10 Movies & Shows Like The 12th Man

Description: A gripping tale of survival and moral ambiguity, this film explores the lives of prisoners forced to aid the Nazi war effort, highlighting themes of resistance and ethical compromise.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It is based on the true story of Operation Bernhard, the largest counterfeiting operation in history.

Description: Set in Nazi Germany, this film explores the power of literature and human connection in the face of oppression, offering a poignant look at resistance through subtle acts of defiance.

Fact: The film is based on the bestselling novel by Markus Zusak. It is narrated by the character of Death, providing a unique perspective on the events of World War II.

Description: This biographical war film follows the exploits of a Norwegian resistance fighter, emphasizing bravery, sabotage, and the personal toll of fighting an oppressive regime.

Fact: Max Manus was a real-life war hero whose exploits became legendary in Norway. The film was a major box office success in its home country.

Description: This film tells the true story of Jewish partisans who fought back against the Nazis in Eastern Europe, emphasizing themes of survival, resistance, and solidarity.

Fact: The Bielski partisans, depicted in the film, saved over 1,200 Jews during the Holocaust. The movie was shot in Lithuania, near the actual historical locations.

Description: A story of quiet heroism and resistance, this film follows a couple who use their zoo to shelter Jews during the Nazi occupation, blending wartime tension with human compassion.

Fact: The film is based on the nonfiction book of the same name, which recounts true events. The real-life Warsaw Zoo still operates today and honors the couple's legacy.

Description: This film shares a focus on World War II espionage and resistance, highlighting the tension and high stakes of covert operations against Nazi forces. It also delves into the personal sacrifices and moral dilemmas faced by those involved.

Fact: The film is based on the real-life story of Alan Turing, a mathematician who played a pivotal role in cracking the Enigma code. It won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay.

Description: This movie dramatizes a daring assassination plot by Czechoslovakian resistance fighters against a high-ranking Nazi official, showcasing the courage and sacrifice of underground operatives.

Fact: The film is based on Operation Anthropoid, the real-life mission to assassinate Reinhard Heydrich. The final shootout scene was filmed at the actual location of the historical event.

Description: Centered on a critical moment in Norwegian history during World War II, this film portrays the moral and political dilemmas faced by leaders under occupation, similar to resistance narratives.

Fact: The movie is based on the true story of King Haakon VII's refusal to surrender to Nazi Germany. It was Norway's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the Academy Awards.

Description: Set during the same historical period, this movie explores leadership and resilience in the face of overwhelming odds, much like the survival and resistance themes in war dramas.

Fact: Gary Oldman's portrayal of Winston Churchill earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor. The film's climax involves a fictionalized underground meeting that never actually occurred.

Description: This film captures the intensity and desperation of wartime survival, focusing on a pivotal evacuation during World War II. Its immersive storytelling and tension mirror the struggles of resistance fighters.

Fact: Christopher Nolan used practical effects and real ships to recreate the Dunkirk evacuation. The film features minimal dialogue to enhance its visceral impact.