The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965)

Date: 1506–1512

Cinematic Quality: 5 stars

Historical Accuracy: 5 stars

Perhaps the finest historical movie ever made. Heston, Harrison, and the supporting cast perfectly portray the eccentricities, virtues, and vices of the historical figures. Nearly all of the divergences are chosen for the sake of combining or compressing historical events. And they hired someone to painstakingly repaint one of the finest works of art. The movie isn’t perfect, but it comes close.

Suitable for children.

For context, read the novel by Irving Stone and an equally impressive and enjoyable book on the subject by Ross King.