20 Most Common Tropes in War Movies

It seems that you have written a blog post about common tropes and themes found in war movies. You discussed three specific topics: snipers working alone, intense war room discussions by generals, and soldiers staring at photos of their family members.

As a passionate gamer and history buff, I can’t help but notice how war movies continue to captivate audiences despite their decreasing frequency in real life. These films ignite my imagination just as much as they did for those who came before me. The reason for this enduring fascination is clear: war movies are profitable. But that’s not all; they serve multiple purposes.

Many war stories exist, each one unique yet sharing common themes. Observed patterns include character quirks, narrative frameworks, and recurring events. Despite these similarities, viewers remain engaged due to the innovative storytelling that offers novel perspectives on inter-regional conflicts and their aftermath.

20 Soldiers Sending Letters Home

Due to technological progressions, individuals now have multiple options for faster forms of communication. It’s intriguing that in many war movies, scenes depict soldiers writing letters home to their spouses or families still occur. Regrettably, these soldiers often seem more excited about sending messages than the recipients. At some point, the soldier receives a “Dear John” letter – a heartbreaking message from his lover announcing she has moved on with someone named ‘Jodie.’

War Ruins Perfect Relationships

Film directors frequently employ the letter motif as a foundation for portraying heartache and showcasing the harsh reality that military personnel face, despite their valor and self-sacrifice. A striking depiction of this theme can be observed in the film “Dear John,” where John Tyree (Channing Tatum), intends to build a life with his sweetheart, Savannah, but is sent to Afghanistan following the September 11 attacks. Despite his consistent correspondence from the battlefield, Savannah ultimately becomes disenchanted and moves on with another man, referred to as a “Jody.”

19 “Don’t you die on me!”

On the battlefield, the stakes are high and tensions will run deep, leading to severe injuries with little to no hope for recovery. As one soldier lies there, gravely wounded and bleeding out, their comrade will be at their side, urgently imploring them to hang on, as they cannot afford to lose them. In some cinematic portrayals, the injured soldier defies all odds and pulls through, but in most instances, death is a certainty.

The Confirmation of a Comrade Bond

It’s frustrating when characters in war films demand each other to halt death’s approach. However, this trope plays a crucial role in strengthening friendship bonds and intensifying the emotional impact of loss. Soldiers, pilots, and sailors may have been prepared for the realities of war, but none want to witness the demise of their comrades.

In the film “Red Tails,” an alternative portrayal of this common plot device unfolds as Deacon, gravely injured mid-flight, succumbs to unconsciousness. As his plane descends dangerously, Easy shouts frantically at him, urging him to regain consciousness and save the aircraft. Remarkably, Deacon responds.

18 The Job Isn’t As Cool As Someone Expected

War films explore the mental foundations of recruits, fueled by societal pressure and the perceived duty to serve one’s country. The romanticized portrayal of war and the emphasis on patriotism often ignite a strong desire among young people to join the fight. However, upon encountering the raw realities of combat, the initial excitement is frequently transformed into feelings of remorse.

The Disillusionment Plays Out in Different Ways

All Quiet on the Western Frontperfectly highlights one aspect of the disillusionment. In the early stages of World War I, the idealistic young soldier, Paul Bäumer, and his friends enlist in the German Army hoping to spray bullets at all enemies without getting a single scratch themselves. After that, they hope to go back home and become national heroes. This doesn’t happen. Instead, Bäumer is subjected to one near-death experience after another.

In the novel “Jarhead,” the situation is reversed. Instead of engaging in thrilling combat scenarios as he had anticipated, the sniper, Anthony “Swoff” Swofford, finds himself underwhelmed during the Gulf War due to a scarcity of situations necessitating the use of his weapon.

17 Impossible Mission

In the realm of war films, commanding officers frequently bestow challenging assignments upon their underlings. Ranging from daunting objectives like infiltrating a fortified enemy installation to daring rescues, these missions seem insurmountable on their surface. Yet, through sheer determination and courage, the brave individuals manage to defy odds and accomplish the seemingly impossible.

A Combination of SKill and Miracles

In this classic WWII film from the 1990s, titled “Memphis Belle,” there is a plot device that might be frequently used but effectively builds suspense. Consider the scene where the B-17 Flying Fortress team is given the mission to obliterate a Nazi airplane factory, situated between a school and a hospital. The Germans deliberately placed their manufacturing plant in such a populated area, relying on the moral dilemma it presented for enemy forces with compassion. Ultimately, the courageous pilots manage to complete the mission without causing harm to the innocent civilians.

16 Screw the Rules

In war movies, it’s common for less experienced military personnel to disregard orders despite red tape, hierarchical structures, and bureaucratic procedures getting in their way. Sometimes they face consequences such as court-martial, but often their superiors decide against punishment once it becomes clear that their defiance led to a positive outcome.

