The 50+ Best Submarine Movies
- 1Wolfgang Petersen
A visceral and tense portrayal of life inside a German U-boat during World War II, this gripping film showcases the claustrophobic nature of submarine warfare. The realistic depiction of sailors' lives and the complex interpersonal relationships that develop within tight quarters make it an unparalleled classic. With its combination of intense action sequences and existential angst, it holds viewers captive from start to finish.
More Das Boot
- #14 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #283 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #749 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- 2John McTiernan
With a high-stakes game of cat-and-mouse between two nuclear submarines, this Cold War thriller boasts a star-studded cast and an engaging storyline. The masterful tension-building, coupled with top-notch special effects, keeps audiences on the edge of their seats throughout. As an adaptation of Tom Clancy's best-selling novel, it manages to capture both the intrigue and suspense that made the book so popular.
More The Hunt for Red October- #29 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #334 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #32 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 3Robert Wise
By delving into the psychology behind submarine warfare tactics, this film offers a unique perspective on leadership under pressure. Exploring the rivalry between two officers aboard a US Navy sub during WWII, it combines gripping drama with thrilling underwater combat scenes. Its stellar performances by Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster elevate it above mere war movie status.
More Run Silent, Run Deep- #52 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #27 of 40 onThe Best Novels About World War 2
- #13 of 100 on100+ Movies And Shows With Silent In The Title
- 4Dick Powell
Focusing on a deadly duel between American and German submarines at sea during WWII, this outstanding film explores themes of honor, courage, and tactical brilliance on both sides. With nail-biting battle sequences and rich character development, it immerses viewers in the intensity of underwater warfare like few movies can. By humanizing adversaries while highlighting their mutual respect for one another's skills, it transcends typical war narratives.
More The Enemy Below- #67 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #10 of 83 on80+ Movies And Shows With Enemy In The Title
- #12 of 47 on45+ Movies And Shows With Below In The Title
- 5Kathryn Bigelow
Based on a true story, this chilling drama chronicles a Soviet nuclear submarine crew's desperate struggle to prevent disaster when their vessel suffers a catastrophic malfunction. With Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson commanding the screen as two strong-willed officers, the film showcases human bravery in the face of harrowing circumstances. Besides providing heart-pounding suspense, it offers a rare glimpse behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War era.
More K-19: The Widowmaker- #94 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #29 of 44 onThe 40+ Best Lost At Sea Movies
- #6 of 15 onThe Best Movies About The Soviet Union
- 6Tony Scott
This nerve-wracking exploration of divided loyalties aboard a US nuclear submarine delivers pulse-pounding suspense from start to finish. Driven by powerhouse performances from Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman as dueling officers with differing interpretations of an ambiguous order, the film's taut script delves into ethical dilemmas. Its claustrophobic setting ratchets up the tension to near-unbearable levels.
More Crimson Tide- #78 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #211 of 379 onThe Best Movies Of The 1990s
- #20 of 90 onThe Best Movies Of 1995
- 7Delmer Daves
Following an American submarine crew on a daring top-secret mission against Japan during WWII, this classic war film excels at building camaraderie among its characters. Cary Grant delivers a standout performance as the sub's unflappable captain who must guide his men through treacherous waters teeming with enemy ships. Exemplifying courage under fire and self-sacrifice for a greater cause, it remains one of cinema's most memorable depictions of submariners in action.
- 8David S. Ward
This lighthearted comedy proves that not every submarine film has to be deadly serious. With Kelsey Grammer as an unconventional Navy commander given an aging sub and motley crew on a seemingly impossible mission, it mines humor from the absurdity of military life beneath the waves. Offering genuine laughs alongside its aquatic adventures, it's a welcome change of pace within the genre.
More Down Periscope- #390 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #56 of 117 onThe Best Movies Of 1996
- #116 of 168 onThe Best '90s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 9Jonathan Mostow
Steeped in historical significance, this gripping war movie centers on a group of American submariners who must seize an Enigma code machine from a disabled German U-boat during WWII. Brimming with tense underwater confrontations and nail-biting espionage, it spotlights the bravery and daring of those charged with such dangerous missions. Though not entirely accurate in its portrayal of events, it remains an engaging watch due to its high-stakes storytelling.
More U-571- #101 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #1 of 13 onHistorical Movies Where The 'Hero' Is The Wrong Person
- #1 of 12 onThe 12 Most Inaccurate War Movies Ever Made
- 10Donovan Marsh
A modern-day tale of underwater warfare with geopolitical intrigue thrown in for good measure, this movie pits an untested American sub captain against threats from all directions as he attempts to rescue a kidnapped Russian president from a rogue general. Combining fearsome battle scenes with tense negotiations between nations on the brink of war, it showcases the stakes involved in submarine combat. Its potent mix of action and diplomacy ensures a riveting experience for all viewers.
