Are you ready for an epic movie marathon filled with heart-pounding action, gripping drama, and unforgettable stories of courage and sacrifice? Look no further than this ultimate list of the 25 best war movies available on Netflix right now! From classic World War II battles to modern-day conflicts, these films will transport you to the front lines and leave you on the edge of your seat. Get ready to be blown away by the raw emotion, stunning visuals, and powerful performances that make these movies true cinematic masterpieces. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be amazed as we count down the top 25 must-see war movies on Netflix!
25. ‘The Forgotten Battle’ (2020)
The Forgotten Battle is a gripping Dutch war film set during World War II that follows three intersecting storylines: a Dutch soldier fighting for the Germans, a British glider pilot, and a local resistance member. As the Battle of the Scheldt rages on, these characters’ lives become intertwined in a desperate struggle for survival and freedom. With authentic portrayals of the battle and the war crimes committed by the Germans against the Dutch people, this movie doesn’t shy away from the grim realities of war. Featuring well-staged action sequences and stunning cinematography of the Dutch countryside, The Forgotten Battle transports viewers straight into the heart of the conflict, showcasing the human struggles and ideological differences that define wartime experiences.
24. ‘Blood & Gold’ (2023)
Blood & Gold is a German action-adventure film set in the final days of World War II. The story follows a deserting German soldier and a young woman who embark on a dangerous journey to escape the advancing Allied forces. Along the way, they discover a hidden trove of gold and must decide whether to keep it for themselves or use it to help others in need. With intense battle scenes and a compelling narrative that explores the moral dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the chaos of war, Blood & Gold offers a fresh perspective on the well-trodden WWII genre. The film’s strong performances, high-stakes plot, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout addition to Netflix’s war movie lineup.
23. ‘Narvik’ (2022)
Narvik is a Norwegian historical drama that depicts the Battle of Narvik, a pivotal moment in World War II when Nazi Germany sought to secure a strategic port in neutral Norway. The film follows a Norwegian soldier torn between his duty to defend his country and his love for his German sweetheart. As the battle intensifies and the lines between friend and foe blur, the couple must navigate the complexities of wartime romance and the harsh realities of the conflict. With breathtaking cinematography of the Norwegian landscape and a poignant exploration of the human cost of war, Narvik offers a unique and emotionally resonant perspective on a lesser-known chapter of WWII history.
22. ‘The Siege of Jadotville’ (2016)
The Siege of Jadotville is a gripping true story of an Irish UN peacekeeping force’s heroic stand against overwhelming odds during the Congo Crisis of 1961. Led by Commandant Pat Quinlan (played by Jamie Dornan), the 150-strong Irish contingent finds itself surrounded by thousands of Katangese troops and mercenaries. With limited resources and no support from the UN, the Irish soldiers must rely on their training, courage, and camaraderie to survive the relentless siege. The film expertly captures the tension, chaos, and bravery of the soldiers as they face impossible odds, while also shedding light on the political complexities and betrayals that led to their predicament. The Siege of Jadotville is a powerful tribute to the unsung heroes of a forgotten battle.
21. ‘Paskal’ (2018)
Paskal is a Malaysian military action film inspired by the real-life missions of the country’s elite naval special forces unit, the Pasukan Khas Laut (PASKAL). The movie follows the unit’s dangerous operations, including a high-stakes rescue mission of a hijacked tanker in the Gulf of Aden. With intense close-quarters combat, heart-pounding underwater sequences, and a strong emphasis on the bond between the team members, Paskal offers a thrilling and authentic look into the world of special operations. The film’s impressive action set pieces, combined with its exploration of the personal sacrifices and dedication of the PASKAL operatives, make it a must-watch for fans of military action movies.
