10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Kandahar (2023)

Description: This classic war film shares 'Kandahar's' depiction of U.S. military forces in perilous foreign operations. Both feature intense battle sequences and examine the chaos of urban warfare.

Fact: Based on the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. Directed by Ridley Scott. Used real soldiers as extras.

Description: Like 'Kandahar', this Oscar-winning film captures the tension and unpredictability of modern combat zones. Both focus on specialists operating under extreme pressure, with a documentary-style realism.

Fact: Won 6 Oscars including Best Picture. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow. Features Jeremy Renner's breakout role.

Description: Like 'Kandahar', 'Lone Survivor' is a harrowing tale of survival against overwhelming odds in a foreign land. Both films highlight the physical and psychological toll of modern warfare, with a strong emphasis on brotherhood and sacrifice.

Fact: Based on Marcus Luttrell's memoir. Features real-life Navy SEALs in supporting roles. Known for its brutal, realistic combat scenes.

Description: Both films portray special forces operations in Afghanistan post-9/11. '12 Strong' and 'Kandahar' highlight the challenges of unconventional warfare in mountainous terrain.

Fact: Based on 'Horse Soldiers' book. Features Chris Hemsworth in a dramatic role. Depicts the first U.S. response to 9/

Description: This film shares 'Kandahar's' focus on intelligence operations in the Middle East. Both depict the relentless pursuit of targets in hostile environments, blending action with geopolitical tension.

Fact: Won an Oscar for Best Sound Editing. Directed by Kathryn Bigelow. Controversial for its depiction of torture.

Description: Both films explore the psychological impact of warfare on soldiers. 'American Sniper' and 'Kandahar' present protagonists operating in dangerous Middle Eastern settings, dealing with moral dilemmas and the cost of war.

Fact: Bradley Cooper's Oscar-nominated performance. Based on Chris Kyle's autobiography. Highest-grossing war film in the U.S.

Description: Both films explore shadowy operations in dangerous territories, with morally ambiguous protagonists. 'Sicario' and 'Kandahar' share a tense, atmospheric approach to depicting covert missions.

Fact: Denis Villeneuve directed. Roger Deakins' acclaimed cinematography. Features a haunting Johannsson score.

Description: Like 'Kandahar', this film depicts a small group of soldiers facing impossible odds in Afghanistan. Both emphasize the bravery and camaraderie of troops in remote outposts.

Fact: Based on the Battle of Kamdesh. Features a continuous 40-minute battle sequence. Real veterans consulted extensively.

Description: Similar to 'Kandahar' (2023), '13 Hours' is a high-intensity military thriller based on real-life events. Both films focus on the dangers faced by operatives in hostile territories, emphasizing survival, teamwork, and the fog of war. The gritty, realistic action sequences and political undertones are key similarities.

Fact: Directed by Michael Bay, known for his explosive action sequences. Based on the 2012 Benghazi attack. The cast underwent rigorous military training for authenticity.

Description: This sequel continues the gritty, geopolitical thriller elements that 'Kandahar' embodies. Both films deal with covert operations crossing ethical boundaries in volatile regions.

Fact: Taylor Sheridan wrote the screenplay. Explores the U.S.-Mexico drug war. More action-oriented than the first film.