War movies released in 2024 explored conflicts, untold narratives, and intensely personal experiences. Whether revisiting historical events, envisioning alternate timelines, or focusing on deeply emotional stories, this year’s war films have pushed boundaries. The best war films of all time have provided audiences with a visceral understanding of warfare, blending cinematic spectacle with the complexities of humanity. With cutting-edge special effects and immersive storytelling, the top war films of 2024 have shown that the genre is far from oversaturated. They reflect a broader interest in how war shapes individuals and societies as a whole.

Looking back at the best war movies of 2024 (so far), it’s evident that filmmakers have approached the genre with a renewed emphasis on more character-driven narratives and authenticity in the storytelling. Some highlight soldiers’ harrowing experiences, while others delve into the lives of civilians caught amid conflict. This year has produced some outstanding War films that have defined the genre, from large-scale epics to intimate portrayals of individual survival. Each film offers something unique, whether it’s intense action sequences, emotional narratives, or a fresh angle on well-known historical events.

10 War Blade

Starring Joseph Millson And Alina Tamara

Set during World War II, War Blade follows British Special Operations Executive agent Robert Banks, deftly played by Joseph Millson, as he is tasked with rescuing French resistance fighter Pierre Lavigne, portrayed by Ronan Summers, from a hidden bunker deep over Nazi lines. The mission places Banks and his team in dangerous enemy territory, where they must rely on their cunning and stealth to survive. The film focuses on the small-scale tension of an isolated mission rather than trying to include more significant aspects of the war, emphasizing character dynamics and personal stakes over large battle scenes.

While War Blade does a lot with its relatively modest budget, giving it a raw, intimate feel, it falls a bit shorter than some other movies this year, with the plot leaning on war film clichés. However, the performances by Millson and Alina Tamara are solid, with Tamara’s portrayal of Saskia adding an additional emotional arc throughout. The film’s use of practical effects and its tightly choreographed action sequences make it an exciting watch. War Blade is a must watch for those who appreciate smaller-scale war stories with well-executed tension and character-driven plots.

9 Before Dawn

Starring Levi Miller And Ed Oxenbould

Set during World War I, Before Dawn tells the story of Jim Collins, played by Levi Miller, a young Australian farmer who joins his fellow countrymen to help out on the Western Front. Collins discovers that the brutal realities of trench warfare are far removed from the heroic ideal he had initially envisioned. As he navigates the gruesome, mud-soaked trenches of Europe, he must grapple with the psychological toll, fight to survive, and learn the value of camaraderie amidst the horrors of battle. The film emphasizes soldiers’ harrowing experiences far from home, offering a personal look into their struggles.

Before Dawn
offers a thoughtful exploration of war and is watchable for its intimate portrayal of soldiers’ lives and its depiction of life on the Western Front with limited resources.

Similar to War Blade, the film’s lower budget limits its ability to depict large-scale battle scenes, Before Dawn compensates with a focus on character-driven storytelling. The film’s use of tight, claustrophobic trench settings creates an atmosphere that feels immersive and creates a palpable tension as the story continues to progress. Levi Miller gives a strong central performance as Collins, portraying the realization of his situation expertly. Before Dawn offers a thoughtful exploration of war and is watchable for its intimate portrayal of soldiers’ lives and its depiction of life on the Western Front with limited resources.

8 Civil War

Starring Kirsten Dunst And Wagner Moura

Civil War presents an alternate history storyline in which a second American Civil War erupts in the near future. The film follows characters from both sides of the conflict, weaving together multiple perspectives to illustrate the deep divisions within America at that time. With its tense political ambiance and brutal battle scenes, Civil War offers a dystopian look at the consequences when ideological divides turn into violence. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the moral complexities of war, prompting viewers to question loyalty, duty, and the cost of the conflict.

