10. The Northman

Experience the gripping allure of ‘The Northman’, where audiences are plunged into a ruthless Viking realm, combining brutal revenge with enchanting storytelling and stunning visuals. Its fierce conflicts and profound connections to destiny and folklore left viewers yearning for more captivating sagas. We’ve curated a list of 20 films sharing the same pulse-pounding action, deep mythology, and immersive realms.

These movies range from epic tales based on ancient legends, similar in intensity and emotional depth to ‘The Northman’. If you’re a fan of intense battles or grand historical narratives, there’s a treasure trove of captivating films for you to explore.

20. Outlander (2008)

Among the films on our list, Outlander stands out as a unique choice, yet it offers an enjoyable viewing experience if you’re fond of Viking adventures blended with science fiction elements. The plot revolves around a spaceship that crash-lands in Norway during the Viking era, introducing both the protagonist and the antagonist. As chaos ensues across Norway, the protagonist leverages his advanced technology along with the Vikings’ weapons to vanquish the antagonist, preventing him from causing irreversible damage to the planet.

Why Outlander resembles The Northman: Outlander shares similarities with The Northman due to its Viking theme. This film, much like The Northman, is filled with thrilling action scenes that depict intense battles – albeit between two extraterrestrial beings instead of humans – within the realm of the Vikings. In essence, it’s a movie that blends the era of the Vikings with a generous helping of science fiction to create an unusual yet compelling narrative.

19. Pathfinder (2007)

Pathfinder might not have received great reviews from critics, but individuals who appreciate action-filled Viking movies can still find enjoyment in this film. The story revolves around a young Viking who was taken in by another tribe after his shipwreck. As he matures, he transforms into a formidable warrior capable of holding his own against the invading Vikings who were ravaging northern tribes. When the woman he loves is threatened, he essentially declares war on all Vikings.

In essence, Pathfinder shares a likeness with The Northman: Essentially, Pathfinder is similar to The Northman due to its focus on an action-packed Viking narrative. Yet, what truly resonates with The Northman is the portrayal of a protagonist fighting against all odds for those he needs to safeguard. Consequently, there are notable similarities between the two films, even though Pathfinder may not have been as successful overall.

18. The Last Samurai (2003)

The Last Samurai stands out among recent samurai films produced in Hollywood due to its authentic portrayal of the samurai way, unlike some other movies in the genre. This film revolves around a U.S. military officer who was recruited by the Japanese government to teach their newly formed army modern warfare tactics and gun usage to help them suppress a rebellion led by traditional samurais. However, after being taken captive by these very rebels, he becomes immersed in samurai customs and eventually finds his personal calling, choosing instead to join forces with the samurais.

Why These Movies Remind Me of The Northman: Much like how The Last Samurai delves into the rich culture and traditions of Japan’s samurai warriors, The Northman offers an immersive exploration into the Viking way of life. While the settings may differ geographically, both films transport us to a time when these valiant warriors ruled their lands. The action-packed scenes in both movies only serve to heighten our appreciation for the martial prowess and heroic spirit of these historical figures.

17. 47 Ronin (2013)

47 Ronin is essentially a mythical samurai film with a focus on fantasy rather than realism, often referred to as “white-washed”. It’s an entertaining watch if you enjoy samurai movies infused with mysticism and the supernatural. The story revolves around 47 former samurais who served under a lord, but their master took his own life due to a plot hatched by a jealous rival. In response, these former samurais embarked on a vengeful mission to avenge their late master’s honor and seek justice against the rival lord.

Why Outlander is similar to The Northman: Outlander is comparable to The Northman due to their shared Viking theme. This film offers plenty of action, including exciting battles between alien characters in the heart of Viking territory. In essence, it blends historical Vikings with a generous helping of science fiction to create an unusual yet engaging blend.

16. Ironclad (2011)

In simple terms, “Ironclad” is a film set in medieval England, where a cruel king reigns. A group of rebels strive to overthrow him in this blood-soaked and action-packed flick, which may not be suitable for the sensitive viewer. Despite its modest budget, it’s an entertaining movie that surprises viewers.

