The 80+ Best Army Movies Of All Time
- 1Bradley Cooper, Sienna Miller, Jake McDorman
Chronicling the true story of Navy SEAL Chris Kyle, portrayed by Bradley Cooper, this gripping film delves into the harrowing experiences that make up the life of a sniper during the Iraq War. Directed by Clint Eastwood, it presents an intimate and honest portrayal of the physical and emotional toll that warfare can have on soldiers and their families. The film received critical acclaim for its intense action sequences and powerful performances, earning six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture.
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- #16 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- 2Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, Tom Sizemore
This fast-paced, visceral war film tells the harrowing story of the Battle of Mogadishu, a disastrous US military operation in Somalia during which two American helicopters were shot down and dozens of soldiers were trapped in enemy territory. Directed by Ridley Scott, the movie boasts a stellar ensemble cast, including Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, and Tom Sizemore, who seamlessly bring the intensity of the battlefield to life. With its unrelenting action and attention to detail, the film has become a modern classic in the war genre.
More Black Hawk Down- #5 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #415 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #49 of 126 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
- 3Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Eric Bana
Adapted from the real-life mission gone wrong in Afghanistan, this intense drama follows four Navy SEALs tasked with capturing or killing a notorious Taliban leader. Starring Mark Wahlberg, Taylor Kitsch, Emile Hirsch, and Ben Foster, the film showcases their incredible bond and determination to survive against all odds. Directed by Peter Berg, the film received praise for its realistic and heart-wrenching depictions of modern warfare.
More Lone Survivor- #224 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #75 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #67 of 190 onThe Best Movies For Men
- 4Mel Gibson, Madeleine Stowe, Greg Kinnear
Mel Gibson shines as Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore, who led the first major battle between American and North Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. This harrowing war epic focuses closely on the soldiers and their families, providing a raw and emotional look at the true cost of conflict. Directed by Randall Wallace, the film's unflinching depiction of the horrors faced by those on the frontline has earned it a place among the most powerful war dramas.
More We Were Soldiers- #3 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #43 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #3 of 66 onThe Most Patriotic Movies of All Time
- 5Andrew Garfield, Sam Worthington, Luke Bracey
Based on the extraordinary true story, this biographical film recounts the experiences of Desmond Doss, played by Andrew Garfield, a conscientious objector who served as a combat medic during World War II without ever carrying a weapon. Helmed by Mel Gibson, the movie delves into the courage and conviction required to stay true to personal beliefs amidst the chaos and horrors of war. The film garnered numerous accolades, including six Academy Award nominations and two wins for Best Film Editing and Best Sound Mixing.
More Hacksaw Ridge- #7 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #9 of 66 onThe Most Patriotic Movies of All Time
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- 6James Badge Dale, John Krasinski, Max Martini
This high-stakes action thriller follows a group of CIA security contractors as they attempt to protect an American diplomat during the 2012 terrorist attack on a US compound in Benghazi, Libya. Directed by Michael Bay, the film is an unrelenting portrayal of the bravery and determination shown by these men in the face of catastrophe. With edge-of-your-seat tension and gripping performances, the movie stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by the unsung heroes of modern warfare.
- #35 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 7Tom Hanks, Edward Burns, Tom Sizemore
Steven Spielberg's legendary film follows a group of American soldiers, led by Tom Hanks, on their mission to find and bring home a paratrooper whose three brothers were killed in action during World War II. In addition to its heart-wrenching story, the film is lauded for its stunningly realistic portrayal of the D-Day invasion of Normandy, resulting in one of the most harrowing and gripping battle sequences ever put to screen. The movie received numerous accolades, including five Academy Awards, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest war films of all time.
- 8Matthew Modine, Adam Baldwin, Vincent D'Onofrio
Renowned director Stanley Kubrick offers a haunting and visceral exploration of the Vietnam War and its effects on the psyche of young soldiers through the eyes of a Marine Corps private nicknamed Joker, played by Matthew Modine. Divided into two distinct acts, the first part of the film focuses on the brutal and unyielding training process Marines endure, while the second part showcases the grim realities of war and the loss of innocence. With unforgettable performances and its unflinching examination of the human condition, the movie remains a classic in the war genre.