20. ‘Sand Castle’ (2017)
Sand Castle is a thought-provoking war drama based on the personal experiences of its writer, Chris Roessner, during the Iraq War. The film follows Private Matt Ocre (played by Nicholas Hoult), a young soldier tasked with restoring water supply to a small village in the midst of the conflict. As Ocre navigates the complexities of the mission and faces the harsh realities of war, he must confront his own beliefs and the impact of his actions on the local population. With powerful performances from its cast and a nuanced exploration of the moral ambiguities of modern warfare, Sand Castle offers a poignant and intimate look at the human cost of war and the challenges faced by soldiers on the ground.
19. ‘Megan Leavey’ (2017)
Megan Leavey is an inspiring true story of the bond between a young Marine corporal (played by Kate Mara) and her military working dog, Rex. The film follows Megan’s journey as she overcomes personal challenges and forms an unbreakable connection with Rex during their deployment in Iraq. Together, they save countless lives and complete over 100 missions, until an IED explosion puts their fate in jeopardy. Megan Leavey is a heartfelt and emotional tribute to the sacrifices made by military working dogs and their handlers, highlighting the importance of their partnership and the unique challenges they face in the line of duty. With a powerful performance by Kate Mara and a touching portrayal of the human-animal bond, this film is a must-see for animal lovers and anyone seeking an uplifting story of courage and devotion.
18. ‘Unbroken’ (2014)
Directed by Angelina Jolie, Unbroken is an inspiring true story of resilience and the indomitable human spirit. The film follows the incredible journey of Louis Zamperini (played by Jack O’Connell), an Olympic athlete who survives a plane crash during World War II, spends 47 days adrift on a raft, and then endures unspeakable hardships as a prisoner of war in Japanese camps. Through his unwavering determination and unbreakable spirit, Zamperini overcomes unimaginable odds and emerges as a symbol of hope and perseverance. With stunning cinematography, powerful performances, and a script co-written by the Coen brothers, Unbroken is a testament to the strength of the human will and a moving tribute to the courage of those who served in World War II.
17. ‘Operation Mincemeat’ (2021)
Operation Mincemeat is a captivating British war drama that tells the true story of a daring deception operation during World War II. In an effort to mislead the Germans about the Allied invasion of Sicily, British intelligence officers devise an audacious plan involving a corpse, false documents, and an elaborate backstory. As the operation unfolds, the film explores the personal lives and motivations of the key players, adding depth and emotional resonance to the high-stakes espionage plot. With a stellar cast, including Colin Firth and Matthew Macfadyen, and meticulous attention to historical detail, Operation Mincemeat offers a fascinating glimpse into the shadowy world of wartime intelligence and the unsung heroes who helped change the course of history.
16. ‘Da 5 Bloods’ (2020)
Directed by Spike Lee, Da 5 Bloods is a powerful and thought-provoking war drama that follows four African American veterans as they return to Vietnam decades after the war to find the remains of their fallen squad leader and a hidden cache of gold. As they embark on this emotionally charged journey, the men confront the lasting impact of the war on their lives, the enduring bonds of brotherhood, and the painful legacy of racism and exploitation. With an all-star cast led by Delroy Lindo and the late Chadwick Boseman, in his final film appearance, Da 5 Bloods offers a searing and timely exploration of the Black experience in America, the scars of war, and the search for redemption. Spike Lee’s masterful direction and the film’s seamless blend of past and present make it a must-see for anyone seeking a provocative and deeply moving war movie.
15. ‘Hacksaw Ridge’ (2016)
Hacksaw Ridge is a gripping war film based on the true story of Desmond Doss (played by Andrew Garfield), a US Army medic who served during World War II. As a conscientious objector due to his religious beliefs, Doss refuses to carry a weapon but still wants to serve his country. Despite facing ridicule and ostracism from his fellow soldiers, Doss proves his bravery and dedication during the brutal Battle of Okinawa, single-handedly saving the lives of 75 men without firing a single shot. Directed by Mel Gibson, Hacksaw Ridge is a powerful testament to the strength of conviction and the transformative power of faith. With intense battle sequences and a moving performance by Andrew Garfield, this film is a must-see for anyone seeking an inspiring story of courage and sacrifice.
