The 65+ Best US Civil War Movies
- 1Tom Berenger, Martin Sheen, Stephen Lang
A powerful retelling of the pivotal battle in American history, Gettysburg showcases exceptional performances and breathtaking cinematography to portray the events and human drama of the Civil War. This epic film masterfully weaves together the stories of generals and soldiers alike, providing an intimate look at the bravery, fear, and camaraderie experienced by those who fought on both sides of this brutal conflict. A true testament to the art of filmmaking and historical storytelling, Gettysburg remains an unforgettable cinematic experience that perfectly captures the essence of a nation divided.
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- #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
- 2Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman
Set during the tumultuous period of the American Civil War, Glory tells the inspiring story of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry, the first all-black regiment to fight for the Union. This critically acclaimed film delves deep into the lives and battles faced by these pioneering soldiers and their white commander, exploring themes of prejudice, unity, and the courage required to break down barriers in a time of strife. With unforgettable performances and a stirring score, Glory stands as an incredible tribute to the sacrifices made by these brave men and their fight for freedom.
More Glory- #2 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #15 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
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- 3Jeff Daniels, Stephen Lang, Robert Duvall
Adapted from the bestselling novel by Jeff Shaara, Gods and Generals chronicles the early years of the Civil War through the eyes of legendary Confederate generals Stonewall Jackson and Robert E. Lee. This sweeping epic explores the personal and professional lives of these two iconic military figures, painting a vivid picture of their dedication, honor, and struggle as they engage in a deadly conflict that would shape the fate of a nation. With its grand scale and insightful storytelling, Gods and Generals craft a compelling narrative that delves into the hearts of the men on the battlefield and the pivotal moments of the Civil War.
More Gods and Generals- #118 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #45 of 79 onGreat Period Movies Set in the 19th Century
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- 4Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn
Focusing on the life and political career of America's 16th president, Lincoln portrays the remarkable struggle to end slavery and bring a divided nation back together. Directed by Steven Spielberg and featuring an outstanding performance by Daniel Day-Lewis, this dramatic masterpiece shines a light on the complexities of Lincoln's moral and political dilemmas, while also exploring the personal toll of his leadership. Undoubtedly one of the finest portrayals of its eponymous character, Lincoln is a captivating and majestic cinematic achievement that conveys the significance of the man and his era in history.
More Lincoln- #130 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #12 of 59 onThe Best Movies Based on Non-Fiction Books
- #41 of 240 onThe 200+ Best Movies Based On A True Story
- 5Audie Murphy, Bill Mauldin, John Dierkes
A cinematic adaptation of Stephen Crane's classic novel, The Red Badge of Courage follows the journey of young Union soldier Henry Fleming as he grapples with his fear and desire for glory amidst the horrors of war. An emotionally charged film that accurately captures the psychological impact of the Civil War on its soldiers, the movie is lauded for its raw performances and authentic intensity. As a thought-provoking exploration of bravery and human nature in the face of battle, The Red Badge of Courage is an enduring and poignant piece of cinema that remains relevant even today.
More The Red Badge of Courage- #8 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #113 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #12 of 23 onGreat Movies Set in the Civil War Era
- 6James Stewart, Doug McClure, Glenn Corbett
Featuring a captivating performance by James Stewart, Shenandoah tells the story of a Virginia farmer attempting to maintain neutrality during the chaos of the Civil War, only to find his family drawn into the conflict. A heart-rending tale that emphasizes the devastating impact of war on ordinary people, the film presents a powerful, humanized perspective on one of the darkest periods in American history. With its evocative storytelling and emotive acting, Shenandoah is a memorable and moving addition to the canon of Civil War cinema.
More Shenandoah- #7 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #48 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
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- 7William H. Macy, Thomas F. Wilson, William Sanderson
A harrowing look at the infamous Confederate prisoner-of-war camp, Andersonville brings to life the horrors faced by Union soldiers captured during the Civil War. This gripping film showcases the brutality and inhumanity experienced by those imprisoned and the desperate struggle for survival against all odds. A chilling reminder of war's darkest moments, Andersonville is a powerful testament to the resilience and courage of the human spirit amidst unimaginable suffering.
