In the United States, Memorial Day signifies more than just the commencement of summer; it’s a solemn occasion to recall the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in their service. While some mark this day by attending ceremonies or expressing personal tributes, movies can serve as another potent means to grasp the essence of the holiday. War-themed films narrate tales of courage, sorrow, and endurance that enable us to perceive the real individuals hidden behind history. Regardless of whether they are inspired by true events or not, these movies offer a profound perspective on how war impacts lives – a reminder of why remembrance remains vital.
Keeping this occasion in our thoughts, here are ten remarkable films perfect for your Memorial Day viewing – offering a blend of emotional depth, thrilling action, and insightful perspectives that honor the spirit of the day.
1) The Last Full Measure
The film ‘The Last Full Measure’ serves as a heartfelt and truthful homage to the essence of Memorial Day. Inspired by real events, it narrates the tale of William H. Pitsenbarger (played by Jeremy Irvine), a brave U.S. Air Force pararescueman who risked his life during the Vietnam War. In one of the war’s deadliest battles, he saved over 60 soldiers. During a rescue operation in 1966, he chose to remain on the battlefield, assisting the wounded, ultimately giving up his own life. Thirty years later, Pentagon employee Scott Huffman (portrayed by Sebastian Stan) is tasked with examining a delayed petition for Pitsenbarger to receive the Medal of Honor posthumously.
The Last Full Measure doesn’t merely spotlight heroism in battle – it also illuminates the persistent efforts of families and veterans in preserving the legacy of the deceased soldiers. This film serves as a reminder that honoring our veterans extends beyond ceremonies; it’s an enduring promise to truth, acknowledgement, and justice. It provides a profoundly human viewpoint on sacrifice, encouraging viewers to contemplate how one brave life can resonate deeply in the lives of many others.
The Last Full Measure is available to rent digitally.
2) Saving Private Ryan
Steven Spielberg’s “Saving Private Ryan” is a must-watch for any enthusiast of war movies. This critically-acclaimed film unfolds during World War II, starting at the Normandy invasion in 1944. Captain John Miller, played by Tom Hanks, and his team are tasked with an unusual mission: to find and retrieve Private James Francis Ryan (Matt Damon), whose brothers have perished in battle. As they navigate enemy lines, they face the harsh realities of war and start to ponder the true value of sacrifice.
The film, “Saving Private Ryan,” is distinguished by its gripping and authentic depiction of battle, especially in the memorable D-Day scene on Omaha Beach. Viewing it during Memorial Day provides more than just entertainment; it’s a potent reminder of courage, sorrow, and the human spirit during conflict. This movie is raw, deeply moving, and offers a meaningful tribute to those who braved unimaginable hardships.
Saving Private Ryan is available to stream on Peacock.
3) Warfare
The movie titled “Warfare” is based on true events experienced by one of its directors, Ray Mendoza, a former U.S. Navy SEAL during the Iraq War. In 2006, it depicts a mission that initially involves scouting but escalates into intense combat in Ramadi. The story unfolds in real-time and relies on the testimonies of platoon members to maintain an authentic feel.
The movie “Warfare” has been highly acclaimed since its debut – not just for its stellar cast, but for providing a gripping portrayal of contemporary conflict that feels incredibly real. This film plunges viewers straight into the heart of the battlefield, vividly depicting the unbridled chaos and relentless intensity in its most authentic form, eschewing conventional cinematic methods. It’s intense, gritty, and while it primarily follows the viewpoint of American soldiers, it also offers a stark reminder of the human toll that war exacts.
Warfare is available to rent digitally.
4) Top Gun
Is there anyone who hasn’t come across the iconic movie “Top Gun”? Featuring Tom Cruise in the lead role, this film is a must-see at any time, but on Memorial Day, it takes on even more meaning. Moreover, its captivating aerial scenes are hard to forget. The narrative revolves around Lieutenant Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (played by Cruise), a skilled U.S. Navy pilot renowned for his daring stunts in the air. Following an incident during a mission, he’s assigned to attend the Naval Fighter Weapons School where he faces competition from other top-tier pilots.
In a slightly different phrasing: Despite not being a typical war film, Top Gun embodies the camaraderie, bravery, and selflessness that are hallmarks of military life. The movie highlights the trials faced by Navy pilots, such as the grief of losing fellow soldiers and the unyielding quest for perfection in a high-pressure scenario. If you’re seeking excitement, action, and vitality while avoiding excessive emotional depth on this special day, Top Gun is an ideal choice.
Top Gun is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Paramount+.
5) Apocalypse Now
For an in-depth exploration of the topic, no other work quite matches the intensity of “Apocalypse Now,” directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, this film tells the story of Captain Benjamin Willard (played by Martin Sheen), a U.S. Special Operations officer who receives a clandestine assignment. His mission: to locate and eliminate Colonel Walter E. Kurtz (portrayed by Marlon Brando), a former Special Forces commander who has defected and set up a cult in Cambodia.