14. ‘The Outpost’ (2020)
The Outpost is a gripping and intense war film based on the true story of the Battle of Kamdesh, one of the bloodiest engagements of the Afghanistan War. The movie follows a small unit of US soldiers stationed at a remote outpost deep in the mountains of Afghanistan, as they face a relentless and overwhelming attack by Taliban fighters. With limited resources and support, the soldiers must rely on their training, courage, and brotherhood to survive the onslaught. Featuring a talented ensemble cast and directed by Rod Lurie, The Outpost offers a visceral and unflinching look at the realities of modern warfare, the sacrifices made by those who serve, and the unbreakable bonds forged in battle. The film’s pulse-pounding combat sequences and its authentic portrayal of the soldiers’ experiences make it a must-watch for fans of war movies.
13. ‘Starship Troopers’ (1997)
Starship Troopers is a classic sci-fi war movie that combines action, satire, and political commentary in a thrilling and visually stunning package. Set in a fascist, militaristic future where humans wage war against giant alien insects, the film follows a group of young soldiers as they enlist in the Mobile Infantry and fight on the front lines of the interstellar conflict. Directed by Paul Verhoeven and based on the novel by Robert A. Heinlein, Starship Troopers is a subversive and darkly humorous take on the war movie genre, with over-the-top action sequences, memorable characters, and biting social commentary. While the film initially received mixed reviews, it has since become a cult classic, praised for its prescient satire of fascism, propaganda, and the glorification of war. With its iconic “Would you like to know more?” tagline and its unforgettable blend of sci-fi action and political allegory, Starship Troopers is a must-see for fans of both war movies and thought-provoking science fiction.
12. ‘The Pianist’ (2002)
The Pianist is a powerful and emotionally devastating war drama based on the true story of WÅ‚adysÅ‚aw Szpilman, a Polish Jewish pianist who survived the Holocaust. Directed by Roman Polanski and starring Adrien Brody in an Oscar-winning performance, the film follows Szpilman’s harrowing experiences as he navigates the horrors of the Warsaw Ghetto, narrowly escapes deportation to the concentration camps, and ultimately finds refuge in the ruins of the city. With its unflinching portrayal of the brutality and inhumanity of the Nazi occupation, The Pianist is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of music. Polanski’s masterful direction, Brody’s haunting performance, and the film’s stunning cinematography and score make it a deeply moving and unforgettable cinematic experience. As a reminder of the atrocities of the past and a tribute to those who endured them, The Pianist is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and impactful war movie.
11. ‘Beasts of No Nation’ (2015)
Beasts of No Nation is a harrowing and powerful war drama that explores the devastating impact of conflict on children. Directed by Cary Fukunaga and based on the novel by Uzodinma Iweala, the film follows Agu (played by Abraham Attah), a young boy in an unnamed West African country who is forced to become a child soldier after his family is torn apart by civil war. Under the command of a ruthless warlord (played by Idris Elba), Agu is exposed to unspeakable violence and brutality, as he struggles to maintain his humanity in the face of unimaginable horror. With its unflinching portrayal of the realities of child soldiers and its searing performances by Attah and Elba, Beasts of No Nation is a difficult but essential watch. The film’s stunning cinematography, immersive sound design, and haunting score create a visceral and emotionally charged experience that lingers long after the credits roll. As a powerful indictment of the use of children in warfare and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, Beasts of No Nation is a must-see for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and deeply affecting war movie.
10. ‘All Quiet on the Western Front’ (2022)
All Quiet on the Western Front is a harrowing and powerful adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque’s classic novel about the horrors of World War I. Directed by Edward Berger, this German-language film follows a group of young soldiers as they are sent to fight on the Western Front, where they confront the brutal realities of trench warfare and the futility of the conflict. With its unflinching portrayal of the physical and psychological toll of war, the film offers a searing indictment of the senseless violence and waste of human life that characterized the Great War. Stunning cinematography, immersive sound design, and powerful performances by the ensemble cast create a visceral and emotionally charged experience that brings the novel to life in a new and impactful way. As a reminder of the enduring relevance of Remarque’s message and a tribute to the sacrifices of a generation, All Quiet on the Western Front is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and thought-provoking war movie.
