has an immersive story and catchy soundtrack that will draw you in. The film follows Moses, from his time as a prince of Egypt to his life as the leader for the people of Israel. Despite its biblical, religious context, it is friendly to general audiences, children and adult alike. For film buffs, it can be fun guessing the voices, as the cast is an endless list of A-list Hollywood actors. We can’t believe that it was made in 1998. It hasn't dated.
Hidden Figures | PG – for thematic elements and language
Hidden Figures tells the story of black women working behind the scenes in NASA’s early days, through the Cold War’s space race and segregation. Hidden figures is based on the real-life stories of this group of women known as “human computers” working at NASA. Their story tackles the themes of institutional racism and sexism. Hidden Figures is truly inspirational for children who have ambitions to work in Maths, Science or the space program. It’s a story about defying the odds and having each other’s backs. Expect to clap, cheer and cry along with the characters.
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Dunkirk | PG 13 – includes war/violence
Nolan designed Dunkirk to be just as much a thriller as it is a war movie. The tense drama that his fans have come to know him for, blends seamlessly with the solemn tone needed to tackle the story of one of the biggest war evacuations in world history. Although Dunkirk’s storyline revolves around fictional characters, the bigger movements in this film are historically accurate. Hang onto the edge of your seat, this film is fully immersive. A must watch for any student in KS3 or KS4.
The King’s Speech | 12A rating
The King's Speech is the story of British King George VI (formerly Prince Albert Frederick Arthur George, Duke of York) and his personal struggle to control his 'stammer.' Due to the stammer, King George VI is constantly struggling internally, physically, psychologically and socially. How will he overcome his stammer to address the British Empire and the rest of the world? Most of the story unfolds during the Great Depression, building to a moving end in 1939 when Britain declared war on Nazi Germany. This film does not feature sex, violence. Despite some swear words, The King's Speech is a family movie!
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12 Years A Slave | 15+
Based on the true story of Solomon Northup, an African-American freeman who, in 1841, is kidnapped and sold back into slavery. This heart-breaking film takes us on his journey as he is passed on from master to master, forced to work on Louisiana plantations for 12 years. We recommend this film for older teenagers as the racist language and Solomon’s treatment can be difficult for younger children to watch. Nevertheless, it’s an eye-opening insight into black history. As the civil rights movement is covered in KS3, having an understanding of the history of slavery will be help students put the movement into context.
After watching these films, follow up with questions like…
Did you learn anything from this film? If you did, what was it?
What is the message of this film? Did you pick up on its central themes?
Was there something you didn’t understand about the film?
What did you like best/least about the film? Why?
Who was your favourite character in the film?
If you could change something, what would you change?
What part of the story told by the film was the most powerful? Why?
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