Doing What’s Right

To highlight the significance of moral compasses and unique perspectives in a protagonist, the decision is deliberately made to feature maverick military figures who challenge the norms. Such characters add intrigue by disregarding orders they deem unjust or outdated, or by showcasing their ingenuity by disobeying instructions that no longer apply due to rapidly evolving battlefield circumstances.

In the film “Tears of the Sun,” there’s a pivotal moment when a SEAL team encounters Nigerian rebels slaughtering villagers. Despite being instructed to solely extract American citizens from the danger area, they engage in combat with the rebels instead.

15 Losing Weapons On the Battlefield

As a military history enthusiast, I can’t help but notice how often soldiers in war movies seem to misplace their weapons at the most inconvenient moments. Yet, it’s not entirely their fault. Maybe they stumble and fall unexpectedly, causing them to lose grip of their firearms. Or perhaps, they get engulfed in fierce battles where holding on to anything becomes a challenge, leaving them defenseless.

What Is He/She Gonna Do Now?

A soldier’s weapon, which is essential for their protection and effectiveness in battle, being taken away from them exposes them to significant danger. This unexpected turn of events ignites curiosity among the onlookers, who are left pondering how the individual will respond and whether they can overcome this predicament against all odds. In many instances, they manage to rise above the challenge and emerge as an even more admirable figure.

Lone Survivor is a perfect film to spot such a trope. The Navy SEAL team members have it rough after being ambushed by Taliban fighters while trying to capture the warlord, Ahmad Shah. In the process, some lose their weapons.

14 Training Montages and a Nasty Drill Sergeant

In war films, Drill Sergeants often come across as harsh and disrespectful towards their trainees while instructing them. This behavior is rooted in their belief that being cruel and unyielding will ultimately make the recruits stronger. These types of characters and extended training sequences are frequently found in long-running war movies, particularly those focusing on military boot camps.

Survival for the Fittest

Stanley Kubrick’s film “Full Metal Jacket” introduces cinematic history’s most abusive Drill Sergeant in the person of Sgt. Hartman. Based at Parris Island Marine Corps training facility, this harsh taskmaster has an uncanny knack for identifying vulnerabilities and singles out the young recruit Gomer Pyle due to his perceived gluttony and lack of motivation. However, in a surprising turn of events, Pyle eventually defends himself against Sgt. Hartman’s cruelty and ends the sergeant’s life. Another movie depicting a harsh Drill Sergeant is “Hacksaw Ridge.”

In essence, the “Mean Tutor” character serves an important role by highlighting the significant responsibility involved in defending one’s nation. Those who are ready to engage in this battle must possess the required determination and flexibility.

13 Guaranteed PTSD

War movies frequently portray PTSD as a common experience for soldiers returning home from combat. However, this depiction may be exaggerated. Contrary to popular belief, the US Department of Veterans Affairs reports that only about 15% of military personnel develop PTSD following their service.

A Discussion that Needs to Be Heard

The overused trope of portraying mental health issues in films is merited due to its capacity for stimulating in-depth conversations on this topic. With the increasing importance placed on mental wellness in contemporary society, filmmakers have become more compelled than ever to explore this theme. Notably, war movies with profound messages resonate more deeply with award committees than those that solely focus on violence and destruction. Recommended films featuring soldiers or veterans grappling with PTSD include “The Deer Hunter” and “Lioness.”

12 Ace Pilot

As a devoted fan of aerial war movies, I can’t help but notice how each film showcases an exceptional pilot, often referred to as an “ace.” These pilots exhibit extraordinary abilities that go beyond the ordinary. They boast incredible accuracy in their shots and possess the uncanny knack for evading high-speed missiles at the last possible moment. Furthermore, they have a remarkable ability to maneuver their planes through the tightest of spaces. Adding to their mystique, aces often carry cool nicknames that add an extra layer of intrigue. Lastly, they possess an uncanny sense of awareness, allowing them to detect mechanical issues and impending attacks before anyone else.

Flying Skills Ought to Be Flaunted

Movie directors have found it essential to feature skilled aviators in their films since “Wings” earned the Best Picture title several decades ago. A well-crafted aerial combat film benefits greatly from having an experienced pilot character, explaining why they continue to be included in productions. Among these on-screen pilots, Maverick from “Top Gun” and its sequel stand out. Maverick’s exploits range from testing the limits of perilous aircraft to navigating treacherous terrains.

11 Overplaying America’s Role in Victories

In alliance films depicting battles, it is customary for the United States to be portrayed as the champion. Regardless of whether the victory was achieved through teamwork or the plans of other entities, the US will receive all the accolades. The portrayal of World War II in movies often gives an impression that America fought and won the war alone, despite the fact that other Allied nations contributed significantly to the effort against the Axis Powers for a longer duration than the US did.

