321 Gripping War Movies Spanning History's Toughest Battles
315 titles
- 101
The Battle: Roar to VictoryMovie · 2019 · 135m · History, Action, WarFor four days, Korean independence fighters clash fiercely with the Japanese army in Manchuria, China. The resistance group includes a skilled swordsman and a sharpshooter.IMDb 6.4TMDB 7.4 - 102
Zero Dark ThirtyMovie · 2012 · 157m · Thriller, DramaThis film chronicles the ten-year pursuit of al-Qaeda terrorist leader Osama bin Laden following the September 11, 2001 attacks, culminating in his death at the hands of Navy SEAL Team Six in May 2011.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 103
Red GhostMovie · 2021 · 96m · War, Drama, HistoryDecember 30, 1941. In the fierce battle of Vyazma, a small group of Soviet soldiers finds themselves facing a superior Wehrmacht unit. They refuse to surrender, each prepared to die defending their homeland. None of them were heroes before the war. The legend of the "Red Ghost" emerged – a tale of an ordinary Soviet soldier instilling deadly fear in German troops. As one fallen hero is replaced by another, the myth of the invincible Soviet soldier takes shape. "Red Ghost" tells the story of the hope that sustained every soldier.IMDb 6.2TMDB 5.9 - 104
A Midnight ClearMovie · 1992 · 108m · Drama, War, HistoryDuring World War II in France, American intelligence officers encounter a German platoon eager to surrender as Germany collapses. A temporary truce forms, leading to a spontaneous Christmas celebration between the opposing forces. But when their plans fall apart, the fragile peace shatters, and a violent conflict erupts. The film explores wartime sacrifice, the bonds of camaraderie, and the fight for survival as two groups of men are unexpectedly united during a pivotal holiday.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.5 - 105
Memphis BelleMovie · 1990 · 107m · Drama, War, Action"Memphis Belle" follows a young bomber crew during World War II as they undertake perilous missions over Europe in their plane, the "Memphis Belle." With just one more mission until they can return home, the crew prepares for a dangerous raid on Dresden. Their determination and bond are tested as they fly through treacherous skies, facing the possibility of great loss. The film portrays friendship, bravery, and sacrifice, offering a powerful look at the human experience of war and a final, critical mission in World War II.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 106
My Name Is SaraMovie · 2020 · 111mThis is the true story of Sara Góralnik, a 13-year-old Polish Jewish girl whose family was murdered by the Nazis in September 1942. After a difficult escape to the Ukrainian countryside, Sara assumes the identity of her Christian best friend and finds shelter in a small village. There, she is welcomed by a farmer and his wife, but soon uncovers troubling secrets about their marriage. This adds to the burden of the one secret she must protect above all else: her true identity.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 107
SunshineMovie · 1999 · 181m · Drama, History, RomanceThis moving historical drama follows three generations of a Jewish family living in the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Their lives change as they gain wealth and influence, but they struggle with questions of who they are and who they're loyal to, all while facing increasing government persecution. The family's head, a respected judge, is deeply troubled when his government's policies clash with his own beliefs. His son converts to Christianity to succeed as a fencer, but becomes caught up in the horrors of the Holocaust. Finally, his grandson, marked by war, revolution, and loss, discovers that his true path lies in embracing his own identity and heritage, and carving out a future in a turbulent world.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.4 - 108
They Fought for Their MotherlandMovie · 1975 · 158mIn July 1942, during World War II, the last Russian soldiers hold a vital bridgehead on the Don River as their comrades retreat across. Moving back into Russian territory, the soldiers demonstrate camaraderie, emotion, fear, and bravery in their defense of their homeland.IMDb 7.7TMDB 6.9 - 109
Captain Horatio Hornblower R.N.Movie · 1951 · 117m · Adventure, War, HistoryCaptain Horatio Hornblower commands the HMS Lydia on a challenging transatlantic voyage. His crew prepares for dangers including a Spanish warship and conflict with Central American rebels. The story highlights the bonds between the sailors, their bravery, and Hornblower's leadership during 19th-century naval battles.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 110
The BattalionMovie · 2015 · 120m · War, Action, DramaRussia, 1917. World War I. The film tells the story of the 1st Russian Women's Battalion of Death, created in late May 1917 by the Russian Provisional Government as part of a propaganda effort.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.6 - 111
GallipoliMovie · 1981 · 112m · War, History, DramaDuring World War I, Australian runners Archy and Frank join the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. Their athletic abilities and friendship create a strong bond as they face the difficult Dardanelles Campaign in Gallipoli. The eight-month battle pitted the British and their allies against the Ottoman Empire, causing over 500,000 casualties. The film follows Archy and Frank as they experience the harsh realities of war and maintain their determination amidst the chaos.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 112
Dongju: The Portrait of a PoetMovie · 2016 · 111mBased on a true story, the acclaimed Korean poet Yun Dong-ju is imprisoned and mistreated by the Japanese authorities for his involvement in the Korean independence movement.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.8 - 113
GreyhoundMovie · 2020 · 92m · War, Action, DramaA new captain commands a fleet of allied ships, transporting thousands of soldiers through the dangerous "Black Pit" to the WWII front lines. For five days without air support, the captain and his crew must fight off enemy Nazi U-boats to ensure the allies have a fighting chance.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.4 - 114
Tae Guk Gi: The Brotherhood of WarMovie · 2004 · 148m · Action, Adventure, DramaDuring the Korean War, two brothers find themselves fighting on opposite sides. The older brother consistently volunteers for the most dangerous assignments, hoping to keep his younger sibling safe from combat.IMDb 8.0TMDB 8.0 - 115
American SniperMovie · 2014 · 133m · War, ActionNavy SEAL Chris Kyle dedicates himself to protecting his fellow soldiers, becoming one of America's deadliest snipers. His exceptional skill saves many lives but also makes him a target for enemy fighters. Facing constant danger and struggling to balance his duties with family life, Kyle completes four tours in Iraq. Returning home, he discovers that the war continues to haunt him.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 116
Joyeux NoelMovie · 2005 · 116m · Drama, War, RomanceFrance, 1914. World War I. On Christmas Eve, an unexpected event occurs in the contested no man's land between French, Scottish, and German lines.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 117
Hotel MumbaiMovie · 2019 · 123m · Thriller, History, DramaOn November 26, 2008, Mumbai, India is targeted by terrorists. Attacks erupt throughout the city, including a siege of the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. Hotel staff and guests fight for survival, making desperate choices to protect themselves and others until rescue arrives.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.5 - 118
ResistanceMovie · 2020 · 120m · War, History, DramaThis is the story of Marcel Marceau, the renowned mime, and his collaboration with a group of Jewish boy scouts and the French Resistance during World War II. Together, they undertake a mission to safeguard the lives of ten thousand orphans.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.9 - 119
The Old GunMovie · 1975 · 103m · Drama, HistoryDuring World War II, in the besieged town of Montauban, surgeon Julien Dandieu prepares to flee. Anticipating a German invasion, he plans to take his wife and daughter to a remote village where he owns a castle. He enlists his friend Francois for safe passage, hoping for a peaceful escape. However, their plans change when Julien discovers the Germans have already reached the isolated village.
