The 20 Best Movies About Battleships
Vote on your favorite movies about battleships - movies that predominantly feature a battleship.
- Photo: Lionsgate111 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, War, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Offering a fresh take on one of World War II’s most decisive battles, Roland Emmerich’s 2019 version of Midway delivers a visually stunning and immersive cinematic experience. The film’s state-of-the-art visual effects breathe new life into the legendary naval conflict, placing viewers at the heart of the action as they witness battleships and aircraft carriers unleashing their full might in spectacular fashion. This modern adaptation pays homage to history while providing contemporary audiences with an unforgettable journey through a pivotal moment in time.On Dec. 7, 1941, Japanese forces launch a devastating attack on Pearl Harbor, the U.S. naval base in Hawaii. Six months later, the Battle of Midway commences on June 4, 1942, as the Japanese navy once again plans a strike against American ships in the Pacific. For the next three days, the U.S. Navy and a squad of brave fighter pilots engage the enemy in one of the most important and decisive battles of World War II. - Photo: Greyhound217 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Action, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Based on C.S. Forester's novel The Good Shepherd, Greyhound follows U.S. Navy Commander Ernest Krause (Tom Hanks) as he leads a convoy through treacherous waters during World War II while being hunted by German U-boats. Masterfully showcasing tactics employed in naval combat at its most intense, this tense thriller immerses viewers into an unforgiving ocean battlefield marked by bravery and sacrifice. The film's gripping portrayal of submarine warfare highlights just how vital battleships were in ensuring safe passage for vital supplies across the Atlantic during this tumultuous era.U.S. Navy Cmdr. Ernest Krause is assigned to lead an Allied convoy across the Atlantic during World War II. His convoy, however, is pursued by German U-boats. Although this is Krause's first wartime mission, he finds himself embroiled in what would come to be known as the longest, largest and most complex naval battle in history: The Battle of the Atlantic. - Photo: 20th Century Fox
For Fans Of: Action, Adventure, Drama, War
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Enter a thrilling adventure set during the Napoleonic Wars that captures relentless pursuit between two powerful warships - HMS Surprise and French privateer Acheron. This critically acclaimed movie showcases riveting naval combat scenes along with intricate details about ship operations during this era. The camaraderie and resilience displayed by Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe) and his crew inspire viewers while offering an authentic portrayal of life aboard historic battleships.An epic maritime adventure unfolds in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. The film features Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe) at the helm, steering his ship, HMS Surprise, through treacherous seas during the Napoleonic wars. The determined Dr. Stephen Maturin (Paul Bettany) serves as ship's surgeon, a contrasting character to the fiery captain. Together, they face French warship Acheron in a high-stakes naval chase across two oceans. Directed by Peter Weir, this historical drama won two Academy Awards for Cinematography and Sound Editing. - Photo: Universal Pictures418 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, War, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: This gripping tale of the Battle of Midway showcases intense naval warfare and heroism, highlighting the strategic importance of battleships in World War II. The film masterfully recreates the events leading up to the pivotal battle, immersing viewers into a world where the stakes are high and bravery is paramount. History buffs and naval enthusiasts will appreciate the attention to detail in capturing the epic struggle between American and Japanese forces.In this dramatization of the Battle of Midway during World War II, U.S. Navy Adm. Chester Nimitz (Henry Fonda) leads an outnumbered unit in the Pacific to break Japanese encryption codes. They soon discover that Adm. Yamamoto (Toshirô Mifune) plans an ambush of the U.S. base on the island of Midway. Capt. Matt Garth (Charlton Heston) helps devise the Navy's strategy, while his pilot son, Tom (Edward Albert), falls in love with a Japanese-American woman who is headed for an internment camp. - Photo: Sink the Bismarck!515 VOTES
For Fans Of: Drama, Action, War, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Delve into a high-stakes game of cat and mouse as British forces pursue Germany's most powerful battleship, the Bismarck. This classic war film painstakingly depicts the intricate strategies employed by both sides during World War II, spotlighting the significance of battleships in warfare. The gripping tension and authentic portrayal of naval tactics make Sink the Bismarck! an enthralling watch for maritime enthusiasts.Based on the true story of the hunt for the Nazi super-battleship Bismark, this film follows the valiant attempts of the British Admiralty's chief of operations, Captain Jonathan Shepard (Kenneth More), and his team as they gather intelligence and launch an offensive against the dreaded German juggernaut. Midway through the operation, Shepard is shocked to discover his old rival, Admiral Günther Lütjens (Karel Stepanek), is at the helm of the Bismarck, and the mission suddenly becomes personal. - Photo: 20th Century Fox614 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, Drama, War, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Experience a meticulously crafted retelling of the Pearl