If you were captivated by the gripping wartime drama and heroic resistance depicted in 'Max Manus: Man of War (2008),' you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that share themes of bravery, espionage, and historical conflict, perfect for fans of intense, character-driven war stories.

The Counterfeiters (2007)
Description: Explores moral dilemmas faced by prisoners forced to use their skills for the enemy's benefit during wartime.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It's based on the memoirs of Adolf Burger, a Holocaust survivor who worked on Operation Bernhard.


The Book Thief (2013)
Description: Presents wartime through civilian perspective, focusing on survival, resistance, and the power of literature during dark times.
Fact: The film is based on the internationally bestselling novel by Markus Zusak. It's narrated from the unusual perspective of Death.


Valkyrie (2008)
Description: Centers on a high-stakes plot to assassinate a key wartime leader, showcasing themes of resistance and moral courage.
Fact: The film's script went through multiple rewrites over a decade before production began. Many scenes were shot at actual historical locations in Germany.


Defiance (2008)
Description: Portrays a group's struggle for survival and resistance in harsh conditions during wartime, with themes of brotherhood and perseverance.
Fact: The film is based on Nechama Tec's book 'Defiance: The Bielski Partisans'. The real Bielski brothers were consultants during production.


The Forgotten Battle (2021)
Description: Depicts interconnected stories of ordinary people caught in pivotal wartime events, blending action with human drama.
Fact: The film is one of the most expensive Dutch productions ever made. It portrays the Battle of the Scheldt, a crucial but often overlooked WWII campaign.


The Zookeeper's Wife (2017)
Description: Showcases civilian resistance and humanitarian efforts during wartime, with themes of courage and compassion.
Fact: The film is based on Diane Ackerman's non-fiction book of the same name. The Warsaw Zoo, where the story takes place, still exists today.


The Imitation Game (2014)
Description: Focuses on a historical figure's pivotal role in World War II, blending personal struggle with wartime espionage and resistance.
Fact: The film is based on the biography 'Alan Turing: The Enigma' by Andrew Hodges. It won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.


The 12th Man (2017)
Description: Tells the harrowing true story of survival and resistance during wartime, with intense chase sequences and national pride themes.
Fact: The film is based on the book 'Jan Baalsrud and Those Who Saved Him' by Tore Haug and Astrid Karlsen Scott. It was shot in Norway during winter to maintain authenticity.


Anthropoid (2016)
Description: Focuses on a daring resistance operation during wartime, with meticulous planning and tragic consequences.
Fact: The film's climactic scene was shot at the actual location of the historical event in Prague. It uses many authentic period details in its production design.


The King's Choice (2016)
Description: Depicts a critical moment in a nation's history during wartime, focusing on leadership under extreme pressure.
Fact: The film was Norway's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards. It's based on true events from April
