There’s something irresistible about Greek mythology on film – stories packed with high-stakes drama, supernatural spectacle, and age-old themes of heroism, betrayal, and destiny. Unlike historical epics such as Oliver Stone’s gritty “Alexander” (2004) or Zack Snyder’s bombastic “300” (2007), which dramatize real-life events, mythological films plunge headfirst into a world where gods, monsters, and mortals collide in grand fashion on the silver screen.

The appeal is obvious: Greek myths boast larger-than-life heroes, vengeful deities, and legendary quests that have captivated audiences for millennia. Whether it’s a stop-motion Medusa, a high-energy Disney animation, or a satirical modern reimagining, writers and filmmakers have mined these ancient tales for cinematic gold.

And with Christopher Nolan currently filming his much-anticipated take on the “Odyssey” in Greece (slated for release in 2026), there’s no better time to revisit the long cinematic history of Greek mythology. From faithful adaptations to bold re-imaginings, here are ten must-watch films (and one TV series) that breathe new life into these classic myths. So, grab your overpriced bucket of popcorn, settle in, and stick around for a few honorable mentions at the end – there’s something here for everyone.

Antigone (1961)

Few stories embody the crushing weight of fate quite like “Antigone.” Directed by Giorgos Tzavellas, this black-and-white, Greek-language adaptation of Sophocles’ unflinching tragedy is as faithful as they come – except for one striking departure.

Set in ancient Thebes as part of Sophocles’ epic Theban Cycle, the film stars the legendary Irene Papas in a career-defining performance. The story follows Antigone as she defies King Creon’s decree forbidding the burial of her brother Polynices, setting off a tragic chain of events that tests the limits of duty, power, and moral conviction.

In a daring twist on the original play, the film alters Creon’s fate: rather than simply retreating into his palace in shame, he renounces his throne and exiles himself, making his downfall even more devastating. Manos Katrakis delivers a performance brimming with gravitas as the tormented king, but it’s Papas who truly commands the screen with her quiet intensity and unwavering resolve.

This is essential viewing for lovers of Greek tragedy, aficionados of classical cinema, and anyone who relishes a gripping moral dilemma played out on an epic scale.

Jason and the Argonauts (1963)

If Greek mythology had a greatest-hits album, “Jason and the Argonauts” would surely be the headliner. Directed by Don Chaffey and filmed in glorious Technicolor, this adventure-packed classic follows Jason’s perilous quest to retrieve the fabled Golden Fleece from far away Colchis. Along the way, he braves treacherous waters, wrathful gods, and a gauntlet of mythical beasts.

Loosely inspired by Apollonius Rhodius’ 3rd-century BC epic “Argonautica,” the film takes plenty of creative liberties – most notably omitting Medea’s darker deeds, like the gruesome murder of her own brother. But what it lacks in strict accuracy, it more than makes up for in sheer cinematic wonder. The true star? Legendary special effects wizard Ray Harryhausen, whose pioneering stop-motion animation still stuns today. From the towering bronze colossus Talos to the iconic duel with the seven skeleton warriors (raised from the Hydra’s teeth), these groundbreaking sequences set the gold standard for fantasy filmmaking at the time.

With a charismatic cast led by Todd Armstrong, Nancy Kovak, and Honor Blackman (of “The Avengers” and “Goldfinger” fame), plus a rousing score by Bernard Herrmann, “Jason and the Argonauts” is essential viewing for mythology lovers, classic film buffs, and anyone who enjoys a good old-fashioned swashbuckling spectacle. 

Iphigenia (1977)

Greek cinema doesn’t get more powerful than Michael Cacoyannis’ “Iphigenia.” The final entry in his trilogy of Greek tragedies, this searing adaptation of Euripides’ “Iphigenia at Aulis” explores one of mythology’s most harrowing moral dilemmas. When Agamemnon offends the goddess Artemis, he faces an impossible choice: sacrifice his daughter Iphigenia or doom his fleet to remain stranded, unable to sail to Troy. As tensions rise, the fate of an innocent girl becomes a brutal test of duty, faith, and human resolve.

Thirteen-year-old Tatiana Papamoschou (in her stunning film debut) delivers a performance of haunting vulnerability as Iphigenia, while Kostas Kazakos embodies the tormented Agamemnon with tragic intensity. Meanwhile, Irene Papas – once again mesmerizing – brings raw fury and heartbreak to her role as the grieving, defiant Clytemnestra.

Nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards, “Iphigenia” remains a landmark of Greek cinema. Cacoyannis makes some bold creative choices – expanding Odysseus and Calchas into fully realized characters, for example – but wisely preserves the play’s hauntingly ambiguous ending. The emotional weight is staggering.

A must-watch for fans of historical drama, Greek tragedy, and storytelling that lingers long after the credits roll.

