Netflix offers a treasure trove of gripping war movies that transport viewers into the heart of battlefields, showcasing the bravery, sacrifice, and complexities of human nature during times of conflict. From epic historical dramas to intense modern thrillers, these films delve into the harrowing experiences of soldiers and civilians caught in the midst of war. As the bullets fly and tensions rise, these cinematic masterpieces deliver powerful narratives that resonate long after the closing credits roll.
In this curated list, we present a collection of the best war movies on Netflix streaming today. Each film takes audiences on an emotional rollercoaster, painting vivid portrayals of heroism, camaraderie, and the toll of war. Whether you’re a history buff seeking tales of valor from bygone eras or a fan of contemporary action-packed suspense, these movies promise to leave you awe-inspired and moved by the indomitable human spirit. Grab your popcorn and prepare for an immersive journey through some of the most compelling war stories ever told.
15 Best War Movies on Netflix
We have compiled a list of the best war movies that are available to stream on Netflix today. These movies are listed in the table below as per their IMDb ratings:
| S. No | Movie Title | IMDb Rating |
| 1 | Virunga (2014) | 8.2/10 |
| 2 | Beasts of No Nation (2015) | 7.7/10 |
| 3 | Darkest Hour (2017) | 7.4/10 |
| 4 | Heneral Luna (2015) | 7.3/10 |
| 5 | The King (2019) | 7.3/10 |
| 6 | Father Soldier Son (2020) | 7.3/10 |
| 7 | First They Killed My Father (2017) | 7.2/10 |
| 8 | The Siege of Jadotville (2016) | 7.2/10 |
| 9 | Outlaw King (2018) | 6.9/10 |
| 10 | The Wolf’s Call (2019) | 6.9/10 |
| 11 | Too Young the Hero (1988) | 6.8/10 |
| 12 | The Photographer of Mauthausen (2018) | 6.7/10 |
| 13 | Goyo: The Boy General (2018) | 6.5/10 |
| 14 | Paskal (2018) | 6.5/10 |
| 15 | Da 5 Bloods (2020) | 6.5/10 |
Virunga (2014)
In the depths of the Congo, Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses a group of devoted individuals risking their lives to protect the park’s endangered mountain gorillas from poachers and armed militia. The gripping documentary follows the struggles of the park rangers who must navigate political corruption, civil unrest, and the threats posed by powerful oil companies encroaching on the region’s natural resources. Amidst the turmoil, the film highlights the friendship between the rangers and an orphaned gorilla named Ndakasi, symbolizing the heart-wrenching choices they must make in order to preserve this precious ecosystem.
- Director: Orlando von Einsiedel
- Starring: Emmanuel de Merode, Rodrigue Mugaruka Katembo, André Bauma
- Release Date: April 17, 2014
- Runtime: 1h 40min
Beasts of No Nation (2015)
Set against the backdrop of a nameless West African country torn apart by civil war, the film follows Agu, a young boy forced to become a child soldier after his family is brutally killed. Under the command of the charismatic but ruthless Commandant, Agu is plunged into a world of violence and unimaginable horrors. As he grapples with the loss of innocence and the darkness within himself, he finds an unexpected bond with another young soldier, Strika. The harrowing and emotional journey of Agu showcases the tragic consequences of war on innocent lives and explores themes of survival, redemption, and the indomitable human spirit.
- Director: Cary Joji Fukunaga
- Starring: Abraham Attah, Idris Elba
- Release Date: October 16, 2015
- Runtime: 2h 17min
Darkest Hour (2017)
Set during the early days of World War II, the movie chronicles the tumultuous period when Winston Churchill is appointed as the Prime Minister of Britain. As Hitler’s forces advance and the threat of invasion looms, Churchill must navigate the political landscape, face skepticism within his own party, and make pivotal decisions that will shape the course of history. The film captures Churchill’s unwavering determination, eloquence, and leadership as he rallies a nation in its darkest hour. Through stirring speeches and personal struggles, “Darkest Hour” provides a gripping account of one man’s pivotal role in Britain’s fight for survival.
