War, drama, and crime – what a unique combination of adrenaline-rushing genres this is! Since my teenage years, I have had an unconditional love for War and Crime movies in my heart. Over the last several years, Hulu has subtly built a library of films, getting everything from criminal dramas and comedies to slice-of-life stories and intense action sequences on its plate. What distinguishes it, though, is its collection of military films from all periods. I would definitely give it a 5 on 5 for the quality of War movies on Hulu. To give you guys a taste of it, here are the Best War Movies On Hulu that are currently streaming on the service.
List of Best War Movies On Hulu
To give you the best taste of War Movies on Hulu, we’ve listed them on the basis of their IMDb ratings:
- 1917 (2019) – 8.2/10
- Platoon (1986) – 8.1/10
- Source Code (2011) – 7.5/10
- Riders of Justice (2020) – 7.5/10
- Anthropoid (2016) – 7.5/10
- Megan Leavey (2017) – 7.1/10
- War Dogs (2016) – 7.1/10
- The East (2020) – 6.9/10
- Moffie (2019) – 6.8/10
- The Last Full Measure (2019) – 6.8/10
- 12 Strong (2018) – 6.5/10
- Pearl Harbor (2001) – 6.2/10
- Medieval (2022) – 5.9/10
- Bin Laden’s Hard Drive (2020) – 5.5/10
- Black Ops (2019) – 3.9/10
1917 (2019)
Directed by Sam Mendes, the film follows the journey of Lance Corporals Schofield and Blake as they embark on an extraordinary mission. Faced with seemingly impossible orders, the duo must traverse enemy territory to deliver a critical message that could save the lives of 1,600 comrades, including Blake’s own brother. Presented as one continuous shot, the camera follows the soldiers with remarkable fluidity, heighteninSocial Media Marketing Companiesg the immediacy and intensity of their perilous journey. This stylistic choice places the audience in the trenches alongside the characters, creating a visceral and immersive viewing experience.
George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman deliver stellar performances, capturing the nuances of fear, camaraderie, and determination in the face of insurmountable odds. The pacing is relentless, reflecting the urgency of their mission, and Thomas Newman’s evocative score adds emotional depth to the narrative.
- IMDb rating: 8.2/10
- Genre: Drama, Action, War
- Runtime: 1h 59m
- Starring cast: Deam-Charles Chapman as Lance Corporal Blake, George MacKay as Lance Corporal Schofield, Daniel Mays as Sergeant Sanders
- Director: Sam Mendes
Platoon (1986)
Platoon (1986) is an unflinching and visceral descent into the brutal reality of the Vietnam War through the eyes of Chris Taylor, portrayed by Charlie Sheen. Directed by Oliver Stone, the film digs the life of Taylor who leaves behind his university life to enlist in combat duty in 1967. The movie shows the erosion of idealism in the face of the grim and relentless nature of war.
There is an internal strife within Taylor’s unit, that is shown through the contrasting characters of Staff Sergeant Barnes (Tom Berenger) and Sergeant Elias (Willem Dafoe). Their ideological clash over the treatment of villagers suspected of aiding Viet Cong soldiers becomes a microcosm of the larger conflict, tearing the unit apart from within.
The film’s brilliance lies in its ability to humanize the soldiers, showing the psychological toll of warfare and the moral ambiguity that arises in the chaos of battle. The performances, particularly by Berenger and Dafoe, are authentic, capturing the essence of the characters’ internal struggles.
- IMDb rating: 8.1/10
- Genre: Drama, War
- Runtime: 2h
- Starring cast: Charlie Sheen as Chris, Tom Berenger as Sgt. Barnes, Willen Dafoe as Sgt. Elias
- Director: Oliver Stone
Source Code (2011)
Source Code took us to the labyrinth of time and suspense, with Jake Gyllenhaal masterfully delivering a stellar performance as helicopter pilot Colter Stevens. The film introduces us to a covert military operation that grants Colter the ability to inhabit the last moments of Sean Fentress, a victim of a tragic commuter train explosion. The stakes are immediately high as Colter begins to unearth the identity of the bomber and avert an impending disaster.
