War-themed films over the years have consistently received high acclaim from audiences for their authentic content, vivid imagery, and the profound humanitarian messages embedded within each frame. Join us as we explore in detail 10 incredibly compelling and meaningful war films in the following article!
1 Greyhound – The Command Ship
Greyhound – The Command Ship
IMDb Rating: 7.0/10
Release Date: 10/07/2020
Genre: Action, War
Duration: 91 minutes
Country: United States
Director: Aaron Schneider
Starring: Tom Hanks, Stephen Graham, Rob Morgan
Notable Awards: Updating
Watch Link: Updating
The film Greyhound is inspired by a real historical event—the Battle of the Atlantic. It features veteran actor Tom Hanks as Captain Ernie Krause, who leads a convoy of Allied ships carrying thousands of soldiers and supplies across the perilous waters of the Mid-Atlantic. However, an unfortunate situation arises as the convoy faces an attack by German submarines. Will Greyhound survive and complete its mission?
The film has a fast pace, and viewers don’t need to wait long to immerse themselves in the battle between the two factions. The continuous unfolding of events creates a sense of suspense and tension, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Greyhound delivers a realistic and captivating portrayal of the dangerous and dramatic challenges on the battlefield.
2 1917 – World War 1917
1917 – World War 1917
IMDb Rating: 8.2/10
Release Date: 25/12/2019
Genre: Action, War
Duration: 119 minutes
Country: United States
Director: Sam Mendes
Starring: George MacKay, Dean-Charles Chapman, Mark Strong, Andrew Scott,…
Notable Awards: Academy Award for Best Cinematography, Best Film at the BAFTA Awards
Watch Link: Updating
1917 recreates real events from World War I, focusing on the critical mission of two young British soldiers, Blake and Will. They must cross enemy territory to deliver a strategic letter to the front line, which could save hundreds of soldiers from a German trap. If Blake and Will fail to complete the mission by the next morning, all the soldiers, including Blake’s brother, will perish.
What’s remarkable about 1917 is its design to give viewers the feeling of a single-shot film, though it’s actually skillfully edited from multiple scenes. World War 1917 is not just a historical war film but also a profound story of courage, camaraderie, and the selfless sacrifice of soldiers in pursuit of hope.
3 Jojo Rabbit – Little Jojo
Jojo Rabbit – Little Jojo
IMDb Rating: 7.9/10
Release Date: 18/10/2019
Genre: War, Psychology, Comedy
Duration: 108 minutes
Country: United States
Director: Taika Waititi
Starring: Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, Stephen Merchant.,,,
Notable Awards: Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay, AACTA Awards,…
Watch Link: Updating
Jojo Rabbit is set during World War II and tells the story of a young German boy, Jojo, who is fanatically devoted to Hitler. One day, Jojo discovers a Jewish girl, Elsa Korr, hiding in his attic. As a fanatic, what will Jojo do next?
The film is told through the innocent and pure perspective of a child, creating many heartwarming and humorous moments for viewers. It has been highly praised for its ability to convey meaningful messages, such as criticizing racial discrimination, championing the quest for freedom, and reminding everyone to reflect on human rights.
4 Dunkirk – The Dunkirk Evacuation
War Film: “The Dunkirk Evacuation”
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Release Date: 19/7/2017
Genre: Action, War, History
Duration: 106 minutes
Country: France, UK, United States
Director: Christopher Nolan
Starring: Fionn Whitehead, Tom Glynn-Carney, Jack Lowden, Harry Styles,…
Notable Awards: BAFTA Award for Sound
Watch Link: Updating
Set in Dunkirk, France, in 1940 during World War II, Dunkirk depicts the evacuation of Allied soldiers back to the UK via sea, amidst relentless attacks from Nazi Germany. Although a war film, Dunkirk does not portray direct confrontations between the two factions. It simply chronicles a journey of survival, skillfully told through three perspectives: the sea, the land, and the air.
With stunning visuals, the film creates a tense and gripping atmosphere, immersing viewers in the brutal reality of war. The Dunkirk Evacuation can be considered a profound artistic work, vividly portraying the will, courage, and instinctive choices of humans when faced with life or death.
5 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi – 13 Hours: Benghazi Secret Soldiers
13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi – 13 Hours: Benghazi Secret Soldiers
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Release Date: 22/01/2016
Genre: War, Action, History
Duration: 144 minutes
Country: United States
Director: Michael Bay
Starring: James Badge Dale, John Krasinski, Max Martini, Pablo Schreiber,…
Notable Awards: Updating
Watch Link: Updating
Based on a true story, 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi recounts the 13-hour battle for survival of six American special forces soldiers tasked with protecting 28 CIA personnel in Benghazi, Libya, during a fierce attack by Islamic extremists. With only six men, they fought relentlessly against heavily armed enemies.
