Whether you’re a royal enthusiast or simply intrigued by palace life, the world of cinema and television has plenty to satisfy your cravings. If you watched The Crown and loved it, you’re in for even more: several series and movies will take you on a full-on royal ride.
From Princess Diana to Queen Elizabeth II and sweeping royal dramas across Europe, get your popcorn and snacks ready for a stay-in royal binge!
Grace of Monaco
Grace Kelly is one of the rare figures to embody both Hollywood and real-life royalty, leaving behind her Oscar-winning film career to become Princess of Monaco after marrying Prince Rainier III in 1956. In the 2014 drama Grace of Monaco, Nicole Kidman portrays the iconic princess as she navigates palace life and Monaco’s tense relationship with France. With a star-studded cast and dazzling glimpses of Cartier jewels and Monaco’s luxurious ballrooms, it’s well worth a watch.
Victoria
Jenna Coleman shines as the young monarch in Victoria, offering an intimate glimpse into the life and reign of Queen Victoria. Spanning three seasons, the series explores her passionate marriage to Prince Albert, portrayed by Burberry model-turned-actor Tom Hughes, as well as her close and influential relationship with her first Prime Minister, Lord Melbourne, played by the ever-dashing Rufus Sewell, while revealing the complexities of politics, court life, and royal duty.
The Empress
The Empress dives into royal drama as rebellious, free-spirited Bavarian Princess Elisabeth “Sisi” played by Devrim Lingnau, turns the Austrian court upside down by marrying Emperor Franz, portrayed by Philip Froissant, for love. Yet between court politics, watchful eyes, and a formidable mother-in-law, she soon learns the crown comes at a cost. With award-winning costumes, romance and plenty of drama, it’s a must-watch.
Marie Antoinette
In Marie Antoinette, Kirsten Dunst portrays the ill-fated Queen Consort of France in a lavish historical drama that traces the life of one of history’s most controversial royals. From her arrival at the French court to the turbulent years leading up to the French Revolution.
Máxima
From Argentina to the Dutch palace: royal drama series ‘Maxima’ is adapted from Marcia Luyten’s 2022 novel Máxima Zorreguieta: Motherland. The series revolves around the romance between the Argentine Máxima Zorreguieta and Willem-Alexander, the future King of the Netherlands. The second season of the show will begin shooting this year in the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Austria. The plot follows Máxima from her wedding preparations up to the coronation 10 years later, when Willem-Alexander becomes King, following the abdication of his mother, Queen Beatrix. Along the way, she struggles between family dynamics at court and her own career ambitions.
Diana
Naomi Watts portrays Princess Diana, England’s beloved Princess. Set in the years following her high-profile divorce from Prince Charles, the film offers an intimate look at the intense public scrutiny Diana faced while trying to build a life outside the palace with heart surgeon Hasnat Khan. True to history, the story ends in tragedy, culminating in the fatal car crash that left England—and the world—mourning.