More Full Metal Jacket- #2 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #39 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
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- 9Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf, Logan Lerman
Set in the waning days of World War II, this gritty and tense drama follows a battle-hardened tank commander, played by Brad Pitt, and his crew as they embark on a dangerous mission behind enemy lines. Directed by David Ayer, the film paints a brutal and unflinching picture of the horrors faced by those who fought in the war's final showdown. Bolstered by its strong ensemble cast, which includes Shia LaBeouf and Logan Lerman, the film stands as a visceral exploration of camaraderie, sacrifice, and the human spirit.
More Fury- #12 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 10Tom Berenger, Willem Dafoe, Charlie Sheen
Oliver Stone's harrowing and semi-autobiographical portrayal of the Vietnam War, Platoon follows a young soldier, played by Charlie Sheen, as he contends with the moral ambiguity and intense brutality of warfare. Anchored by standout performances from Willem Dafoe and Tom Berenger, the film provides an unflinching depiction of the psychological and physical turmoil experienced by those who fought in this controversial conflict. Platoon received widespread acclaim on its release, earning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Stone.
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- #4 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #59 of 399 onThe Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
- 11Joseph Fiennes, Jude Law, Rachel Weisz
Set during the Battle of Stalingrad in World War II, this thrilling war drama focuses on an intense cat-and-mouse game between a Russian sniper, played by Jude Law, and his German counterpart, portrayed by Ed Harris. Directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud, the film highlights the personal struggle and determination of these two skilled marksmen as they face off amidst the brutal and unforgiving backdrop of one of history's deadliest battles. Enemy at the Gates delivers gripping suspense, combined with stunning visuals and powerful performances.
More Enemy at the Gates- #11 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 12Roselyn Sanchez, Jason Cottle, Alex Veadov
Featuring active-duty Navy SEALs, this unique and unprecedented war film centers on a team tasked with rescuing a kidnapped CIA agent and dismantling a terrorist plot against the United States. Directed by Mike McCoy and Scott Waugh, the film eschews traditional Hollywood storytelling in favor of a realistic and immersive look at the challenges faced by elite military personnel during high-stakes covert operations. Boasting authentic tactics, equipment, and locations, Act of Valor provides a glimpse into the dedication and bravery required of those who protect their nation at all costs.
More Act of Valor- #153 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #45 of 66 onThe Most Patriotic Movies of All Time
- #32 of 55 onThe Best Memorial Day Movies
- 13Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya, Tsuyoshi Ihara
Clint Eastwood directs this companion piece to the film Flags of Our Fathers, offering a rare perspective into the battle of Iwo Jima from the Japanese side. With a gripping performance by Ken Watanabe as Japanese General Tadamichi Kuribayashi, the movie delves into the lives and motivations of the Japanese soldiers defending their homeland. By presenting an empathetic portrayal of "the enemy," the film breaks down cultural barriers and sheds light on the universal experiences of soldiers caught in the chaos of war.
More Letters from Iwo Jima- #26 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 14John Wayne, Robert Mitchum, Henry Fonda
This epic retelling of the D-Day invasion of Normandy features a star-studded ensemble cast including John Wayne, Henry Fonda, and Sean Connery. Directed by Ken Annakin, Andrew Marton, and Bernhard Wicki, the film accurately and meticulously presents the events leading up to the fateful battle, as well as the strategies employed by both sides. At the time of its release, The Longest Day was celebrated for its grand scale, which combined aerial shots, staged battle sequences, and on-location sets to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.
More The Longest Day- #3 of 49 onThe Top 45+ Films Released In 1962
- #9 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #67 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 15George C. Scott, Karl Malden, Michael Bates
George C. Scott delivers a powerful and commanding performance as General George S. Patton, one of the most controversial and accomplished American military leaders of World War II. With a fascinating and nuanced portrayal of the titular character, the film delves into the man behind the legend, exploring his personal triumphs, failures, and idiosyncrasies. Directed by Franklin J. Schaffner, Patton received widespread acclaim and earned seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Scott.
