The 15 Best War Movies You Can Stream On Netflix Right Now.

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War films are a fundamental element of cinema, and it’s clear why. Few film genres can evoke feelings as powerfully as tension, emotion, and even a sense of traditional pride (in some films). Remarkably, many of the greatest movies ever made fall under this category. These films might portray contemporary warfare, highlighting the brutal realities of conflict and the uncomfortable essence of war, or they could be timeless tales that reenact history’s most significant battles. Notably, the two World Wars, which enveloped the world and ended with the first deployment of atomic weapons, often hold sway over this genre, for better or worse.

When it comes to choosing from a vast collection of war films, it might feel overwhelming. To make your decision easier, we’ve gathered a list of the most gripping and dramatic war movie releases throughout cinema history. Get ready, dive in, and prepare for an unforgettable journey, as we present 15 excellent war movies currently streaming on Netflix.

All Quiet on the Western Front

2022’s film “All Quiet on the Western Front,” based on a renowned German anti-war novel, represents the third screen adaptation of this work. The book was influenced by the actual experiences of its author, Erich Maria Remarque, during the war. Unlike most portrayals, this movie offers an uncommon perspective from the German side of the conflict. It narrates the journey of Paul Bäumer (portrayed by Felix Kammerer), who transitions from a youthful and enthusiastic soldier yearning for battle, to a hollowed-out remnant, disillusioned by the harsh realities of war.

All Quiet on the Western Front” is not only one of the top war movies available on Netflix, but also ranks among the greatest war films ever produced. Despite missing out on the Best Picture award, it won four prizes at the 2023 Academy Awards, demonstrating its exceptional quality. Instead of romanticizing combat, this film vividly portrays the raw terror and savagery of contemporary wars, ensuring that its message remains as timely today as when its original material was first released.

Cast: Felix Kammerer, Albrecht Schuch, Daniel Brühl

Director: Edward Berger

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%

Runtime: 147 minutes

Dunkirk

In 2017, Christopher Nolan, renowned for creating gripping dramatic thrillers like the “Dark Knight” trilogy, switched up his cinematic style with the war epic, “Dunkirk.” This film revisits the historical event of the Dunkirk evacuation, where numerous Allied soldiers were in grave danger as they attempted to escape from the French coast. The movie employs a talented ensemble cast (according to its director, one of the greatest ever assembled) to depict the battle from land, sea, and air perspectives.

Remarkably crafted with suspenseful tension, stunning visuals, and a level of artistry only Christopher Nolan can deliver, “Dunkirk” stands as more than just an exceptional war film; it’s a remarkable cinematic masterpiece that surpasses the genre’s boundaries. Furthermore, its extensive employment of practical effects – real ships and planes among them – brings a sense of authenticity seldom found in contemporary war movies.

Cast: Harry Styles, Fionn Whitehead, Barry Keoghan

Director: Christopher Nolan

Rating: PG-13

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%

Runtime: 106 minutes

Beasts of No Nation

Regardless of whether you’re a frequent moviegoer or a dedicated history enthusiast, you’ve likely encountered the most frequently portrayed wars in cinema. The World Wars, Vietnam, and even the lengthy Cold War that never escalated into open conflict are widely appreciated, offering all the drama, action, and suspense a director could desire. However, in 2015, we were presented with something unexpected through the Netflix original “Beasts of No Nation.” This film shed light on a less-discussed aspect of contemporary conflicts.

The movie, titled “Beasts of No Nation,” is based in West Africa and portrays the life of Agu, a young boy who is drafted into a warlord’s guerrilla group. Throughout the film, Agu and other child soldiers, largely unnamed, are made to commit brutal acts under the command of an anonymous military leader referred to as “Commandant.” The movie offers a stark, gruesome, and genuinely unsettling portrayal of modern warfare’s darkest aspects. This powerful film not only stands out as one of Idris Elba’s finest performances, but it also ranks among the most difficult viewings on our list.