Clash of the Titans (1981)

For those of us of a certain age, the original “Clash of the Titans” is pure cult-classic gold. A gloriously campy yet beloved slice of mythological adventure, this old-school epic brings the legend of Perseus to life with dazzling stop-motion effects and a stellar cast of Shakespearean heavyweights (Laurence Olivier as Zeus, Maggie Smith as Thetis, and Siân Phillips as Cassiopeia).

Directed by Desmond Davis, the film follows Perseus (Harry Hamlin) as he embarks on a perilous quest – battling the cursed Gorgon, Medusa, rescuing Princess Andromeda, and facing off against the mighty Kraken (a Scandinavian sea monster standing in for the Greek Cetus). And let’s not forget Pegasus, the legendary winged steed, soaring through the action in a starring role.

Once again, the real MVP is special effects master Ray Harryhausen, whose handcrafted stop-motion creatures steal the show. From the bone-chilling Medusa sequence to the eerie skeletal vulture carrying Andromeda’s cage, renowned film critic Roger Ebert dubbed “Clash of the Titans” Harryhausen’s “masterwork.” Released in the comparatively high-tech “Star Wars” era – where space battles relied on scale models and zip wires – “Clash of the Titans” may have felt a little retro at the time, but its charm and craftsmanship have garnered the film a cult following over the years. A box-office hit and the eleventh highest-grossing film of 1981, it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fantasy and mythology fans.

As for the 2010 CGI-heavy remake (and its disappointing 2012 sequel)? Let’s just say it tried but never quite recaptured the magic of Harryhausen’s handcrafted creatures. The 1981 original is a must-watch for lovers of classic adventure cinema – perfect for a lazy Sunday afternoon.

The Odyssey (1997)

Homer’s “Odyssey” is one of the greatest adventure stories ever told, and this 1997 two-part TV miniseries does an admirable job of bringing it to life. Starring Armand Assante as the cunning, battle-worn Odysseus, the film charts his decade-long journey home after the Trojan War, navigating encounters with gods, monsters, and his own fatal flaws. From his harrowing escape from the Cyclops to Circe’s seductive enchantments, nearly every major episode from the epic is included, making this one of the most faithful screen adaptations of Homer’s classic.

Directed by Andrei Konchalovsky and filmed across breathtaking Mediterranean locations like Malta and Turkey, “The Odyssey” embraces an ambitious cinematic scope despite its humble TV origins. The cast is stacked with talent, including Greta Scacchi as the long-suffering Penelope, Isabella Rossellini, Bernadette Peters, and the acclaimed Irene Papas as Anticlea, Odysseus’ mother. While the production works within the constraints of a TV budget, it compensates with impressive practical effects – thanks to Jim Henson’s Creature Shop (“The Muppets,” “Fraggle Rock,” “The Dark Crystal,” et al.), which brings many of the mythological beasts to life with its signature magic.

Clocking in at nearly three hours, this Emmy-winning miniseries is essential viewing for purists seeking an immersive, no-frills adaptation of Homer’s epic. 

Hercules (1997)

The only animated film on this list, Disney’s “Hercules” delivers a vibrant, comedic twist on Greek mythology’s most famous hero – bursting with humor, heart, and an irresistible gospel-infused soundtrack. While it takes significant liberties with the original myths – in Greece, the film would be renamed “Beyond the Myth of Heracles” – this animated classic introduces kids (and nostalgic grown-ups) to the world of the Olympians with its larger-than-life characters and infectious energy.

The story follows Hercules (Tate Donovan), a young demigod who must prove himself a true hero to reclaim his place on Mount Olympus. Along the way, he teams up with the snarky yet lovable Megara (voiced by Susan Egan), the wisecracking satyr trainer Philoctetes (Danny DeVito at his comedic best), and the scene-stealing Hades (James Woods), whose fast-talking, fire-haired villainy remains one of Disney’s most hilariously wicked performances.

With quirky, Gerald Scarfe-inspired animation (think Pink Floyd “The Wall”), razor-sharp humor, and anthemic songs like “Go the Distance,” Hercules remains a fan favorite nearly three decades later. It may stray far from the source material, but as a witty, lighthearted take on Greek mythology, it’s lots of fun.

O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Leave it to the Coen Brothers to take Homer’s “Odyssey” and transform it into a Depression-era road movie packed with bluegrass, surreal comedy, and offbeat Americana. “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” follows the misadventures of Ulysses Everett McGill (a perfectly cast George Clooney), a smooth-talking escapee from a prison chain gang, as he and his two hapless sidekicks (played by John Turturro and Tim Blake Nelson) embark on a quest for hidden treasure in the Deep South – crossing paths with a one-eyed Bible salesman (a sly nod to the Cyclops), a corrupt politician, and a trio of bewitching sirens along the way.

While the film plays fast and loose with Homer’s epic, it cleverly weaves in key mythological elements through its uniquely Coen-esque lens. Adding to its magic is the Grammy-winning soundtrack, a rich tapestry of folk and gospel music that became an unexpected cultural phenomenon.

Nominated for two Academy Awards, “O Brother, Where Art Thou?” is essential viewing for Coen Brothers fans and anyone who enjoys a modern, offbeat reimagining of Greek mythology – where the mythic meets the downright bizarre.