Director Duncan Jones has skillfully represented the plot of the movie, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. Gyllenhaal’s character adds intensity in the movie, as he copes with the ethical dilemmas and the race against time. The tension is evident, amplified by a well-crafted script that mixes science fiction with a heart-pounding thriller.
As Colter relives Sean’s final minutes, the film masterfully builds suspense and intrigue, challenging conventional notions of time and destiny. The plot unfolds with unexpected twists, keeping the audience guessing until the riveting climax.
- IMDb rating: 7.5/10
- Genre: Action, Drama, Mystery
- Runtime: 1h 33m
- Starring cast: Jake Gyllenhaal as Colter Stevens, Michelle Monaghan as Christina Warren, Vera Farmiga as Colleen Goodwin
- Director: Duncan Jones
Riders of Justice (2020)
Riders of Justice acted as a window for grief, revenge, and the unpredictability of fate when I was going through a low time in life. Released in 2020, this Danish film follows Markus, who, upon returning home to care for his daughter after his wife’s tragic death in a train accident, is thrust into a web of conspiracy.
The plot takes a turn when a survivor from the train wreck emerges, alleging foul play. Markus, fueled by suspicion and grief, becomes convinced that his wife’s death was not an accident but a carefully planned murder. What ensues is a relentless pursuit for justice, as Markus sets out on a mission to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
- IMDb rating: 7.5/10
- Genre: Action, Comedy, Drama
- Runtime: 1h 56m
- Starring cast: Mads Mikkelsen as Marcus, Nikolaj Lie Kaas as Otto, Andrea Heick Gadeberg as Mathilde
- Director: Anders Thomas Jensen
Anthropoid (2016)
Anthropoid (2016) luckily provided me the opportunity to learn the lesser-known chapter from World War II, telling the extraordinary true story of Operation Anthropoid. The plot centers on the daring mission to assassinate SS General Reinhard Heydrich, the infamous third-in-command of the Reich and the architect of the Final Solution.
Cillian Murphy and Jamie Dornan deliver amazing performances as self-exiled Czech and Slovak soldiers tasked with executing the top-secret operation. The tension builds as the characters unpuzzle the complexities of wartime espionage, emphasizing the weight of their mission against the backdrop of Heydrich’s reign of terror in Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia.
The film excels in capturing the moral quandaries faced by the soldiers, emphasizing the human cost of resistance and the sacrifices required to challenge oppressive regimes. The cinematography accentuates the historical setting. Anthropoid stands out as a war thriller that not only provides a visceral experience of covert operations but also pays homage to the courage and resilience of those who dared to confront tyranny.
- IMDb rating: 7.2/10
- Genre: Drama, Action, Biography
- Runtime: 2h
- Starring cast: Jamie Dornan as Jan Kubis, Cillian Murphy as Josef, Brian Caspe as Antonin
- Director: Sean Ellis
Megan Leavey (2017)
Megan Leavey (2017) is based on the true-life story of a remarkable Marine corporal and her canine companion. Megan Leavey’s tale unfolds as she transitions from a disciplinary assignment to forming an unbreakable bond with Rex, a fiercely aggressive military combat dog.
The film shows the unique discipline and connection forged between Megan and Rex, transcending the conventional war movie narrative. As they fight on over 100 missions together, the cinematography captures not only the intensity of combat but also the profound trust and reliance that develops between humans and canines.
The heart of the movie lies in the aftermath of an improvised explosive device that threatens Megan and Rex’s shared destiny. The emotional stakes skyrocket as their fates become entwined, and the film delves into themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit that can arise from the unlikeliest of friendships.
Megan Leavey stands as a testament to the unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of conflict, leaving audiences moved and inspired by the courage of its protagonists.