More Andersonville- #10 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #210 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #23 of 31 onThe Best Prisoner of War Movies
- 8John Wayne, William Holden, Constance Towers
John Wayne and William Holden star in The Horse Soldiers, a thrilling Civil War film about a Union cavalry brigade sent deep into Confederate territory to sabotage supply lines. Directed by the legendary John Ford, this classic war movie expertly combines pulse-pounding action with rich character development, examining the camaraderie and rivalry between officers and their troops. As an engrossing tale of heroism amidst the chaos of war, The Horse Soldiers remains an enduring favorite for fans of Civil War cinema.
More The Horse Soldiers- #12 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #51 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #17 of 63 onThe Best Western Movies of the 1950s
- 9Clint Eastwood, Eli Wallach, Lee Van Cleef
Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is a masterclass in filmmaking by director Sergio Leone. Starring Clint Eastwood, Lee Van Cleef, and Eli Wallach, this iconic western follows three gunslingers as they search for a fortune in stolen gold. While their personal quest forms the central narrative, the wider conflict of the Civil War provides an atmospheric and compelling backdrop that enhances the overall impact of the film. The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly is a genre-defining classic that transcends its period setting and remains an unforgettable cinematic experience.
- #3 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #53 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- #2 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- 10Clark Gable, Vivien Leigh, Leslie Howard
Arguably the most famous of all Civil War films, Gone with the Wind tells the sweeping tale of love and loss in the American South. Featuring legendary stars such as Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable, this epic movie showcases the lavish lives of Southern plantation owners and the turmoil wrought by the war. An unparalleled achievement in filmmaking and storytelling, Gone with the Wind endures as a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its romance, drama, and historical spectacle.
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- #5 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #111 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- 11David Arquette, Keith David, Jason Isaacs
Field of Lost Shoes tells the incredible true story of the Virginia Military Institute cadets who fought alongside Confederate forces at the Battle of New Market during the Civil War. As a tragic and inspiring account of young men thrust into the brutality of war, the film expertly blends high-stakes action with heartfelt personal narratives that evoke the sacrifices made by these cadets. With its compelling storytelling and stirring performances, Field of Lost Shoes is a poignant addition to the landscape of Civil War cinema.
- 12Armand Assante, Donald Sutherland, Alex Jennings
Based on true events, The Hunley chronicles the daring story of the Confederate submarine H.L. Hunley and its crew's desperate attempts to break the Union blockade during the Civil War. Showcasing the innovation and bravery required to undertake such a perilous mission, the film brings the suspense and drama surrounding this revolutionary vessel to life. A stirring testament to the ingenuity and determination exhibited by those caught in the conflict, The Hunley offers a unique perspective on the struggles of the Civil War.
- 13
Gettysburg: Three Days of Destiny
Michael Riley, Andy Redmond, James ChoateAn innovative blend of documentary and narrative filmmaking, Gettysburg: Three Days of Destiny revisits the pivotal battle through the eyes of reenactors who bring history to life in astonishing detail. This immersive film offers a unique window into the personal experiences of those who fought and perished during this critical moment in American history. As both a celebration of living history and a tribute to the sacrifices made during the Civil War, Gettysburg: Three Days of Destiny is a compelling and educational addition to the genre.
- 14Kevin Costner, Mary McDonnell, Graham Greene
A groundbreaking film that explores the effects of the Civil War on the American frontier, Dances with Wolves stars Kevin Costner as a disillusioned Union soldier who befriends a tribe of Native Americans. This Oscar-winning epic delves deep into the impact of war on both individuals and communities, demonstrating the resilience and courage of those who choose peace over conflict. Capturing the beauty and challenges of the untamed West, Dances with Wolves stands as a poignant and powerful exploration of the human spirit.
More Dances with Wolves- #27 of 50 onThe Biggest Movies Of The '90s, Ranked
- #6 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #51 of 264 onThe 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
- 15Jude Law, Nicole Kidman, Renée Zellweger
Based on Charles Frazier's acclaimed novel, Cold Mountain follows the perilous journey of a wounded Confederate soldier as he attempts to return home to his beloved amidst the chaos of the Civil War. Starring Nicole Kidman, Jude Law, and Renée Zellweger, this sweeping epic explores the hardships faced by those left behind on the home front and captures the raw emotion of love, loss, and longing in a time of strife. As a visually stunning and deeply moving portrayal of the human toll of war, Cold Mountain remains an unforgettable cinematic experience.