More Patton- #8 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #28 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #58 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 16Anthony Barrile, Michael Boatman, Don Cheadle
Based on the true story of the Battle of Hamburger Hill during the Vietnam War, this gritty and powerful film follows a group of young soldiers as they struggle to capture a heavily fortified enemy position. Directed by John Irvin, the movie offers an unflinching portrayal of the physical and emotional toll of war, as well as the intense camaraderie and determination exhibited by those who lived it. The film remains an enduring example of the raw and visceral nature of warfare.
More Hamburger Hill- #28 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 17Jeremy Renner, Anthony Mackie, Brian Geraghty
Director Kathryn Bigelow's critically-acclaimed war film follows an elite team of bomb disposal experts during the Iraq War, focusing on the intense dangers they face on a daily basis. With a standout performance from Jeremy Renner, the movie thrusts viewers into the heart of the action, capturing the adrenaline-fueled experience of dismantling improvised explosive devices amidst a hostile environment. The Hurt Locker won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Bigelow, making her the first woman to receive the honor.
More The Hurt Locker- #57 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #53 of 96 onThe Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
- #169 of 675 onThe Best Movies Roger Ebert Gave Four Stars
- 18Clint Eastwood, Marsha Mason, Everett McGill
Clint Eastwood directs and stars in this war drama as a grizzled Marine Corps sergeant tasked with training a platoon of young and inexperienced soldiers for combat during the United States' invasion of Grenada. With its blend of humor, action, and heartfelt moments, the film showcases the challenges and camaraderie that come with military life. The movie remains a compelling testament to the determination and
More Heartbreak Ridge- #41 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 19Ryan Phillippe, Jesse Bradford, Adam Beach
As a companion piece to the film Letters from Iwo Jima, Flags of Our Fathers tells the story of the American soldiers who raised the iconic flag atop Mount Suribachi during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II. Directed by Clint Eastwood, the film explores the heroism and personal struggles faced by these men, as well as the media frenzy that followed their return to the United States. With a compelling narrative and stellar ensemble cast, the movie offers a powerful and thought-provoking look at the complexities of war.
More Flags of Our Fathers- #30 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #69 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- #19 of 59 onThe Best Movies Based on Non-Fiction Books
- 20Jessica Chastain, Jason Clarke, Joel Edgerton
Kathryn Bigelow's intense and suspenseful film chronicles the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden, culminating in the daring raid on his compound by an elite team of Navy SEALs. With a standout performance from Jessica Chastain as a relentless CIA operative, the movie provides a captivating, behind-the-scenes look at the intelligence work that led to the capture of the world's most wanted terrorist. Lauded for its gripping storytelling and attention to detail, Zero Dark Thirty garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including five Oscar nods.
More Zero Dark Thirty- #5 of 26 onThe 25+ Best Movies About 9/11
- #50 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 21Steve McQueen, James Garner, Richard Attenborough
Based on the true story of a large-scale escape attempt by Allied prisoners of war from a German POW camp during World War II, this iconic film stars Steve McQueen, James Garner, and Richard Attenborough. Directed by John Sturges, the movie masterfully weaves together multiple storylines, showcasing the ingenuity, courage, and resilience of those who risked their lives in pursuit of freedom. The Great Escape remains a timeless classic, cherished for its memorable characters, thrilling escape sequences, and iconic motorcycle chase featuring McQueen.
More The Great Escape- #10 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #509 of 772 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #10 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 22Tom Berenger, Martin Sheen, Stephen Lang
Adapted from the novel The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara, this epic war film centers on the pivotal Battle of Gettysburg during the American Civil War. Boasting an ensemble cast, including Tom Berenger, Jeff Daniels, and Martin Sheen, the movie provides a comprehensive and historically accurate account of the events leading up to the battle, as well as the strategies employed by both the Union and Confederate armies. Directed by Ronald F. Maxwell, Gettysburg remains a powerful and engrossing portrayal of one of the most significant battles in American history.
