If you're a fan of the thrilling action and wartime drama in 'Force 10 from Navarone' (1978), you'll love these 10 similar movies and shows. This article explores gripping tales of heroism, espionage, and high-stakes missions that will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like the classic adventure starring Harrison Ford and Robert Shaw.

The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)
Description: A psychological war drama exploring themes of duty, honor, and the absurdity of war, set against the backdrop of a crucial construction project in enemy territory.
Fact: The bridge was built twice - once in Sri Lanka for filming and once in England for the explosion scene. The famous Colonel Bogey March whistling was improvised by the actors.


The Guns of Navarone (1961)
Description: A classic World War II adventure featuring a small team of Allied soldiers on a dangerous mission to destroy a seemingly impregnable enemy fortress. The film combines intense action, strategic planning, and camaraderie under pressure.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Rhodes, Greece, and the cliffs were so steep that the crew had to use mountain goats to transport equipment. It was nominated for seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture.


The Great Escape (1963)
Description: The ultimate prisoner-of-war film, showcasing ingenuity, teamwork, and determination in the face of overwhelming odds. The meticulous planning and execution of the escape mirror military precision.
Fact: The motorcycle jump scene was performed by stuntman Bud Ekins in a single take. Many of the actors spent time with real POWs to prepare for their roles.


The Train (1964)
Description: A tense cat-and-mouse game between French Resistance fighters and German forces over a trainload of priceless art, combining action with philosophical questions about the value of culture versus human life.
Fact: All the train stunts were performed for real, with no miniatures or special effects. Burt Lancaster did all his own stunts, including dangerous jumps between moving trains.


The Dirty Dozen (1967)
Description: A group of convicted criminals are given a chance at redemption by undertaking a suicide mission against Nazi forces. The film blends gritty action with dark humor and explores themes of sacrifice and redemption.
Fact: The training camp scenes were filmed at a real British Army base, and many of the extras were actual soldiers. The movie's success spawned a subgenre of 'men on a mission' films.


The Devil's Brigade (1968)
Description: Based on true events, this film follows the formation and first mission of an elite joint American-Canadian commando unit during WWII, highlighting their unconventional tactics and tough training.
Fact: Many of the stunts were performed by real members of the Canadian Airborne Regiment. The mountain climbing sequence was filmed on the same cliffs used in 'The Guns of Navarone.'


Where Eagles Dare (1968)
Description: A high-stakes mission behind enemy lines involving espionage, betrayal, and explosive action. The film's snowy Alpine setting and intricate plot twists make it a gripping wartime thriller.
Fact: The famous cable car fight scene was filmed using a full-scale replica of a cable car suspended 30 feet above the ground. The movie's iconic line, 'Broadsword calling Danny Boy,' has become a pop culture reference.


Kelly's Heroes (1970)
Description: A mix of war film and heist movie, following a group of soldiers who go rogue to steal Nazi gold. The film's lighthearted tone and unconventional mission set it apart from traditional war stories.
Fact: The film's tanks were real WWII-era vehicles borrowed from Yugoslavian military museums. Clint Eastwood's character was originally written as a much darker, more cynical figure.


The Eagle Has Landed (1976)
Description: A tense thriller about a German plot to kidnap Winston Churchill, featuring elaborate planning, disguised operatives, and unexpected heroism from unlikely sources.
Fact: The film's village set was built from scratch in England and later used for other productions. Author Jack Higgins came up with the story after hearing a real wartime rumor about a German plot against Churchill.


The Wild Geese (1978)
Description: A mercenary team undertakes a dangerous mission in Africa, featuring intense combat sequences and complex moral dilemmas about warfare and loyalty.
Fact: The film's aerial sequences were so realistic that several African countries banned it, fearing it might inspire real mercenary activity. The cast underwent rigorous military training before filming.
