War films have the ability to captivate audiences by immersing them in the complexities of battle, sacrifice, and survival, often offering a powerful reflection on human nature.
In the digital age, with the convenience of streaming, a time-travelling journey to Vietnam, the deserts of the Middle East or the jungles of Somalia are just a click away.
From classic epics to modern war dramas, here are 11 must-watch war films currently available for streaming. But act fast – some are leaving their platforms soon.
The Zone of Interest (2023) – Prime Video
This recent addition to the war film genre, loosely adapted from Martin Amis’s 2014 novel of the same name, explores the mundane life of a Nazi commandant and his family – juxtaposed with the horrors of the Auschwitz extermination camp they live near, focusing on the chilling normalcy of their existence.
Full Metal Jacket (1987) – Netflix
Stanley Kubrick’s iconic Vietnam War film remains one of the most intense and thought-provoking war films of all time. It follows U.S. Marine recruits through brutal boot camp training and the horrors of the Vietnam War, exploring themes of dehumanization, the psychological impact of conflict, and the transformation of individuals into killing machines
The Imitation Game (2014) – Netflix and Prime Video
Though not a traditional war film, The Imitation Game tells the riveting true story of Alan Turing, a brilliant cryptanalyst, who, during World War II, played a crucial role in breaking the German Enigma code, but faced persecution for his homosexuality after the war.
Black Hawk Down (1993) – Prime Video
(Leaving in April)
Ridley Scott’s Black Hawk Down offers a harrowing portrayal of a 1993 US military raid in Mogadishu, Somalia, that went disastrously wrong, with elite soldiers facing a fierce battle against Somali militia, resulting in the downing of helicopters and a costly rescue mission. If you haven’t seen it yet, now’s the time before it leaves Prime Video in April.
Lawrence of Arabia (1962) – Prime Video
Directed by David Lean and starring Peter O’Toole, it tells the story of British intelligence officer T.E. Lawrence, who played a key role in uniting Arab tribes and leading them in a revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War I.
Inglourious Basterds (2009) – Netflix and Channel 4+
Quentin Tarantino’s Inglourious Basterds reimagines World War II with a signature mix of brutal action and sharp dialogue. In Nazi-occupied France, it follows two intertwined plots: a Jewish-American squad led by Lt. Aldo Raine (Brad Pitt) seeking revenge on Nazis, and a Jewish cinema owner, Shosanna Dreyfus (Melanie Laurent), who plans to avenge her family’s murder at a movie premiere attended by high-ranking Nazi officials.
The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024) – Prime Video
Set during World War II and based on true events, The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare follows a secret British special forces unit formed by Winston Churchill and Ian Fleming to carry out daring, unconventional missions against the Nazis, ultimately changing the course of the war.
Platoon (1986) – Prime Video
(Leaving in a Week)
Oliver Stone’s Platoon is a visceral and unflinching portrayal of the Vietnam War, based on Stone’s own experiences as a soldier. With powerful performances from Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, and Willem Dafoe, the film follows a young recruit’s journey through the brutality and moral complexities of the conflict, highlighting the clash between two sergeants and the futility of war. It’s leaving Prime Video in just a week, so make sure to watch it soon.
Kingdom of Heaven (2005) – Disney+
Ridley Scott’s historical epic, set during the Crusades, follows Balian, a blacksmith who becomes a knight, as he travels to Jerusalem during the Crusades, where he finds himself defending the city and its people against the Muslim forces led by Saladin.
1917 (2019) – Netflix
Sam Mendes’ 1917 is a gripping World War I drama that follows two British soldiers on a mission to deliver a message deep behind enemy lines. Shot in a single continuous take, the film immerses viewers in the intensity of war, creating an unrelenting sense of urgency and danger.
Braveheart (1995) – Disney+
Mel Gibson’s Braveheart is a sweeping historical epic about William Wallace, a Scottish farmer who, after witnessing the brutal English occupation of Scotland, rises to become a leader of a rebellion against the tyrannical King Edward I.