The film is a moving story of survival, loyalty, and sacrifice, set against the backdrop of wartime chaos. It explores the emotional toll of conflict as characters struggle to protect their families. Balancing suspense with heartfelt moments, the film highlights the strength and courage of ordinary people facing extraordinary circumstances.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.5 - 120
The English PatientMovie · 1996 · 162m · Drama, Romance, WarIn the mid-1930s, Hungarian cartographer Count Almásy joins a Royal Geographical Society expedition to map the vast Sahara Desert. He and his fellow researchers navigate the challenging landscape with skill and resolve. But as World War II approaches, their peaceful journey becomes entangled in a complex story of love, betrayal, and political unrest. The film portrays this pivotal historical period, exploring human emotions and the unexpected impact of war.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.1 - 121
Beneath Hill 60Movie · 2010 · 122m · Drama, History, WarThis is the true story of Australia's hidden war in World War I – a largely unknown and often misunderstood conflict fought in underground mines beneath the Western Front. It was a secret struggle that combined innovative engineering, technology, and science. Few above ground knew of the brave, cramped, and sometimes brutal work of these miners.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.8 - 122
GettysburgMovie · 1993 · 254m · Drama, History, WarSummer 1863. In Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, General Robert E. Lee's Confederate Army advances toward Washington D.C., hoping to secure victory for the Confederacy. Union Army Commander General George G. Meade develops a defensive strategy to stop Lee's advance, leading to a crucial battle in the American Civil War.
This historical drama explores the thoughts of both generals as they lead their armies through a devastating conflict. It portrays the strong resolve of the soldiers on both sides and examines the difficult choices and leadership challenges faced by these commanders during a time when the nation's future was at stake.IMDb 7.6TMDB 6.9 - 123
The OutpostMovie · 2020 · 123m · War, Drama, HistoryDeep in the Afghan mountains, a small group of American soldiers stationed at Combat Outpost Keating fights for survival when they are attacked by a massive, coordinated Taliban force. The Battle of Kamdesh, in 2009, was the deadliest battle for U.S. troops in Afghanistan to date and earned Bravo Troop 3-61 CAV recognition as one of the most decorated units of the long war.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.9 - 124
The PianistMovie · 2002 · 150m · Drama, WarThis is the true story of pianist Władysław Szpilman's life in Warsaw during the Nazi occupation. As the city's Jewish population is confined to a ghetto, Szpilman finds work performing in a café. When his family is deported in 1942, he remains in Warsaw, working as a laborer before ultimately going into hiding amidst the ruins of the war.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.4 - 125
Schindler's ListMovie · 1993 · 195m · Drama, History, WarThis is the true story of Oskar Schindler, a businessman who saved over a thousand Jewish lives during World War II. He provided them work in his factory, effectively shielding them from the Nazis' atrocities and forced labor.IMDb 9.0TMDB 8.6 - 126
BetrayedMovie · 2020 · 126m · Drama, History, WarDuring World War II, millions of Jews across Europe are deported and murdered in German concentration camps. Initially, Jews in Norway feel safe from the conflict when German troops invade. However, as the war intensifies, anti-Semitism spreads. Their radios are confiscated, passports marked with a "J," and men over 15 are arrested and imprisoned. Many women remain, fearful of escaping, anxiously awaiting the return of their husbands and sons. On November 26, 1942, hundreds of Jews are arrested at night and taken to Oslo's docks. Unaware and terrified, men, women, children, the sick, and the elderly are forced onto the German cargo ship "SS Donau." The ship departs with 532 Norwegian Jews – 302 men, 188 women, and 42 children – bound for Auschwitz.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.0 - 127
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the WorldMovie · 2003 · 138m · Adventure, Drama, WarFollowing a devastating attack by a French warship, a British Royal Navy captain launches a relentless chase across two oceans. He aims to capture or destroy the enemy vessel, but must balance his duty and ambition for glory against the well-being of his crew. Among them is the ship's surgeon, his closest friend, who offers thoughtful counsel.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.2 - 128
Come See the ParadiseMovie · 1990 · 133m · Drama, Romance, HistoryDuring World War II, this moving drama by Alan Parker examines love, sacrifice, and prejudice. It centers on Jack McGurn, a fugitive who finds work as a projectionist at a Los Angeles movie theater owned by Mr. Tanaka, a Japanese-American. A loving relationship develops between Jack and Mr. Tanaka’s daughter, Lily. Their romance faces opposition from her father, prompting them to secretly marry in Seattle.