- IMDb rating: 7.1/10
- Genre: Drama, Action, Biography
- Runtime: 1h 56m
- Starring cast: Kate Mara as Megan Leavey, Ramon Rodrigriguez as Cpl. Matt Morales, Tom Felton as Sergeant Andrew Dean
- Director: Gabriela Cowperthwaite
War Dogs (2016)
Being a fan of the mafia and crime genre, I absolutely fell in love with this movie. War Dogs digs deep into international arms dealing, giving a glimpse at the attached consequences. Directed by Todd Phillips, the film follows two childhood friends who seize the opportunity to exploit a government initiative during the Iraq War.
Hill’s character tempts his friend with the prospect of enormous wealth by bidding on U.S. military contracts. The movie gains momentum as they ascend from small-scale operations to clinching a staggering $300 million deal to supply Afghan forces. The film perfectly balances humor with the underlying gravity of the subject matter, exposing the greed and moral compromises inherent in the arms trade.
Hill delivers a standout performance, infusing his character with charisma and unpredictability while the duo rises to success and eventual descent into the treacherous world of arms dealing, where alliances with shady individuals blur the line between business and criminality.
War Dogs is a rollercoaster ride through the underbelly of war profiteering, skillfully blending humor and tension. As the characters find themselves entangled in a dangerous web, the film prompts reflection on the consequences of unchecked ambition and the shadowy intersections of government and commerce.
- IMDb rating: 7.1/10
- Genre: Biography, Comedy, Crime
- Runtime: 1h 54m
- Starring cast: Jonah Hill as Efraim Diveroli, Miles Teller as David Packouz, Steve Lantz as Security Guard
- Director: Todd Phillips
Medieval (2022)
In the midst of political intrigue and power struggles, Medieval (2022) weaves a plot centered on the tumultuous clash for the throne. The plot is based on the story of feuding brothers vying for control, but it’s the charismatic and righteous mercenary leader, Jan Žižka, takes center stage, leaving the audience in a state of suspense. Entrusted with the audacious task of kidnapping Lady Katherine, the fiancée of a formidable lord, Žižka finds himself entangled in a perilous political web.
What I believe sets Medieval apart is the nuanced portrayal of Katherine, who evolves from a mere pawn in a strategic game to a central figure making her way through the treacherous waters of monarchy. Jan Žižka’s character undergoes a massive transformation as well, as he figures out a profound connection with Katherine’s spirit and commitment to the people.
The film’s thematic core is laid bare as Jan, fueled by love and a sense of justice, leads a rebel army against the corruption, greed, and betrayal plaguing the power-hungry elite. The epic battles are not just physical, but also symbolic, echoing the timeless struggle for liberation against oppressive forces.
- IMDb rating: 5.9/10
- Genre: Action, Drama, History
- Runtime: 2h 5m
- Starring cast: Ben Foster as Jaz Zizka, Sophie Lowe as Katherine, Michael Caine as Lord Boresh
- Director: Petr Jakl
The East (2020)
The East (2020) has a complicated plot that is set against the backdrop of post-World War II Indonesia. We followed the story of a soldier thrust into a tumultuous period of rebellion as he needs to make a choice between duty and conscience. As the protagonist joins an elite task force under the command of an increasingly ruthless leader, the layers of the story intensify with suspense and ethical ambiguity.
The cinematography captures the lush yet tumultuous landscapes of Indonesia, providing a visually evocative backdrop to the protagonist’s internal struggle. The ensemble cast adds the emotional weight of the choices faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of duty and moral questioning. The film becomes more than a historical drama; it’s a thought-provoking examination of the human condition under the pressures of war and conflicting loyalties.
