The Gulf War, which occurred in the early 1990s, represented a significant shift in modern warfare as it was one of the first conflicts to be broadcast live for the public to witness. This conflict redefined military tactics and captured global attention as it played out. As a result, it has provided a compelling backdrop for filmmakers who have delved into the intricate emotions and political complexities behind the war, creating some of the best war movies of all time, from personal stories of soldiers on the front lines to the broader geopolitical maneuvers that shaped the entire conflict.
The best films about the Gulf War do not just focus on acts of heroism on the battlefield; they also explore the psychological impact on the soldiers, the political blunders, and the human hardships that arose from this relatively short yet intense conflict. These are war films that are praised for their accuracy and highlight the mental and emotional burden of modern warfare, emphasizing not only the physical battles but also the internal struggles that emerge during times of war. The best Gulf War films are based on their in-depth storytelling, emotional arcs, and military authenticity.
10 Courage Under Fire (1996)
The Second Collaboration Between Denzel Washington And Edward Zwick
This movie, featuring Denzel Washington and Meg Ryan, revolves around a military investigator assigned to review a posthumous Medal of Honor nomination for a female officer who died during the Gulf War. The story unfolds through conflicting testimonies from fellow soldiers, blending a multi-layered narrative with continuing battlefield tension. As Washington’s character delves deeper, questions about heroism, responsibility, and accountability rise to the surface, turning the investigation into a moral dilemma.
Related 10 Saddest Moments In War Films, Ranked
War films are one of the longest-running genres in all of cinema and there have been many heartbreaking scenes put to celluloid over the years.
Courage Under Fire is an emotional exploration of truth and honor. Its narrative may be slightly fragmented, but it is still an intriguing watch. It has an 86% fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes and was a high-grossing war film, with a worldwide gross at the box office of just over 100 million dollars. The film is notable for Denzel Washington’s compelling performance, which launched him further into superstardom, and its nuanced portrayal of post-war trauma, making it a captivating Gulf War drama.
9 Dawn Of The World (2008)
Written And Directed By Iraqi-French Film Director Abbas Fahdel
An exploration of the collaborative effort between France and Iraq sheds light on the human cost of the Gulf War, particularly its impact on the Marsh Arabs of southern Iraq. Dawn of the World‘s plot follows Mastour and Zahra, two individuals from different religious backgrounds whose lives are torn apart by the ensuing conflict. As the war devastates their world, the film sadly reflects on various cultural divisions and the personal devastation caused by war.
Before being commissioned as a film, the screenplay of
Dawn Of The World
won the Grand Prix For Best Screenwriting in France.
This film takes a more personal, character-focused approach to the Gulf War rather than focusing on the big picture, highlighting the unseen consequences of the conflict on more local Iraqi communities. While not as action-packed as other films, Dawn of the World offers a distinctive, resonant perspective on the war effort, with its slower pace allowing for more profound and impactful character development.
8 Bravo Two Zero (1999)
Based On A Novel Of The Same Name By Chris Ryan
Based on the true story of an elite British SAS patrol that operated behind enemy lines during the Gulf War, Bravo Two Zero follows a group of soldiers led by Andy McNab, portrayed by Sean Bean, as they embark on a mission to disrupt communications in Iraq. When their mission goes wrong, the team faces harsh conditions in the desert, isolated from support and pursued by hostile Iraqi forces. The film captures the grueling realities of war, focusing on survival and bonding under extreme pressure.
Related 10 Most Expensive War Movies Ever Made
Some of the greatest war movies ever made also had incredibly large budgets, which were utilized for grand visuals and impressive set pieces.
2
The film’s dedication to authenticity and depiction of the harsh physical toll on soldiers make Bravo Two Zero a gripping viewing experience. While it is driven mainly by action, it lacks some of the more profound political commentary in other Gulf War films, focusing more on personal endurance and military tactics. Despite this, its realism and strong performances, particularly from Bean, make it a noteworthy entry and a must-watch for any war film buff interested in a compelling, true story.
7 The Devil’s Double (2011)
Nominated For Two Awards At The 38th Saturn Awards
In this chilling drama, Dominic Cooper portrays Latif Yahia, a man coerced into serving as the body double for Saddam Hussein’s volatile son, Uday Hussein. Set during the lead-up to the Gulf War, the film offers a disturbing glimpse into the brutality, hostility, and excess of Iraq’s ruling elite. Latif grapples with his identity as he becomes entangled in Uday’s violent personality, constantly fearing for his life as he is pulled deeper into the dangerous politics of Saddam’s regime.
