The Odyssey has introduced a whole new generation to one of history’s greatest adventure stories, but Odysseus’ epic journey is really just the beginning. Whether you’re fascinated by Greek mythology, mythical creatures, ancient civilizations or noble quests, there are plenty of films and TV shows that offer even more imaginative escapism.
From faithful retellings of ancient legends to high-fantasy action and adventure stories inspired by Greek myth, here are some of the best movies and TV shows to watch after The Odyssey. If you want larger-than-life storytelling, then take a look at these.
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Troy (2004)
Loosely based on Homer’s Iliad, Troy is a historical action picture which depicts the brutal Trojan War. Directed by Wolfgang Petersen, and starring Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, and Sean Bean, the story focuses on Achilles – leader of the Myrmidons and Greece’s greatest warrior.
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The Storyteller: Greek Myths (1991)
Over to television now for the second season of the Henson series, The Storyteller: Greek Myths. For those not familiar with The Storyteller, it was a short lived (but excellent) series which revolved around the titular storyteller recounting folk tales depicted via a mix of live-action actors and Henson puppetry and animatronics.
However, while the first season was all about folk tales, the second season was dedicated solely to Greek myths. Across the course of four episodes, the stories of Theseus and the Minotaur, Perseus and the Gorgon, Orpheus and Eurydice, and Daedalus and Icarus were told in captivating detail.
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Ulysses 31 (1981 – 1982)
Sticking with television for a moment and The Odyssey gets an animated makeover courtesy of Ulysses 31 – a sci-fi adventure series which transports the story to the 31st Century via a 26-episode cartoon show.
In the series, after Ulysses angers the Gods, his crew are put into stasis, where they remain until Ulysses can locate the Kingdom of Hades and free them. Along the way, various aspects of The Odyssey are reworked and/or retold, all with a science fiction twist.
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Jason and the Argonauts (1963)
Back to film now for the classic fantasy adventure movie, Jason and the Argonauts. Directed by Don Chaffey, and with various Greek monsters brought to the screen via stop-motion whiz, Ray Harryhausen, the movie follows the story of Greek hero, Jason and his quest to find the legendary Golden Fleece.
As Jason and his Argonauts embark on this epic journey, they encounter various challenges and obstacles, including the terrifying moving statue, Talos; the monstrous Hydra; and seven deadly skeletons.
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Clash of the Titans (1981)
Loosely based on the Greek myth of Perseus, Clash of the Titans is another epic adventure fantasy, this time from director Desmond Davis. The story follows Perseus as he sets out on a quest to rescue the beautiful Andromeda from the clutches of the ferocious Kraken.
Ray Harryhausen is back on the special stop-motion effects, bringing to life various figures from Greek mythology, including the aforementioned Kraken and the deadly Gorgon, Medusa.
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Xena: Warrior Princess (1995 – 2001)
If the above feels quite heavy going, and you fancy something a little bit more off-the-wall, then you may want to check out hit ‘90s television show, Xena: Warrior Princess. This cult series, which ran for six seasons, follows the story of former bad gal, Xena, and her continual attempts to atone for her past misdeeds.
During the course of the show, Xena encounters many figures from Greek mythology, including an array of Gods and monsters. Although, be warned, the show does play fast and loose with some of the details.
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Spartacus (2010 – 2013)
More television now in the shape of Spartacus – the historical drama about a Thracian gladiator who led a major slave uprising. This somewhat adult show combines sword, sandals, and sex, along with thoroughly compelling drama.
Spartacus takes a different approach from some of the more fantastical suggestions on this list, but it’s really bloody good!
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Wonder Woman (2009)
Onto the penultimate offering and it’s the animated film, Wonder Woman. Released in 2009, this marvellous fantasy adventure movie mixes super heroics with Greek mythology, as Diana of Themyscira is pitted against Ares for the fate of the world!
Hades, harpies, Amazons, and the undead all feature in what is easily one of the best DC animated movies of all time.
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300 (2006)
And finally, another comic book inspired film, this time focusing on the fictionalised account of the Battle of Thermopylae. In the film, King Leonidas leads 300
Spartans into battle against the Persian God-King, Xerxes, and his 300,000 strong army. Zack Snyder directs, while Gerard Butler, and Lena Headey star.
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