9. ‘1917’ (2019)
1917 is a breathtaking and immersive World War I epic that follows two young British soldiers on a perilous mission to deliver a crucial message that could save the lives of 1,600 men. Directed by Sam Mendes and filmed to appear as one continuous shot, the movie is a technical and artistic marvel that puts the viewer right in the trenches with the characters, experiencing the chaos, terror, and heroism of the war in real-time. With stunning cinematography by Roger Deakins, a haunting score by Thomas Newman, and powerful performances by George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman, 1917 is a visceral and emotionally charged tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in the Great War. As a reminder of the human cost of conflict and a testament to the power of cinema to bring history to life, 1917 is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and unforgettable war movie experience.
8. ‘Saving Private Ryan’ (1998)
Saving Private Ryan is a classic war film that set a new standard for the genre with its unflinching portrayal of the brutality and chaos of combat. Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks, the movie follows a group of US soldiers during the Normandy invasion of World War II, as they embark on a mission to find and bring home a paratrooper whose brothers have all been killed in action. With its iconic opening sequence depicting the bloody landing at Omaha Beach and its powerful performances by the ensemble cast, Saving Private Ryan is a masterclass in war filmmaking that captures the horror, heroism, and humanity of the soldiers who fought in the war. The film’s groundbreaking cinematography, sound design, and special effects create a visceral and immersive experience that puts the viewer right in the heart of the action, while its emotional core and themes of sacrifice, brotherhood, and the cost of war give it a timeless and universal resonance. As a tribute to the Greatest Generation and a reminder of the enduring impact of World War II, Saving Private Ryan is a must-see for anyone seeking a powerful and unforgettable war movie.
7. ‘Apocalypse Now’ (1979)
Apocalypse Now is a surreal and haunting Vietnam War epic that explores the madness and moral ambiguity of the conflict. Directed by Francis Ford Coppola and loosely based on Joseph Conrad’s novella “Heart of Darkness,” the film follows Captain Benjamin L. Willard (played by Martin Sheen) on a mission to track down and eliminate the renegade Colonel Walter E. Kurtz (played by Marlon Brando), who has gone insane and established himself as a god-like figure among the local tribes. As Willard journeys deeper into the jungle and confronts the horrors of the war, the film becomes a hallucinatory and metaphorical exploration of the darkness within the human soul and the corrupting influence of power. With its iconic performances, stunning visuals, and haunting score, Apocalypse Now is a masterpiece of war cinema that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. As a commentary on the Vietnam War and a meditation on the nature of evil, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and thought-provoking war movie.
6. ‘The Thin Red Line’ (1998)
The Thin Red Line is a poetic and philosophical war film that explores the inner lives of soldiers during the World War II battle for Guadalcanal. Directed by Terrence Malick and based on the novel by James Jones, the movie features an all-star cast including Sean Penn, Adrien Brody, and Jim Caviezel, and follows a group of US soldiers as they confront the horrors of war and grapple with existential questions about the nature of life, death, and the human condition. With its lush cinematography, introspective voiceovers, and meditative pacing, The Thin Red Line is a unique and deeply moving war film that eschews traditional action and heroics in favor of a more contemplative and spiritual approach. As a reflection on the human cost of war and a celebration of the beauty and fragility of life, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and emotionally resonant war movie experience.
5. ‘Full Metal Jacket’ (1987)
Full Metal Jacket is a searing and darkly comedic Vietnam War film that explores the dehumanizing effects of military training and the psychological toll of combat. Directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on the novel “The Short-Timers” by Gustav Hasford, the movie is divided into two parts: the first half follows a group of Marine recruits as they endure the brutal boot camp training under the sadistic Gunnery Sergeant Hartman (played by R. Lee Ermey), while the second half follows one of the recruits, Private Joker (played by Matthew Modine), as he covers the war as a combat correspondent and confronts the chaos and absurdity of the conflict. With its iconic performances, biting satire, and unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war, Full Metal Jacket is a masterpiece of war cinema that continues to resonate with audiences decades after its release. As a commentary on the Vietnam War and a meditation on the nature of violence and the human condition, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking war movie.