In essence, Ironclad and The Northman share a likeness: Both films have protagonists intent on overthrowing a king’s rule, but they differ significantly. In The Northman, we follow the journey of a Viking prince seeking revenge against his uncle for wrongdoings and reclaiming what was once his. Although both stories may share similar themes, their narratives remain distinctly unique.

15. Ben-Hur (1959)

As a devoted cinephile, I can confidently declare that Ben-Hur stands among the most remarkable cinematic masterpieces ever crafted. This epic tale earned an unprecedented 11 Academy Awards and holds the distinction of being one of only three films to achieve this feat, making it a must-watch for any film enthusiast.

The captivating narrative revolves around a noble Jewish protagonist who found himself enslaved after crossing swords with a formidable childhood friend of Roman nobility. As a slave, his spirit was not broken; instead, he harbored a burning desire for retribution against the powerful official who had wronged him.

This riveting tale unfolds into an extraordinary odyssey that will leave any viewer spellbound. Don’t miss out on witnessing this cinematic triumph – watch Ben-Hur as soon as you can!

What links Ben-Hur and The Northman: Both stories revolve around themes of revenge. In Ben-Hur, the protagonist’s anger towards a powerful figure leads him into slavery, where he nurtures his desire for vengeance. Conversely, in The Northman, the main character is driven from his home by his uncle’s treachery and murder of his father. Now, he embarks on a quest to reclaim what was unjustly taken from him.

14. The Gladiator (2000)

One of the most enduring cinematic masterpieces is “The Gladiator,” renowned for its captivating portrayals by its leading actors. The narrative unfolds around a Roman general, whose military triumphs won him favor with the emperor. This favor led to his designation as the emperor’s successor. However, the emperor’s self-indulgent son resented this and, in a fit of jealousy, murdered the emperor and the general’s family, reducing the general to slavery. Yet, the general found redemption as a gladiator, swearing vengeance for the slaying of the emperor and his kin, setting the stage for an epic tale of revenge.

In what sense is The Northman similar: Just like Gladiator, The Northman shares a common theme of retribution, as its protagonist embarks on a mission to make amends for the injustices inflicted by the new ruler upon himself and those close to him. Essentially, both characters have been stripped of their previous lives and status, and are now determined to climb back up and exact revenge on the one who caused them years of suffering.

13. The 13^th Warrior (1999)

As a cinephile with a penchant for historical epics, I wholeheartedly recommend the underappreciated gem, “The 13th Warrior.” This film offers a unique perspective on the Viking world through the eyes of an Arabian ambassador exiled to their lands. Initially skeptical about these supposedly uncultured warriors, he finds himself embraced by their society and gradually gains respect for them. However, as the story unfolds, they come to recognize a sinister force encroaching upon them – a mythical enemy they had previously dismissed. This unexpected journey of cultural understanding and survival is one you won’t want to miss!

As a fellow enthusiast, I’d say The 13th Warrior resonates with me like The Northman does, both immersing us deeper into Viking culture. While The Northman presents this era from an observer’s perspective, The 13th Warrior invites you to live it through the protagonist’s eyes. And just like The Northman, there are no shortages of pulse-pounding action sequences in this film too!

12. How To Train Your Dragon Movies (2010 – 2019)

Instead of diving into heavy dramas right away, let’s switch gears and explore the captivating How to Train Your Dragon series. This animated saga, with its appeal spanning both kids and adults, is rooted in Viking lore and dragon-slaying tales. However, unlike typical Viking stories, these Vikings transition from dragon hunters to cohabitants. This shift occurs as they come to understand dragons better, discovering that friendship rather than combat can exist between humans and these magnificent creatures. The protagonist, though not the strongest warrior, is the first to forge such a bond with a dragon, breaking new ground in this enchanting world.

Although The Northman and How to Train Your Dragon appear dissimilar at first glance, they do share some commonalities. Both movies draw on Viking culture, with The Northman adhering more closely to historical realism. Additionally, both films depict Vikings as formidable warriors, but How to Train Your Dragon takes a more playful approach.