Cast: Abram Attah, Idris Elba, Kurt Egyiawan

Director: Cary Joji Fukunaga

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%

Runtime: 138 minutes

1917

Titled “1917” by Sam Mendes, who drew inspiration from tales shared by his grandfather, the film commences with an impression that the Allies are on the brink of a substantial strategic triumph. They’re preparing to counterattack and push back the German army in retreat. However, what the soldiers in the trenches don’t realize is that they’re unwittingly marching towards a cunningly laid trap, one that could result in their annihilation if the attack proceeds. With no other way to alert the frontline troops, British commanders take a risky bet and dispatch two soldiers through perilous battlefields, carrying a message to cancel the assault before it’s too late.

In the film “1917”, the camera work creates an illusion of one continuous scene, heightening tension and rarely giving a moment’s rest as Lance Corporals William Schofield (played by George MacKay) and Thomas Blake (Dean-Charles Chapman) race against time. For those seeking a gripping war movie that combines heart-pounding action with stunning visuals, “1917” certainly delivers.

Cast: George MacKay, Dean-Charles Chapman, Benedict Cumberbatch

Director: Sam Mendes

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%

Runtime: 119 minutes

Black Hawk Down

Approximately two decades since its debut, not many war movies have deeply penetrated American popular culture like “Black Hawk Down,” which is based on the true events of the Battle of Mogadishu. In this film, an American Black Hawk helicopter that crashed faced a larger force of Somali rebels. Overwhelmed and under-equipped, they had to fight for survival, relying on a handful of Army Rangers in a battle whose outcome was far from guaranteed.

First shown in cinemas during the beginning of the worldwide conflict against terrorism, this movie struck a chord with both viewers and critics. It was even recognized by receiving four nominations for the Academy Awards, winning in the categories of Best Film Editing and Best Sound. Despite not fully detailing the true story, Black Hawk Down is still a must-watch for enthusiasts of war films, especially those who prefer contemporary ones.

Cast: Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, Tom Sizemore

Director: Ridley Scott

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 76%

Runtime: 144 minutes

The Siege of Jadotville

During the 1960s Congolese Civil War, “The Siege of Jadotville” narrative revolves around the United Nations’ attempts to maintain peace in the conflict. In the midst of the turmoil, a handful of Irish peacekeepers are stationed in the isolated city of Jadotville, where they face an assault from several hundred Congolese secessionists led by a foreign mercenary. With their numbers and firepower at a disadvantage and no reinforcements forthcoming, the unit’s commander must decide whether to hold out against the odds or surrender in order to protect his men’s lives.

Titled “The Siege of Jadotville,” this film delves into a contentious episode of history that might not resonate with many beyond Ireland, as the actions of the Irish unit sparked debate. Although it’s not one of Netflix’s most popular or critically acclaimed titles, it could very well be their least appreciated war movie.

Cast: Jamie Dornan, Emmanuelle Seigner, Mark Strong

Director: Richie Smyth

Rating: Not rated

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 64%

Runtime: 108 minutes

Uprising

Unlike many war movies that concentrate on conflicts after the Industrial Revolution, “Uprising” takes us back to a time before modern weaponry, combat strategies, and other warfare technologies. The story unfolds primarily during the Imjin War, often referred to as the Japanese invasions of Korea. This small nation finds itself on the brink of destruction as hordes of Japanese Samurai invade across the waters separating the two countries. In this tumultuous situation, Lee Jong–ryeo and Cheon-yeong, once just divided by social class, find themselves forced to choose opposite sides in the battlefield, putting their friendship aside.

Highlighting an underrepresented era in movies, “Uprising” offers viewers a peek into the intricate politics and distinctive lifestyle of the time. While it primarily functions as a martial arts film, it excels admirably in this role. Filled with captivating action sequences and skilled swordplay, it’s a hidden gem worth watching. A must-see title that you might not have come across yet.