More Gettysburg- #1 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #25 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #52 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 23Bruce Willis, Monica Bellucci, Cole Hauser
Bruce Willis leads a team of U.S. Navy SEALs on a dangerous mission to rescue a doctor and her patients from war-torn Nigeria in this intense and gripping action-drama. Directed by Antoine Fuqua, the film explores the complexities and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers deployed in volatile situations with competing priorities. Featuring striking cinematography and pulse-pounding action, Tears of the Sun provides an exciting and thought-provoking viewing experience.
More Tears of the Sun- #70 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 24Stanley Baker, Jack Hawkins, Ulla Jacobsson
Set during the Anglo-Zulu War in South Africa, this classic British war film recounts the heroic defense of Rorke's Drift by a small group of British soldiers against a massive force of Zulu warriors. Starring Stanley Baker and Michael Caine, the movie delivers a gripping and thrilling account of bravery, strategy, and determination against all odds. Directed by Cy Endfield, Zulu's thrilling action set pieces and powerful performances have made it an enduring favorite among war film enthusiasts.
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- #32 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #287 of 369 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- 25Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, Kate Beckinsale
This blockbuster film from director Michael Bay recounts the infamous Japanese attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor during World War II. Starring Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale, the movie combines romance, action, and historical drama to create a sweeping epic that captures the personal stories behind one of the most significant events in American history. Despite its mixed reception from critics, Pearl Harbor stands as a visually stunning and emotional tribute to the men and women whose lives were forever changed by the attack.
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- #174 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #47 of 113 onThe Best Movies Of 2001
- 26Jake Gyllenhaal, Peter Sarsgaard, Jamie Foxx
Adapted from the memoir by U.S. Marine Anthony Swofford, this thought-provoking war drama explores the psychological impact of prolonged military engagements and the anticipation of combat. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Swofford, the film follows a group of young Marine snipers during the first Gulf War, capturing the camaraderie, tension, and emotional turmoil that come with the territory. Directed by Sam Mendes, Jarhead received critical acclaim for its poignant portrayal of the complexities and challenges faced by soldiers during times of war.
More Jarhead- #1 of 10 onThe Best Movies About the Gulf War
- #161 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 27Nicolas Cage, Adam Beach, Peter Stormare
Directed by John Woo, this intense war film tells the story of two U.S. Marines, played by Nicolas Cage and Adam Beach, charged with protecting Navajo code talkers during the Battle of Saipan in World War II. The movie delves into the vital role these Native American soldiers played in transmitting encrypted messages between Allied forces, using their unique language as an unbreakable code. Windtalkers presents a lesser-known aspect of the war, highlighting both the bravery of the soldiers involved and the importance of cultural diversity in overcoming adversity.
More Windtalkers- #69 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #74 of 152 onThe Best Movies of 2002
- #8 of 66 onThe 60+ Best Native American Movies
- 28John Wayne, David Janssen, Jim Hutton
John Wayne stars in and co-directs this classic war film that pays tribute to the elite U.S. Army Special Forces unit known as the Green Berets during the Vietnam War. Through their dangerous and daring missions, the film showcases the courage, dedication, and unparalleled skill of these legendary soldiers. The Green Berets remains a beloved and enduring tribute to the heroism and sacrifice of those who serve in the American armed forces.
- 29Dirk Bogarde, James Caan, Michael Caine
Adapted from the best-selling book by Cornelius Ryan, this epic war film recounts the disastrous Allied military operation known as Operation Market Garden during World War II. Featuring an all-star cast, including Sean Connery, Michael Caine, and Gene Hackman, the movie offers a detailed and balanced account of the strategic planning, execution, and eventual failure of the daring airborne assault. Directed by Richard Attenborough, A Bridge Too Far remains an engrossing and historically accurate portrayal of one of the most ambitious and costly battles of the war.
More A Bridge Too Far- #15 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 30William Holden, Alec Guinness, Sessue Hayakawa
This iconic, Oscar-winning war film stars Alec Guinness as a British POW forced to oversee the construction of a strategic bridge for his Japanese captors during World War II. Directed by David Lean, the movie masterfully explores themes of loyalty, honor, and the futility of war, culminating in one of the most memorable and harrowing climactic sequences in film history. The Bridge on the River Kwai's powerful storytelling, unforgettable characters, and stunning visuals have made it a classic and enduring masterpiece.
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- #20 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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