The film’s concept is daring and delivers on its ambition to address controversial political themes. Its multifaceted characters make it worth watching. The alternate-history premise adds a layer of intrigue and creativity, setting it apart from more traditional war films. With its timely exploration of division and unrest, the film resonates strongly in today’s polarized political landscape, providing ample food for thought. It’s not just a film that focuses on action but a reflection on the consequences of a politically charged breakdown of society and, in doing so, became one of the best films about civil war.

7 Escape From Germany

Starring Sebastian Barr And Joseph Batzel

A historical drama inspired by an incredible yet little-known true story from World War II. Directed by T.C. Christensen, Escape from Germany recounts the harrowing experience of 85 American Mormon missionaries trapped in Nazi Germany in August 1939, just before the war began. As Hitler’s forces swiftly tighten control over the borders, these missionaries are forced to find a way to escape to neighboring countries. The narrative follows their desperate efforts to flee to safety and confront dangers from Nazi soldiers amidst the escalating chaos as the German war effort ramps up.

The film’s credits and an article in LDS Living indicate that many extras were descendants of the actual missionaries who escaped from Germany.

The film vividly captures the struggle for survival against daunting odds. What makes Escape from Germany particularly engaging is its focus on faith and resilience when faced with adversity. Christensen, recognized for his faith-driven films, incorporates themes of religion and determination, elevating this beyond a mere historical account. The film effectively conveys the tension surrounding the missionaries’ escape with a powerful emotional foundation. Rooted in actual events, Escape from Germany makes it a compelling viewing experience for those interested in WWII history and tales of human perseverance.

6 Land Of Bad

Starring Liam Hemsworth And Russell Crowe

Land of Bad features the story of Captain Eddie “Reaper” Grimm (Russell Crowe), a US Air Force drone pilot assigned to provide essential air support to a Delta Force team in the Philippines. Following a mission to rescue a CIA operative that goes awry, Sergeant JJ Kinney, played by Liam Hemsworth, finds himself stranded and fighting to survive. Controlling a drone, Grimm must navigate Kinney through hostile terrain, providing remote assistance as they try to evade the enemy. The film combines intense battlefield action with genuine suspense as Kinney’s sole lifeline precariously hangs overhead.

This movie is notable for its distinctive emphasis on drone warfare and the emotional bond between Grimm and the soldiers he assists from a long distance. The high-stakes action paired with a character-driven narrative makes Land of Bad an exciting experience. The interplay between Hemsworth and Crowe enriches the film as they confront both the moral and tactical challenges of modern war. It provides further insights into the complexities of contemporary warfare and the balance of new technology with human decision-making. Its gritty action sequences, strategic elements, and stellar cast position it as a 2024 war film lineup highlight.

5 One Life

Starring Anthony Hopkins And Helena Bonham Carter

One Life recounts the inspiring true story of British humanitarian Nicholas Winton, who saved 669 children from Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia during World War II. The film alternates between his courageous wartime actions and his reflections in later life, where he reminisces about his choices, capturing the personal sacrifices and emotional burden he bore. Winton’s character, portrayed with subdued intensity, elevates the film as it delves into topics such as heroism, guilt, and the significance of individual action in the face of overwhelming adversity.

One Life
won Cinema for Peace Dove for The Most Valuable Film of the Year 2024 in Berlin.

Unlike many war films centered on battles, One Life is a poignant portrayal of the moral courage required during wartime. Its emphasis on human resilience and the potency of compassion distinguishes it from this year’s war releases. The film’s emotional story, combined with its historical importance, earns it high acclaim. The film is filled with subtle, nuanced moments that illustrate the cost of bravery and the enduring impact of Winton’s work. It serves as a poignant reminder of the difference one can make even in the darkest situations.

4 Kingdom 4: Return Of The Great General

Starring Kento Yamazaki And Ryo Yoshizawa

The latest installment in the Kingdom saga, Kingdom 4: Return of the Great General, brings ancient China’s warring states era to life, focusing on epic battles and political intrigue. Returning from exile, General Zhao must rally his troops for a confrontation that will determine the future of the Kingdom. The film is filled with intricate martial arts choreography, battle sequences, and the struggles of leaders trying to find their correct balance of power. With stunning visuals and historical grandeur, Kingdom 4 expands the world built by the previous films while keeping the focus on the human elements throughout.

