20 Films to Show Your Kids to Get Them into War Movies

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Updated May 8, 2024 47.3K views 20 items

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Vote up the classic films appropriate for kids and teens that will teach them to love and respect war movies.

Here is a list of the best military movies for kids. As classic cinematic masterpieces, like Saving Private Ryan and Apocalypse Now, are war movies, you probably want to introduce your kids to the genre so they can one day appreciate great films. Unfortunately, the aforementioned movies, and many others depicting war, are not really child appropriate. War movies can be tricky seeing as they depict conflicts in an accurate, frightening, and gory fashion. Fortunately, there are plenty of classic war movies kids can watch. The below films are a great middle-of-the-road option to get kids into war films.

These war movies for tweens, teens, and younger children aren't without violence and other questionable material, so use your discretion based on your kid's age and overall maturity. Films like Red Dawn come with a PG-13 rating, and therefore may not be great for very young children. However, the foreign film Life is Beautiful has a whimsical enough feel and avoids gratuitous violence, so it could be a great war movie for beginners.

Browse this list of war movies below and vote up the best movies to introduce kids to the genre. Then, check out our list of the best World War I movies.

1
Memphis Belle
Matthew Modine, Eric Stoltz, Tate Donovan
59 votes
Budding aviation enthusiasts aged 12 and up will undoubtedly admire Memphis Belle, which follows the heroic crew of a B-17 bomber on their final mission during World War II. With a cast of relatable young characters and a balanced mix of action and emotion, this war drama stands out from the pack and leaves a lasting impression.
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2
Unbroken
Jack O'Connell, Domhnall Gleeson, Garrett Hedlund
51 votes
Unbroken tells the incredible true story of Olympic athlete and World War II hero Louis Zamperini, as played by Jack O'Connell. Facing brutal adversity, this inspiring war drama teaches valuable lessons about resilience and determination, making it an excellent choice for kids aged 13 and up.
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3
Red Dawn
Patrick Swayze, C. Thomas Howell, Lea Thompson
89 votes
If stepping into the shoes of brave high schoolers sounds appealing, Red Dawn will surely captivate the imagination of younger minds. In a world where their town has been invaded by foreign paratroopers, these teenagers band together to become a formidable guerilla force. This thrilling movie is ideal for kids aged 13 and up, painting a picture of courage and camaraderie when faced with adversity.
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4
Dances with Wolves
Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene
69 votes
In the heart-pounding masterpiece Dances with Wolves, starring Kevin Costner, a Civil War soldier befriends a tribe of Sioux Indians, immersing himself in their culture and ultimately fighting alongside them. Swapping action for valuable life lessons, this moving film is well-suited for children aged 12 and up as it delves into themes of friendship, understanding, and embracing different perspectives.
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5
Midway
Charlton Heston, Henry Fonda, James Coburn
45 votes
Exploring the themes of brotherhood and courage, Midway brings to life the dramatic events of the decisive World War II Battle of Midway. This action-packed film is suitable for kids aged 12 and up and stars a star-studded cast, including Patrick Wilson and Luke Evans. Midway serves as a thrilling introduction to naval warfare and showcases the bravery of those who fought for their country.
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6
Patton
George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Michael Bates
58 votes
For history buffs wanting a taste of World War II, Patton offers a solid introduction to the famed General George S. Patton, played by the iconic George C. Scott. Though geared towards a slightly older audience (think 14 and up), this war film is a great way to expose children to the strategies and complexities of wartime leadership without drenching them in violent content.
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7
Behind Enemy Lines
Owen Wilson, Gene Hackman, Gabriel Macht
45 votes
Behind Enemy Lines showcases an intense game of cat and mouse, as Owen Wilson portrays a Navy pilot who is shot down in hostile territory and must evade capture by enemy forces. Packed with suspense and captivating action sequences, this thrilling war film is fitting for children aged 13 and above.
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8
War Horse
Emily Watson, David Thewlis, Jeremy Irvine
49 votes
Taking a more unconventional approach to war films is War Horse, which centers around the bond between a young man and his horse during World War I. With stunning visuals and a beautifully woven storyline, this touching masterpiece is ideal for kids aged 11 and up, offering a unique and memorable experience.
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9
Flight of the Intruder
Danny Glover, Willem Dafoe, Brad Johnson
28 votes
