Netflix’s Riveting War Movies: History, Heroism, and Heartache

Netflix has made a name for itself in the world of streaming entertainment, and its collection of war movies is a testament to the platform’s commitment to providing diverse and compelling content. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of tales of heroism, or simply seeking powerful narratives, Netflix’s war movies offer something for everyone. In this article, we’ll dive into a selection of these captivating films, complete with audience ratings and reasons why you should consider adding them to your watchlist.

“The Woman King”

Release Date: Streaming on December 13, 2022

Audience Rating: 94%

“The Woman King” is a historical war drama set in 18th-century Africa. It follows a mother and daughter, played by Viola Davis and Thuso Mbedu, who become warriors and leaders in the Kingdom of Dahomey. As the kingdom faces the brutal Atlantic slave trade, these remarkable women defy all odds to protect their people.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re interested in history from a fresh and less explored perspective and enjoy powerful stories of resilience and courage, “The Woman King” offers a compelling narrative.

“Operation Mincemeat”

Release Date: Streaming on May 11, 2022

“Operation Mincemeat” is a historical war drama that takes a fascinating look at espionage during World War II. Based on a true story, the film follows British intelligence’s mission to deceive the Nazis by planting a false identity on a corpse washed ashore. This daring plan could change the course of the war.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re a fan of true stories of wartime intrigue, espionage, and unconventional tactics, “Operation Mincemeat” offers a riveting narrative.

“The Outpost”

Release Date: Streaming on July 3, 2020

Audience Rating: 92%

“The Outpost” is a war film that brings the true story of the Battle of Kamdesh to life. Set in Afghanistan, it follows a small group of U.S. soldiers facing overwhelming odds as they defend a remote combat outpost against a coordinated Taliban attack. It’s a harrowing tale of bravery and survival.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you appreciate war films based on real events that provide a gritty and intense portrayal of combat, “The Outpost” is a compelling and emotionally charged choice.

“They Shall Not Grow Old”

Release Date: Streaming on March 12, 2019

Audience Rating: 99%

“They Shall Not Grow Old” is a unique documentary that offers a remarkable cinematic experience. Directed by Peter Jackson, the film uses state-of-the-art technology to restore and colorize footage from World War I. Through the eyes of soldiers who lived it, the Great War comes to life in an unprecedented way.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re interested in history and appreciate documentaries that provide a fresh and immersive perspective on historical events, “They Shall Not Grow Old” is a groundbreaking and emotionally resonant choice.

“Thank You for Your Service”

Release Date: Streaming on October 30, 2018

“Thank You for Your Service” is a war drama that delves into the lives of U.S. soldiers returning from the Iraq War. The film explores the challenges they face as they reintegrate into civilian life, dealing with the scars of war, both seen and unseen.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re interested in the human aspect of war and its impact on veterans, “Thank You for Your Service” is a poignant and thought-provoking film.

“Darkest Hour”

Release Date: Streaming on February 6, 2018

“Darkest Hour” is a historical war drama that focuses on the early days of Winston Churchill’s term as British Prime Minister during World War II. The film showcases the challenges he faced as he tried to rally the nation against the impending Nazi threat.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re fascinated by history and enjoy character-driven dramas with powerful performances, “Darkest Hour” is a gripping and informative choice.

“Hacksaw Ridge”

Release Date: Streaming on February 7, 2017

Audience Rating: 84%

“Hacksaw Ridge” is a war film based on the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a combat medic in the Battle of Okinawa. Despite refusing to carry a weapon, Doss saved dozens of lives and became a hero.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you appreciate stories of heroism, courage, and individuals who stand by their principles in the face of adversity, “Hacksaw Ridge” is a powerful and inspiring choice.

“Beasts of No Nation”

Release Date: Streaming on February 6, 2017

Audience Rating: 91%

“Beasts of No Nation” is a war drama that provides a harrowing look at child soldiers in West Africa. The film follows a young boy who becomes a soldier in a brutal civil war. Idris Elba delivers a standout performance as the warlord who recruits and manipulates the children.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re interested in hard-hitting stories about the impact of war on children and appreciate films with intense performances, “Beasts of No Nation” is a gut-wrenching and eye-opening choice.

“The Deer Hunter”

Release Date: Streaming on December 2, 2016

Audience Rating: 86%

“The Deer Hunter” is an epic war drama that takes you to the horrors of the Vietnam War. The film explores the lives of a group of Pennsylvania steelworkers and their harrowing experiences as prisoners of war in Vietnam.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you enjoy war films that delve into the psychological and emotional toll of combat and feature powerful ensemble casts, “The Deer Hunter” is a classic and emotionally charged choice.

“Saving Private Ryan”

Release Date: Streaming on May 27, 2016

“Saving Private Ryan” is a war epic directed by Steven Spielberg. It follows a group of soldiers sent to retrieve a paratrooper whose brothers have been killed in action. The film is known for its intense and realistic portrayal of the D-Day landings.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you’re a fan of epic war films that combine intense action with emotional depth, “Saving Private Ryan” is a cinematic masterpiece and a must-watch.

“Black Hawk Down”

Release Date: Streaming on March 10, 2016

“Black Hawk Down” is a war film based on the true story of a U.S. military mission gone wrong in Somalia. It portrays the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers who found themselves in a dire situation when their mission turned into a protracted battle for survival.

• Why You Should Watch It: If you enjoy intense and gritty war films that explore the challenges of modern warfare and the bonds among soldiers, “Black Hawk Down” is a gripping and suspenseful choice.

Now, let’s summarize the war movies discussed in this section in a table:

Title	Release Date	Audience Rating
The Woman King	Dec 13, 2022	94%
Operation Mincemeat	May 11, 2022	83%
The Outpost	Jul 3, 2020	92%
They Shall Not Grow Old	Mar 12, 2019	99%
Thank You for Your Service	Oct 30, 2018	76%
Darkest Hour	Feb 6, 2018	84%
Hacksaw Ridge	Feb 7, 2017	84%
Beasts of No Nation	Feb 6, 2017	91%
The Deer Hunter	Dec 2, 2016	86%
Saving Private Ryan	May 27, 2016	94%
Black Hawk Down	Mar 10, 2016	77%

With these powerful war movies available on Netflix, you have the opportunity to explore different facets of war, from heroism and sacrifice to the profound impact it has on individuals and societies.

In the next sections, we will continue our journey through Netflix’s extensive collection of war films, offering more options for your watchlist.