More Cold Mountain- #11 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #156 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #49 of 80 onThe Best Period Romance Movies
- 16David Carradine, Keith Carradine, Robert Carradine
Inspired by the real-life exploits of the notorious James-Younger Gang, The Long Riders offers a gritty and authentic portrayal of these infamous outlaws as they rob banks and elude Union forces during the Civil War. Starring real-life siblings David, Keith, and Robert Carradine as the Younger brothers, the film is a unique blend of western action and historical drama that brings the essence of the outlaw life to the screen. With its riveting narrative and powerful performances, The Long Riders is an exciting addition to the pantheon of Civil War cinema.
More The Long Riders- #70 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #34 of 64 onThe Best Movies Of 1980
- #5 of 38 onThe Best '80s Western Movies
- 17Skeet Ulrich, Tobey Maguire, Jewel
A gripping tale of love, betrayal, and survival, Ride with the Devil follows a group of Southern bushwhackers as they navigate the brutal guerrilla warfare of the Civil War's Western theater. Directed by Ang Lee and featuring standout performances from Tobey Maguire, Skeet Ulrich, and Jewel, the film presents a refreshing perspective on the complexities of loyalty and honor during this tumultuous era. With its vivid imagery and captivating characters, Ride with the Devil offers a powerful exploration of the human cost of war.
More Ride with the Devil- #13 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #249 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #13 of 58 onThe Best '90s Westerns, Ranked
- 18
Ironclads
Virginia Madsen, Reed Diamond, E. G. MarshallBoasting a star-studded cast and exceptional production values, Ironclads chronicles the legendary clash between the Monitor and Merrimack, two ironclad warships that revolutionized naval warfare during the Civil War. As an exploration of the ingenuity and determination of those who fought on the high seas, the film offers fascinating insights into the technological advances that defined this tumultuous period. Ironclads is a thrilling and engaging depiction of a naval conflict that forever changed the course of maritime history.
- 19Tom Selleck, Sam Elliott, Katharine Ross
A thrilling adventure that combines the best elements of the western genre with the turbulent backdrop of the Civil War, The Shadow Riders stars Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott as brothers who return home after fighting for opposing sides in the conflict. Faced with a dangerous new threat, they must put aside their differences and join forces to protect their family and preserve their way of life. As a compelling exploration of the struggles faced by ordinary people during this chaotic era, The Shadow Riders is an entertaining and unforgettable addition to the Civil War film canon.
- 20Tom Selleck, Haley Joel Osment, David Carradine
Starring Tom Selleck and Suzy Amis, Last Stand at Saber River is a gripping western drama that follows a former Confederate soldier as he attempts to rebuild his life after the devastation of the Civil War. Faced with violence and prejudice on the frontier, he must fight to protect his family and forge a new future for himself. With its thrilling action and compelling characters, Last Stand at Saber River offers an engaging exploration of the challenges faced by those trying to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of America's most brutal conflict.
- 21Danny Glover, Clifton Powell, Bob Gunton
An often-overlooked chapter in American history, Buffalo Soldiers tells the story of the African American cavalrymen who fought for the Union during the Civil War and went on to serve in the western frontier. This gripping film explores the courage, resilience, and fortitude of these pioneering soldiers as they face both external enemies and internal prejudice in their quest for freedom and respect. With its compelling narrative and powerful performances, Buffalo Soldiers is an inspiring reminder of the heroism displayed by these unsung heroes of the Civil War.
- 22Matthew McConaughey, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Mahershala Ali
Based on the incredible true story of Newton Knight, a disillusioned Confederate soldier who led a rebellion against the Confederacy in Mississippi, Free State of Jones is a powerful and timely exploration of the struggle for freedom during the Civil War. Starring Matthew McConaughey in a captivating performance, this riveting film delves deep into the complexities of loyalty, liberation, and the pursuit of justice in a time of chaos. As an intimate portrayal of one man's fight against injustice, Free State of Jones offers a refreshing perspective on the Civil War and its enduring legacy.