Their lives change dramatically when the war begins and the government orders the internment of Japanese-Americans. Jack, despite his patriotism, confronts the painful consequences of this injustice on Lily's family. The film explores the difficulties of prejudice and the extent to which one man will fight for the woman he loves, all within a tense and uncertain historical context.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.2 - 129
The War BelowMovie · 2021 · 97m · War, Drama, HistoryIn World War I, a team of British miners is enlisted to dig tunnels beneath no man's land. Their mission: to plant bombs and disrupt the German lines during the Battle of Messines, aiming to end the war's brutal deadlock.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.6 - 130
Saturday Kitchen LiveMovie · 2008 · 118m · History, War, ActionMax Manus is a 2008 biographical war film about the life of Norwegian resistance fighter Max Manus (1914–96). The film chronicles Manus's activities from the start of World War II in Norway through to the end of the war and the return to peacetime in 1945, following his involvement in the Winter War against the Soviet Union.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.1 - 131
Pork Chop HillMovie · 1959 · 98mApril 1953, Korean War. Lieutenant Clemons commands King Company, US Infantry, tasked with retaking Pork Chop Hill from a strong Chinese Army presence. Meanwhile, a fragile cease-fire is being celebrated at the Panmunjom conference, just seventy miles away.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 132
LegionnaireMovie · 1998 · 98m · Action, War, AdventureIn Marseille, boxer Alain Lefevre is unknowingly caught in a criminal plot when he's paid to lose a fight. He unexpectedly wins, and with the mobster's girlfriend, Katrina, they plan to escape to America. Their attempt at freedom fails, forcing Alain to join the Foreign Legion. There, amidst camaraderie and hardship, he confronts his inner struggles and a demanding lieutenant, Steinkampf. Forming strong bonds with fellow legionnaires Luther, Mackintosh, and Rosetti, Alain learns about loyalty and resilience as he undergoes a profound personal transformation.IMDb 5.5TMDB 5.8 - 133
Green ZoneMovie · 2010 · 115m · War, Action, AdventureIn 2003, during the U.S.-led occupation of Baghdad, Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller and his Army inspection team are sent into the Iraqi desert to locate weapons of mass destruction. As they move from dangerous location to location, searching for chemical agents, they uncover a complex cover-up that challenges the true objective of their mission.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.5 - 134
Courage Under FireMovie · 1996 · 116m · Drama, Thriller, MysteryHaunted by a past mistake he kept hidden, a US Army officer is reassigned to a desk job. His assignment: determine if a female helicopter commander earned the Medal of Honor for her wartime heroism. The initial evidence is strong, but as he investigates, he uncovers subtle inconsistencies in witness accounts that cast doubt on the official story. Unraveling these contradictions forces the officer to confront his own guilt and the difficult truth that war often obscures clarity.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 135
Fortress of WarMovie · 2010 · 138m · War, Drama, HistoryThe film recounts the heroic defense of the Brest Fortress, which was attacked on June 22, 1941, during the initial German invasion. It details the fortress's early days of defense, focusing on three key resistance areas led by Regiment Commander Pyotr Mikhailovich Gavrilov, Commissar Efim Moiseevich Fomin, and the head of the 9th frontier outpost, Andrey Mitrofanovich Kizhevatov. Years later, veteran Alexander Akimov reflects on his memories of that time, recalling how the then 15-year-old Sasha Akimov was deeply in love with Anya before being thrust into the midst of war's brutal events.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 136
FlyboysMovie · 2006 · 138m · Action, Adventure, DramaThis is the story of the Lafayette Escadrille, a group of young Americans who joined the French military before America entered World War I. They became the nation's first fighter pilots, and their experiences shaped a new chapter in American history.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.5 - 137
GloryMovie · 1989 · 122m · Drama, History, WarDuring the American Civil War, Robert Gould Shaw commands the Union's first all-black volunteer unit. Leading these soldiers into battle, Shaw confronts both Confederate forces and prejudice from within his own army. The film explores courage, determination, and equality during a time of societal change and war. Shaw faces challenges earning his troops' respect and acceptance in a world resistant to their equal place in the fight. This gripping story examines the human spirit's strength against overwhelming obstacles, offering a unique view of a pivotal historical period.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 138
The Round UpMovie · 2010 · 115m · Drama, History, WarThis film recounts the events of the 1942 Vel' d'Hiv Roundup, a significant historical event. It details the circumstances and happenings surrounding this period.IMDb 7.1TMDB 7.5 - 139
The Zookeeper's WifeMovie · 2017 · 126m · Drama, History, WarThis is the story of Jan and Antonina Zabinski, the keepers of the Warsaw Zoo, who risked their lives to protect hundreds of people and animals when the Nazis invaded.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.3 - 140
The HuntersMovie · 1958 · 108mBased on the acclaimed novel by James Salter, *The Hunters* is a captivating film featuring thrilling aerial action and a strong ensemble cast. The story unfolds during the Korean War, focusing on Major Cleve Saville (Robert Mitchum), an expert pilot of the advanced F-86 Sabre fighter planes. While skilled in the air, Saville's personal life deteriorates as he develops a relationship with the wife of his wingman (Lee Philips). Adding to the complications, Saville must navigate a dangerous rescue mission alongside a brash new pilot (Robert Wagner), putting their lives at risk in this meticulously made war drama.IMDb 6.4TMDB 5.7 - 141