Introducing kids aged 13 and up to the gritty world of aerial combat is Flight of the Intruder, which follows a disillusioned Navy pilot and his bombadier during the Vietnam War. This war drama vividly portrays the trials and tribulations faced by those who served, making it both a gripping and educational watch.
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10
Das Boot
Jürgen Prochnow, Herbert Grönemeyer, Uwe Ochsenknecht
41 votes
Das Boot delivers an authentic portrayal of life aboard a World War II German U-boat. This intense, critically-acclaimed masterpiece is recommended for older kids aged 14 and up who are intrigued by history and seeking a realistic, captivating glimpse into the lives of submarine soldiers during wartime.
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11
Forrest Gump
Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise
83 votes
Forrest Gump, a beloved classic starring Tom Hanks, tells the extraordinary life story of an ordinary man with a low IQ. Though not solely a war film, it includes pivotal moments in the Vietnam War, making it an excellent introduction to the genre for kids aged 12 and up. While featuring heartwarming and humorous elements, the movie incorporates touching themes of love, loss, and legacy.
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12
Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World
Russell Crowe, Paul Bettany, Billy Boyd
35 votes
Taking viewers to the high seas, Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World follows the crew of a British ship during the Napoleonic Wars. Suitable for kids aged 13 and up, this thrilling adventure led by Russell Crowe is filled with breathtaking scenery, tactical naval battles, and heartening camaraderie among crewmates.
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13
Red Tails
Cuba Gooding, Terrence Howard, Nate Parker
43 votes
Red Tails features the heroic tales of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first African-American military pilots in the US Army Air Force during World War II. Encouraging themes of perseverance and teamwork are woven throughout this exhilarating film, making it an inspiring watch for kids aged 12 and up.
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14
U-571
Matthew McConaughey, Bill Paxton, Harvey Keitel
47 votes
Submarine warfare becomes the focal point of U-571, a gripping war film about a group of American soldiers who must capture vital German equipment during World war II. Aptly suited for kids aged 13 and up, this tense movie brings to light the challenges faced by soldiers in confined spaces, both physically and mentally.
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15
Valkyrie
Tom Cruise, Kenneth Branagh, Bill Nighy
41 votes
Valkyrie, led by Tom Cruise, tells the gripping story of a group of high-ranking German officers who plot to assassinate Hitler during World War II. This tense thriller captivates older kids aged 14 and up, shedding light on the internal opposition to the Nazi regime and the ultimate sacrifices of those who dared to resist.
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16
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
David Thewlis, Vera Farmiga, Rupert Friend
47 votes
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas explores human compassion and friendship through the heartrending story of two boys—one Jewish and the other German—during the Holocaust. Although it's recommended for children aged 12 and up, parental guidance is advised due to the emotional impact and sensitive subject matter.
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17
Gods and Generals
Jeff Daniels, Stephen Lang, Robert Duvall
33 votes
Depicting the American Civil War with unflinching honesty is Gods and Generals, showcasing various prominent figures from both sides of the conflict. Recommended for older kids aged 14 and up, this epic war drama delves into the strategic battles, key players, and historical moments that shaped the United States.
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18
Flyboys
James Franco, Martin Henderson, Jean Reno
39 votes
Ascending to the skies once again, Flyboys follows a group of young Americans who join the French Lafayette Escadrille during World War I. Aerial combat sequences, a talented cast, and themes of bravery make this war film an engaging choice for kids aged 13 and up, showcasing the enduring spirit of unlikely heroes.
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19
Life Is Beautiful
Roberto Benigni, Nicoletta Braschi, Giorgio Cantarini
28 votes
Life Is Beautiful is a moving Italian film that artfully blends comedy and tragedy with the unique story of a Jewish father who uses imagination to protect his son from the horrors of a concentration camp. This award-winning masterpiece is suitable for kids aged 12 and up, leaving them teary-eyed yet inspired by the unwavering strength of the human spirit.
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20
Pearl Harbor
Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Kate Beckinsale
44 votes
A love story set against the backdrop of World War II, Pearl Harbor follows two best friends who enlist as pilots. While undoubtedly entertaining for kids aged 13 and up, the movie not only highlights themes of heroism and sacrifice but also serves as an engaging introduction to the tragic historical event that propelled the United States into the war.
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