The film features intense action sequences, vividly portraying the brutality of the fight against terrorism. It authentically captures the fierce battle of that year, with continuous suspenseful and gripping scenes. Through clever pacing, the film ensures viewers feel the tension and intensity of each event.
6 Hacksaw Ridge – Weaponless Hero
Hacksaw Ridge – Weaponless Hero
IMDb Rating: 8.1/10
Release Date:04/09/2016
Genre: War, Fiction
Duration: 139 minutes
Country: United States, UK
Director: Mel Gibson
Starring: Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey, Teresa Palmer
Notable Awards: Updating
Watch Link: Updating
The film focuses on the World War II experiences of Desmond T. Doss, a soldier who refused to carry a gun due to his religious beliefs. Despite this, he became a hero through his selfless actions and extraordinary courage, saving 75 comrades during a brutal battle.
The film’s visuals create a harrowing yet authentic portrayal of war. Beyond its war elements, the film skillfully incorporates emotional moments, ensuring it’s not overly grim. With impressive scenes, a powerful portrayal of camaraderie, and outstanding performances, it’s a must-watch film that inspires reflection.
7 Unbroken – Unyielding
Unbroken – Unyielding
IMDb Rating: 7.2/10
Release Date: 20/02/2015
Genre: Action, War, Fiction
Duration: 137 minutes
Country: United States
Director: Angelina Jolie
Starring: Jack O’Connell, Domhnall Gleeson, Miyavi,…
Notable Awards: Updating
Watch Link: Updating
Unbroken is a biographical film combined with war history, depicting the life of American hero Louis Zamperini. The film follows his journey as an Olympic athlete who survived 47 days on a raft after his bomber crashed into the sea during World War II. He was later captured and sent to a series of POW camps, where he endured brutal treatment by Japanese soldiers.
Unbroken is a long journey through Louis’s life, and viewers will undoubtedly be moved by his unwavering determination to pursue his ideals, never yielding to adversity.
8 Fury – Fury
War Film: Fury – Fury
IMDb Rating: 7.6/10
Release Date: 15/10/2014
Genre: Action, War
Duration: 134 minutes
Country: United States
Director: David Ayer
Starring: Brad Pitt, Logan Lerman, Shia LaBeouf, Michael Peña,…
Watch Link: VieON
Fury tells the story of a five-man crew on the American tank “Fury,” led by Sergeant Don. Alongside other tanks, Fury is tasked with clearing the way for the Allied advance into the final stronghold of Nazi Germany.
They face countless horrors and unrelenting tension in fierce battles, along with painful losses and difficult decisions. These experiences can alter personalities and deeply affect the human soul. The film’s dark tones and imagery authentically portray the brutality of war without excessive dramatization.
9 The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas – The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas – The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Release Date: 12/09/2008
Genre: Tragedy, War
Duration: 94 minutes
Country: UK, United States
Director: Mark Herman
Starring: Asa Butterfield, Jack Scanlon, Vera Farmiga, David Thewli,…
Notable Awards: British Independent Film Award for Best Actress
Watch Link: Updating
Based on the 2006 novel by John Boyne, the film is set during World War II and tells the story of Bruno, an 8-year-old boy whose father is a high-ranking Nazi officer. After his father’s promotion, the family moves to a new location, where Bruno discovers a group of prisoners in striped pajamas living in a nearby farm.
One day, Bruno sneaks to the fence and meets Shmuel, a boy his age. Despite the barbed wire separating them, they quickly become friends. Tragically, Bruno eventually sneaks into the extermination camp—a deadly machine created by his own father.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is told primarily through Bruno’s innocent and pure perspective, using a child’s viewpoint to expose the horrors of war. The film contains no gunfire, blood, or violence, yet it leaves viewers with a deeply painful, haunting, and infuriating ending.
10 Pearl Harbor – The Battle of Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor – The Battle of Pearl Harbor
IMDb Rating: 6.2/10
Release Date: 25/5/2001
Genre: War, History, Romance
Duration: 183 minutes
Country: United States
Director: Michael Bay
Starring: Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Kate Beckinsale, Cuba Gooding Jr.,…
Notable Awards: Updating
Watch Link: Updating
Pearl Harbor recreates one of the most devastating battles of World War II—the 1941 surprise attack by Japan on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The film portrays the brutal aerial assault, resulting in immense destruction and loss.
From romantic scenes to intense wartime action, Pearl Harbor offers a comprehensive view of this historic attack. It highlights the patriotism, love, and friendships of the characters amidst the chaos of war.
Above, we’ve introduced you to 10 incredibly compelling and meaningful war films that you shouldn’t miss. If you’re a fan of war films, don’t hesitate—save this list and enjoy these moments of relaxation with your family!
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