In the modern era of warfare, drones have become an integral part of military strategy. These films delve into the lives of drone operators, showcasing their psychological battles, the ethical dilemmas they face, and the impact of their actions on the battlefield. This curated list brings you ten compelling war movies that not only entertain but also provide a glimpse into the real-life experiences of those behind the screens, controlling these unmanned aerial vehicles.

Eye in the Sky (2015)
Description: This film explores the intense decision-making process behind a drone strike, involving high-level military and political figures, showcasing the ethical debates surrounding drone warfare.
Fact: The film's title is derived from a military term for surveillance drones, and it features Helen Mirren and Aaron Paul in pivotal roles.


Good Kill (2014)
Description: Ethan Hawke stars as a drone pilot grappling with the moral complexities of his job, highlighting the disconnect between the battlefield and the operator's safe environment.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life drone pilots' experiences and was shot in New Mexico to mimic the Nevada desert where many drone operations occur.


Unmanned: America's Drone Wars (2013)
Description: This documentary investigates the use of drones in warfare, focusing on the ethical, legal, and strategic implications, with insights from operators and victims.
Fact: The film features interviews with former drone operators, providing firsthand accounts of their experiences.


Drone (2017)
Description: A drone operator's life spirals out of control when he discovers his drone has been used for an assassination, leading to a tense thriller about the unintended consequences of drone warfare.
Fact: The film was shot in Vancouver, Canada, standing in for various global locations, and it tackles the issue of drone strikes on civilians.


National Bird (2016)
Description: This documentary provides an insider's look at the lives of drone operators, exploring their personal struggles and the broader implications of drone warfare on society.
Fact: The film includes interviews with former drone operators and features footage from drone strikes, offering a raw perspective on the subject.


The Kill Team (2019)
Description: While not exclusively about drones, this film delves into the moral decay within a military unit, including the use of drones for surveillance and targeting, reflecting real events.
Fact: The film is based on a true story of a rogue military unit in Afghanistan, with drone footage playing a crucial role in the narrative.


The Drone (2019)
Description: A psychological thriller where a drone operator's life is turned upside down when his drone goes rogue, exploring themes of control and surveillance.
Fact: The film was shot in Los Angeles and uses real drone footage to enhance the realism of the story.


Drone Strike (2013)
Description: This film focuses on the aftermath of a drone strike, exploring the lives of those affected by the strike, both on the ground and in the control room.
Fact: The movie was shot in the UK and Pakistan, providing an authentic backdrop to the story.


War Machine (2017)
Description: While primarily about a general's campaign in Afghanistan, it includes scenes with drone operators, reflecting the modern warfare's reliance on technology.
Fact: Brad Pitt stars as the general, and the film is loosely based on the book "The Operators" by Michael Hastings.


The Operators (2014)
Description: This film, based on the book by Michael Hastings, delves into the complexities of modern warfare, including the role of drone operators in military strategy.
Fact: The film was released after Hastings' death, and it provides a critical look at military decision-making processes.
