If you were captivated by the gripping war drama 'Unknown Soldier' (2017), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows that explore themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the brutal realities of war. This article will guide you through compelling alternatives that match the intensity and emotional depth of the Finnish masterpiece.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)
Description: A landmark war film known for its realistic depiction of combat, focusing on a mission to rescue a paratrooper behind enemy lines, which underscores the value of individual lives in the midst of war.
Fact: The opening D-Day sequence is considered one of the most realistic and intense battle scenes ever filmed. Veterans have reported experiencing PTSD symptoms after watching it.


The Thin Red Line (1998)
Description: A philosophical and visually poetic war film that explores the inner lives of soldiers during the Battle of Guadalcanal, blending intense combat with meditative reflections on nature and humanity.
Fact: The film was adapted from James Jones' novel of the same name. It features an ensemble cast, including many actors who would later become major stars, such as Adrien Brody and Jim Caviezel.


Band of Brothers (2001)
Description: A miniseries that delves deep into the camaraderie and struggles of a single unit during World War II, showcasing both the heroism and the horrors of war.
Fact: The series was filmed on location in England and features extensive use of practical effects to recreate battle scenes. Many of the actors underwent military training to prepare for their roles.


Enemy at the Gates (2001)
Description: A tense war drama centered on a sniper duel during the Battle of Stalingrad, highlighting the psychological warfare and individual heroism amidst the larger conflict.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the real-life exploits of Soviet sniper Vasily Zaitsev. The production built a massive set in Germany to recreate the ruins of Stalingrad.


The Pacific (2010)
Description: A gripping war drama that focuses on the harrowing experiences of soldiers in the Pacific Theater during World War II, emphasizing the brutality of combat and the psychological toll on individuals.
Fact: The series was produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, who also collaborated on 'Band of Brothers.' It is based on the memoirs of real Marines who fought in the Pacific.


Generation War (2013)
Description: A German-language series that explores the impact of World War II on a group of friends, highlighting the moral ambiguities and personal sacrifices faced by individuals during the conflict.
Fact: The series was initially titled 'Unsere Mütter, unsere Väter' in German, which translates to 'Our Mothers, Our Fathers.' It sparked controversy in Poland for its portrayal of the Polish resistance.


Hacksaw Ridge (2016)
Description: A powerful true story of a conscientious objector who serves as a medic during the Battle of Okinawa, showcasing the courage and conviction of an individual who refuses to carry a weapon.
Fact: The film is based on the life of Desmond Doss, the first conscientious objector to receive the Medal of Honor. The battle scenes were filmed in Australia, using practical effects to maintain realism.


Fury (2014)
Description: A gritty and visceral tank warfare film set during the final days of World War II, focusing on the bonds between crew members and the brutal realities of combat.
Fact: The film features a real Tiger I tank, one of only a handful still in existence. The actors lived together in a tank for weeks to build camaraderie and authenticity.


Dunkirk (2017)
Description: A visually stunning and tense war film that portrays the evacuation of Allied soldiers from Dunkirk, emphasizing the chaos and desperation of war from multiple perspectives.
Fact: The film uses minimal CGI, relying instead on practical effects, real ships, and thousands of extras to create its immersive battle scenes. It features very little dialogue, relying on visuals and sound to tell the story.


1917 (2019)
Description: A technically innovative war film presented as a single continuous shot, following two soldiers on a perilous mission during World War I, capturing the immediacy and intensity of frontline combat.
Fact: The film was inspired by stories told by director Sam Mendes' grandfather, who served in World War I. The entire movie was designed to look like one unbroken take, requiring meticulous planning and choreography.