The film’s focus on Iraq’s internal power struggles provides a unique, intense, and localized perspective on the Gulf War.
The Devil’s Double earns high praise for its psychological depth and powerful performances from the entire cast. Cooper’s dual portrayal of Uday and Latif mesmerizes, showcasing the psychological strain of living under constant threat. The film’s focus on Iraq’s internal power struggles provides a unique, intense, and localized perspective on the Gulf War. Though not a box office success, the film delves deep into an unusual narrative, and every aspect of the movie from start to finish is excellently executed.
6 Green Zone (2010)
Based On The 2006 Non-Fiction Book By Journalist Rajiv Chandrasekaran
Close
Directed by Paul Greengrass and featuring top Hollywood actor Matt Damon, Green Zone delves into the aftermath of the Gulf War and the U.S. invasion of Iraq, centering on the notorious search for weapons of mass destruction. Damon plays a soldier disillusioned by the lack of intelligence regarding these weapons, leading him to question the motives of his superiors and the entire war effort in general. The film balances intense action sequences with incisive political commentary, making it a tense thriller with broader implications.
|
War Films With The Highest Budget: |
Budget Amount: |
|---|---|
|
Pearl Harbor (2001) |
$151.5 million |
|
Troy (2004) |
$150 million |
|
Dunkirk (2017) |
$150 million |
|
Kingdom Of Heaven (2005) |
$110 million |
|
The Patriot (2000) |
$110 million |
|
1917 (2019) |
$100 million |
|
Saving Private Ryan (1998) |
$65 million |
|
Flags Of Our Fathers (2006) |
$55 million |
Although set in the post-war environment, Green Zone deserves its place on this list for its bold critique of the intelligence failures that shaped the legacy of the Gulf War and the fallout after. Damon’s performance and Greengrass’ dynamic direction elevate the film, and it was nominated for an award for outstanding supporting visual effects in a movie. However, it focuses on the immediate aftermath rather than the war itself, which places it slightly lower than the top places.
5 Jarhead (2005)
Based On The 2003 Memoir Of The Same Name By Anthony Swofford
Directed by Sam Mendes, Jarhead provides an introspective portrayal of the experiences of Marines deployed in the Gulf War. Based on Anthony Swofford’s memoir, the movie follows a group of soldiers who, despite extensive training, encounter minimal combat once deployed. Instead, they spend most of their time waiting, coping with monotony, and wrestling with their mental challenges. The film delves into war’s emotional and psychological impact, with Jake Gyllenhaal delivering an exceptional performance as the disillusioned Marine sniper eager to fire his weapon.
Off the Cuff: Much of
Jarhead
‘s dialogue is improvised. Sir Sam Mendes made this choice specifically to make the conversations flow and be more natural.
Jarhead is highly regarded for its unconventional take on the war genre. Instead of all-out action and gunfire, it focuses on the emotional and psychological aftermath of war, particularly the disillusionment experienced by soldiers and being unable to engage in what they are exclusively trained to do. The film’s haunting and contemplative tone sets it apart, uniquely portraying the Gulf War experience and making it a fan favorite with its ensemble cast and genuine feel throughout the narrative.
4 Live From Baghdad (2002)
Based On Robert Wiener’s Book Of The Same Name
This HBO production provides a compelling look at the journalists who risked their lives to cover the Gulf War from inside Iraq. Michael Keaton stars as CNN producer Robert Wiener, who leads his team through the perils of reporting live from Baghdad. The film highlights the extreme challenges journalists face, who report the news and shape public perception of the war as it unfolds in real-time, all while dealing with the demands of the dangerous situation.
Related 10 Best Squads In War Movies
A good squad of soldiers often elevates a war movie to even more impressive heights, making the film memorable, and the characters revered.
2
It is highly esteemed for exploring the media’s role during the Gulf War, and the tension of war reporting is palpable, usually with legitimate life-and-death circumstances. Keaton delivers a commanding performance as a journalist navigating the ethical and personal risks of broadcasting in a war zone. Live From Baghdad‘s behind-the-scenes perspective adds further complexity to the Gulf War narrative, and with a highly favored 88% on Rotten Tomatoes, any Gulf War film fan needs to watch.
