Happy Tuesday, dear readers! Each week, we’ll rank the top 10 films in a specific category. While we aim to tie these lists to big releases, that won’t always be the case. Our goal? For you to enjoy, share your own lists, and join in on a lively, friendly debate. This is an interactive space to build community here at The Contending.
No fancy intros, no long essays – just a category and a list. Sound good?
Belated Veterans Day wishes to all. We deeply appreciate your service, courage, and the sacrifices you’ve made to protect our freedoms.
In honor of those who have served, we’re ranking the greatest war films ever made. War movies often highlight the heroism, camaraderie, and valor of soldiers, while also confronting the personal costs of service. This list is our tribute to those who’ve given so much in defense of our country.
One rule this week: there has to be at least one battle scene, with war being a central plot point. So great movies like Casablanca (1942), Schindler’s List (1993), or The Best Years of Our Lives (1946) – which are war-era or post-war films – would not be eligible for this list. A movie like Lincoln (2012), which includes a few battle-related scenes, is mostly about politics, and therefore not a film I considered for my lists.
Here are the ten best war films of all time:
10. The Thin Red Line (1998)
9. Full Metal Jacket (1987)
8. Paths of Glory (1957)
7. Saving Private Ryan (1998)
6. Platoon (1986)
5. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
4. The Deer Hunter (1978)
3. Apocalypse Now (1979)
2. The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
1. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
Added Bonus: Here are the ten best war films of the 21st century:
10. Beasts of No Nation (2015)
9. Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
8. Letters From Iwo Jima (2006)
7. Inglourious Basterds (2009)
6. Black Hawk Down (2001)
5. All Quiet on the Western Front (2022)
4. Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
3. Dunkirk (2017)
2. The Hurt Locker (2008)
1. 1917 (2019)
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Thank you for the list AND the bonus list which Includes Letters From Iwo Jima (2006).
While Lawrence of Arabia (1962) is unbeatable, I have to say the surprising angle (Still can't believe it was made by the same director as Flags of Our Fathers) and emotional impact of of Letters has stayed with me the most. So both all time and 21sh century's choice for me is Letters From Iwo Jima (2006).
And if you'd permit me, I'd like to add Paisan (1946), Attack And Retreat (1964) and Mr Bondarchuk's War & Peace (1965 – 1967) as honorable mentions.
All good choices. I am not familiar with Attack and Retreat. I'll look for it, thanks!