Paul Mescal, Brad Pitt and More Hot Men in Historical Epics (2024)

Historical epics have everything moviegoers want to see — action packed scenes with really good looking guys.Most epics follow the story’s handsome hero embarking on a quest or preparing for war. While some of the most common movies that come to mind take place in ancient times, the genre can include fantasy and science fiction elements as well.The genre rose to prominence in the ‘60s as films like Cleopatra, Spartacus and Lawrence of Arabia hit the theaters. However, historical-based films had a true renaissance in the late ‘90s and early 2000s with blockbusters such as Troy, Gladiator, 300, Braveheart and more. Those ‘90s films were filled with action-packed scenes while its stars showed off their muscular physique.The genre has continued to gain momentum as new stories have been created while others have been reimagined with a modern lens.Keep scrolling to see Us Weekly’s breakdown of the hottest men in historical epics:

Historical epics have everything moviegoers want to see — action packed scenes with really good looking guys.Most epics follow the story’s handsome hero embarking on a quest or preparing for war. While some of the most common movies that come to mind take place in ancient times, the genre can include fantasy and science fiction elements as well.The genre rose to prominence in the ‘60s as films like Cleopatra, Spartacus and Lawrence of Arabia hit the theaters. However, historical-based films had a true renaissance in the late ‘90s and early 2000s with blockbusters such as Troy, Gladiator, 300, Braveheart and more. Those ‘90s films were filled with action-packed scenes while its stars showed off their muscular physique.The genre has continued to gain momentum as new stories have been created while others have been reimagined with a modern lens.Keep scrolling to see Us Weekly’s breakdown of the hottest men in historical epics:

Selecting a representative from the Gladiator sequel was a tough choice as Mescal’s costars include the dreamy Denzel Washington and Pedro Pascal. But Mescal ultimately won Us over as Lucius, the former heir to the Roman empire forced to enter the Colosseum's deadly arena.

Pitt won over fans for his portrayal of the Greek hero Achilles in the 2004 adaptation of Homer’s The Iliad. The actor rocked long blond hair and rippling muscles. Need we say more?

Butler cemented himself as a heartthrob after appearing in the Sparta war movie. Throughout the drama, his character, King Leonidas, donned a red cape with brown leather briefs.

Before his breakout role in Ex Machina, Isaac appeared in the 2009 biopic of Hypatia of Alexandria, played by Rachel Weisz. Isaac’s character, Orestes, falls in love with the philosopher as he becomes one of her students before becoming the prefect of Egypt.

Hemsworth starred in the 2015 drama based on the real events that inspired Herman Melville to write Moby Dick. The actor played first mate Owen Chase who is a veteran whaler who stumbles upon the infamous white whale. In the dramatic ocean tale and period piece, Hemsworth gave Us major broody sailor vibes.

In the 2021 fantasy epic based on Arthurian legend, Patel stars as Sir Gawain, nephew of King Arthur. In the medieval drama, Patel’s character takes a journey to test his courage and faces off against the Green Knight, portrayed by Ralph Ineson. In addition to Patel, the film also stars Joel Edgerton, Barry Keoghan and Alicia Vikander.

Bloom played Crusader Balian of Ibelin in the 2005 Ridley Scott historical drama. The actor has his signature curly locks flowing in the wind, making him look dreamier than ever. Plus there’s some epic sword battles too.

The Game of Thrones alum channeled his inner warrior for the historical disaster film inspired by the deadly eruption of Mount Vesuvius. In the ancient city of Pompeii, Harrington plays a gladiator named Milo who becomes adored due to his compassionate nature. While facing off in battle, the volcano erupts and he attempts to escape alongside his love interest, played by Emily Browning.

Boyega oozed regality as King Ghezo in the West African-inspired adventure film. His character called on the Agojie, an all-women army, to battle against the Oyo Empire. After defeating their enemies, Ghezo bestowed Nanisca (Viola Davis) the title of Woman King.

Li starred in the martial arts film as an orphan referred to as Nameless who ultimately became a master swordsman. The film is packed with nonstop action as the martial artist shows off his skills throughout the film — especially when performing Nameless’ signature and precise "Death at Ten Paces" sword technique.

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