3 Three Kings (1999)
American Black Comedy War Film Directed By David O. Russell
Set during the immediate aftermath of the Gulf War, Three Kings, directed by David O. Russell, follows a group of American soldiers who stumble upon a hidden stash of gold. George Clooney, Mark Wahlberg, and Ice Cube lead the cast in this darkly comedic war film that blends action with sharp political satire and dialogue. As the soldiers embark on their heist, they become ensnared in the moral and ethical complexities of post-war Iraq and their own personal morality.
The film’s blend of humor and serious undertones, combined with solid performances from the star-studded cast, make it a memorable and thought-provoking take on the Gulf War and one of the most memorable Gulf War films to be produced.
Three Kings is highly praised for its daring narrative and sharp commentary on the war’s consequences. The film’s blend of humor and serious undertones, combined with solid performances from the star-studded cast, make it a memorable and thought-provoking take on the Gulf War and one of the most engaging Gulf War films to be produced. It was also acclaimed for its varied use of film styles, including handheld and Steadicam shots, and unique explosion techniques that were ahead of its time, pushing it rightfully into the top three.
2 Airlift (2016)
Adapted From The True Story Of Indian Businessman Mathunny Mathews
Almost at the top of the list is Airlift, an Indian film based on the events of the largest civilian evacuation during the Gulf War. Akshay Kumar portrays Ranjit Katyal, a wealthy businessman who leads the evacuation of over 170,000 Indians stranded in Kuwait after the Iraqi invasion. The film emphasizes the human aspect of the war, focusing on leadership, bravery, and the impact of humanitarian action in times of crisis with a gripping narrative that keeps viewers hooked.
Related 15 War Movies Military Experts Praised For Accuracy & Realism
While most war movies are criticized for their inaccuracy, there are many that got various details right, earning the praise of military experts.
Airlift is a fantastic retelling of the events with a compelling narrative, historical accuracy, significance, and Akshay Kumar’s genuinely outstanding performance. The film’s portrayal of an unsung hero who coordinated one of the most remarkable evacuations in history sets it apart from other Gulf War films. Its emotional story and focus on humanitarian efforts amidst chaos make it a must-watch and a box-office blockbuster in India and worldwide.
1 The Hurt Locker (2008)
The Hurt Locker Was Nominated For Nine Academy Awards
Kathryn Bigelow’s The Hurt Locker centers on the nerve-wracking work of an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Unit in post-invasion Iraq. Jeremy Renner portrays Sergeant William James, a man addicted to the adrenaline of war and bomb defusing, whose reckless actions put him and his team in continued jeopardy. The film intensely portrays the psychological effects of working in a combat environment, with scenes that perfectly capture the raw tension of defusing bombs under immense psychological pressure.
The Hurt Locker
was the first Best Picture winner directed by a woman. The film grossed $49.2 million at the global box-office.
The Hurt Locker was nominated for nine Academy Awards, winning six, including Best Picture and Best Director. It continues to earn high acclaim for its gritty realism and its exploration of the personal cost of war. Renner’s depiction of a man who is both driven yet destroyed by combat garnered widespread praise, and Bigelow’s direction gives the film a visceral, immersive quality that sets it apart from other war films. While set in Iraq post-invasion, its depiction of modern warfare and its psychological toll with incredible visuals makes it the most significant film about the Gulf War and its aftermath.
Your Rating
10 stars9 stars8 stars7 stars6 star5 stars4 stars3 stars2 stars1 star Rate Now 0/10 Leave a Review
Your comment has not been saved
The Hurt Locker RThrillerWarDrama
From director Kathryn Bigelow comes The Hurt Locker, the 2008 oscar winning war thriller film that follows Jeremy Renner as Sergeant William James and his bomb disposal team as they navigate beyond enemy lines during the Iraq War. The movie explores the trauma and stresses the soldiers face as they attempt to disarm active explosives on the field, with the repercussions beginning to take their toll on the squadmates.
Where to Watch
- stream
- rent
- buy
Not available
Not available
Not available
*Availability in US Director Kathryn Bigelow Release Date July 31, 2009 Studio(s) Summit Entertainment Distributor(s) Summit Entertainment Writers Mark Boal Cast Jeremy Renner , David Morse , Guy Pearce , Anthony Mackie , Ralph Fiennes , Christian Camargo , Evangeline Lilly , Brian Geraghty Runtime 131 minutes Expand