A Commercially-Inspired Trope

As a dedicated gamer who’s delved deep into historical war narratives, I can’t help but notice the controversy surrounding “Saving Private Ryan.” Critics, particularly from the British media, have taken issue with this film for its portrayal of the Allied forces during World War II. They argue that the movie only acknowledges other countries’ contributions in a fleeting moment of dialogue.

Additionally, the vast majority of war films produced in Hollywood undergo military review or are created in partnership with them. Consequently, this explanation helps illustrate why this theme persists frequently.

10 Wartime Romance

Moving beyond the popular trend of letters in war movies, there are numerous other films showcasing compelling romance storylines. In these productions, a soldier could find love with a civilian or two civilians might fall for each other amidst global strife. At times, their lovers hail from opposing factions, making their relationship forbidden. Regardless, they share passionate kisses and engage in deeper expressions of affection.

Love Conquers All

Observing two individuals fiercely pursue their romantic connection despite considerable challenges can be a moving experience for audiences. Skilled filmmakers and writers are mindful of this emotional resonance, thus frequently incorporating captivating love stories into their works. At times, these romantic arcs take precedence over other elements, such as war themes. For instance, in “The Notebook,” the narrative primarily revolves around Noah and Allie’s attempts to sustain their relationship, with Noah’s military background mentioned only sparingly. Similarly, in “Beautiful Dreamer,” the focus lies on Claire’s quest to locate her lost love, Joe, during World War II.

9 One-Man-Army

The “lone warrior” trope is gradually losing popularity as there’s a growing preference for more authentic storylines. In the 1990s, looking back, filmmakers unabashedly exploited this trend, resulting in films like “Rambo,” “Missing in Action,” and “Commando.” In these war stories, a solitary heroic figure faces off against overwhelming enemy forces without any assistance. Any harm they sustain has no significant impact on their ability to continue the fight.

Arguably More Entertaining

One-man-army war movies can be quite amusing to watch without losing composure. The unique narrative structure, however, comes with its perks. With the sole emphasis on one character, they are able to attain the coveted status of an action hero. Conversely, soldiers in teamwork-based stories do not receive the same level of individual recognition. Moreover, there is a profound sense of inspiration when observing a single person face off against numerous adversaries. Cinema enthusiasts crave genuine heroes, and these films deliver just that.

8 Army Casualty Notification

The story opens with a peaceful scene of a family member carrying out daily chores at home, oblivious to the events that have unfolded. Suddenly, a uniformed military personnel enters, carrying grim news. The family member’s world is about to be shattered as they comprehend the reason for this unexpected visit. At times, the messenger may soften the blow by using euphemisms or withholding certain details to spare the feelings of the bereaved, particularly if the deceased had a questionable past.

War and Grief

In the poignant narrative of “Across the Universe,” Lucy sings about the imminent return of her seafaring sweetheart, only to be devastated by news that he has perished. Similarly, in “Saving Private Ryan,” the heart-wrenching opening scene shows Mrs. Ryan receiving multiple telegrams, each bearing the tragic news that all but one of her sons have been killed in battle.

7 World War II from the Allies’ Perspective

From a cinematic standpoint, the Allied forces’ actions during World War II are often portrayed in a favorable light, while the Axis powers are invariably depicted as villains. Though there exist films from the German and Axis perspective, their production is less common. Consequently, Hollywood-produced movies predominantly present the Allies as blameless, having never infringed upon human rights, whereas the Axis powers are consistently portrayed as monstrous entities.

Staying Loyal to the Country

In films like “Dunkirk” and “Saving Private Ryan,” Hollywood frequently adheres to the pattern of depicting the Allies in a favorable light when portraying events where America plays a pivotal role. Given that American studios produce most of these movies, it’s no surprise that this perspective is emphasized. Similarly, films from countries that were at odds with the Allies, such as Japan during World War II or Spain and Germany in general, often explore the German and Axis viewpoints.

6 Bullets Ping Off Helmets

In the heat of battle, some unfortunate soldiers fall prey to unexpected headshots. Their luckier comrades, however, are spared thanks to their helmets. Rather than absorbing a bullet on their foreheads or temples, these soldiers experience the bullet deflecting off their metallic headgear, jolting them and heightening their awareness of the situation at hand. Subsequently, they may choose to take cover or engage the enemy with renewed vigor.

A Lucky Break

In films like “Platoon” by Oliver Stone and “We Were Soldiers” by Randall Wallace, there are instances where the audience is taken aback by a shocking realization of the grave danger at hand. This moment often sparks a frenzy, amplifying the intensity of the situation. From an action perspective, these scenes are thrilling to dissect due to their breathtaking nature.

