From the Trenches: I Found the Most Riveting War Movies on Paramount+ in May 2024

Photo of author
Written By Lori C.

Lori C. writes about movies, TV shows, and the latest updates from the world of entertainment. She studied Film and Television many years ago at university and uses her knowledge to dissect the newest releases. When not in front of a laptop, she wanders around various European cities with a backpack and a little dog.

For those who are drawn to the powerful storytelling and intense action of war films, Paramount+ showcases an arsenal of cinematic battles that have stood the test of time. Our list, guided by the popularity ranks of The Movie Database, is an invitation to dive into the trenches and experience the heroics, the heartache, and the history that these movies so vividly bring to life.

From the raw grit of guerrilla warfare to the poignant tales of human struggle amid conflict, Paramount+ has curated the most compelling war movies ready for your viewing honor. Prepare for a journey through time that will grip your emotions and rattle your senses.

Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)

Rambo: First Blood Part II (1985)
Image Credit: Estudios Churubusco Azteca S.A.

Rambo: First Blood Part II sees Sylvester Stallone’s iconic character returning to Vietnam on a daring rescue mission. Packed with explosive action and a relentless drive for justice, this film upped the ante for action heroes and became an emblematic war movie of the 80s.

13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi (2016)

13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi (2016)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi is a gritty, intense depiction of true events involving an American diplomatic compound under attack. Through the chaos, a small team of ex-military contractors stands their ground, showcasing the valor and resilience of those caught in modern warfare.

Braveheart (1995)

Braveheart
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Revisit the heroic legend of William Wallace in Braveheart, a sweeping tale of passion and patriotism. Mel Gibson directs and stars in this heart-stirring epic that resounds with powerful battle cries for freedom and captivating Scottish landscapes.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Prime Video
Image Credit: Dreamworks Pictures.

Saving Private Ryan sets a new standard for war films with its stark, realistic portrayal of WWII’s D-Day invasion. Directed by Steven Spielberg and led by Tom Hanks, this gripping narrative of sacrifice and heroism remains a landmark cinematic achievement.

Rambo III (1988)

Rambo III (1988)
Image Credit: Carolco Pictures.

Rambo’s journey continues in Rambo III as he ventures into Afghanistan during the Soviet invasion to save his old friend. This action-packed sequel weaves a tale of camaraderie and survival against the backdrop of a war-torn nation.

First Blood (1982)

First Blood (1982)
Image Credit: Anabasis N.V.

The film that introduced us to John Rambo, First Blood is a powerful portrayal of a Vietnam veteran’s struggle to find his place back home. Tense, action-filled, and emotionally resonant, it’s a war movie that digs deep into the psyche of a returning soldier.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
Image Credit: Miramax.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas offers a haunting perspective on the Holocaust seen through the eyes of two innocent children. This deeply moving tale is a stark reminder of the tragedies of war and the loss of innocence.

We Were Soldiers (2002)

We Were Soldiers (2002)
Image Credit: Icon Entertainment International.

We Were Soldiers revisits the harrowing Battle of Ia Drang, depicting the first major engagement between U.S. troops and North Vietnamese forces. Mel Gibson stars in this intense war drama that honors the bravery of soldiers on both sides.

Enemy at the Gates (2001)

Enemy at the Gates (2001)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Enemy at the Gates hones in on the Battle of Stalingrad, focusing on the lethal duel between two master snipers. Tension and psychological warfare intermingle in this intense narrative that showcases the human element of wartime strategy.

Devotion (2022)

Devotion (2022)
Image Credit: Black Label Media.

Devotion is a recent entry that tells the inspirational true story of two U.S. Navy fighter pilots in the Korean War. Breaking barriers and forming an unbreakable bond, this film captures the essence of duty and courage.

Cold Mountain (2003)

Cold Mountain (2003)
Image Credit: Miramax.

In Cold Mountain, the Civil War serves as the backdrop for a poignant story of love and perseverance. This beautifully shot film reveals the civilian hardships and the emotional turmoil of war, anchored by a stellar cast.

The English Patient (1996)

The English Patient (1996)
Image Credit: Miramax.

The English Patient unravels a complex tale of a mysterious burn victim recounting his past of love and loss in WWII. This Oscar-winning drama weaves a tapestry of romance and remembrance with stunning cinematic artistry.

Defiance (2008)

Defiance
Image Credit: Paramount Vantage.

This poignant historical movie brings to the screen the incredible true story of the Bielski partisans, a group of Jewish brothers who fought back against the Nazis. It’s a stirring tale of survival and resistance in the darkest of times.

Allied (2016)

Allied (2016)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

In Allied, Brad Pitt and Marion Cotillard embody espionage and romance during WWII. This visually grand film blends thrills with a heart-wrenching love story amid the perils of war.

Hamburger Hill (1987)

Hamburger Hill (1987)
Image Credit: RKO Pictures.

Hamburger Hill recounts the grim reality of the Vietnam War’s eponymous battle, highlighting the human cost of combat. It’s a raw, gritty film that doesn’t shy away from the horrors of war faced by the soldiers on the ground.

Rules of Engagement (2000)

Rules of Engagement (2000)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Rules of Engagement explores the grey areas of wartime legality as a colonel stands trial for his actions during a controversial mission. With Tommy Lee Jones and Samuel L. Jackson at the helm, it’s a gripping courtroom drama as much as it is a war film.

The Four Feathers (Sep 08, 2002)

The Four Feathers (Sep 08, 2002)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

“The Four Feathers” is a period adventure that takes us to the British Empire at the turn of the 20th century, as a young officer seeks redemption in the deserts of Sudan. The film’s portrayal of courage and friendship provides a classic look at the genre.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (2016)

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (2016)
Image Credit: Paramount Pictures.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot stars Tina Fey as a journalist who finds herself reporting from the front lines in Afghanistan. This dark comedy captures the absurdity and adrenaline of life in a conflict zone.

10 Best War & Military Series on Netflix

Troy Fall of a City 1
Image Credit: Netflix.

Often taking inspiration or directly adapting stories from real-life conflicts, military dramas and series’ are a gateway for civilians to look at what life is like for someone working the hardest job on the planet. Here are the 10 best war and military TV series on Netflix.

15 Best War & Military Movies on Max

300
Image Credit: Warner Bros.

Unveil the best war & military movies on Max that you simply can’t resist. Dive into a world of courage, action, and untold stories you’ll absolutely love. Check out these movies and add them to your watchlist.

Your Next Movie Marathon: Action & Adventure Movies on Hulu

Ben Stiller in Tropic Thunder (2008)
Image credit: Dreamworks via IMDb.

Not all action and adventure movies are created equal, and that’s where IMDb scores come in, ensuring you spend your leisure time in the most thrilling way possible. So, without further ado, here are the top action and adventure films you can stream right now on Hulu.