The Heroes of TelemarkMovie · 1965 · 131m · Action, Drama, WarDuring World War II, Nazi Germany occupies Norway, pushing local resistance fighters to take covert action. Knut Straud, a seasoned fighter, sees a chance in Rolf Pedersen, a physicist whose knowledge of German nuclear plans could be crucial. Rolf hesitates to join, troubled by the use of his science for war, but agrees when the situation becomes dire. He joins Knut on a daring mission to sabotage a key German heavy water plant in rural Telemark. This wartime story highlights the courage and resourcefulness of ordinary Norwegians fighting against a powerful enemy, all within the stunning backdrop of occupied Norway.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.9 - 142
AnzioMovie · 1968 · 117m · War, Action, DramaDuring World War II, American soldiers land in Italy with little expected opposition, hoping for a quick advance to Rome. Instead, they face a determined German defense that forces a long and difficult battle. The film examines the psychological impact of this unexpected resistance on the soldiers and their leaders, as their plans are disrupted. Beautiful Italian scenery contrasts with the brutal reality of war. Through personal stories, the movie explores friendship, strength, and the human cost of war, offering a close look at a lesser-known part of World War II.IMDb 6.0TMDB 5.6 - 143
The Emperor in AugustMovie · 2015 · 136mIn July 1945, as World War II nears its end, Japan accepts the Potsdam Declaration. A lengthy cabinet meeting continues without resolution. The United States then drops atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. General Korechika Anami struggles with the decision-making process, while the Emperor of Japan is concerned for his people. Prime Minister Kantaro Suzuki leads the cabinet meeting, observed by Chief Secretary Hisatsune Sakomizu. Meanwhile, Major Kenji Hatanaka and other young officers oppose surrender and attempt to seize the palace and a radio station intended to broadcast the Emperor's announcement of the war's end.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.4 - 144
Breaker MorantMovie · 1980 · 107m · Drama, History, WarDuring the Boer War, three young Australian lieutenants are unfairly targeted by a tribunal after executing captured Boer prisoners. They followed orders from their superiors, but are now being blamed as the military leadership tries to distance itself from controversial wartime actions. The trial becomes unexpectedly complex as the defense fiercely advocates for the accused officers in court. This gripping drama explores themes of loyalty, guilt, and the difficult choices between obedience and personal accountability.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.1 - 145
The Cranes Are FlyingMovie · 1957 · 97m · Drama, Romance, WarDuring World War II in Moscow, Veronika and Boris meet by the river and feel an immediate connection, sharing a sense of hope before war breaks out. They promise to meet again before Boris goes to war, but their reunion doesn't happen. Veronika waits for him, holding their connection together through letters. Her life changes when a bombing destroys her home, and she finds refuge with Boris' family. There, she experiences family love and deals with the unwanted attention of Boris' cousin. The film explores themes of love, loss, and survival as the characters navigate the uncertainties of war, reflecting the resilience and complexity of Moscow itself.IMDb 8.3TMDB 7.9 - 146
K-19: The WidowmakerMovie · 2002 · 138m · Drama, History, ThrillerDuring its first voyage, Russia's pioneering nuclear submarine experiences a critical malfunction. The crew is forced into a desperate race against time to repair the vessel and avert a potential nuclear catastrophe.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.5 - 147
Walking with the EnemyMovie · 2014 · 124m · Action, Drama, HistoryRegent Horthy leads Hungary as a German ally, but his relationship with Hitler deteriorates as the war nears its end. Faced with the threat of his son's execution, Horthy surrenders Hungary's control to the Nazis. The Nazis immediately begin rounding up Hungarians, sending them to ghettos and death camps. Hope seems lost until a young man named Elek appears. Separated from his family during the deportations, and with the help of the woman he loves, Elek chooses to fight back by infiltrating the Nazi ranks as an officer. He races against time to rescue his family and thousands of fellow Hungarians.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.3 - 148
Playing for TimeMovie · 1980 · 150m · Drama, Music, HistoryDuring World War II, in the midst of the Holocaust, a young Jewish singer is forcibly taken from her life and sent to Auschwitz. Even in this horrific place, music persists.
She and other gifted prisoners are forced to perform for fellow inmates who will soon be murdered. Their songs become a symbol of strength and a powerful reminder of the extremes people will endure when confronted with unimaginable evil.
The film explores hope, survival, and the power of music, avoiding sensationalism while offering a moving look at the human spirit in the face of darkness.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.8 - 149
Inglourious BasterdsMovie · 2009 · 153m · Drama, Thriller, WarDuring World War II in Nazi-occupied France, a unit of Jewish-American soldiers called "The Basterds" is tasked with spreading terror within the Third Reich through brutal acts of violence against Nazis. Led by Lieutenant Aldo Raine, The Basterds encounter a French-Jewish teenager who operates a movie theater in Paris – a theater that becomes a target for the soldiers.IMDb 8.4TMDB 8.2 - 150
The Human Condition I: No Greater LoveMovie · 1959 · 206m · War, Drama, HistoryIn early 20th century Manchuria, Kaji, recently finished with a report on Chinese labor, is offered a significant promotion: chief of labor for a large mining operation. This position offers career advancement and exempts him from military service. Hoping to improve working conditions for the laborers, Kaji accepts and moves to Manchuria with his wife Michiko.