More Hunter Killer- #27 of 35 onThe 35 Best Kidnapping Thriller Movies
- #78 of 105 onThe Best Movies About A Cat And Mouse Game
- #17 of 29 onThe Best Movies About Navy Seals
- 11Joseph Pevney
Compelling performances by Glenn Ford and Ernest Borgnine anchor this 1950s tale of naval strategy and personal sacrifice during WWII. As an American sub captain tasked with sinking a Japanese aircraft carrier while evading enemy destroyers, Ford expertly conveys the weighty decisions faced by those in command during wartime. This gripping drama skillfully combines thrilling action sequences with explorations of moral dilemmas under fire.
- 12Aaron Schneider
Starring Tom Hanks as an inexperienced commander leading an Allied convoy through hostile U-boat-infested waters during WWII, this recent release has quickly earned its place among great submarine movies. Its relentless pacing and thrilling naval combat sequences convey both the adrenaline rush and mortal danger experienced by those at sea during wartime. Based on C.S. Forester's novel The Good Shepherd, it deftly balances high-stakes action with introspective character study.
More Greyhound- #12 of 44 onThe Greatest World War II Dramas
- #39 of 55 onThe Best Memorial Day Movies
- #57 of 107 onThe Best Movies About A Cat And Mouse Game
- 13George Waggner
Starring John Wayne as a tough-as-nails submarine commander battling both malfunctioning torpedoes and his own demons during WWII, this classic captures the essence of determination under pressure. Filled with exciting battle scenes against formidable Japanese opponents, it also delves into themes such as love and loyalty among comrades-in-arms. Its engaging blend of romance, adventure, and heroism make it an enduring favorite among fans of military cinema.
- 14John Sturges
Adapted from Alistair MacLean's novel, this Cold War thriller sees a US submarine crew race against time to rescue trapped scientists at a remote Arctic research station while contending with Soviet forces hot on their heels. Featuring breathtaking underwater visuals and a suspenseful plot that keeps viewers guessing until the end, it offers both eye-popping spectacle and heart-stopping intrigue. With an ensemble cast led by Rock Hudson and Ernest Borgnine, it remains an iconic entry in the genre.
More Ice Station Zebra- #8 of 54 onThe Best Spy Movies Of The 1960s
- #42 of 47 onThe 45+ Best Movies of 1968
- #29 of 46 onThe Best '60s Action Movies
- 15Blake Edwards
This comedic gem pairs Cary Grant and Tony Curtis in an amusing tale of a WWII submarine crew saddled with five stranded female passengers while attempting to repair their damaged vessel. Offering plenty of laughs alongside its naval adventures, it revels in the ensuing chaos as male and female sailors clash amidst cramped quarters. By poking fun at military protocol and cultural norms of the era, it provides lighthearted entertainment amid more serious wartime films.
More Operation Petticoat- #179 of 703 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #147 of 262 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #5 of 65 onThe Best 1950s Comedy Movies, Ranked
- 16Richard Fleischer
This timeless adaptation of Jules Verne's classic novel submerges viewers into a world of undersea marvels and perilous adventure aboard the Nautilus, captained by the enigmatic Captain Nemo. A groundbreaking blend of sci-fi, fantasy, and maritime adventure, its visual effects and innovative set design still impress today. With its iconic giant squid battle and thought-provoking themes about humanity's relationship with nature, it remains a seminal work in both literature and cinema history.
- #93 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #46 of 176 onThe Best Science Fiction Action Movies
- #66 of 87 onThe Best Film Adaptations Of Young Adult Novels
- 17Gordon Douglas
A young James Garner stars as a Navy frogman tasked with infiltrating enemy territory during WWII in this tense mix of action and espionage. Balancing gripping underwater combat sequences with moments of human vulnerability, it explores the risks faced by those who took on such dangerous missions for their country. As a showcase for Garner's early acting chops, it also serves as a testament to his enduring charisma.
- 18
Kursk (aka The Command)
Thomas VinterbergBased on the real-life tragedy that befell the Russian nuclear submarine K-141 Kursk in 2000, this harrowing drama puts audiences inside the doomed vessel alongside its desperate crewmembers struggling for survival after an explosion cripples their sub. Unflinching in its depiction of agony and bravery under extreme circumstances, it serves as both a tribute to those who perished and a cautionary tale about bureaucratic indifference to human lives at stake. Bolstered by powerful performances from Matthias Schoenaerts and Colin Firth, it's a must-see for anyone interested in modern naval history.
- 19David Greene
Featuring Charlton Heston as an imperiled submarine captain trapped beneath the ocean floor after his vessel collides with another ship, this tense drama chronicles the race against time to save him and his crew before their air supply runs out. Showcasing cutting-edge rescue technology of the era alongside gripping human drama, it serves as a testament to courage and ingenuity under pressure. Its ensemble cast of recognizable faces further elevates the film above typical disaster fare.
- 20James B. Harris
Starring Richard Widmark as a fanatical US destroyer captain determined to hunt down a Soviet submarine lurking near Greenland during the Cold War, this chilling drama explores themes of obsession, paranoia, and brinkmanship on both sides of the Iron Curtain. Bolstered by strong performances from Sidney Poitier and Martin Balsam as journalists along for the ride, it delves into political tensions that could escalate into global catastrophe with one wrong move. Its nail-biting climax ensures that audiences remain riveted until the final moments.