Cast: Gang Dong-won, Park Jeong-min, Kim Shin-rok

Director: Kim Sang-man

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%

Runtime: 126 minutes

Blood & Gold

In contrast to most top-tier war films that portray intense, somber representations of historic conflicts, “Blood & Gold” offers a unique twist. Set during Germany’s final grip on Europe, allegiances weaken when one soldier, Heinrich (played by Robert Maaser), is condemned for desertion and sentenced to death. Miraculously, he’s spared at the last moment, but his troubles don’t end there. The same woman who saved him now finds herself in a confrontation with a group of Germans searching for a secret cache of gold. With his life on the line, Heinrich must reconsider his loyalty and potentially betray his former allies if he hopes to make it through the war alive.

For those seeking an experience akin to Quentin Tarantino’s “Inglourious Basterds” rather than “Saving Private Ryan,” “Blood & Gold” offers plenty of appeal. This film takes liberties with its depiction of reality, creating a gritty, Wild West-inspired adventure set during the final days of the Third Reich, in the style of Quentin Tarantino. When it delves into mayhem, it truly shines.

Cast: Robert Maaser, Marie Hacke, Alexander Scheer

Director: Peter Thorwarth

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

Runtime: 100 minutes

U-571

Following America’s bold involvement in World War II, US soldiers had to wait a while before engaging in combat in Europe. Yet, the treacherous Atlantic Ocean dividing the continents was hardly secure, teeming with undetected German U-boats ready to attack Allied ships and naval vessels. A key target for the Allies in these dangerous waters was an exposed German submarine carrying a valuable Enigma encoding device. The Allies launched a secret mission to capture this mechanism before it slipped away. However, achieving this goal required them to infiltrate contested waters disguised as enemy ships and steal the device, no easy task.

Despite being less renowned than films like Sean Connery’s “The Hunt for Red October” or the classic German film “Das Boot,” the movie “U-571” is still considered one of the top submarine war movies. Although it didn’t receive critical acclaim, as a popular action movie set during wartime, it offers a particularly satisfying viewing experience.

Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Bill Paxton, Jon Bon Jovi

Director: Jonathan Mostow

Rating: PG-13

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 68%

Runtime: 116 minutes

The Guns of Navarone

Throughout his illustrious acting career, Gregory Peck, a recipient of the Academy Award, shone in numerous masterpieces; however, none surpassed “The Guns of Navarone,” one of the most significant war films during its era. Debuting in 1961, it represents an unparalleled adventure film, recounting the exploits of a group of soldiers tasked with a perilous operation deep within enemy territory during World War II. Their objective? To free approximately 2,000 British troops who found themselves trapped on a small island under enemy control.

Prior to movies like “The Dirty Dozen,” this film gathered an elite team, each member excelling in their unique skill set. For instance, we have intelligence officer Mallory (Peck), engineer Butcher Brown (Stanley Baker), the tough and tumble Stavros (Anthony Quinn), and explosives expert Miller (David Niven). Notably, “Guns of Navarone” was both a critical success and a blockbuster, ultimately becoming the highest-grossing film of that year.

Cast: Gregory Peck, David Niven, Anthony Quinn

Director: J. Lee Thompson

Rating: Not Rated

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%

Runtime: 157 minutes

Da 5 Bloods

Da 5 Bloods,” although mainly remembered as the final film featuring Chadwick Boseman before his passing, is also significant for being one of the top movies portraying the Vietnam War. The narrative centers around a band of five soldiers, who refer to themselves as “the Bloods” – consisting of Paul, Otis, Eddie, Melvin, and Norman. They devise a scheme to retrieve a cache of gold bars meant for local allies assisting them against the Viet Cong, hidden during their service in the war.

If the scheme fails and one member falls, the group forgets about the gold for decades. Then, the unearthing of a wrecked aircraft revives the Bloods’ original objective – recovering the hidden riches. However, after being separated for so long, they must grapple with their past demons and spectral remnants if they hope to collect their long-due rewards.

