10 Must-Watch Films About Ex-Military

Description: This classic film portrays the lives of three WWII veterans as they return to civilian life, dealing with issues like disability, unemployment, and reintegration.

Fact: It won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Harold Russell, who played a disabled veteran, was not an actor but a real-life WWII veteran.

Description: This epic drama examines the effects of the Vietnam War on three friends, focusing on their lives before, during, and after the conflict, showcasing the lasting impact on veterans.

Fact: The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture. The Russian roulette scenes were highly controversial and debated for their realism.

Description: Based on Anthony Swofford's memoir, this film captures the boredom, camaraderie, and sudden bursts of action experienced by a Marine sniper during the Gulf War.

Fact: Jake Gyllenhaal underwent extensive training to prepare for his role as a Marine. The film's title refers to the slang term for Marines, derived from their high and tight haircuts.

Description: A father investigates the disappearance of his son, a soldier recently returned from Iraq, uncovering the harsh realities of post-war life for veterans.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the true story of Richard Davis, whose son was killed in Iraq. Tommy Lee Jones was nominated for an Academy Award for his role.

Description: This intense drama centers on an elite Army bomb squad in Iraq, highlighting the adrenaline-fueled life of its members and the psychological aftermath of their service.

Fact: Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to win an Oscar for Best Director for this film. The movie was shot in Jordan, standing in for Iraq.

Description: While not exclusively about a former soldier, the protagonist, Walt Kowalski, is a Korean War veteran whose military background shapes his worldview and actions in the film.

Fact: Clint Eastwood, who plays Walt, also directed the film. The car featured, a 1972 Ford Gran Torino, became iconic due to its role in the movie.

Description: This film addresses the controversial military policy of "stop-loss," where soldiers are involuntarily extended beyond their initial enlistment to return to combat.

Fact: Ryan Phillippe, who stars in the film, also served as a producer. The film was inspired by real-life stories of soldiers facing stop-loss orders.

Description: This film follows the life of Chris Kyle, a Navy SEAL sniper, focusing on his experiences in Iraq and the struggles he faces upon returning home. It's a poignant exploration of the personal toll of war.

Fact: Bradley Cooper gained 40 pounds for the role to accurately portray Kyle's physical transformation. The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, winning one for Best Sound Editing.

Description: A Marine presumed dead returns home to find his wife has moved on, exploring themes of PTSD, family dynamics, and the psychological scars of war.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 2004 Danish film "Brødre." Tobey Maguire underwent a significant physical transformation for his role.

Description: This drama focuses on two soldiers assigned to notify families of fallen soldiers, delving into the emotional toll of their duty and the personal lives of the messengers.

Fact: The film was inspired by the experiences of its writer/director, Oren Moverman, who served in the Israeli army. It received widespread critical acclaim for its sensitive handling of the subject matter.