Adapted: The
Kingdom
Series is an adaptation of the Japanese manga series of the same name, written and illustrated by Yasuhisa Hara.

Kingdom 4 excels in its action sequences and follows the familiar beats of its predecessors, which continues the stories and the themes from the previous films. What sets it apart is that the stakes in this installment are higher, and the characters’ emotional arcs resonate more strongly. The scale of the battles is awe-inspiring, and the film’s commitment to historical detail adds authenticity to the narrative. Kingdom 4 is a visual spectacle and a story about loyalty, sacrifice, and leadership. Its compelling mix of action and developing characters makes it a thrilling series continuation.

3 The Ministry Of Ungentlemanly Warfare

Starring Henry Cavill And Alan Ritchson

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare delves into the clandestine world of covert operations in World War II, shedding light on the origins of Winston Churchill’s secret Special Operations Executive (SOE). This specialized unit comprised soldiers, spies, and saboteurs with the mission of undermining the Nazi war machine and disrupting the Nazis’ U-boat resupply operation through sabotage and guerrilla methods. The film chronicles their operations across Europe, blending high-stakes action with historical interest. The star-studded cast delivers many compelling performances, and the chemistry throughout is electric.

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare‘s distinctive perspective on World War II sets it apart. Rather than focusing on traditional battlefield heroics and techniques, the film highlights the behind-the-scenes endeavors of those who fought through unconventional means and made a substantial difference in the outcome. The tension among the cast and the film’s blend of action, espionage, and historical accuracy make it a captivating addition to the war genre. The complexity of the characters and the intensity and uniqueness of their missions make this a standout for 2024.

2 White Bird

Starring Ariella Glaser And Orlando Schwerdt

Against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied France, White Bird recounts the tale of Sara, a Jewish girl sheltered by a compassionate family during the Holocaust. The narrative centers on the emotional bonds formed between Sara and her protectors as they navigate the constant dread of discovery by Nazi soldiers. With its delicate focus on survival, White Bird presents a poignant story of resilience, courage, and human decency in the face of evil. The understated performances and exquisite cinematography add layers of depth to the film, underscoring the emotional stakes of life under the Nazi regime.

If you enjoyed the film,
White Bird
is based on the 2019 graphic novel of the same name by R. J. Palacio.

What distinguishes White Bird is its ability to convey emotional weight without relying on large-scale action to drive the story forward. The film emphasizes the quieter, human aspects of war—the moral courage required to safeguard the vulnerable and the enduring impact of those courageous choices on those who make them. Its spotlight on lesser-told stories of the Holocaust brings a fresh perspective to the war genre. The genuinely delicate portrayal of fear, hope, and sacrifice unveils additional layers of the film, ensuring it remains an emotional experience that lingers long after the credits end.

1 The Last Front

Starring Iain Glen And Sasha Luis

A Belgian epic war drama that unfolds during the chaotic early days of World War I, directed by Julien Hayet-Kerknawi. The narrative follows Leonard (Iain Glen), a widowed farmer, as he and his family are plunged into the turmoil of the German invasion, referred to as the Rape of Belgium.

As the German forces rapidly advance through his country, Leonard is compelled to lead a resistance, becoming a war hero while striving to safeguard his community from what is destined to come. The Last Front delves into the cost of war on a personal level, illustrating not only the violence of battle but also the emotional and psychological effects on everybody involved.

The Last Front is set apart on this list with its expert portrayal and emphasis on personal relationships, like the bond between Leonard and his son Adrien, set against the backdrop of an invasion. Hayet-Kerknawi intentionally steers clear of conventional war film clichés, like trench warfare and military sequences, to focus on the immediate repercussions of war on rural civilians. This character-focused narrative, alongside its beautiful visuals and portrayal of nature and the earth as both a victim and a silent witness to human devastation, renders The Last Front a compelling and reflective war drama and the best of 2024.