Cast: Delroy Lindo, Jonathan Majors, Chadwick Boseman, Clarke Peters

Director: Spike Lee

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%

Runtime: 155 minutes

Number 24

In contrast to typical war movies, “Number 24” isn’t set on the battlefield; rather, it delves into an alternate narrative: the clandestine realm of spies and their perilous missions deep within enemy territories during wartime for intelligence gathering purposes. This captivating Netflix production hails from Norway and is a biographical film about Gunnar Sønsteby (portrayed by Sjur Vatne Brean), a highly respected resistance fighter who executed various undercover operations aimed at undermining the enemy in Nazi-occupied Norway during World War II.

From Sønsteby’s life prior to the war up until his service on the battlefield, the story “Number 24” recounts the entire account of surviving in wartime. It covers his initial actions as a resistance fighter and the assassinations of German officials he executed while undercover. This overlooked aspect of history demands attention, and “Number 24” sheds the most brilliant light on it possible.

Cast: Sjur Vatne Brean, Erik Hivju, Lisa Loven Kongsli

Director: John Andreas Andersen

Rating: TV-MA

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100%

Runtime: 111 minutes

Mosul

Rarely do war films portray contemporary battles, but “Mosul,” released in 2019, is an exception. This Arabic-language film narrates a real event – the Battle of Mosul, where a combined force of Western allies and local Iraqi military fought against the terrorist organization ISIS for dominance over the city of Mosul.

According to an article from The New Yorker, the movie “Mosul” revolves around an Iraqi police officer named Kawa. Following the death of his uncle in a skirmish with the enemy, Kawa, portrayed by Adam Bessa, is saved by the Nineveh SWAT Team – a group of men who have all lost family to ISIS. Kawa swiftly joins their fight against the terrorists, but grows wary when the rest of the SWAT team hesitates whenever he inquires about the specific goal of their mission. The film’s Iraqi perspective and gripping action scenes set it apart as an unconventional war movie, delving into themes beyond mere bravado in battling a subtle adversary.

Cast: Suhail Dabbach, Adam Bessa, Is’Haq Elias

Director: Matthew Michael Carnahan

Rating: PG-13

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

Runtime: 86 minutes

Operation Mincemeat

In 2022, Netflix debuted the film “Operation Mincemeat,” which is set during World War II. By this point in time, England had been engaged in war for almost five years. The story follows Lieutenant Commander Ewen Montagu (played by Colin Firth), who has recently joined the Twentieth Committee, a team of top officials responsible for overseeing MI5’s counter-espionage operations.

Montagu’s task is to deceive the Germans into thinking that the UK’s allies are planning an attack in Greece, when in truth they are preparing for an operation against Sicily. The strategy, known as Operation Mincemeat, involves planting the body of a deceased British soldier carrying fake but sensitive intelligence documents. The aim is to make the enemy think they have stumbled upon a crucial Allied secret mission. However, this can only be accomplished if Montagu and his team can devise a compelling narrative for the Germans, while the Americans are readying themselves for their largest offensive yet.

Cast: Colin Firth, Matthew MacFadyen, Kelly Macdonald

Director: John Madden

Rating: PG-13

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%

Runtime: 128 minutes

The King

In the historical action film “The King,” played by up-and-coming star Timothée Chalamet, a distinguished cast portrays roles. The movie, penned jointly by actor Joel Edgerton (who also acts in it), chronicles the ascent of King Henry V during the early 15th century. Initially, Hal, the future king, enjoys a carefree lifestyle marked by indulgence, but his nonchalance about inheriting the throne is shattered when his father unexpectedly names Hal’s brother Thomas as the next monarch.

Despite facing criticism for its historical inconsistencies, it’s important to note that “The King” isn’t intended to portray real events faithfully. Instead, the film is inspired by the works of William Shakespeare, specifically “Henry IV,” which was previously adapted in 1944 featuring Laurence Olivier as Hal. In contrast, “The King” offers a distinct take with a more somber atmosphere. Though it may not typically be compared to other notable Shakespeare adaptations, there’s an argument that it deserves recognition alongside them.

Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Lily-Rose Depp, Robert Pattinson, Ben Mendelsohn

Director: David Michôd

Rating: R

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 71%

Runtime: 140 minutes

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2025-07-04 00:32