War movies have long captivated audiences, and there are some that have cemented their status as classics.
War movies can come in all types of genres, including drama and comedy.
However, there are war movies that transcend genre and speak to universal wartime experiences.
Image via Universal Pictures
War movies that are classic tell compelling stories with complex characters.
The movie specifically showcases a fictionalized version of the Battle of Mount Austen.
The movie’s universally applicable message is that no one is immune from the destruction of war.
Image via 20th Century Studios
The movie is Kurosawa’s take on one of the Bard’s most famous plays,King Lear.
The story is also based on Japanese legends.
Similar toThe Godfather,Rancompares and contrasts internal family conflicts with the more global fights outside the family unit.
The book was based on Remarque’s own experiences in the Imperial German Army during World War I.
The movie features a massive ensemble cast who paint portraits of nuanced characters trying to survive.
The movie highlights the brutal conditions that prisoners of war had to survive.
Image via Toho
The movie is a devastating look at the human cost of war.
The movie features a cat-and-mouse chase as Willard attempts to complete his mission.
Additionally, the movie explores America’s role in the Vietnam War.
Image via Universal Pictures
The story follows a group of French military officers who are prisoners of war, kept captive by Germany.
Lawrence (Peter O’Toole), who became an influential figure in the Middle East during World War I.
The movie shows him as someone who was morally complex who had to make difficult decisions.
The movie is expansive and dramatic, and highlights how devastating war was for an entire region.
Additionally,Lawrence of Arabiaemphasizes the often personal stakes that are part of war.
NEXT: 10 Essential War Comedy Movies, Ranked
Image via United Artists
Sessue Hayakawa in “The Bridge on the River Kwai”. Image Courtesy of Columbia Pictures.
Image via United Artists
Image via United Artists
Image via DreamWorks Pictures
Image via Réalisation d’Art Cinématographique
Image via Columbia Pictures