11. The Vikings (1958)

Among the films on our list, the one dating back to 1958 is titled “The Vikings.” Named after its subject matter, it offers a glimpse into the rich culture of the Vikings, and significantly influenced how we view this era. The movie introduces characters like Ragnar Lothbrok, who is often considered history’s most renowned Viking figure, providing insight into the minds of these seafaring warriors in this iconic production.

As a fellow cinephile embarking on a journey through time and mythology, let me share my insights about two cinematic masterpieces that delve deep into the heart of Viking culture: The Northman and its predecessor, The Vikings.

While I would encourage you to first immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Viking life depicted in The Vikings, it is not a strict prerequisite for enjoying The Northman. Instead, watching them sequentially will allow you to witness the evolution of these epic tales and appreciate the nuances that each film brings to the table.

Both films share a common thread as they retell timeless Viking stories in their unique ways. Yet, The Northman stands out by pushing the boundaries of what we thought we knew about this fascinating culture, offering a fresh perspective on its myths and legends.

10. Beowulf (2007)

The computer-generated film “Beowulf” reimagines the ancient tale from the Old English poem, focusing on Beowulf, a valiant hero who ascended to kingship after defeating the terrifying creature known as Grendel. But in this version, audiences discover additional layers to the narrative when Beowulf confronts the vengeance of Grendel’s mother, appearing as a golden dragon, whom he unknowingly fathered. If you appreciate fantasy and animated battles, this action-packed movie is worth watching.

In many ways, Beowulf and The Northman share similarities due to their geographical proximity – though Beowulf hails from Old English literature, The Northman is rooted in Scandinavian culture. Both works delve into themes such as revenge, family ties, and dramatic battle sequences that are characteristic of epic storytelling.

9. Valhalla Rising (2009)

Valhalla Rising is a bleak Danish film set in the Viking era, offering a grimmer take on Viking tales than usual, given their inherent brutality. The movie’s narrative revolves around a Norse warrior who was captured by a Viking chieftain. Escaping his enslavement, he swears revenge against his captor. However, his path crosses with a band of Crusaders, who propose a perilous journey to Jerusalem. This odyssey is fraught with internal conflicts, dangers, and scarcity of food.

Why does Valhalla Rising resemble The Northman: Similar to The Northman, Valhalla Rising is a film that carries a dark and somber tone, making it one of the most similar movies to it. Despite having distinct narratives focusing on different characters, their shared themes like revenge set them apart from each other, giving each its unique identity.

8. Thor Movies (2011 – Present)

Among the movies listed here, only those featuring Thor from the Marvel Cinematic Universe are included, with three currently available (more to come later). Each film centers around the Asgardian character Thor and his various escapades. In these films, Thor confronts a variety of adversaries and monsters while also shedding light on Norse mythology in an entertaining way that’s both humorous and action-packed.

Despite having a more playful tone, Thor and The Northman share a common origin as they both stem from Norse or Scandinavian mythology. Though Thor has a more fantastical storyline compared to the realistic narrative of The Northman, their roots remain similar. It’s interesting to note that Alexander Skarsgard, who played The Northman, was initially in contention for the role of Thor before Chris Hemsworth was cast.

7. The Lord Of The Rings Trilogy (2001 – 2004)

Boasting more Oscars than can be easily tallied, The Lord of the Rings Trilogy stands as the greatest cinematic trilogy in film history and serves as a big-screen adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien’s timeless Lord of the Rings novel. The narrative centers around an epic quest to vanquish a malevolent ruler by destroying a magical ring that holds a fragment of its malefic power. The story introduces unexpected champions who, despite their initial unassuming nature, demonstrate remarkable courage and resilience throughout the entire trilogy.

Why it feels like The Northman: While The Lord of the Rings’ narrative differs greatly from The Northman, if you’re a fan who appreciates cinematic battles on an epic scale, that’s where the resemblance becomes apparent between these two films.