Harbor attack through both American and Japanese perspectives, showcasing how battleships played a significant role in shaping history. The film's stunning visual effects (for its time) bring to life aerial assaults on powerful warships, transporting viewers into an intense and immersive conflict at sea. This historical drama provides fascinating insights into military strategy, heroics, as well as human tragedy.This dramatic retelling of the Pearl Harbor attack details everything in the days that led up to that tragic moment in American history. As United States and Japanese relations strain over the U.S. embargo of raw materials, Air Staff Officer Minoru Genda (Tatsuya Mihashi) plans the preemptive strike against the United States. Although American intelligence agencies intercept Japanese communications hinting at the attack, they are unwilling to believe such a strike could ever occur on U.S. soil. - Photo: Flags of Our Fathers725 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Drama, History, Biographical
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: A poignant exploration of heroism and sacrifice during one of history's bloodiest conflicts, Flags of Our Fathers highlights the vital role played by battleships in supporting ground troops during World War II's Pacific campaign. This stirring account of the Battle for Iwo Jima showcases stunning visuals and offers a heart-rending examination of courage under unimaginable circumstances on land and sea alike. This Clint Eastwood-directed feature allows viewers to appreciate not just iconic images but also the spirit that fueled these brave warriors.In Flags of Our Fathers, director Clint Eastwood delves into the gritty realities of war. The film, based on a true story, follows the lives of six soldiers - John Doc Bradley (Ryan Phillippe), Rene Gagnon (Jesse Bradford), and Ira Hayes (Adam Beach) among them - thrust into fame as the men who raised the flag on Iwo Jima, a potent symbol of victory during World War II. However, their experiences on the battlefield tell a different tale. This historical drama explores themes of heroism and the harsh truths behind glorified images of war. - 818 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, Drama, Romance, War, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Michael Bay transports viewers back to 1941 with a visual spectacle that recreates the devastating attack on Pearl Harbor while showcasing military might through impressive special effects-laden depictions of battleship engagements. Amidst a backdrop of love and loss, audiences are witness to immense firepower being unleashed upon American warships on that fateful day. With meticulous attention given to historical accuracy, this blockbuster film is sure to capture the imagination of those fascinated by naval warfare.Pearl Harbor (2001) is an epic war film that masterfully blends romance and action. Rafe McCawley (Ben Affleck) and Danny Walker (Josh Hartnett), are childhood friends turned Army Air Corps pilots, who find themselves in a love triangle with the beautiful nurse Evelyn Johnson (Kate Beckinsale). As their personal drama unfolds, the harrowing events of December 7, 1941 - the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor - catapult our protagonists into the throes of World War II. Directed by Michael Bay, this film won an Academy Award for Best Sound Editing. - Photo: The Enemy Below912 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, War, Drama
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: A thrilling cat-and-mouse game unfolds between an American destroyer escort captain and a German U-boat commander in this suspenseful tale set during World War II's Battle of the Atlantic. Showcasing strategic naval warfare and tense submarine encounters, The Enemy Below offers viewers a gripping insight into how battleships played a crucial role in combating enemy submarines during this relentless conflict. With its intricate storytelling, this film brilliantly captures the tactics, bravery, and ingenuity that defined one of history's most intense naval campaigns.During the Battle of the Atlantic in World War II, two equally able captains on opposing sides square off in a life-and-death game of tactical maneuvering. American Capt. Murrell (Robert Mitchum) helms the destroyer USS Haynes, while his Nazi counterpart, Von Stolberg (Curt Jurgens), commands a German U-boat. As both men follow their orders, they push their crews to greater lengths to achieve victory. Over the course of the intense battle, a respect develops among enemies. - Photo: Battleship1017 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, Science Fiction, War
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Inspired by the iconic board game, Battleship blends science fiction with naval warfare as Earth faces off against alien invaders wielding advanced technology. With high-octane action sequences featuring modern-day warships along with breathtaking special effects that elevate every explosive encounter at sea, viewers are transported into a thrilling world where humanity's survival hangs in the balance. This sci-fi spectacle serves up a visual feast that is sure to entertain both maritime enthusiasts and fans of exhilarating action-packed blockbusters alike.Lt. Alex Hopper (Taylor Kitsch) is a weapons officer aboard the destroyer USS John Paul Jones, while his older brother, Stone (Alexander Skarsgård), is the commanding officer of the USS Sampson. Unknown to Alex, Stone or the rest of the U.S. Navy, alien invaders have arrived on Earth with plans to steal Earth's resources. When a confrontation with the invaders knocks out the Navy's radar capability, American and Japanese forces must work together to find a way to save the planet. - Photo: In Which We Serve1110 