- Director: Joe Wright
- Starring: Gary Oldman, Lily James, Kristin Scott Thomas
- Release Date: November 22, 2017
- Runtime: 2h 5min
Heneral Luna (2015)
This Filipino historical biopic centers around the life of General Antonio Luna, a brilliant military strategist during the Philippine-American War in the early 20th century. Despite his tactical brilliance, General Luna faces internal dissent and political opposition from fellow Filipino leaders. As he attempts to unify the fragmented nation and confronts the challenges of leadership, he becomes a symbol of patriotism and nationalism. The film portrays the complexities of war and the struggles faced by a visionary leader who stands firm in his principles, even in the face of betrayal and treachery.
- Director: Jerrold Tarog
- Starring: John Arcilla, Mon Confiado, Arron Villaflor
- Release Date: September 9, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 58min
The King (2019)
In this historical drama, young King Henry V reluctantly assumes the English throne after the death of his father. Faced with political machinations and the weight of his legacy, he must navigate the treacherous world of court politics and make crucial decisions to protect his kingdom. As tensions escalate, King Henry V leads his army into battle against the French in the infamous Battle of Agincourt, revealing his true mettle as a ruler and warrior. The film delves into the personal and political struggles of a young monarch on his journey to becoming a legendary king.
- Director: David Michôd
- Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Robert Pattinson, Ben Mendelsohn
- Release Date: October 11, 2019
- Runtime: 2h 20min
Father Soldier Son (2020)
This intimate and poignant documentary follows a military family over the span of a decade, providing a deeply personal exploration of sacrifice, duty, and the profound impact of war. The film centers around Sergeant First Class Brian Eisch, a dedicated soldier and single father, as he grapples with the physical and emotional challenges of military service. Through multiple deployments to Afghanistan and the strains on family relationships, “Father Soldier Son” examines the complexities of war’s effects on both soldiers and their loved ones, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the human cost of service.
- Director: Leslye Davis, Catrin Einhorn
- Starring: Brian Eisch, Isaac Eisch, Joey Eisch
- Release Date: July 17, 2020
- Runtime: 1h 39min
First They Killed My Father (2017)
Based on the memoir by Loung Ung, this powerful historical drama portrays the devastating events of the Khmer Rouge regime in Cambodia during the 1970s. The film follows the harrowing journey of Loung, a young girl forced to become a child soldier and witness the atrocities of war. Separated from her family, she struggles to survive amidst the turmoil and violence, all while holding on to the hope of being reunited with her loved ones. “First They Killed My Father” offers a haunting and emotional depiction of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable horrors.
- Director: Angelina Jolie
- Starring: Sareum Srey Moch, Phoeung Kompheak
- Release Date: September 15, 2017
- Runtime: 2h 16min
The Siege of Jadotville (2016)
Based on a true story, this gripping war film recounts the events of the 1961 United Nations peacekeeping mission in the Congo during the Katanga conflict. Irish Commandant Pat Quinlan and his company of Irish soldiers find themselves vastly outnumbered and besieged by local Katangese and mercenaries. Despite the odds, the Irish troops display extraordinary courage and resilience as they defend the Jadotville mining town. The film delves into themes of bravery, camaraderie, and the moral complexities of warfare, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter in military history.
- Director: Richie Smyth
- Starring: Jamie Dornan, Mark Strong, Jason O’Mara
- Release Date: September 19, 2016
- Runtime: 1h 48min
Outlaw King (2018)
Set in medieval Scotland, this historical drama follows the legendary tale of Robert the Bruce, a nobleman who rises against English occupation to reclaim his country’s throne and independence. After suffering a series of defeats, Robert gathers a band of loyal warriors to wage a daring and bloody rebellion against the formidable English forces led by King Edward I. “Outlaw King” showcases the bravery and determination of a national hero, portraying the challenges he faces as he fights for freedom and to unite the Scottish clans.
- Director: David Mackenzie
- Starring: Chris Pine, Stephen Dillane, Florence Pugh
- Release Date: November 9, 2018
- Runtime: 2h 1min
The Wolf’s Call (2019)
In this gripping French thriller, a gifted sonar technician, Chanteraide, has the extraordinary ability to identify and analyze sounds from submarines. When a nuclear submarine crisis arises, he becomes an integral part of the response team, racing against time to prevent a potential global catastrophe. However, as he delves deeper into the high-stakes world of naval warfare, Chanteraide must confront personal dilemmas and question the ethics of his actions. “The Wolf’s Call” combines tension, action, and moral ambiguity, providing an intense and immersive experience in the world of modern submarine warfare.