There, he discovers that his desire for humane treatment faces opposition from manipulative officials, cruel supervisors, and a powerful military police. As Kaji tries to navigate the complex political landscape of Manchuria, his optimistic ideals are repeatedly challenged by the brutal realities he encounters. The film examines power imbalances, human rights abuses, and the fight for fairness within a corrupt system.IMDb 8.5TMDB 8.1 - 151
The TrenchMovie · 1999 · 98m · War, History"The Trench" follows a small group of young British soldiers in 1916 as they prepare for the Battle of the Somme, a pivotal and devastating day in World War I. The film presents a close and realistic look at the intense feelings of these men trapped in a trench on the front lines. They struggle with the boredom of their situation, increasing fears, sudden panic, and constant restlessness. This powerful story unflinchingly shows the psychological impact of war and reminds us of the human cost of one of history's deadliest battles.IMDb 5.9TMDB 5.4 - 152
DefianceMovie · 2008 · 137m · Action, Drama, HistoryDuring World War II, four Jewish brothers flee Nazi-occupied West Belarus in Poland and join the Soviet partisans to fight against the Nazis. The brothers then undertake a mission to rescue approximately 1,200 Jews still confined to ghettos throughout Poland.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.8 - 153
Ballad of a SoldierMovie · 1959 · 89m · Drama, Romance, WarDuring World War II, a sincere young Russian soldier named Alyosha Skvortsov receives a temporary leave for bravery. He travels home to see his mother, but his kind heart leads him to help others. He meets Shura, a captivating young girl whose life he wants to make better. As Alyosha journeys through war-torn lands, his determination to maintain hope highlights human compassion and strength during a dark time in history.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 154
The Deer HunterMovie · 1978 · 183m · Drama, WarDuring the Vietnam War, a group of working-class friends join the military, but their idealistic hopes quickly shatter as they face the brutal reality of war. The friends' loyalty and strength are severely tested as their initial mission becomes a deeply disillusioning experience. Personal relationships are strained: Steven hastily marries his pregnant girlfriend before leaving, while Michael and Nick both fall for the same woman, creating intense emotional conflict. Their return home profoundly changes each friend, irrevocably altering their futures.IMDb 8.1TMDB 8.0 - 155
The Enemy BelowMovie · 1957 · 97m · WarDuring World War II, a tense battle unfolds between an American destroyer escort, the USS Haynes, and a German U-Boat. The crew engages in a dangerous game of pursuit and evasion, relying on their wits and resourcefulness to survive. The film highlights the strategic maneuvers and desperate measures taken by both sides as they fight for an advantage. Amidst the conflict, the USS Haynes crew demonstrates camaraderie and courage in the face of overwhelming danger.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.0 - 156
The Diary of Anne FrankMovie · 1959 · 180m · Drama, HistoryDuring World War II in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, a young Jewish girl and her family seek refuge in an attic with friends to avoid capture. Inside, they face intense emotional challenges as they try to stay human amidst terrible hardship. The attic becomes both a safe place and a prison, testing their fears, biases, and strength. As time passes, the group struggles with limited supplies, growing suspicion, and the risk of betrayal.
The film explores courage, togetherness, and the determination to survive when facing impossible circumstances. With powerful acting and a detailed setting, it offers a personal look at those who risked everything to resist oppression and protect their families. It’s a stark reminder of a dark period in history and a tribute to the human spirit's power.IMDb 7.4TMDB 7.2 - 157
Munich – The Edge of WarMovie · 2021 · 130m · Drama, HistoryIn 1938, at the high-stakes Munich Conference, two former friends, now working for different governments, are forced to become reluctant spies. They must race against time to uncover a dangerous secret hidden by the Nazis.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.9 - 158
The Cruel SeaMovie · 1953 · 126m · Drama, History, WarDuring World War II, Commander Ericson commands HMS Compass Rose, a convoy escort filled with inexperienced officers and sailors. The crew faces brutal winter seas and the difficult task of rescuing survivors from U-Boat attacks. Unable to fight back against the submarines, they develop strong bonds to cope with the emotional strain of their dangerous missions, both at sea and ashore. The story follows Commander Ericson and his first officer as they navigate the hardships of war and the toll it takes on those involved.IMDb 7.4TMDB 6.9 - 159
The InnocentsMovie · 2016 · 115m · Drama, HistoryPoland, 1945. Mathilde, a young French doctor with the Red Cross, travels to aid war survivors. She's asked for help at a convent where several nuns are hiding, pregnant and struggling with their faith. Mathilde becomes their last chance.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.0 - 160
Submarine X-1Movie · 1968 · 89mFollowing the loss of his submarine and fifty crew in a World War II battle against a German vessel, a Royal Navy officer is offered a new opportunity in a risky mission using small submarines.IMDb 5.3TMDB 6.0 - 161
Into the DarknessMovie · 2020 · 152m · Drama, War, HistoryKarlskov is a successful entrepreneur who owns a large electronics factory and enjoys a comfortable life with his wife and five children in upper-class Copenhagen. Their privileged existence is disrupted when the Nazis occupy Denmark in April 1940. Karl struggles to keep his factory running, but to safeguard his family and workers, he reluctantly starts producing goods for the German military. This decision leads him into a difficult collaboration with the occupiers, creating deep divisions within his family.IMDb 6.5TMDB 6.1 - 162
The BridgeMovie · 1959 · 103m · Drama, History, WarBased on Gregor Dorfmeister's anti-war novel, the film follows a group of young German boys guarding a small bridge in their hometown as World War II ends. While exhausted soldiers retreat from American forces, the boys cling to Nazi ideals of "blood and honor."
The movie explores how war affects not only soldiers but also young people, who are deeply influenced by a violent ideology they don't fully grasp. It’s an emotional story about how wartime propaganda can mislead and blind young minds, leading to tragic outcomes.
