If you were moved by the gripping narrative of 'Leaving Afghanistan (2019),' you're likely searching for similar films or shows that capture the same intensity, emotional depth, and geopolitical themes. This article highlights 10 compelling titles that resonate with the same raw realism and human drama, perfect for fans of war documentaries and historical dramas.

The War Tapes (2006)
Description: A unique documentary filmed by soldiers themselves, offering a raw and unfiltered view of their experiences in Iraq, with themes of war's impact on individuals.
Fact: It was the first war documentary where the soldiers were given cameras to record their own experiences.


The Hurt Locker (2008)
Description: A gripping portrayal of an elite bomb disposal team in Iraq, focusing on the adrenaline-fueled and high-stakes nature of their missions.
Fact: The film won six Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.


No End in Sight (2007)
Description: A critical examination of the decisions and policies that led to the prolonged conflict in Iraq, focusing on the bureaucratic and strategic failures.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


Lone Survivor (2013)
Description: Based on a true story, this film depicts the harrowing survival mission of a Navy SEAL team in Afghanistan, emphasizing brotherhood and sacrifice.
Fact: The film's production consulted with the actual survivors and families of the fallen SEALs to ensure accuracy.


12 Strong (2018)
Description: A dramatization of the first U.S. Special Forces team deployed to Afghanistan after 9/11, showcasing their unconventional warfare tactics and resilience.
Fact: The film is based on the book 'Horse Soldiers,' which details the true events of the mission.


Hell and Back Again (2011)
Description: This documentary juxtaposes the intensity of combat with the struggles of reintegration into civilian life, highlighting the physical and emotional scars of war.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize for Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival.


Dirty Wars (2013)
Description: An investigative documentary that explores the hidden truths of modern warfare, including covert operations and their global repercussions.
Fact: The film was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.


The Hornet's Nest (2014)
Description: This documentary follows journalists embedded with U.S. troops in Afghanistan, capturing intense combat situations and the camaraderie among soldiers.
Fact: The film features real-time footage of firefights and was one of the first documentaries to show the war from such a close perspective.


Korengal (2014)
Description: A documentary that provides an immersive look into the daily lives of soldiers in a remote and dangerous valley, focusing on the psychological and emotional toll of combat.
Fact: The film is a follow-up to 'Restrepo' and was shot in the same location, offering a deeper dive into the soldiers' experiences.


The Outpost (2020)
Description: A tense war film that recounts the Battle of Kamdesh, where a small group of U.S. soldiers defended an outpost against overwhelming Taliban forces.
Fact: The film is based on the nonfiction book 'The Outpost: An Untold Story of American Valor' by Jake Tapper.