Troy (2004)

Wolfgang Petersen’s “Troy” transforms Homer’s “Iliad” into a sweeping war epic for the modern audience, packed with breathtaking battles and a star-studded cast. Brad Pitt’s brooding, battle-hardened Achilles, Eric Bana’s noble Hector, and Orlando Bloom’s lovestruck Paris bring to life the tragic war that doomed the city of Troy. While the film takes significant liberties with the source material – most notably stripping away the meddling gods – it delivers grand spectacle and compelling human drama.

With stunning cinematography, colossal set pieces, and a rousing James Horner score, “Troy” is a visually striking throwback to the golden age of “sword-and-sandals” epics (aka “Quo Vadis,” “Ben-Hur,” “Spartacus” et al.). The duel between Achilles and Hector outside the city walls is a masterclass in fight choreography, while Peter O’Toole’s heartbreaking turn as King Priam – begging for the return of his son’s mutilated body – remains one of the film’s most powerful moments.

Though mythology purists may balk at its historical approach, “Troy” is essential viewing for fans of large-scale battle sequences, historical epics, and classic tales of honor and vengeance.

Immortals (2011)

A feast for the eyes, “Immortals” delivers Greek mythology with a brutal, hyper-stylized punch. Directed by Tarsem Singh (“The Fall,” “The Cell”), this visually arresting epic follows Theseus (Henry Cavill) as he rises from humble origins to challenge the ruthless King Hyperion (Mickey Rourke), who seeks the legendary Epirus Bow to unleash the Titans and overthrow the Olympians. With Zeus (Luke Evans) forbidding divine intervention, the fate of humanity rests on Theseus alone.

True to Singh’s signature aesthetic, “Immortals” unfolds like a moving Renaissance painting – every frame meticulously composed, every battle drenched in operatic grandeur. Its slow-motion fight sequences, striking set design, and eerie, dreamlike atmosphere set it apart from traditional mythology adaptations. While the film takes brazen liberties with the myths of Theseus and the Minotaur, and the Titanomachy (Battle of the Titans), it compensates with intense action and sheer visual spectacle. Fans of “300” will feel right at home, though purists seeking a faithful retelling may need to look elsewhere.

Though critics were divided at its release, “Immortals” has since earned a cult following, often cited as one of the most underrated films of the decade. A must-watch for lovers of high-energy, visually stunning epics.

The Return (2024)

The third adaptation of the “Odyssey” on this list, “The Return” takes a radically different approach to Homer’s epic. Directed by Uberto Pasolini, this stripped-down retelling shifts the focus to the final stretch of Odysseus’ journey, shedding gods, monsters, and mythical spectacle in favor of raw, human-centered drama.

Filmed almost entirely on location in Greece – across Corfu, the Peloponnese, and with additional photography in Italy – the film embraces a naturalistic, almost historical-fiction aesthetic rather than a traditional fantasy lens. Ralph Fiennes stars as a weary, battle-hardened Odysseus, finally returning home after years lost at sea, while Juliette Binoche plays Penelope, the steadfast queen who has endured his absence. Reuniting after “The English Patient” (1996), the pair delivers an acting masterclass, with one critic calling the film “Shakespearean in its intensity.”

Written by Pasolini, John Collee, and Edward Bond, “The Return” strips away the embellishments of Hollywood adaptations, focusing instead on the emotional toll of war, exile, and longing. This is not a film for those craving action-packed spectacle or mythical creatures – rather, it’s a slow-burning, meditative exploration of the Odyssey’s core themes: homecoming, fate, and identity. For those who appreciate character-driven storytelling and minimalist filmmaking, “The Return” is a haunting and thought-provoking experience.

Honorable Mentions

These films didn’t make the main list, but they’re still essential viewing for mythology lovers:

Oedipus Rex (1967): Pier Paolo Pasolini’s adaptation of Sophocles’ tragedy is a visually arresting and deeply psychological take on the classic myth. Blending modern and ancient settings, the film follows Oedipus as he unknowingly fulfills the grim prophecy of killing his father and marrying his mother. A must-watch for fans of experimental cinema and Greek tragedy.

Medea (1969): Another Pasolini adaptation, this haunting retelling of Euripides’ “Medea” stars legendary Greek opera singer Maria Callas in her only film role. Dark, atmospheric, and visually striking, the film follows Jason’s betrayal of the sorceress and her chilling revenge. With its eerie landscapes and unflinching portrayal of Medea’s wrath, this is essential viewing for those who appreciate bold, avant-garde storytelling.

Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010): A modern, action-packed introduction to Greek mythology, this film follows Percy Jackson, a teenager who discovers he is the demigod son of Poseidon. While it takes liberties with Rick Riordan’s popular 2005 novel, it remains a fun and accessible way for younger audiences to explore the world of the Olympians. The second book in Riordan’s series, “Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Sea of Monsters” (2006) was also adapted as a film in 2013.