5 Raising the Flag

The “Iwo Jima Syndrome” or “Raising the Flag on Iwo Jima” motif depicts marines hoisting a flag above enemy territory, mirroring the iconic moment during the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II when US Marines triumphantly planted their flag atop Mount Suribachi. This act symbolizes victory and signifies that the opposing forces have been defeated, granting the protagonist’s army complete dominance over the situation.

Good Has Trumped Evil

The act of raising the flag signifies that righteousness has triumphed over wickedness, suggesting a victory for the virtuous, although this may not be the complete truth. This motif has long been used in storytelling, with Clint Eastwood significantly increasing its popularity through “Flags of Our Fathers.” An analogous scene is present in “First Blood,” where a swift transition depicts National Guardsmen placing an American flag.

4 Surprise Attacks

Marines undergo rigorous training to stay alert and ready, but they frequently fall victim to unexpected attacks. During these surprise assaults, marines are often discovered in a state of relaxation, either resting or enjoying leisure activities. They may assume that all is peaceful in their surroundings, only to be overpowered by the enemy and suffer heavy casualties before regaining control of the situation.

Giving the Enemy a Slight Advantage

In order for movies to be engaging, it’s crucial that the villain seems to have the advantage early on, only for the hero to eventually turn the tide. Furthermore, showing the hero as weakened or in a disadvantageous position at the beginning adds depth and suspense to the narrative. This dynamic is often achieved through a surprise attack, which reduces the size of the hero’s forces significantly, making them underdogs or equalizing the power balance.

When considering this narrative device, Michael Bay’s film “Pearl Harbor” is a common association. In it, the hustle and bustle of normal military life at Pearl Harbor persists, unaware that the Imperial Japanese Navy is planning to launch a sneak attack. Nearly the entire US Pacific Fleet is subsequently decimated.

3 Badass Sniper

In popular Hollywood films, it’s common to see lone snipers with exceptional skills and sharpshooting abilities, capable of hitting targets from great distances unnoticed. However, this isn’t an accurate representation of real-life sniper operations. In reality, snipers typically don’t work alone. They require a spotter to help them locate targets effectively and provide backup. Additionally, having someone watch their back is essential for their safety.

Breaking the Monotony

In “Act of Valor,” there’s a character named Weymy who only utters words to confirm kills. Another intriguing character is Erwin König from “Enemy at the Gates,” who engages in an intense shooting match with the renowned Russian sniper Vasily Zaytsev. Lastly, “Full Metal Jacket” introduces a chilling figure as several American soldiers are gunned down, only to later discover that the perpetrator was an adolescent girl wielding a modified AK-47 derivative without a scope.

Does the use of this trope add value? It certainly provides a refreshing change from constant gunfire. Additionally, it offers a more convenient solution for taking down evasive objectives.

2 Intense War Room Discussions by Generals And Leaders

Generals of the 20th and 21st centuries enjoy considerable comfort compared to their medieval counterparts. Instead of being in the thick of battle on the frontlines, they primarily devise strategies within secure war headquarters. War films accurately represent these command centers as sophisticated spaces equipped with advanced technology such as monitors, radar screens, control panels, and tables. These war rooms can be stationary or situated inside submarines.

Gunboat Diplomacy

Gunboat diplomacy refers to a political strategy where a powerful country threatens weaker nations with military force to advance its interests. For instance, one nation might warn another, “Back off! We are armed and ready.” However, if the threatened nation disregards the warning, tensions can escalate leading to potential conflict. At other times, diplomatic meetings take place between military leaders and political figures to discuss a reaction to an attack or provocation. Ultimately, these tactics serve to signal intentions and prepare audiences for possible future actions.

In the films “Crimson Tide” and “Der Untergang” (also known as “Downfall”), as well as other war-themed movies, there are profound and heated exchanges between military leaders.

1 Staring at Photos of Family Members

Soldiers, who frequently find themselves abroad, carry photos of their loved ones as comforting reminders during long stretches away. Occasionally, they’ll take these mementos out and gaze at them wistfully while experiencing bouts of homesickness. In some instances, tears may fall as they contemplate the possibility of early discharge. Alternatively, they might share these treasured images with their comrades to showcase their family’s charm back home.

A Welcome Break from the Mayhem

War movies make effective use of photo scenes to add depth and nuance to the narrative. These moments not only enliven the dialogue but also provide much-needed respite from the intense action. During these sequences, viewers gain valuable insights into a character’s background and motivations. Furthermore, photo scenes can be employed as poignant farewells, as exemplified in Sam Mendes’ 1917. Despite the decline of printed photographs in reality, they remain indispensable in war movies due to their historical significance.

2024-07-15 00:03