Top 10 War History Documentaries

Description: This documentary critiques the Vietnam War, exploring its impact on both American and Vietnamese civilians, soldiers, and policymakers. It's a powerful examination of the war's moral and political implications.

Fact: The film was highly controversial upon release, with some scenes being censored. It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: While not directly about military history, this documentary captures the behind-the-scenes political maneuvering during Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, offering insights into the "war" for political power.

Fact: The film was directed by Chris Hegedus and D.A. Pennebaker, who are known for their cinéma vérité style. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary provides an intimate look at Robert S. McNamara, the U.S. Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War, offering his reflections on war, morality, and decision-making. It's a must-watch for understanding the psychological and ethical dimensions of military leadership.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: Ken Burns' epic documentary series examines World War II through the personal stories of citizens from four American towns, providing a comprehensive look at how the war affected everyday lives.

Fact: The series took over six years to produce and features over 1,500 hours of archival footage. It was also one of the most expensive documentaries PBS has ever produced.

Description: Shot by John Ford during the actual battle, this documentary provides a rare, real-time look at one of the most pivotal naval battles of World War II, showcasing the bravery and chaos of war at sea.

Fact: John Ford was wounded during the filming, and the footage was used for training and propaganda purposes. The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary in

Description: This documentary series focuses on the Eastern Front of World War II, highlighting the Soviet Union's role in the conflict, often overlooked in Western narratives. It provides a different perspective on the war's scale and brutality.

Fact: Narrated by Burt Lancaster, the series was a joint Soviet-American production, making it one of the first major collaborations between the two superpowers during the Cold War.

Description: Another masterpiece by Ken Burns, this 10-part series explores the Vietnam War from all sides, including the perspectives of North Vietnamese, South Vietnamese, and American soldiers, as well as civilians.

Fact: The series took 10 years to make and includes interviews with over 80 witnesses from all sides of the conflict. It was also the most expensive documentary PBS has ever produced.

Description: Filmed in Afghanistan, "Restrepo" follows a platoon of U.S. soldiers in the Korengal Valley, capturing the raw, unfiltered reality of modern combat. It's a poignant look at the human cost of war and the bonds formed in the face of adversity.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, the latter of whom was killed in Libya while covering the civil war there. It won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This series uses colorized footage and personal accounts to bring the Second World War to life in a way that feels immediate and personal. It's an excellent choice for those looking to understand the war from the perspective of the soldiers on the ground.

Fact: The series was the first to use colorized archival footage extensively, providing a vivid visual experience. It also includes interviews with veterans who were in their 80s at the time of filming.