If you enjoyed the gripping wartime drama The Rebels of PT-218 (2021), you're likely craving more films that deliver intense naval battles, heroic resistance, and historical action. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same spirit of courage, strategy, and high-stakes conflict, ensuring fans of the genre find their next thrilling watch.

The Cruel Sea (1953)
Description: A British war film that follows the crew of a Royal Navy ship during the Battle of the Atlantic, focusing on the hardships and camaraderie of life at sea during wartime.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Nicholas Monsarrat, who drew from his own experiences serving in the Royal Navy during World War II.


The Caine Mutiny (1954)
Description: A dramatic courtroom and naval film that explores the psychological strain on a ship's crew and the moral complexities of mutiny during wartime.
Fact: The film was adapted from a Pulitzer Prize-winning novel and features a famous scene involving a stolen quart of strawberries.


The Enemy Below (1957)
Description: A classic naval warfare film that pits a U.S. destroyer against a German U-boat, highlighting the cat-and-mouse tactics and psychological warfare between the two captains.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic depiction of submarine warfare and won an Academy Award for Best Special Effects.


In Harm's Way (1965)
Description: A sweeping war epic that depicts the aftermath of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the subsequent naval campaigns, with a strong focus on leadership and personal sacrifice.
Fact: The film was one of the last black-and-white war movies made during the era when color films were becoming the norm.


Das Boot (1981)
Description: A harrowing portrayal of life aboard a German U-boat during World War II, known for its realistic and immersive depiction of submarine warfare and the psychological toll on the crew.
Fact: The film was originally a miniseries before being edited into a theatrical release, and it is considered one of the most accurate submarine films ever made.


The Hunt for Red October (1990)
Description: A suspenseful Cold War-era thriller about a Soviet submarine captain attempting to defect to the U.S., blending political intrigue with naval strategy.
Fact: The film was based on Tom Clancy's bestselling novel and marked the first appearance of the character Jack Ryan, who would later be featured in several other films.


Crimson Tide (1995)
Description: A tense drama set aboard a nuclear submarine, exploring the conflict between officers over the launch of missiles during a potential crisis, emphasizing themes of duty and morality.
Fact: The film's script was heavily influenced by real-life nuclear submarine protocols and procedures, adding to its authenticity.


U-571 (2000)
Description: A thrilling submarine movie that revolves around a covert mission to capture an Enigma machine, filled with claustrophobic tension and high-stakes action.
Fact: The film's production involved the use of a real submarine to add authenticity to the underwater scenes.


Dunkirk (2017)
Description: A gripping war drama that captures the tension and desperation of a military evacuation, with a focus on survival and the human spirit amidst overwhelming odds.
Fact: The film was shot using IMAX cameras to enhance the immersive experience, and it features minimal dialogue to emphasize the visual storytelling.


Midway (2019)
Description: A historical war film that focuses on naval battles and the strategic decisions made during World War II, featuring intense combat sequences and a strong emphasis on teamwork and leadership under pressure.
Fact: The film used a combination of practical effects and CGI to recreate the Battle of Midway, one of the most significant naval battles in history.
