10 Shows & Movies Similar to M*A*S*H (1972)

Description: A precursor to M*A*S*H, 'Mister Roberts' blends comedy and drama in a military setting. Both focus on the tension between officers and crew, with a charismatic lead who stands up for his men against a petty superior.

Fact: The film stars Henry Fonda, reprising his Broadway role. James Cagney and Jack Lemmon also star, with Lemmon winning an Oscar. It was based on a novel and subsequent Broadway play.

Description: This film shares M*A*S*H's ensemble cast of military misfits, though with a more action-oriented plot. Both explore themes of redemption and the bonds formed under extreme circumstances, albeit with different tones.

Fact: The movie was a major influence on later war films and heist movies. It features an all-star cast including Lee Marvin and Charles Bronson. The film was a box office hit and received four Oscar nominations.

Description: Combining war action with heist comedy, 'Kelly's Heroes' shares M*A*S*H's irreverent take on military life. Both films feature a group of soldiers operating outside traditional military protocols, with a mix of humor and action.

Fact: Clint Eastwood and Donald Sutherland star in the film. The tank commander Oddball, played by Sutherland, became a fan favorite. The film was shot in Yugoslavia, standing in for France.

Description: 'Stripes' mirrors M*A*S*H's anti-authoritarian humor and focus on the camaraderie among soldiers. Both films use comedy to explore the absurdity of military life, with protagonists who are reluctant heroes.

Fact: Bill Murray's performance helped launch his film career. The basic training scenes were filmed at Fort Knox. The film was a box office success, spawning a sequel.

Description: Robin Williams' iconic role as a military DJ shares M*A*S*H's blend of humor and poignant commentary on war. Both use comedy as a coping mechanism amidst the chaos of conflict, with a charismatic lead who challenges authority.

Fact: Much of Williams' radio monologues were improvised. The film was based on the experiences of real-life AFRS radio announcer Adrian Cronauer. It earned Williams his first Oscar nomination.

Description: Like M*A*S*H, 'Sgt. Bilko' is a comedy set in the military, focusing on a charismatic schemer who outwits authority figures. The film's lighthearted take on military life and its ensemble cast echo the dynamic of M*A*S*H's characters.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1950s TV series 'The Phil Silvers Show'. Steve Martin starred as Sgt. Bilko, bringing his signature comedic style to the role. The movie was filmed at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri.

Description: While more dramatic, 'The Monuments Men' shares M*A*S*H's focus on a specialized military unit with a unique mission. Both highlight the human side of war, blending humor with serious themes about the value of life and culture.

Fact: The film is based on the true story of art historians recovering stolen art during WWII. George Clooney directed and starred in the movie. It features an all-star cast including Matt Damon and Cate Blanchett.

Description: This miniseries, like M*A*S*H, is based on a satirical novel about the absurdities of war. Both use dark humor to critique military inefficiency and the psychological toll of combat, with an ensemble cast that brings depth to their roles.

Fact: The series stars Christopher Abbott and George Clooney, who also directed some episodes. It's a second adaptation of Joseph Heller's novel, following the 1970 film. The show was filmed in Italy and Sardinia to replicate the Mediterranean setting.

Description: 'F Troop' shares M*A*S*H's mix of military satire and slapstick humor. Set in a remote army outpost, it features a group of misfit soldiers, similar to the 4077th, navigating ridiculous situations and incompetent leadership.

Fact: The show only ran for two seasons but became a cult classic. It was set in the Wild West during the 1860s, a unique twist on military comedy. The theme song was famously catchy and is still remembered today.

Description: Similar to M*A*S*H, 'Enlisted' blends military life with humor and camaraderie. It focuses on the bonds formed among soldiers in a non-combat setting, much like the 4077th. The show uses satire to highlight the absurdities of military bureaucracy, a theme central to M*A*S*H.

Fact: 'Enlisted' was canceled after one season despite positive reviews. The show was praised for its authentic portrayal of military life by veterans. It was created by Kevin Biegel, who also worked on 'Cougar Town'.