Movies and Shows Like Valiant You Can’t Miss

Description: This war drama follows the crew of a B-17 bomber during their final mission in World War II. The film emphasizes teamwork, bravery, and the psychological toll of war, with realistic aerial combat scenes.

Fact: The movie is based on the real-life Memphis Belle, one of the first B-17s to complete 25 missions over Europe. The filmmakers used restored B-17s for authenticity.

Description: A war epic that combines romance with high-stakes aerial combat, focusing on the events leading up to and during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The film's large-scale battle scenes are both thrilling and harrowing.

Fact: The attack sequences required extensive coordination with the U.S. Navy and the use of real aircraft carriers. The film's budget was one of the highest at the time of its release.

Description: Set during World War II, this film explores the bonds between pilots and the sacrifices they make. The aerial dogfights are both thrilling and poignant, reflecting the era's brutal realities.

Fact: The movie was shot in the Czech Republic and features authentic period aircraft. It was a critical success in Europe, winning several awards for its cinematography and storytelling.

Description: This biographical war drama delves into the life of a famed World War I flying ace, blending historical events with personal struggles. The film's aerial battles are meticulously crafted to reflect the era's aviation technology.

Fact: The movie was shot in multiple countries, including Germany and the Czech Republic, to authentically recreate World War I settings. It uses a mix of real aircraft and CGI for flight scenes.

Description: Set during World War I, this movie explores the camaraderie and bravery of early fighter pilots. The aerial combat sequences are visually stunning, emphasizing both the thrill and peril of early aviation.

Fact: The film features one of the first extensive uses of CGI for dogfight scenes, blending it with practical effects. It was inspired by the real-life Lafayette Escadrille, a squadron of American volunteers in the French Air Service.

Description: Centered on the life of a legendary aviator, this movie highlights themes of courage, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of dreams against societal expectations. The cinematography often mirrors the vastness and freedom of the skies.

Fact: The film was released on the 70th anniversary of Amelia Earhart's disappearance. It includes archival footage and recreations of her historic flights.

Description: An animated film that beautifully captures the passion for aviation and the moral complexities of designing aircraft. The dreamlike visuals and emotional depth reflect the protagonist's love for flight and innovation.

Fact: This was Hayao Miyazaki's final film before his initial retirement. It is loosely based on the life of Jiro Horikoshi, the designer of the Mitsubishi A6M Zero fighter.

Description: A gripping war film that showcases the heroism of pilots during a critical evacuation. The intense aerial sequences and minimalist dialogue create a visceral experience, focusing on survival and duty.

Fact: Director Christopher Nolan insisted on using real Spitfire planes and practical effects for the aerial scenes. The film's timeline is non-linear, adding to its tension and realism.

Description: This film shares a focus on aviation and adventure, capturing the spirit of exploration and human determination in the face of extreme conditions. The visual storytelling emphasizes the beauty and danger of the skies.

Fact: The film is inspired by real 19th-century ballooning pioneers, though it fictionalizes their exploits for dramatic effect. Many of the aerial scenes were shot using practical effects and real balloons.

Description: A historical drama about the first African-American pilots in the U.S. military, highlighting their struggles and triumphs. The film's aerial sequences underscore their skill and determination in the face of discrimination.

Fact: The movie is based on the true story of the 332nd Fighter Group. It was one of the first films to bring widespread attention to the Tuskegee Airmen's contributions during World War II.