One of the very finest epics produced, equally impressive in terms of script and spectacle. Heston is aptly heroic as the 11th Century patriot destined to die in the fight to evict the Moors from Spain, Mann's direction is stately and thrilling and Miklos Rosza's superb score perfectly complements the crisp and simple widescreen images. Sobriety and restraint, in fact, are perhaps the keynotes of the film's success, with the result that a potentially risible finale, in which Cid's corpse is born find out more...

Once again the BBC hit the mark with a powerful and clear sighted adaptation of this dark and savage tale. Like other BBC adaptations this is the definitive study version. find out more...

This adaptation of the RSC stage play is seriously powerful thanks to the quality performances of its top-class cast and the subtle direction of Trevor Nunn. The minimal set offers a stark backdrop to the action. True to the text and ideal for students of the play. find out more...

Welles's interpretation of Shakespeare's treacherous tale does have its faults, not surprisingly since it was shot on the cheap in just 23 days. However, the photography is superbly atmospheric, and the direction captures beautifully the moody, malevolent atmosphere of the barbarous setting. find out more...

In Persia in the 11th Century, a surgeon's apprentice disguises himself as a Jew to study at a school that does not admit Christians.

find out more...

Franklin J. Schaffnerâ's ambitious costume drama set in 11th-century, stars Charlton Heston as Chrysagon de la Cruex, a Norman knight assigned to a remote garrison on the fringe of Europe. Weary of war and increasingly lonely, the Christian knight becomes enthralled with Bronwyn, a pagan beauty who seems remote from the barbarism of his own creed. The opening scenes, with their hauntingly atmospheric photography lend a sense of foreboding (think the original Wicker Man) to proceedings, find out more...