10 Movies and Shows Similar to A War (2015)

Description: 'Black Hawk Down' and 'A War' (2015) both portray the chaos and intensity of modern warfare, with a focus on the experiences of soldiers in hostile territories. The films emphasize the unpredictability of combat and the bonds formed between soldiers in life-or-death situations.

Fact: 'Black Hawk Down' is based on the 1993 U.S. military raid in Mogadishu, Somalia. The film was directed by Ridley Scott and features an ensemble cast including Josh Hartnett, Ewan McGregor, and Tom Sizemore. The production involved extensive military consultation to ensure accuracy in depicting the events.

Description: 'Jarhead' shares with 'A War' (2015) a focus on the psychological and emotional strain of military service, particularly the boredom and existential angst that soldiers experience. Both films depict the internal struggles of soldiers rather than glorifying combat, offering a more nuanced and human perspective on war.

Fact: 'Jarhead' is based on the memoir of the same name by Anthony Swofford, a former U.S. Marine who served in the Gulf War. The film was directed by Sam Mendes, who is also known for 'American Beauty' and '1917'. Jake Gyllenhaal underwent intense military training to prepare for his role as Swofford.

Description: Similar to 'A War' (2015), 'The Hurt Locker' explores the psychological toll of war on soldiers, focusing on the intense and unpredictable nature of combat. Both films delve into the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers and the blurred lines between right and wrong in war zones. The realistic portrayal of warfare and the emphasis on the human cost of conflict are central themes in both movies.

Fact: 'The Hurt Locker' won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director for Kathryn Bigelow, making her the first woman to win the latter award. The film was praised for its authenticity, with many scenes shot in Jordan, near the Iraqi border. Jeremy Renner's performance as Sergeant First Class William James was widely acclaimed and earned him an Oscar nomination.

Description: Both 'Lone Survivor' and 'A War' (2015) depict the brutal realities of combat and the camaraderie among soldiers. The films focus on the physical and emotional endurance required to survive in hostile environments, as well as the sacrifices made by military personnel.

Fact: 'Lone Survivor' is based on the true story of Operation Red Wings, a failed Navy SEALs mission in Afghanistan. The film stars Mark Wahlberg, who also served as a producer. The actors underwent rigorous military training to prepare for their roles, including learning how to handle weapons and navigate rough terrain.

Description: 'Zero Dark Thirty' and 'A War' (2015) both explore the ethical and moral dilemmas faced by individuals in the context of modern warfare. While 'Zero Dark Thirty' focuses on the hunt for Osama bin Laden, both films emphasize the psychological and emotional toll of prolonged conflict and the difficult decisions that come with it.

Fact: 'Zero Dark Thirty' was directed by Kathryn Bigelow, who also directed 'The Hurt Locker'. The film sparked controversy for its depiction of torture and its alleged endorsement of its effectiveness. Jessica Chastain's performance as Maya earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress.

Description: Like 'A War' (2015), 'Eye in the Sky' deals with the moral and ethical dilemmas of modern warfare, particularly the use of drone technology. Both films explore the consequences of military decisions on both soldiers and civilians, highlighting the complexities of contemporary conflict.

Fact: 'Eye in the Sky' stars Helen Mirren, Aaron Paul, and the late Alan Rickman in his final film role. The film raises questions about the ethics of drone warfare and collateral damage. It was praised for its tense and thought-provoking narrative.

Description: Like 'A War' (2015), 'American Sniper' examines the personal and psychological impact of war on a soldier, particularly the challenges of reintegrating into civilian life. Both films highlight the moral complexities of warfare and the heavy burden carried by those who serve.

Fact: 'American Sniper' is based on the autobiography of Chris Kyle, the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history. The film was directed by Clint Eastwood and starred Bradley Cooper, who gained 40 pounds for the role. It became the highest-grossing war film in U.S. history at the time of its release.

Description: 'Korengal' and 'A War' (2015) both provide a documentary-style look at the daily lives of soldiers in combat zones, focusing on their emotional and psychological struggles. The films offer a raw and unfiltered perspective on the realities of war.

Fact: 'Korengal' is a sequel to the documentary 'Restrepo', both directed by Sebastian Junger. The film features interviews with soldiers who served in the Korengal Valley, one of the most dangerous postings in Afghanistan. It provides a deeper exploration of the themes introduced in 'Restrepo', including the bonds between soldiers and the impact of war on their mental health.

Description: Similar to 'A War' (2015), 'The Outpost' focuses on the experiences of soldiers in a remote and dangerous outpost, highlighting the constant threat of enemy attacks and the psychological strain of prolonged combat. Both films offer a gritty and realistic portrayal of modern warfare.

Fact: 'The Outpost' is based on the true story of the Battle of Kamdesh during the War in Afghanistan. The film stars Scott Eastwood, Caleb Landry Jones, and Orlando Bloom. It was praised for its intense and immersive battle sequences.

Description: 'Hyena Road' and 'A War' (2015) both depict the challenges faced by soldiers in Afghanistan, focusing on the interplay between military strategy and local dynamics. The films highlight the difficulties of navigating cultural and political complexities in a war zone.

Fact: 'Hyena Road' was written and directed by Paul Gross, who also stars in the film. The title refers to a strategic road built by Canadian forces in Afghanistan. The film blends elements of war drama and thriller, offering a unique perspective on the conflict.