- Director: Antonin Baudry
- Starring: François Civil, Omar Sy, Mathieu Kassovitz
- Release Date: February 20, 2019
- Runtime: 1h 55min
Too Young the Hero (1988)
Based on a true story, “Too Young the Hero” follows the remarkable journey of Calvin Graham, the youngest U.S. serviceman to serve during World War II. Enlisting at the age of twelve by lying about his age, Calvin finds himself on the front lines of the Pacific theater, facing the harsh realities of war. Despite his young age, he displays courage and determination beyond his years. The film portrays the challenges he encounters, including the scrutiny of his fellow soldiers and the military brass. “Too Young the Hero” is a moving tribute to the bravery of a young boy who defied the odds to serve his country.
- Director: Buzz Kulik
- Starring: Ricky Schroder, Jon DeVries, Debra Mooney
- Release Date: January 27, 1988
- Runtime: 1h 34min
The Photographer of Mauthausen (2018)
Set during World War II, this historical drama is based on the true story of Francisco Boix, a Spanish prisoner at the Mauthausen concentration camp. Boix, a talented photographer, secretly documents the atrocities committed by the Nazis within the camp. Risking his life, he manages to smuggle the evidence out, hoping to expose the war crimes to the world. As the Allies approach, Boix faces a moral dilemma between staying alive and testifying against the Nazis. “The Photographer of Mauthausen” is a powerful and gripping tale of courage and resistance amidst the horrors of the Holocaust.
- Director: Mar Targarona
- Starring: Mario Casas, Richard van Weyden, Alain Hernández
- Release Date: October 26, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 50min
Goyo: The Boy General (2018)
This Filipino historical biopic follows the life of Gregorio “Goyo” del Pilar, one of the youngest generals during the Philippine-American War. A skilled and charismatic leader, Goyo becomes a key figure in the Philippine revolution against American forces. However, as the conflict intensifies, he faces the harsh realities of war and the complexities of leadership. “Goyo: The Boy General” delves into the internal struggles and dilemmas faced by the young hero, highlighting the sacrifices made by both soldiers and civilians in the fight for independence.
- Director: Jerrold Tarog
- Starring: Paulo Avelino, Carlo Aquino, Arron Villaflor
- Release Date: September 5, 2018
- Runtime: 2h 35min
Paskal (2018)
“Paskal” tells the gripping story of the elite Royal Malaysian Navy force known as PASKAL (Pasukan Khas Laut). The film centers around the challenges faced by PASKAL operatives during a dangerous rescue mission to save a Malaysian oil tanker from Somali pirates. As they confront perilous situations and personal sacrifices, the team showcases the unyielding spirit and dedication that define them. The film offers a thrilling and action-packed portrayal of Malaysia’s highly skilled maritime special forces.
- Director: Adrian Teh
- Starring: Hairul Azreen, Ammar Alfian, Jasmine Suraya
- Release Date: September 27, 2018
- Runtime: 1h 55min
Da 5 Bloods (2020)
Directed by Spike Lee, “Da 5 Bloods” follows a group of African American veterans who return to Vietnam decades after the war to search for the remains of their fallen squad leader and buried treasure. Unresolved traumas and buried secrets resurface as they grapple with the consequences of their service and the impact of the war on their lives. The film intertwines past and present, shedding light on the enduring effects of the Vietnam War on the soldiers, their brotherhood, and their relationships with the Vietnamese people. “Da 5 Bloods” is a powerful exploration of war, brotherhood, and the quest for redemption.
- Director: Spike Lee
- Starring: Delroy Lindo, Jonathan Majors, Clarke Peters
- Release Date: June 12, 2020
- Runtime: 2h 34min
Ending Notes
In the vast array of streaming options, the above list of the best war movies on Netflix stands out as captivating cinematic experiences that offer a glimpse into the crucible of conflict. From iconic battles of the past to modern tales of courage, these films leave a lasting impact on viewers with their powerful storytelling and compelling performances. Whether you’re seeking tales of historical significance or contemporary thrills, these war movies on Netflix provide an emotional and immersive journey into the complexities of war and the resilience of the human spirit. So, dive in and let these masterpieces transport you to the frontlines of some of the most gripping war narratives ever depicted on screen.