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Drama, Biography, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: This British classic delves into the lives and sacrifices of the crew aboard a Royal Navy destroyer during World War II, providing an authentic portrayal of life at sea. With its thought-provoking narrative, In Which We Serve sheds light on the challenges faced by those who served on these mighty warships while also capturing the camaraderie and spirit that kept them steadfast in their mission. This compelling story delivers a poignant tribute to the men and women who fought bravely for their country amidst harrowing circumstances.Co-directors David Lean and Noel Coward (in his sole filmmaking effort) created this patriotic World War II drama under the auspices of Great Britain's Ministry of Information. After the sinking of the HMS Torrin during the Battle of Crete in 1941, the ship's survivors -- including Captain Kinross (Noel Coward), Chief Petty Officer Hardy (Bernard Miles) and Seaman Blake (John Mills) -- recall their tour of duty in flashback while awaiting rescue in lifeboats being strafed by German airplanes. - Photo: The Cruel Sea1210 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Adapted from Nicholas Monsarrat's best-selling novel, The Cruel Sea chronicles the experiences of British sailors aboard a Royal Navy corvette serving as convoy escort during World War II's Battle of the Atlantic. This gritty war drama underscores both physical and emotional challenges faced by these seafarers as they confront dangers lurking beneath treacherous ocean depths while protecting critical supply lines from enemy submarines. With unflinching realism and powerful human stories, this seminal work showcases how vital maritime assets like battleships were for securing victory during one of history's greatest conflicts.Despite his guilt over a recent harrowing sea battle in which many of his men were lost, Lt. Cmdr. George Ericson (Jack Hawkins) is assigned to helm the new H.M.S. Compass Rose with the help of steadfast seaman Lt. Lockhart (Donald Sinden). When the small vessel is sent to escort convoys of ships fighting German U-boats in the North Atlantic, the mettle of the novice crew is tested by the weather, the turbulent sea and enemy attacks -- one of which nearly destroys the Compass Rose. - Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures1324 VOTES
For Fans Of: Drama, War, History, Action
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: While primarily set on land, Battle of the Bulge provides insight into how strategic planning involving key maritime assets like battleships proved to be crucial during this pivotal World War II conflict. This epic war film not only captures the grit and determination of those fighting on the front lines but also offers a broader perspective on logistics, strategic decision-making, and the harsh realities of war. Intriguing insights into the intersection of land and sea warfare make this movie an essential watch for battle enthusiasts.American Lt. Col. Dan Kiley (Henry Fonda), a military intelligence whiz, discovers that the Nazis are planning to attack Allied forces near Belgium. Certain that the exhausted enemy can't muster much force, Gen. Joe Grey (Robert Ryan) isn't convinced by Kiley's findings, and his men pay the price when the German tanks begin their offensive. In the heat of this key World War II battle, Kiley must come up with a plan when it becomes clear that the Nazis are trying to steal fuel from the Allies. - Photo: Paramount Pictures1416 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Drama, Romance, Epic
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Set against the backdrop of World War II's Pacific Theater, In Harm's Way focuses on personal relationships amidst brutal warfare at sea. As tensions escalate within Admiral Rockwell Torrey's (John Wayne) fleet, witness stunning depictions of large-scale naval engagements featuring iconic battleship actions during this tumultuous period. This captivating film masterfully intertwines human drama with spectacular naval combat sequences.Naval Captain Torrey (John Wayne) manages to bring his ship through the bombing of Pearl Harbor unscathed, but is later demoted when it is damaged in a subsequent battle due to his negligence. Back on land, he begins a reconciliation with his estranged son (Brandon de Wilde) and a romance with nurse Maggie (Patricia Neal), but duty calls him away when he and his firebrand friend, Cmdr. Paul Eddington (Kirk Douglas), are tasked with salvaging a dangerous and important mission. - Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures1510 VOTES
Dunkirk
For Fans Of: War, Action, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Christopher Nolan's gripping retelling of the Dunkirk evacuation revolves around a pivotal moment when battleships and civilian vessels alike played instrumental roles in evacuating hundreds of thousands of stranded soldiers from French shores. With its striking visuals and relentless tension, Dunkirk immerses viewers into a world where every second is vital, and the strength of human spirit prevails against overwhelming odds. This masterfully crafted film captures both the devastation and heroism that marked one of World War II’s most significant events.Dunkirk is a gripping war film directed by visionary Christopher Nolan. The movie unfurls the harrowing saga of the British military's miraculous evacuation from Dunkirk, France during World War II. The narrative is craftily split into three distinct timelines - land, sea, and air. On land, we follow Tommy (Fionn Whitehead), a young soldier desperate to survive. At sea, Mr. Dawson (Mark Rylance) courageously sails his boat to rescue the stranded troops. In the air, fighter pilot Farrier (Tom Hardy) battles enemy aircrafts while facing dwindling fuel reserves. Dunkirk bagged three Academy