If you were captivated by the raw, unfiltered look at life aboard a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier in 'Carrier' (2008), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores gripping documentaries and dramas that delve into military life, high-stakes operations, and the human stories behind them. Whether you're a military enthusiast or just love intense real-life storytelling, these picks will keep you engaged.

Das Boot (1981)
Description: A harrowing portrayal of life aboard a German U-boat during WWII, capturing the psychological and physical toll of submarine warfare with unparalleled realism.
Fact: The film was originally a miniseries before being edited into a theatrical release, and it's known for its authentic depiction of submarine life.


The Abyss (1989)
Description: A sci-fi adventure that combines deep-sea exploration with psychological tension, mirroring the isolation and danger of submarine life.
Fact: The film was groundbreaking for its underwater special effects and was one of the first to use CGI for water creatures.


The Hunt for Red October (1990)
Description: A suspenseful Cold War thriller that delves into the intricacies of submarine warfare, focusing on the cat-and-mouse game between rival naval forces.
Fact: The movie was based on Tom Clancy's bestselling novel and marked the first appearance of the character Jack Ryan.


Crimson Tide (1995)
Description: A tense drama set aboard a nuclear submarine, exploring themes of mutiny, loyalty, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in command during a potential global crisis.
Fact: The film's script was heavily influenced by real-life submarine protocols and procedures, adding to its authenticity.


Down Periscope (1996)
Description: A comedic take on submarine life, offering a lighter perspective on the quirks and challenges of serving aboard a naval vessel.
Fact: The film was shot on a real diesel submarine, the USS Blueback, which added to its authenticity despite its humorous tone.


U-571 (2000)
Description: A thrilling WWII submarine film that emphasizes the bravery and ingenuity of sailors in a high-stakes mission, with intense underwater sequences.
Fact: The film's plot was inspired by real events, though it took significant liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic effect.


K-19: The Widowmaker (2002)
Description: A dramatic retelling of a real-life Soviet submarine incident, highlighting the sacrifices and heroism of the crew in the face of a nuclear disaster.
Fact: The movie was based on the true story of the Soviet submarine K-19, which suffered a reactor leak in


Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003)
Description: A meticulously detailed period piece that captures the camaraderie and hardships of life at sea, with a focus on naval strategy and the bonds formed in isolation.
Fact: The movie was based on a series of novels by Patrick O'Brian and was praised for its historical accuracy.


Battleship (2012)
Description: A high-octane action film set on the high seas, featuring intense naval combat and strategic warfare, echoing the claustrophobic and high-pressure atmosphere of submarine warfare.
Fact: The movie was loosely based on the classic board game Battleship, but with an alien invasion twist.


The Last Ship (2014)
Description: A gripping naval drama that explores the challenges of leadership and survival in a confined, high-stakes environment, much like the tension-filled scenarios aboard a submarine.
Fact: The show was inspired by a novel of the same name and features a fictional virus that wipes out most of the world's population.
