June 6, 1944, known as D-Day, marked the beginning of Operation Overlord. the largest amphibious invasion in history, which paved the way for the liberation of Western Europe from Nazi occupation.
On the 80th anniversary of this crucial event in world history, we highlight, in no particular order, some of the best war and military strategy films that portray World War II.
This ranking excludes stories about the Holocaust or focused exclusively on civilians, focusing on the military aspects of the conflict. Check them out below.
Dunkirk (2017)
Christopher Nolan takes us to the beaches of Dunkirk, where allied soldiers wait to be evacuated as they face the imminent threat of German forces. The tension and heroism in the midst of despair are palpable in every scene.
Find it on: Prime Video.
Until the Last Man (2016)
Directed by Mel Gibson and based on real events, the film tells the story of Desmond Doss, a combat medic who participated in the Battle of Okinawa and became the first conscientious objector to receive the Congressional Medal of Honor. His bravery and commitment saved countless lives.
Find it on: Max, Apple TV, Google Play.
Pearl Harbor (2001)
Michael Bay directs this romantic war drama that focuses on the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor and its consequences. With stunning special effects, it captures the devastation and courage of those pivotal moments in American history.
Find it on: Star+.
The Sinking (2004)
This German film, directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel, offers a detailed and bleak look at the last days of Adolf Hitler in his Berlin bunker. Bruno Ganz’s performance as Hitler is intensely realistic and chilling.
Find it on: Apple TV and Prime Video.
Letters from Iwo Jima (2006)
Clint Eastwood presents a unique perspective of the Battle of Iwo Jima, told from the Japanese point of view. Based on soldiers’ letters, humanizes the combatants and shows brutality and honor on both sides of the conflict.
Find it on: Apple TV.
Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Quentin Tarantino reinvents the story with his characteristic touch in this war thriller which follows a group of Jewish American soldiers seeking revenge on the Nazis in occupied France. With a stellar cast and biting dialogue, it is a unique cinematic experience.
Find it on: Prime, Apple TV.
Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Steven Spielberg offers a visceral representation of Normandy’s landing and the mission to rescue the last of the Ryan brothers. The opening sequence on Omaha Beach is famous for its realism and rawness.
Find it on: Prime, Apple TV, Google Play.
The Darkest Moment (2017)
Gary Oldman shines as Winston Churchill in this film that explores the crucial decisions taken by the British Prime Minister during the first days of the war, just before the miracle of Dunkirk.
Find it on: Prime, Apple TV.
Hearts of Iron (2014)
This film follows a group of American soldiers in a Sherman tank named “Fury” during the final days of World War II in Europe. Soldiers must face dangerous missions and intense combat as they delve into enemy territory, showcasing the camaraderie and brutality of conflict.
Find it on: Netflix, Prime, Apple TV.
U-47 Commander Prien (1958)
This german film tells the story of Commander Günther Prien, one of the most famous submarine commanders of the Kriegsmarine during World War II. The film follows his daring missions and achievements in the Atlantic, highlighting the life and dangers of submarine warfare.
Find it on: Prime.