- IMDb rating: 6.9/10
- Genre: Drama, Thriller, War
- Runtime: 2h 17m
- Starring cast: Martihin Lakemeier as Johan de Vries, Marwan Kenzari as Raymond ‘The Turk’ Westerling, Jonas Smulders as Mattias Cohen
- Director: Jim Taihuttu
Moffie (2019)
Moffie (2019) took us on a poignant and harrowing tale about the Apartheid-era South Africa. Nicholas copes with a deeply entrenched sense of shame and the oppressive reality of compulsory military service. As the minority government engages in conflict at the Angolan border, the film sheds light on the toxic mix of racism and machismo that defined the Apartheid regime.
You’ll closely witness the struggles faced by white young men like Nicholas, forced to serve a system that views their very essence as a threat. The movie navigates the tension between the external conflict and the internal battles waged by the characters, showcasing the corrosive impact of societal expectations on individual identities.
As fear drives Nicholas to contemplate unspeakable acts to remain unseen, the film also shows a delicate and forbidden connection with another recruit. This tender relationship becomes a parallel battlefield, fraught with its own perils, highlighting the inherent dangers of a society blinded by prejudice.
- IMDb rating: 6.8/10
- Genre: Drama, Romance, War
- Runtime: 1h 44m
- Starring cast: Kai Luke Brummer as Nicholas van der Swart, Barbara-Marie Immelman as Suzie van der Swart, Michael Kirch as Miles
- Director: Oliver Hermanus
The Last Full Measure (2019)
The 2019 film The Last Full Measure pays homage to the bravery and the lasting effects of selfless giving. Todd Robinson is the director of the movie, which takes place three decades after Airman William H. Pitsenbarger Jr.’s death and depicts his posthumous Medal of Honor award for remarkable deeds of courage on the battlefield.
The storyline unites the present with the past, detailing Pitsenbarger’s valiant actions during the Vietnam War and the tenacious attempts of Pentagon staffer Scott Huffman (played by Sebastian Stan) to guarantee the deceased airman’s rightful place in history. Pitsenbarger’s companions’ experiences are portrayed by Huffman in a way that makes the film a poignant study of bravery, friendship, and the toll that war has on human life.
The film not only honors individual bravery but also highlights how crucial it is to acknowledge and value the sacrifices made by those who serve. It makes one consider how crucial it is to recognize and pay tribute to the remarkable accomplishments done by unsung heroes in order to keep their legacy alive for upcoming generations.
- IMDb rating: 6.8/10
- Genre: Drama, War
- Runtime: 1h 56m
- Starring cast: Sebastian Stan as Scott Huffman, Alison Sudol as Tara Huffman, Asher Miles Fallica as Luke Huffman
- Director: Todd Robinson
12 Strong (2018)
In 12 Strong (2018), the first U.S. Special Forces mission in Afghanistan is viscerally and intensely portrayed, thrusting viewers into the center of post-9/11 battle. The film, which was directed by Nicolai Fuglsig, follows Captain Mitch Nelson as he ventures into dangerous terrain with a small crew and forms a shaky alliance with the Northern Alliance in order to fight the Taliban and its friends in al-Qaida.
As they fight a merciless opponent with overwhelming numbers and superiority, Nelson and his soldiers must contend with insurmountable odds. The video depicts the brutal reality of war while emphasizing the tenacity and brotherhood that are developed in the heat of battle.
Captain Mitch Nelson is portrayed by Chris Hemsworth as evolving from a military outsider to a resolute leader, and Hemsworth does a good job with the role. The representation of the Special Forces unit is given further depth by the ensemble cast, which includes Michael Shannon and Michael Peña, which heightens the emotional impact of the movie. The film emphasizes the indomitable spirit needed in the face of hardship by fusing thrilling action scenes with moments of friendship. It honors the bravery of individuals who confronted uncertainty following a devastating period in American history.
- IMDb rating: 6.5/10
- Genre: Drama, Action, History
- Runtime: 2h 10m
- Starring cast: Chris Hemsworth as Captain Mitch Nelson, Michael Shannon as Hal Spencer, Michael Pena as Sam Diller
- Director: Nicolai Fuglsig
Pearl Harbor (2001)
Pearl Harbor (2001) is a visually charged epic that reveals the most significant events in World War II. Directed by Michael Bay, the film navigates the lives of American pilots Rafe McCawley (Ben Affleck) and Danny Walker (Josh Hartnett) as they become entangled in love and war.