- 23Charlton Heston, Richard Harris, Jim Hutton
An ambitious and epic tale of frontier warfare during the Civil War, Major Dundee stars Charlton Heston as a Union officer tasked with tracking down a band of Apache warriors who have kidnapped a group of children. As his mission becomes increasingly fraught with danger and moral ambiguity, Dundee discovers that the line between friend and foe is often blurred in times of war. With its rousing adventure and complex character dynamics, Major Dundee is an intriguing exploration of duty, honor, and the complexities of human nature during one of America's most tumultuous periods.
More Major Dundee- #114 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #35 of 46 onThe Best 1960s Western Movies, Ranked
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- 24James McAvoy, Robin Wright, Kevin Kline
Directed by Robert Redford and featuring a stellar cast led by Robin Wright and James McAvoy, The Conspirator delves into the aftermath of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination and the subsequent trial of those accused of conspiring in his murder. As a fascinating exploration of the intersection between justice, morality, and political expediency, the film sheds new light on the events that rocked the nation during the final months of the Civil War. The Conspirator is a gripping and thought-provoking examination of one of the most tumultuous moments in American history.
- 25
Wicked Spring
DJ Perry, Aaron Jackson, Terry JerniganA haunting tale of soldiers trapped between the lines during the Battle of the Wilderness, Wicked Spring offers a chilling portrayal of the psychological toll that war takes on its participants. With its authentic depiction of the chaos and confusion that characterized this bloody engagement, the film captures the desperation and brutality of hand-to-hand combat in the forests and swamps of the American South. As a heartrending exploration of the human cost of war, Wicked Spring stands as a testament to the horror and humanity of the Civil War.
- 26John Wayne, Rock Hudson, Tony Aguilar
Starring John Wayne and Rock Hudson as former Civil War adversaries who must join forces to escape a dangerous band of revolutionaries, The Undefeated is an action-packed western that showcases the lingering tensions between Union and Confederate veterans during the Reconstruction era. As a thrilling tale of survival and redemption amid the changing landscape of the post-war American West, this film offers an engaging and unique look at the aftermath of the Civil War and the challenges faced by those trying to heal a fractured nation.
More The Undefeated- #22 of 27 onThe 25+ Best Civil War Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #69 of 288 onThe 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
- #27 of 46 onThe Best 1960s Western Movies, Ranked
- 27Cicely Tyson, Odetta, Richard Dysart
Based on the acclaimed novel by Ernest J. Gaines, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman follows the life of a former slave as she navigates the tumultuous decades following the Civil War. With an Emmy-winning performance by Cicely Tyson in the title role, this groundbreaking film sheds light on the struggles faced by African Americans during this period and serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and determination of the human spirit in the face of injustice. As a poignant and insightful reflection on a deeply divided nation, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman is a vital addition to the landscape of Civil War cinema.
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- 28Gary Cooper, Dorothy McGuire, Anthony Perkins
An introspective and evocative look at the challenges faced by a Quaker family during the turmoil of the Civil War, Friendly Persuasion features outstanding performances from Gary Cooper and Dorothy McGuire as they navigate the complexities of faith, love, and duty. As a thoughtful exploration of the moral concerns involved in taking up arms, the film offers a unique perspective on the impact of the conflict on those who sought to maintain their beliefs amidst the chaos of war. With its heartfelt storytelling and emotional resonance, Friendly Persuasion is a haunting and unforgettable exploration of the human experience during this troubled era.
- 29Rob Lowe, Bill Paxton, Randy Travis
Starring Rob Lowe and Bill Paxton, Frank and Jesse tells the compelling story of the notorious James brothers as they embark on a life of crime in the aftermath of the Civil War. Blending elements of the western and historical drama genres, the film offers a fresh perspective on these infamous outlaws, exploring the deep bonds between family members forced to navigate a world of violence, betrayal, and injustice. As an engaging and authentic look at the lives of those who fought and bled during this turbulent era, Frank and Jesse is a thrilling addition to the canon of Civil War cinema.
- 30Jeff Bridges, Barry Brown, Jim Davis
Set during the Civil War, Bad Company tells the story of a group of draft dodgers who form a gang of outlaws on the American frontier. Starring Jeff Bridges in one of his earliest roles, the film blends thrilling action with a poignant exploration of the moral complexities of staying neutral in a time of national crisis. As a compelling and darkly humorous look at the choices faced by those caught in the crossfire of the Civil War, Bad Company remains an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition.