Awards, testifying its technical brilliance and immersive storytelling. - Photo: 20th Century Fox1610 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: An epic chronicle of D-Day invasion during World War II, The Longest Day features large-scale battle re-enactments that showcase various aspects of Allied naval forces participating in this monumental operation. Aided by numerous warships providing artillery support to ground troops storming Normandy beaches, this movie offers viewers insights into how teamwork among different branches of military forces was essential for achieving victory. With its star-studded ensemble cast and meticulous attention to historical detail, The Longest Day stands as an enduring tribute to the valor and determination of all those who took part in this pivotal event.The Longest Day, an iconic film of 1962, is a war epic that takes viewers into the heart of D-Day. The movie, directed by Ken Annakin and Andrew Marton, showcases the events of June 6, 1944, through a tapestry of perspectives. Notable characters include Brigadier General Norman Cota (Robert Mitchum), Major John Howard (Richard Burton), and Field Marshal Erwin Rommel (Werner Hinz). This film won two Academy Awards, featuring a sprawling ensemble cast renowned for their performances. The Longest Day is an accurate yet compelling cinematic rendering of World War II's most significant day. - Photo: United Artists1720 VOTES
For Fans Of: War, Drama, Action, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Depicting one of World War II's largest airborne operations - Operation Market Garden - A Bridge Too Far showcases both land and river-based military actions with stunning authenticity. Featuring impressive practical effects and large-scale battle sequences, this epic war drama provides valuable insights into how vital support from battleship artillery was in shaping pivotal moments during these critical operations. Viewers will be mesmerized by the sheer scale of combat scenes that encapsulate strategic coordination among various branches of military forces.In the epic war film A Bridge Too Far, Operation Market Garden, an ambitious World War II military strategy, is meticulously brought to life. Led by Lieutenant General Browning (Dirk Bogarde), the plan aims to seize a series of bridges in the Netherlands to outflank German defenses. Colonel Frost (Anthony Hopkins) and Major Cook (Robert Redford) play key roles in this daring mission. However, as the title suggests, their reach may have exceeded their grasp. Directed by Richard Attenborough, this star-studded spectacle won a BAFTA for Best Supporting Actor and showcases both strategic brilliance and human folly in equal measure. - Photo: USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage1813 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, War, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: Based on a harrowing true story, USS Indianapolis: Men of Courage recounts the tragic tale of a U.S. Navy ship that was torpedoed by Japanese forces during World War II, leaving its crew stranded in shark-infested waters. This survival drama highlights the perils faced by those who served on these mighty vessels while conveying the strength and resilience required to overcome unimaginable horrors. Gripping storytelling and intense performances ensure this film resonates with viewers long after the credits roll.After their ship is torpedoed by a Japanese submarine, the crew members of the USS Indianapolis face a harrowing nightmare as their ship goes down in the shark infested Philippine Sea. - Photo: Darkest Hour1916 VOTES
For Fans Of: Biography, War, Drama, History
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: While primarily focused on Winston Churchill's rise to power during World War II, Darkest Hour offers valuable insights into how bold decisions concerning naval operations played an integral role in shaping Britain's wartime strategy. Through its engrossing portrayal of Churchill's leadership, this historical drama highlights the immense responsibility faced by those commanding maritime forces in a time of peril and uncertainty. Viewers are left with a greater appreciation for the challenges and triumphs experienced during this critical juncture in history.The fate of Western Europe hangs on Winston Churchill in the early days of World War II. The newly appointed British prime minister must decide whether to negotiate with Hitler or fight on against incredible odds. During the next four weeks in 1940, Churchill cements his legacy as his courageous decisions and leadership help change the course of world history. - Photo: Universal Pictures2013 VOTES
For Fans Of: Action, War, History, Thriller
Reasons to Watch if Interested in Battleships: This pulse-pounding tale revolves around an American submarine crew tasked with seizing a German Enigma code machine from an enemy U-boat during World War II. Showcasing intense underwater combat sequences along with nerve-wracking moments onboard these claustrophobic vessels, U-571 provides viewers with an adrenaline-fueled journey through treacherous waters as well as an intriguing look at how information gathered through such covert operations proved invaluable for Allied battleship strategies. The film's intricate blend of action, suspense, and compelling storytelling make it an enthralling watch for maritime enthusiasts.When a German U-571 submarine with a sophisticated encryption machine onboard is sunk during a World War II battle at sea, the Allies send an American Navy force led by Lieutenant Andrew Tyler (Matthew McConaughey) to retrieve it for study. Boarding the German ship, the Americans' cover as a rescue force is quickly blown. Forced to take the crew hostage, the Americans lay their explosives and prepare to destroy the German vessel before the Nazis can send naval backup.
