When thinking about war, we often picture soldiers in uniforms, fighting fiercely for their freedom and independence. While these soldiers face significant dangers on the front lines, those at home must also confront the fear of unexpected violence and the devastating consequences of war. In the history of humankind, World War II, which took place from 1939 to 1945, brought about many changes that continue to impact society today.
Although we don’t have many personal accounts from World War II, filmmakers have done an excellent job of preserving the various stages of history through their narratives. From “Anthropoid” to “Life Is Beautiful,” below are 11 of the most outstanding films about World War II that remain relevant today:
Inglourious Basterds (2009) – Directed by: Quentin Tarantino
Quentin Tarantino is a well-known director with a unique style, and with “Inglourious Basterds,” he offers audiences a completely different perspective on World War II. The film follows a group of Jewish-American soldiers on a mission to assassinate the Nazi leaders. The film’s climax revolves around a plot to eliminate the top leaders of the Nazi regime during a film premiere, blending history with fiction in a thrilling manner.
Schindler’s List (1993) – Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, “Schindler’s List” depicts a German businessman who arrives in Krakow, Poland, during World War II to make a fortune. After joining the Nazi party for political reasons, Schindler begins to employ Jewish workers in his factories to maximize profit. However, as the Nazis intensify their extermination campaign against the Jewish people, Schindler makes significant efforts to save as many of his Jewish workers as possible, ultimately rescuing over a thousand.
Saving Private Ryan (1998) – Directed by: Steven Spielberg
A gripping tale of soldiers on the battlefield, “Saving Private Ryan” follows a group of U.S. soldiers as they embark on a mission to retrieve a paratrooper behind enemy lines. The film is renowned for its realistic portrayal of the D-Day invasion of Normandy, with Tom Hanks starring as Captain John Miller, who leads the charge to save Private James Ryan, the last surviving brother of four servicemen. Through their journey, the soldiers seek to find meaning in their sacrifices.
Letters from Iwo Jima (2006) – Directed by: Clint Eastwood
Clint Eastwood’s “Letters from Iwo Jima” focuses on the perspective of Japanese soldiers during World War II, particularly highlighting the experiences of General Tadamichi Kuribayashi and his men as they defend their island from American forces. The film provides a poignant look into the struggles and sacrifices of soldiers often overlooked in traditional war narratives.
The Pianist (2002) – Directed by: Roman Polanski
Adrien Brody stars as Wladyslaw Szpilman, a Jewish pianist who struggles to survive in Warsaw during the Nazi occupation. The film showcases his journey as he navigates the horrors of the Holocaust while trying to retain his identity and passion for music, ultimately highlighting the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Anthropoid (2016) – Directed by: Sean Ellis
Based on a true story, “Anthropoid” follows the covert mission of two Czech soldiers, Jozef Gabčík and Jan Kubiš, who were tasked with assassinating high-ranking Nazi official Reinhard Heydrich in 1941. This event had significant repercussions throughout Europe and altered the course of World War II.
The Thin Red Line (1998) – Directed by: Terrence Malick
In “The Thin Red Line,” directed by Terrence Malick, we follow soldier Witt as he grapples with the horrors of war while fighting in the Pacific Theater in 1942. The film explores the psychological and philosophical implications of warfare, offering a contemplative view of the experiences faced by soldiers.
Casablanca (1942) – Directed by: Michael Curtiz
A classic Hollywood film, “Casablanca” is a romantic drama set against the backdrop of World War II, featuring legendary actors Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. The film takes place in Casablanca, Morocco, where the audience follows the complicated love story between Rick Blaine and Ilsa Lund amidst the turmoil of war.
Life Is Beautiful (1997) – Directed by: Roberto Benigni
In the heartwarming film “Life Is Beautiful,” a Jewish man named Guido uses his humor and creativity to shield his son from the harsh realities of life in a concentration camp during the Holocaust. Guido’s determination to maintain his son’s innocence amidst the chaos highlights the resilience of love and hope.
Atonement (2007) – Directed by: Joe Wright
“Atonement” revolves around the love story of Robbie and Cecilia, two young lovers whose lives are torn apart by the jealousy of Cecilia’s younger sister. Robbie’s life is upended when he is wrongfully imprisoned, and the film explores the impact of war on their relationship as they navigate the challenges of World War II.
According to Hollywood