6. Kingdom Of Heaven (2005)

The movie, “Kingdom of Heaven,” narrates the tale of a blacksmith who unwittingly embarks on a journey to Jerusalem due to an unexpected father-son connection. In the Holy Land, he finds himself assuming his late father’s role as a lord and eventually transforming into the protector of Jerusalem when the king’s army succumbed to Salahudin, a formidable Persian leader’s strategic prowess. This sets the stage for some of the most thrilling battle sequences ever depicted on screen as the former blacksmith, now knight, courageously defends Jerusalem with a small band and his expertise in siege warfare tactics.

In terms of commonalities, Kingdom of Heaven, despite being set in a different era and location than The Northman, shares similarities as they both include grand, high-energy battles. Additionally, they both trace the journeys of characters initially living ordinary lives who were unexpectedly drawn into quests that connect to their ancestral lineages.

5. Centurion (2010)

The movie “Centurion” is set in Scotland before the English arrived on the British Isles, focusing on a Roman legion stationed there. In this story, a Roman officer chases an indigenous leader and unfortunately leads his men to their demise. With just a handful of survivors remaining, the Romans are forced to retreat from the Scots, being picked off one by one in this film that encapsulates desperation.

Explanation of their resemblance: Initially, Centurion may not seem related to The Northman, but upon closer observation, it shares a similar somber atmosphere. While The Northman primarily revolves around revenge, Centurion focuses on survival. Despite these differences, they are both serious films with substantial and dramatic action sequences.

4. Sword of Vengeance (2014)

In “Sword of Vengeance,” we follow the tale of a Norman prince who returns home after living as a slave for many years. But upon his return, he discovers his father was murdered by his uncle, the one now ruling the land. This revelation sparks a new mission in him: to rally a group of farmers into an army and challenge the oppressive rule of his uncle. It’s a tale of vengeance that leads to intense battles throughout this epic film.

The storyline of Sword of Vengeance resembles The Northman due to both protagonists being princes who were displaced when their uncles seized power by murdering their fathers. Although their stories unfold differently and in distinct eras, they share a striking similarity as if reflecting each other on screen.>

3. Braveheart (1995)

As a film enthusiast, let me tell you that Braveheart stands out as one of the most captivating movies of the ’90s due to its powerful blend of action and drama. This cinematic masterpiece chronicles the journey of a courageous Scottish rebel who rallied an entire uprising against the English king, spurred by the tragic loss of his wife. The film offers a compelling portrayal of how one man, stripped of everything he held dear, could become a formidable challenge to an entire kingdom teeming with armored knights.

The Northman and Braveheart have many similarities as historical action films, filled with intense battles and dramatic fights. Yet, what truly binds them together is their shared theme of revenge-driven protagonists on a quest for vengeance and justice.

2. Hammer Of The Gods (2013)

Hammer of the Gods – A Tale of Transformation

The movie, Hammer of the Gods, narrates an epic journey of a young man who morphs into a relentless warrior, trekking through unrelenting territories in search of his brother. The motivation behind this odyssey was the faith that his people placed in his brother to bring peace and stability back to their kingdom, which had been plunged into chaos. However, what started as a quest for his brother evolved into a journey of self-discovery and transformation for this warrior.

Both Hammer of the Gods and The Northman share similarities because their characters embark on personal journeys, endure grueling experiences, and ultimately transform into hardened warriors as a result.

1. 300 (2007)

Among the widely acclaimed historical films, “300” stands out due to its raw, testosterone-fueled portrayal. The movie showcases top-notch action, with its battles being particularly violent, gruesome, and thrilling. Essentially, “300” tells the tale of King Leonidas, who rallied 300 of his bravest soldiers to stall the Persian invasion that was poised to overrun not just Sparta, but the entirety of Greece as well.

300 shares a resemblance with The Northman in terms of epic action: Both 300 and The Northman have similarities in their grandiose action scenes, as well as the seriousness of the tales they tell. In these films, the intensity of the battles is what dominates the narrative, and both characters are engaged in struggles that transcend their individual objectives, fighting for causes larger than themselves.

2025-06-06 09:46