The presentation is an eerie and thought-provoking journey. In Apocalypse Now, the portrayal of military action goes beyond mere depiction; it delves into complex themes such as morality, insanity, and the human predicament in war zones. The audience bears witness to a soldier who is emotionally shattered, gradually being driven closer to his limit. The film’s unsettling compassion and psychological intensity powerfully convey that soldiers are not mere tools of war; they are individuals struggling with fear, internal turmoil, and trauma.
Apocalypse Now is available to stream on Fandango at Home (free with ads).
6) The Six Triple Eight
What makes The Six Triple Eight exceptional is its portrayal of women who demonstrated extraordinary bravery during war times. The movie recounts a real-life event, namely the service of the 6888th Postal Directorate Battalion, which was the unique all-Black and all-female unit from the U.S. Army that served overseas in World War II. Comprising 855 women, this battalion was assigned to tackle a massive pile-up of 17 million letters for American troops stationed in Europe.
Initially, it may not appear as if this is a story with widespread interest – maybe due to its lack of attention so far – but it’s remarkably captivating to explore how these women battled racism, sexism, and challenging work environments throughout military history. Their actions were instrumental in sustaining troop spirit, making “The Six Triple Eight” a potent and timely selection for contemplating the diverse efforts made during wartime.
The Six Triple Eight is available to stream on Netflix.
7) Thank You For Your Service
In the book “Thank You for Your Service” by David Finkel, the narrative broadens our understanding of what it signifies to serve one’s country. It zeroes in on the internal conflicts veterans experience and the hurdles they encounter when seeking assistance. The story unfolds as American soldiers come back from Iraq, battling to adapt to their civilian lives. Sergeant Adam Schumann (portrayed by Miles Teller) wrestles with post-traumatic stress disorder, while his comrades deal with their own traumas and emotional turmoil.
Instead of just depicting fights, this movie delves into the long-term effects of being in the military, implying that a soldier’s sacrifices don’t cease when the war ends. It invites viewers to ponder the mental scars that remain and the challenges veterans encounter while seeking help. As Memorial Day approaches, Thank You for Your Service becomes a must-watch.
Thank You For Your Service is available to stream on Netflix.
8) Platoon
As a movie enthusiast, I’d say “Platoon” is another timeless masterpiece that I simply can’t forget. This gripping war drama, directed by Oliver Stone and inspired by his own military service in Vietnam, follows a character named Chris Taylor (portrayed by Charlie Sheen). Intrigued by the turmoil of the times, Chris leaves college behind to join the Army. Once he arrives in Vietnam, he’s thrust into the unforgiving realities of combat and a platoon led by two sergeants with starkly different personalities – Barnes (Tom Berenger) and Elias (Willem Dafoe). As Chris braves the horrors of warfare, his beliefs about the conflict are tested to their limits.
The movie “Platoon” provides an unvarnished and authentic depiction of war, delving not only into the physical battles but also into the moral and ethical dilemmas experienced by soldiers. It delves into the themes of the loss of purity and the psychological impact of warfare, shedding light on the profound nature of military service. The film is intense and multi-layered, suggesting that the adversary isn’t always located on the battlefield, but may be hidden within the platoon itself.
Platoon is available to stream on The Roku Channel, MGM+, and The Criterion Channel.
9) The Best Years of Our Lives
Titled “The Best Years of Our Lives“, this film offers a profound insight into the true consequences of war, extending far beyond the battlefield’s edge. The narrative unfolds around three veterans of World War II, who find themselves in the fictional town of Boone City, each encountering unique challenges in their transition to civilian life. One grapples with shifts in his family and career dynamics; another battles financial woes and tumultuous relationships; while a third wrestles with accepting his new reality while attempting to preserve his relationship with his fiancée. At its core, the film explores the profound trauma and challenges of social re-entry.
As a movie enthusiast, I find films like “Thank You for Your Service” echo the powerful message of “The Best Years of Our Lives“. Just as in this film, it portrays the profound emotional challenges that veterans face post-conflict, reminding us that their sacrifices extend far beyond the battlefield. This makes it a fitting pick for Memorial Day, as it not only pays tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also sheds light on the unseen battles fought by survivors who carry the weight of their experiences with them in the form of lasting scars.
The Best Years of Our Lives is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and Peacock.
10) The Greatest Beer Run Ever
This movie, a blend of comedy and drama, is based on a real-life event and focuses on John “Chickie” Donohue (played by Zac Efron). In 1967, he makes a decision to travel to Vietnam to bring beer to his comrades fighting on the front lines. Initially seen as an act of camaraderie, this journey takes an unexpected turn as Chickie encounters the brutal truths of war and the intricate dynamics of friendship and loyalty.
Although it has a lighter mood and an unconventional storyline, The Greatest Beer Run Ever touches audiences deeply as it thoughtfully explores how war impacts not just soldiers, but also their loved ones at home. The film provides a distinctive viewpoint – a character embarking on a symbolic mission who eventually encounters the raw truth. On Memorial Day, this intimate and compassionate portrayal serves to underline the significance of honoring not only those who perished, but everyone whose lives were irrevocably altered by military service.
The Greatest Beer Run Ever is available to stream on Apple TV+.
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2025-05-24 03:14