4. ‘Platoon’ (1986)
Platoon is a raw and powerful Vietnam War film that draws on the personal experiences of writer-director Oliver Stone, who served in the conflict. The movie follows Chris Taylor (played by Charlie Sheen), a young soldier who volunteers for combat duty and finds himself caught in the middle of a war within his own platoon, as two sergeants (played by Tom Berenger and Willem Dafoe) battle for the hearts and minds of their men. With its gritty and realistic portrayal of the day-to-day realities of combat, its complex and morally ambiguous characters, and its unflinching depiction of the atrocities committed by both sides, Platoon is a landmark war film that captures the chaos, brutality, and emotional toll of the Vietnam War. As a commentary on the conflict and a meditation on the nature of good and evil, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a powerful and thought-provoking war movie experience.
3. ‘Schindler’s List’ (1993)
Schindler’s List is a harrowing and deeply moving Holocaust drama that tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saved the lives of over a thousand Jewish refugees during World War II. Directed by Steven Spielberg and shot in stark black and white, the film follows Schindler (played by Liam Neeson) as he initially profits from the war by employing Jewish workers in his factory, but gradually becomes a reluctant hero as he witnesses the horrors of the Nazi regime and uses his wealth and influence to protect his workers from deportation and death. With its powerful performances, haunting visuals, and unflinching portrayal of the atrocities of the Holocaust, Schindler’s List is a masterpiece of war cinema that serves as a testament to the courage and resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable evil. As a reminder of one of the darkest chapters in human history and a celebration of the power of individual action to make a difference, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and emotionally devastating war movie experience.
2. ‘The Deer Hunter’ (1978)
The Deer Hunter is a haunting and powerful Vietnam War drama that explores the impact of the conflict on a group of working-class friends from a small town in Pennsylvania. Directed by Michael Cimino and featuring an all-star cast including Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and Meryl Streep, the film follows the men as they go from the steel mills of their hometown to the jungles of Vietnam, where they endure the horrors of combat and the trauma of captivity. With its epic scope, its unflinching portrayal of the brutality of war, and its deeply moving performances, The Deer Hunter is a masterpiece of war cinema that captures the human cost of the Vietnam War and the enduring impact of trauma on the lives of those who served. As a meditation on friendship, sacrifice, and the search for meaning in the face of unimaginable suffering, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and emotionally devastating war movie experience.
1. ‘Apocalypse Now Redux’ (2001)
Apocalypse Now Redux is an extended and remastered version of Francis Ford Coppola’s classic Vietnam War epic, featuring new scenes and additional footage that deepen and enrich the original film. Clocking in at over three hours, this version of the movie is a more immersive and contemplative journey into the heart of darkness, as Captain Willard (played by Martin Sheen) travels upriver to confront the renegade Colonel Kurtz (played by Marlon Brando) and the madness of the war. With its hallucinatory visuals, haunting score, and iconic performances, Apocalypse Now Redux is a masterpiece of war cinema that explores the psychological and moral dimensions of the Vietnam War and the human capacity for both good and evil. As a commentary on the nature of power, the corruption of ideals, and the search for meaning in a world gone mad, it is a must-see for anyone seeking a profound and thought-provoking war movie experience that pushes the boundaries of the genre and the medium itself.
So there you have it, the 25 best war movies on Netflix that will leave you speechless! From the harrowing trenches of World War I to the jungles of Vietnam, these films offer a powerful and unflinching look at the human cost of conflict and the enduring impact of war on those who fight and those who are left behind. Whether you are a fan of classic war epics or more unconventional and thought-provoking takes on the genre, there is something on this list for everyone. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be moved, challenged, and inspired by these incredible stories of courage, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit. Happy watching!