The film contrasts the boys' naive beliefs with the brutal reality of war. It's a heartbreaking look at the horrors of conflict and a reminder of the need to question the world around us.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.5 - 163
A Woman in BerlinMovie · 2008 · 131m · Drama, War, HistoryDuring the final days of World War II, a woman struggles to survive as Soviet troops invade Berlin.IMDb 7.0TMDB 6.6 - 164
Cast a Giant ShadowMovie · 1966 · 146m · War, DramaThis historical drama follows a skilled American Army officer who becomes involved in the fight for Israel's survival. He uses his military skills in a conflict that challenges his values, navigating the country's complex political and religious situation as neighboring Arab nations threaten war after Israel's declaration of partition. The officer must confront his own identity and lead the inexperienced Israeli forces into an uncertain war. It's an inspiring story about loyalty, responsibility, and the strength of the human spirit when facing impossible challenges.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.2 - 165
The Angry HillsMovie · 1959 · 105mIn 1941 Greece, just before the German invasion, cynical American foreign correspondent Michael Morrison arrives in Athens with plans to leave for London the next day. He's then tricked into smuggling a list of resistance leaders out of the country and becomes a target for the pursuing Germans.IMDb 5.7TMDB 4.4 - 166
ShenandoahMovie · 1965 · 105m · Western, WarCharlie Anderson is a farmer living a peaceful life in Shenandoah, Virginia, with his family. His quiet existence is disrupted when the Civil War begins – a war he doesn't want to be a part of. But when Union soldiers capture his youngest son during a raid, Charlie’s personal struggle becomes intertwined with the war. Forced into the conflict, he undertakes a dangerous journey to save his son and protect his family. The film follows Anderson’s fight as a father desperate to rescue his child and as a man tested by the brutal realities of war, forcing him to confront his deepest beliefs.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.9 - 167
The Thin Red LineMovie · 1998 · 171m · Drama, History, War"C-for-Charlie" follows a U.S. Army rifle company through the brutal battle for Guadalcanal during World War II. The film shows their transformation from a surprising first landing into a fight for survival against relentless enemy forces, emphasizing their physical and emotional strength. As the soldiers face the war's harsh realities and make sacrifices, they discover new things about themselves through hardship. The story concludes with the survivors returning home, permanently marked by their experiences in this critical Pacific battle.IMDb 7.6TMDB 7.4 - 168
Victor Young PerezMovie · 2013 · 103mVictor Perez was a Jewish boxer who won the world flyweight championship in 1931 and 1932. In 1943, when Paris fell to the Nazis, he was sent to the Auschwitz concentration camp. There, he was forced into slave labor and compelled to fight in brutal boxing matches for the entertainment of the Nazi guards. Surviving Auschwitz tells the astonishing, harrowing, brutal, and deeply moving true story of his experience.IMDb 6.3TMDB 5.9 - 169
The Burmese HarpMovie · 1956 · 117m · Drama, WarDuring the final months of World War II, this drama follows a Japanese soldier who becomes separated from his unit while traveling through Burma. To survive and avoid becoming a prisoner of war, he disguises himself as a Buddhist monk. This risky disguise provides him with cover in the war-torn landscape and introduces him to a spiritual world apart from the conflict. The film explores themes of identity, sacrifice, and human resilience as the protagonist journeys through a country with deep traditions. He discovers the importance of faith and compassion, offering a moving look at the human experience.IMDb 8.0TMDB 7.9 - 170
The PromiseMovie · 2016 · 133m · History, Romance, DramaIn the final years of the Ottoman Empire, a love triangle forms between Mikael, a gifted medical student; Ana, a striking and cultured artist; and Chris, a celebrated American journalist working in Paris.IMDb 6.1TMDB 6.9 - 171
AndersonvilleMovie · 1996 · 167m · War, Drama, TV MovieThis documentary film explores the harsh conditions endured by Union soldiers in a Civil War prisoner-of-war camp. It follows a group of captured soldiers after the Battle of Cold Harbor in June 1864, as they are moved to a camp in southern Georgia, vividly depicting their harrowing experiences.
The story centers on Private Josiah Day and his sergeant, who must cope with unsanitary conditions, harsh punishments, and a dangerous group of fellow prisoners called the Raiders. The film portrays the soldiers' determination to maintain order and support each other despite their suffering. Through this dramatic account, viewers gain insight into the psychological and physical hardships of imprisonment during the war, contrasting life on the battlefield with captivity.IMDb 7.3TMDB 6.5 - 172
The Photographer of MauthausenMovie · 2018 · 111m · Drama, History, ThrillerSpanish photographer Francesc Boix is a prisoner at the Mauthausen-Gusen concentration camp, working for the SS Photographic Service. From 1943 to 1945, he secretly hides thousands of negatives with fellow prisoners, intending to expose the Nazis' atrocities to a liberated world through his exhaustive documentation. He later becomes a crucial witness during the Nuremberg Trials.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.0 - 173
633 SquadronMovie · 1964 · 102m · Drama, WarDuring World War II, Lieutenant Erik Bergman discovers the location of a heavily defended German V-2 rocket fuel plant. This information is given to the Royal Air Force's 633 Squadron, who must destroy it. The plant is hidden beneath a cliff at the end of a fjord and protected by anti-aircraft guns.
Because the plant is hard to reach, 633 Squadron plans a risky mission: to collapse the cliff onto the facility, destroying it. As they prepare, the pilots face huge challenges and potential disaster with every mistake.
This exciting story of bravery, clever planning, and overcoming impossible odds will captivate viewers.IMDb 6.4TMDB 6.1 - 174
My Boy JackMovie · 2007 · 93m · Drama, HistoryDuring World War I, Rudyard Kipling and his wife embark on a desperate search for their 17-year-old son who has gone missing.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.6 - 175
Taxi for TobrukMovie · 1961 · 95m · History, Drama, WarDuring World War II, a team of French commandos becomes stranded in the African desert as enemy forces surround them. They unexpectedly join forces with a German officer, bound together by their need to survive.
The film explores themes of friendship and perseverance as these soldiers, on opposite sides of the war, face dangerous landscapes and life-threatening situations in their attempt to escape. The story is tense and reflective, examining how desperation can create unlikely alliances.
