A lot of people died during the Second World War, and some still feel the longing and grievances to this day. The six-year global conflict war had significantly impacted the world regarding culture, politics, and technology. It even paved the way for some creative and talented people to create the most engaging, provocative, and sometimes horrifying films depicting the horrors of war. However, some of these pieces are considered the best World War 2 movies, and service members and Veterans even recommend them due to their realistic touch of what happened 85 years ago. The movies on this list serve as a reminder of the traumas and tragedies of war.
The Best World War 2 Movies to Watch
A Bridge Too Far (1977)
This movie revolves around a failed Operation Market Garden that was taken from the Allies’ perspective. It featured massive stars: James Caan, Laurence Olivier, Robert Redford, Edward Fox, Gene Hackman, Anthony Hopkins, and Sean Connery. The motion picture bagged multiple awards from the British film industry but garnered a halfhearted reaction from critics. Surprisingly, many people have suggested this film as a must-watch, not just on Memorial Day or Veterans Day.
Schindler’s List (1993)
The Spielberg movie that won Best Picture is an adaptation of the life of Oskar Schindler. It circles the life of Schindler and his mission to guard and protect around 1,200 Jews to avoid persecution.
He was a former member of the Nazi party but turned his back against them when he witnessed their brutality; he then vowed to save as many Jews as he could. Schindler’s List has celebrities like Ben Kingsley, Liam Neeson, and Ralph Fiennes in it, owning its spot as one of the best World War 2 movies.
Oppenheimer (2023)
This World War 2 movie narrates the story of J. Robert Oppenheimer, specifically his involvement in creating the world’s first atomic bombs. The film starts with his previous profession until he finds his way into the world of quantum physics, which leads to the grand reveal that nuclear fission can be used as a weapon. Oppenheimer garnered broad critical acclaim and is considered a 21st-century masterpiece.
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Even though most people will not agree, this motion picture is still on the list of best World War 2 movies. Its cinematic presentation has garnered the hearts of its viewers, showcasing patriotism, brotherhood, realistic action scenes, and great emotions. Its opening alone showcased the real deal in which men duck and run their way through the open fire with the endless chaos on D-Day. Matt Damon, Tom Hanks, and Steven Spielberg had teamed up to bring this film to life.
Battle of the Bulge (1965)
This eponymous motion picture tells the story of pilot Lt. Colonel Daniel Kiley, played by the American Actor Henry Fonda. The film revolves around Kiley being in a private battle with a German officer as the more extensive battle rages. Even though most people loved the movie, it was blasted due to its inaccuracies in terms of historical events.
Come and See (1985)
Elem Klimov directed this film, which showcases the perspective of Flyora, a young boy, regarding the war he is witnessing. When he joined the Belarusian resistance movement, he witnessed many gruesome events that no one should ever see in their life. It is one of the best World War 2 movies and is one of the highest-rated pictures on Letterboxd.
Battleground (1949)
The star-studded film features actors such as Van Johnson, Ricardo Montalban, John Hodiak, and George Murphy, who are Army privates under the 101st Airborne. Their dilemma started when they were trapped in Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge.
After its release, Battleground became MGM’s most prosperous movie in half a decade, and it even won two Golden Globes and two Oscars. This is also a favorite among Veterans, as many can relate to the brotherhood and patriotism the movie showcases.
Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970)
Despite the mixed reviews from American critics, it is considered one of the best World War 2 movies, this was produced by Darryl F. Zanuck and showcased the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The movie has an American and Japanese cast and directors.
During its creation, a lot of era-appropriate equipment was used, including a B-17 that accidentally crashed on set. Despite this, the historical accuracy and the blending of casts are top drawers, making it a viewer favorite.
The Longest Day (1962)
It covers the story of D-Day on Normandy; this motion picture was based on the book by Cornelius Ryan. This movie has a well-known cast, namely Robert Mitchum, Richard Burton, Sean Connery, and John Wayne. Along with its great cast is an excellent storyline that made it a masterpiece. In sum, The Longest Day received fantastic reviews and gained over $50 million at the box office.
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