We saw the portrayal of historical events like never before, capturing the camaraderie between Rafe and Danny and the emotional complexity introduced by Evelyn (Kate Beckinsale). Affleck and Hartnett deliver convincing performances as friends-turned-pilots, and Beckinsale adds depth to the narrative as the woman torn between them.
The grandeur of the action sequences, particularly the recreated attack on Pearl Harbor, is a visual spectacle that leaves a lasting impact. The film successfully blends epic wartime drama with intimate, personal stories, creating a narrative that resonates with both the historical magnitude of the events and the individual sacrifices made.
While Pearl Harbor received mixed critical reviews, its ability to evoke emotion and depict the human side of war makes it a must-watch. The film, despite its critics, remains a testament to the power of storytelling in bringing historical events to life on the big screen.
- IMDb rating: 6.2/10
- Genre: Drama, Action, History
- Runtime: 3h 3m
- Starring cast: Ben Affleck as Rafe McCawley, Kate Beckinsale as Evelyn Johnson, Josh Hartnett as Danny Walker
- Director: Michael Bay
Bin Landen’s Hard Drive (2020)
In Bin Laden’s Hard Drive, you’ll be left in awe after getting a glimpse into the life of one of history’s most notorious figures. This 2020 documentary digs through recently declassified hard disks discovered in the compound where Osama bin Laden was killed. The discoveries offer a thorough look at the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks and are both frightening and illuminating.
The movie goes deeply into bin Laden’s private life, revealing nuanced details that help to humanize the terrorist with the unfathomable deeds of responsibility. It’s a thorough investigation into the mind behind the horrific actions, painting a complex picture that dispels stereotypes.
With the help of the declassified material, a plot that extends beyond the news is revealed to us.
The documentary not only scrutinizes bin Laden’s role in orchestrating global terrorism but also sheds light on his relationships, motivations, and day-to-day existence within the compound.
[Trailer unavailable]
- IMDb rating: 5.5/10
- Genre: Documentary
- Runtime: 44m
- Starring cast: Abdullah Anas, Abdel Bari Atwan, Peter Bergen
- Director: Aaron Kunkel
Black Ops (2019)
Black Ops is a thrill ride that plunges audiences into the heart of chaos and introspection. Released in 2019, this action-packed film follows the special ops squad “Hell’s Bastards” on a mission to infiltrate a civil war and retrieve critical intelligence. However, we were left in shock when the unit became ensnared on an unending stairwell, where the stakes were elevated to a harrowing climb-or-die scenario.
The film’s power is found in its psychological depth as well as its strong action scenes. “Hell’s Bastards” must face their own previous transgressions as they struggle through the physical hardships of the never-ending climb. The stairwell becomes a metaphorical purgatory, demanding a reckoning with the haunting ghosts of their histories.
The ensemble cast delivers performances that capture the desperation and determination of soldiers pushed to their limits. Black Ops transcends conventional action fare by infusing a supernatural element that serves as a backdrop for a gripping exploration of morality and redemption.
- IMDb rating: 3.9/10
- Genre: Action, Horror, Sci-Fi
- Runtime: 1h 42m
- Starring cast: Shayne Ward as Will Stanton, Bentley Kalu as Ben Garrett, Samantha Schnitzler as Kia Clarke
- Director: Tom Paton
Conclusion
Hulu’s war movie selection is excellent. It ranges from classic WWII stories to more contemporary wars, providing a wide blend. These films go beyond the action to show the bravery and dedication of soldiers. If you’re looking for some intense battle stories, Hulu has you covered. Simply grab some refreshments, sit back, and watch these stories of bravery and sacrifice unfold before your eyes.