This intense war movie highlights the strength of the human spirit, even in conflict, when people form connections despite being enemies. It prompts viewers to consider the complexities of loyalty and duty during wartime, offering a powerful cinematic experience.IMDb 7.2TMDB 7.1 - 176
Welcome to SarajevoMovie · 1997 · 103m · War, Drama, HistoryA group of determined journalists navigate the dangers of Sarajevo, a city devastated by war and constant attacks. Amidst the chaos, an American aid worker works to rescue children. A British reporter, deeply affected by an orphaned girl's situation, decides to take her to London. This decision sparks a transformative journey that challenges their beliefs and explores the power of compassion during wartime.IMDb 6.7TMDB 6.4 - 177
The Pride and the PassionMovie · 1957 · 132m · War, History, RomanceDuring the Napoleonic Wars, France occupies Spain, sparking resistance. A determined group of Spanish guerrilla soldiers undertakes a risky mission: to transport a large cannon across the country. Its placement would significantly aid the British against the French, making the journey perilous.
A young British officer joins the Spanish fighters to oversee the operation. As they face difficult terrain and numerous challenges, he develops feelings for the leader's passionate love interest. This growing romance adds emotional depth as loyalties are tested and alliances shift.
This historical drama depicts a daring operation during a pivotal moment in European history, exploring themes of love, courage, and loyalty during wartime.IMDb 5.7TMDB 6.0 - 178
Fanny's JourneyMovie · 2016 · 94m · Drama, HistoryIn 1943, Fanny, a Jewish girl in a French orphanage, and her friends are forced to flee to Switzerland as the Nazis close in. When their guide vanishes, Fanny must take charge, leading the other children on a perilous journey over the mountains.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.2 - 179
My Best Friend Anne FrankMovie · 2021 · 103m · History, War, DramaThis film tells the story of the real-life friendship between Anne Frank and Hannah Goslar, following their bond from Nazi-occupied Amsterdam to their difficult reunion in a concentration camp.IMDb 6.3TMDB 6.8 - 180
Full Metal JacketMovie · 1987 · 117m · Drama, WarDetective Reno Raines is wrongly accused of a brutal murder and must go on the run to clear his name. He becomes a bounty hunter, searching for redemption while navigating a world where it's hard to know who to trust. As Lieutenant Dixon’s pursuit grows more desperate, Reno wages an unconventional war against crime, blurring the lines of right and wrong. His journey is a dangerous fight against corruption, driven by his unwavering pursuit of truth and justice.IMDb 8.2TMDB 8.1 - 181
BreakthroughMovie · 1979 · 93m · Drama, History, WarIn late May 1944, as German forces retreat from the Eastern Front, Captain Stransky orders Sergeant Steiner to destroy a railway tunnel to block the advancing Russians. Steiner's platoon is unsuccessful due to an encounter with a Russian tank. Shortly after, Steiner takes a leave to Paris, coinciding with the start of the Allied invasion of Normandy.IMDb 5.0TMDB 5.7 - 182
The Desert Fox: The Story of RommelMovie · 1951 · 88m · Action, Drama, HistoryThe film examines the life and military career of German General Erwin Rommel, known as the Desert Fox for his skill in World War II. It follows his involvement in a risky plot to assassinate Adolf Hitler, believing it could save Germany from the dictator's rule.
The movie portrays Rommel’s dedication to his country alongside his increasing disapproval of the Nazis’ cruelty and his belief that removing Hitler is necessary for Germany's future. The audience sees a conflicted man struggling between loyalty and his sense of duty to humanity as he confronts Hitler's leadership.
As the plot progresses, the danger intensifies. The film builds suspense, keeping viewers engaged until the conclusion. Combining historical detail with a compelling story, it offers a new look at World War II, focusing on the personal challenges faced by a highly respected military leader.IMDb 6.9TMDB 6.7 - 183
The Yellow BirdsMovie · 2018 · 96m · War, DramaDuring the Iraq War, two young soldiers, Bartle and Murph, face the dangers of combat under the leadership of Sergeant Sterling, who carries his own burdens. Throughout their deployment, Bartle is haunted by a promise he made to Murph's mother before they left home.IMDb 5.8TMDB 6.0 - 184
The Great RaidMovie · 2005 · 132m · Action, History, WarDuring World War II, the highly trained Sixth Ranger Battalion undertakes a critical mission: infiltrate enemy territory, traveling 30 miles behind the lines to rescue over 500 American prisoners of war.IMDb 6.6TMDB 6.5 - 185
Flags of Our FathersMovie · 2006 · 135m · War, Drama, HistoryJoe Rosenthal captured the iconic image of five Marines and one Navy Corpsman raising the American flag on Mount Suribachi on February 23, 1945. This film tells the story of three of the six surviving men who were part of the team that fought to capture Iwo Jima from the Japanese.IMDb 7.1TMDB 6.9 - 186
Is Paris Burning?Movie · 1966 · 173m · War, Drama, HistoryAs World War II nears its end, German General Dietrich von Choltitz receives a devastating order: destroy Paris if the city falls to the Allies or if he loses control. Troubled by the thought of destroying the city, von Choltitz defies his orders and chooses not to carry them out. This sparks hope among Parisian resistance groups who believe their city will be freed. Von Choltitz then forms an unexpected alliance with Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling and helps a leader in the French resistance plan to expel the Germans and bring freedom back to Paris.IMDb 6.8TMDB 7.2 - 187
DownfallMovie · 2004 · 155m · Drama, History, WarApril 1945. With the Soviet Army advancing from the east and the Allied forces attacking from the west, Germany faces imminent defeat. In Berlin, Adolf Hitler declares Germany will still win and orders his generals to fight to the death. When Hitler dies by suicide, the remaining German military must find a way to stop the fighting and surrender.IMDb 8.2TMDB 7.9 - 188
MunichMovie · 2005 · 164m · Drama, History, ThrillerAt the 1972 Munich Olympics, eleven Israeli athletes are captured and killed by the Palestinian terrorist organization Black September. In response, the Israeli government assembles a team of Mossad agents to hunt down and eliminate those who carried out the attack.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.1 - 189
Escape from MogadishuMovie · 2021 · 121m · War, Action, ThrillerStranded in Mogadishu by the sudden outbreak of civil war, diplomats from North and South Korea's embassies make a risky joint effort to escape.IMDb 7.0TMDB 7.1 - 190
The Last SamuraiMovie · 2003 · 154m · Drama, Action, WarAmerican Nathan Algren is hired by the Japanese army to teach them modern warfare. While doing so, he begins to admire the samurai and their code of honor. However, when Algren is ordered to destroy the samurai's traditional way of life to promote modernization and trade, he chooses to become a warrior himself and fight for their survival.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.6 - 191
The 317th PlatoonMovie · 1965 · 100m · War, History, DramaIn Laos, 1954, eight days before the French defeat in the Indochina war, a group of soldiers embarks on a dangerous retreat. The 317th platoon – four French soldiers and 41 Laotian fighters – must journey from their outpost to join French forces at Diên Biên Phu. Leading them are sous-lieutenant Torrens, a new military graduate, and adjutant Willsdorf, a veteran of World War II who previously served in the Wehrmacht.
