If you were moved by the emotional depth and historical significance of 'The Railway Man' (2013), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores films and series that share themes of war, redemption, and personal resilience, offering gripping narratives and powerful performances. Whether you're a fan of historical dramas or stories of human endurance, this list will guide you to your next must-watch title.

Schindler's List (1993)
Description: Both 'Schindler's List' and 'The Railway Man' deal with the atrocities of war and the resilience of the human spirit. They are based on true stories and highlight the impact of war on individuals. The films share a somber and emotional tone.
Fact: Directed by Steven Spielberg. Won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The film is based on the novel 'Schindler's Ark' by Thomas Keneally.


The Pianist (2002)
Description: 'The Pianist' and 'The Railway Man' both explore the horrors of war and the impact on individuals. Both films are based on true stories and depict the struggle for survival under extreme conditions. The emotional tone is somber and reflective.
Fact: Won three Academy Awards, including Best Director for Roman Polanski. Adrien Brody won the Oscar for Best Actor. The film is based on the autobiography of Władysław Szpilman.


The Book Thief (2013)
Description: Similar to 'The Railway Man', 'The Book Thief' deals with the impact of war on individuals and the power of human connection. Both films are set during WWII and explore themes of survival, loss, and resilience.
Fact: Based on the novel by Markus Zusak. Narrated by Death. The film was shot in Germany.


The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)
Description: Both 'The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas' and 'The Railway Man' depict the horrors of war and its impact on individuals. The films share a somber tone and focus on the innocence lost during wartime.
Fact: Based on the novel by John Boyne. The film's ending is famously heartbreaking. The story is told from the perspective of a child.


Defiance (2008)
Description: 'Defiance' and 'The Railway Man' both tell true stories of survival and resistance during WWII. Both films highlight the strength of the human spirit in the face of extreme adversity.
Fact: Starring Daniel Craig. Based on the story of the Bielski partisans. The film was shot in Lithuania.


The Zookeeper's Wife (2017)
Description: Like 'The Railway Man', 'The Zookeeper's Wife' is based on a true story set during WWII. Both films explore themes of survival, courage, and the impact of war on individuals. The emotional tone is poignant and reflective.
Fact: Starring Jessica Chastain. Based on the book by Diane Ackerman. The film was shot in the Czech Republic.


Unbroken (2014)
Description: 'Unbroken' shares the theme of survival and endurance with 'The Railway Man'. Both films depict the brutal realities of war and the strength of the human spirit. The protagonists in both films are prisoners of war who face unimaginable suffering but manage to survive.
Fact: Directed by Angelina Jolie. Based on the life of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete and WWII veteran. The film was shot in Australia and New South Wales.


The Imitation Game (2014)
Description: Similar to 'The Railway Man', 'The Imitation Game' explores themes of war, trauma, and resilience. Both films are based on true stories and focus on individuals who endure extreme hardships during wartime. The emotional tone is heavy and reflective, with a strong emphasis on the psychological impact of war.
Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch received an Academy Award nomination for his role as Alan Turing. The film won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. Alan Turing's work is credited with shortening World War II by two years.


Hacksaw Ridge (2016)
Description: Like 'The Railway Man', 'Hacksaw Ridge' is a war drama that highlights the brutality of war and the resilience of the human spirit. Both films are based on true stories and focus on individuals who demonstrate extraordinary courage and determination in the face of adversity.
Fact: Directed by Mel Gibson. Andrew Garfield received an Academy Award nomination for his role. The film won Oscars for Best Sound Mixing and Best Film Editing.


Bridge of Spies (2015)
Description: 'Bridge of Spies' and 'The Railway Man' both explore themes of war, espionage, and moral dilemmas. Both films are based on true events and feature protagonists who must navigate complex and dangerous situations. The storytelling is tense and thought-provoking.
Fact: Directed by Steven Spielberg. Tom Hanks stars as James B. Donovan. The film won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor (Mark Rylance).