- 21James Cameron
Diving into science fiction territory, this visually stunning James Cameron film follows a civilian diving team tasked with investigating an otherworldly force deep within uncharted ocean depths. Blending breathtaking special effects with gripping human drama, it showcases the awe-inspiring beauty and crushing danger inherent in deep-sea exploration. By tackling themes such as environmentalism, love, and redemption alongside its thrilling underwater adventure, it remains a unique entry in the submarine movie canon.
More The Abyss- #101 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- #69 of 114 on50+ Movies That Need Sequels
- #7 of 178 onThe 150+ Best Movies With Aliens
- 22Anthony Asquith
A classic British war film chronicling a daring submarine mission in enemy territory during WWII, it excels at building camaraderie among its characters while highlighting their heroic feats under fire. The relentless pacing and edge-of-your-seat combat sequences keep viewers engaged from beginning to end. With a strong emphasis on teamwork and perseverance in the face of adversity, it remains an essential entry in the genre.
- 23Kevin Macdonald
This tense thriller centers on a group of misfit submariners lured by the promise of treasure aboard a sunken Nazi U-boat at the bottom of the titular sea. Clashing personalities and mounting paranoia soon escalate into life-or-death struggles within their cramped vessel, ratcheting up suspense to near-unbearable levels. With Jude Law's steely performance anchoring an ensemble cast, it delivers a thrilling combination of action, greed, and betrayal beneath the waves.
- 24Archie Mayo
Starring Tyrone Power as a dashing American submariner battling both Axis forces and romantic rivals during WWII, this blend of action, drama, and romance provides plenty of entertainment for all audiences. Its gripping underwater battles showcase the danger and excitement of naval warfare, while its exploration of love amidst wartime adds emotional depth to the proceedings. As an early example of Hollywood's fascination with submarine films, it remains a captivating watch.
- 25John Farrow
Focused on the psychological toll faced by those who served aboard submarines during times of war, this compelling drama delves into themes such as survivor's guilt and post-traumatic stress disorder. By exploring the impact that intense combat experiences have on individuals long after they've returned home, it offers unique insight into military life beyond typical action fare. The standout performances from William Holden and Nancy Olson bring emotional heft to this thought-provoking film.
- 26Irwin Allen
A beloved sci-fi adventure from Irwin Allen, this film follows the crew of futuristic submarine Seaview as they embark on a mission to save Earth from a deadly radiation belt encircling the planet. Combining fantastical undersea creatures with thrilling action sequences and cutting-edge technology for its time, it captures imaginations with its optimistic vision of mankind's potential to overcome even the most dire challenges. Its enduring appeal has spawned numerous sequels and spinoffs in various media formats.
- #11 of 21 onMovies That Take Place Primarily Underwater, Ranked
- #260 of 404 onThe 300+ Best Sci-Fi Movies Of All Time
- #5 of 66 onThe 65+ Best Sci-Fi Movies Of The 1960s, Ranked
- 27Stanley Kramer
This haunting apocalyptic drama envisions a world devastated by nuclear war, where survivors aboard a US submarine must grapple with the knowledge that humanity's days are numbered. Tackling themes such as love, loss, and morality in the face of extinction, it offers viewers an emotionally intense experience. With its stellar cast led by Gregory Peck and Ava Gardner, it remains a powerful reminder of the consequences of unchecked aggression and the value of human connection.
More On the Beach- #210 of 329 onBooks That Changed Your Life
- #28 of 51 onThe Greatest Classic Sci-Fi Movies
- #12 of 17 onThe Best Movies Directed by Stanley Kramer
- 28Peter Yates
In this offbeat war movie, Peter O'Toole stars as a vengeful Irish merchant mariner hell-bent on destroying a German U-boat that sank his ship during WWII. Set against the backdrop of an isolated South American river delta, it presents an unconventional take on submarine warfare through one man's obsessive quest for revenge. Combining tense naval skirmishes with dark humor and character study, it stands out as a distinctive entry in the genre.
- 29Ralph Thomas
Based on a true story from WWII, this gripping British film follows a team of Royal Navy submariners tasked with infiltrating enemy territory to destroy a heavily-guarded German battleship. Combining real-life heroism with intense underwater action and espionage, it offers viewers an engaging look at the daring tactics employed by Allied forces during the war. With compelling performances from John Mills and John Gregson, it captures both the excitement and danger of life beneath the waves.
- 30Samuel Fuller
Richard Widmark stars as a daring Cold War-era submarine captain tasked with stopping a rogue Communist plot that could trigger World War III in this high-stakes adventure thriller. With pulse-pounding underwater battles against enemy forces and gripping espionage elements at play, it keeps viewers enthralled throughout. By exploring geopolitical intrigue during one of history's most tense periods, it adds depth and complexity to its action-packed narrative.
