TOP 10 CIVIL WAR MOVIES: STREAM HISTORICAL DRAMAS NOW
Civil War movies are fascinating because they come in so many different flavors. Some lean heavily on the battles, others zoom in on politics, and some dive deep into the people who lived through America’s bloodiest conflict.
What makes them timeless? Even though they’re centered on the same war, each film highlights a different piece of the story—whether it’s honor, survival, or just trying to make sense of chaos.
So, grab your popcorn (and maybe a history-loving friend), because here are seven of the best Civil War movies you can stream right now.
The Red Badge of Courage (1951): Civil War Soldier's Journey
This one’s a classic—and not just because it’s based on Stephen Crane’s iconic novel. Audie Murphy, a real-life World War II hero, plays Henry Fleming, a Union soldier who initially flees the battlefield in fear. To cover up his shame, he pretends he’s wounded—but redemption is calling.
It’s a shame we’ve never gotten to see the original version by John Huston, as it was edited down to its current playtime. Still, the film continues to inspire all these decades later.
Where to Watch: You can rent this film from Apple TV, Prime Video, and other streaming services.
Gone With the Wind (1940): Civil War Impact on Southern Life
It’s almost not even a debate that Gone With the Wind tops the list of most famous movies about the Civil War.
The 1936 novel by Margaret Mitchell comes to life with legendary performances by Vivien Leigh as Scarlett O’Hara, Clark Gable as Rhett Butler, and Leslie Howard as Ashley Wilkes.
Reconstruction is coming to the South; there are romantic themes and plenty of drama found in the film.
Is this a perfect portrayal of the real effects of slavery? No. Is it a product of its time? Partially. But it’s also a classic piece of cinema that can be approached correctly and appreciated in the modern era.
Where to Watch: Max, Hulu, Prime Video, and YouTube TV
Lincoln (2012): Abraham Lincoln's Leadership During the Civil War
One of the more political Civil War movies you’ll find, the biopic about the President at the center of the conflict is in full force thanks to the excellent efforts of Steven Spielberg and the leading actor, Daniel Day-Lewis.
This is an exploration of how Lincoln was able to get things done, a closer look at how our government works, and the effects of the title character’s presidency on the Civil War.
Beyond Day-Lewis, the cast is strong, featuring Sally Field, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, and Tommy Lee Jones.
Where to Watch: Both Apple TV and Prime Video offer rentals.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (1966): Civil War Western Drama
American Civil War movies and Westerns have plenty of overlap, but nobody does it better than The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.
Another classic piece of American cinema, many believe this to be the best work from Hollywood legend Clint Eastwood.
Following “The Man with No Name,” a town is reeling from a variety of Civil War-related incidents, there is money to be found, and the cinematography would set the stage for films still seen today.
A nation is desperate after being torn apart by war, and change is inevitable in an epic tale that stands the test of time.
Where to Watch: Tubi, The Roku Channel, and Pluto TV offer free screenings, with other major streaming services providing rentals.
Gettysburg (1993): Battle of Gettysburg Depiction
Good Civil War movies often come with screen times that are longer than some genres, but Gettysburg—clocking in at a whopping 4 hours 31 minutes—is going to take some time by any measure.
Nevertheless, the Civil War drama is all about the epic Battle of Gettysburg, where key historical figures, Confederate General Robert E. Lee and Union Colonel Joshua Chamberlain, are portrayed by Hollywood royalty Martin Sheen and Jeff Daniels as they collide.
This is going to take you into the minds of the men who called the shots, as well as directly to the frontlines where all the action is.
The good news is that this epic Civil War action movie can be paused at home. Take as many bathroom breaks and snack runs as you need!
Where to Watch: You can rent it on Apple TV and Prime Video.
Horizon: An American Saga - Chapter One (2024): Civil War Era Exploration
This Kevin Costner project is likely going to be the most controversial movie on the list because you’re either going to love it or hate it.
Not only is it going to ask you to give up three hours of your time, but it’s a bit of a complex experience, offering the views of multiple cultures as people expand into the West during the Civil War.
Don’t expect the battles found in other Civil War movies to be the focal point here, but the ties to the conflict and coinciding history make this western worth your time.
Where to Watch: Max, Hulu, YouTube TV, Apple TV, Prime Video
Glory (1989): 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment Story
The 54th Massachusetts Infantry Regiment became the first Black volunteer force in the history of the United States.
Unfortunately, these Soldiers would endure the lingering effects of slavery, racism, inequality in pay, and the dilemma of doing one’s duty even when faced with such unfair treatment.
Glory follows Col. Robert Gould Shaw, played by Matthew Broderick, coming off the Battle of Antietam, and tasked with leading the regiment.
Cary Elwes, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman are all a part of this magnificent cast, where the group goes through being an afterthought to the horrors of war and looks to emerge into glory through it all in one of the more thought-provoking Civil War movies out there.
Where to Watch: Both Prime Video and Apple TV have the film available to rent.
Additional Honorable Mentions
8. Cold Mountain (2003)
Starring Jude Law, Nicole Kidman, and Renée Zellweger (who won an Oscar for her role), this sweeping drama follows a Confederate deserter trying to make his way back home while his love struggles to survive on the home front.
It’s a mix of romance, survival, and gritty war realism—with stunning cinematography and a haunting score.
Where to Watch: Starz, Apple TV, Prime Video
9. Free State of Jones (2016)
Matthew McConaughey stars as Newton Knight, a Confederate soldier who deserts the army and leads a rebellion of poor farmers and escaped slaves in Mississippi.
It’s an under-the-radar Civil War story that blends action, drama, and real history, spotlighting resistance to both the Confederacy and the racial injustices that followed.
Where to stream: Peacock, Apple TV, Prime Video
10. Gods and Generals (2003)
Serving as a prequel to Gettysburg, this epic focuses on Confederate General “Stonewall” Jackson (played by Stephen Lang) and covers the early years of the war.
Gods and Generals is a long one (almost four hours), but for history buffs, it’s a must-watch companion piece to Gettysburg.
Where to stream: Apple TV, Prime Video
11. The Grey House (2026)
Produced by Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman, The Gray House is an upcoming eight-episode Civil War–era spy drama that tells the true story of a ring of courageous women operating inside Confederate territory.
The series shines a light on stories less told — the espionage work of women during the war.
Where/when to stream: Prime Video, sometime early 2026.
Suggested reads:
BY ALLISON KIRSCHBAUM
Veteran, Military History & Culture Writer at VeteranLife
Navy Veteran
Allison Kirschbaum is a Navy Veteran and an experienced historian. She has seven years of experience creating compelling digital content across diverse industries, including Military, Defense, History, SaaS, MarTech, FinTech, financial services, insurance, and manufacturing. She brings this expertis...
Credentials
Expertise
Allison Kirschbaum is a Navy Veteran and an experienced historian. She has seven years of experience creating compelling digital content across diverse industries, including Military, Defense, History, SaaS, MarTech, FinTech, financial services, insurance, and manufacturing. She brings this expertis...