Their 150-kilometer trek through dense jungle is fraught with relentless rain, difficult conditions, and constant danger from Viet-minh ambushes. As they struggle forward, the soldiers grapple with their own fears and doubts while building a fragile bond between French and Laotian troops. The film examines camaraderie, sacrifice, and the complexities of war through the experiences of this diverse group as they navigate a challenging environment.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.4 - 192
The Killing FieldsMovie · 1984 · 142mNew York Times reporter Sydney Schanberg is in Cambodia covering the Civil War, working with local interpreter Dith Pran and photographer Al Rockoff. As U.S. troops withdraw and violence increases, Schanberg helps Pran and his family leave. But Pran insists on staying behind to report on the escalating conflict – a choice that could have devastating consequences as the Khmer Rouge gains ground.IMDb 7.8TMDB 7.5 - 193
The Dirty DozenMovie · 1967 · 149m · Action, Adventure, WarDuring World War II, twelve American military prisoners are tasked with infiltrating a heavily fortified Nazi château. Their mission: to assassinate the Nazi officers vacationing within. The soldiers, many of whom are facing death sentences for past violent offenses, accept the dangerous assignment in exchange for the possibility of having their sentences commuted.IMDb 7.7TMDB 7.6 - 194
Stalag 17Movie · 1953 · 120m · Comedy, Drama, WarChristmas brings a somber mood to Stalag 17, where a group of American POWs are held in Germany during World War II. The sergeants of Barracks 4 face a dangerous problem: a security breach within their group. Suspicion grows, and tensions escalate as the prisoners grapple with betrayal and the difficulties of captivity. Forced to confront each other, they struggle to maintain trust while facing a precarious situation. This story explores friendship, loyalty, and resilience in the face of hardship, offering a stark look at life behind enemy lines during wartime.IMDb 7.9TMDB 7.7 - 195
The ColtMovie · 2005 · 83mAmidst the Civil War, a seemingly innocent foal is born to Union soldier Jim Rabb's mare. Despite orders to eliminate it, Rabb keeps the colt as a source of hope during a desperate time. The foal inspires the men of the First Cavalry on a journey toward self-discovery and a stronger bond with each other.IMDb 6.5TMDB 5.6 - 196
Calm at SeaMovie · 2012 · 90mOctober 1941. Eighteen months after the German occupation of France began, young Communist members of the Resistance kill a German Army officer. Hitler demands the deaths of 150 Frenchmen as punishment, targeting mostly young men suspected of supporting the assassins. A 35-year-old French administrator is tasked with selecting the victims from an internment camp for those opposing the occupation. Despite pleas from the parish priest to appeal to their conscience, both the German military and their French collaborators strictly obey the orders.IMDb 6.8TMDB 6.4 - 197
13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of BenghaziMovie · 2016 · 144m · War, Action, HistoryDuring a violent attack on a U.S. compound in Libya, an American Ambassador is killed. A security team is left trying to understand the unfolding chaos.IMDb 7.3TMDB 7.3 - 198
Winter of The BravesMovie · 2019 · 110m · History, War, DramaUkraine, 1918. The film follows patriotic students preparing to defend Kyiv and fight in the Battle of Kruty. Set against this historical backdrop is the story of the Savytskyi family: a general in Ukraine's counterintelligence and his two sons, Andrii and Oleksa.IMDb 5.9TMDB 6.6 - 199
The Hunt for Red OctoberMovie · 1990 · 135m · Action, Adventure, ThrillerThis suspenseful thriller follows the Red October, a highly advanced Soviet nuclear submarine commanded by Captain Marko Ramius, as it heads toward the U.S. coast. The American government suspects an attack is planned. CIA analyst Jack Ryan believes Ramius intends to defect, not attack. But with the Soviet navy and air force hunting the submarine and his own government doubting him, Ryan must race against time to prove his theory is correct. A thrilling chase begins as Ryan fights to succeed before it's too late.IMDb 7.5TMDB 7.4 - 200
SisuMovie · 2022 · 91m · Action, WarA former soldier finds gold while exploring the wilderness of Lapland. He attempts to transport the treasure to the city, but is pursued by ruthless German soldiers commanded by a harsh SS officer.IMDb 6.9TMDB 7.4
