The Top 5 War Movies Of All Time
By Gabriel J. Adams
Over the past few decades, a number of amazing war movies have hit the
theaters. Although there are many war movies that have done an excellent
job of portraying the conflict and the reality of the situation at hand,
there are five that rank at the top of the list.
Platoon
Released in 1986 and directed by Oliver
Stone, Platoon is still considered by many to be the best war movie ever
made. Starring Charlie Sheen and the then-little-known actor Johnny Depp,
Platoon reached a depth of realism that many could not fully understand
unless they had actually been in the military or experienced the Vietnam
War the movie depicted.
Apocalypse Now
Also taking place during the Vietnam War, Apocalypse Now presents a
unique and magnificent story with finely crafted characters. Released in
1979 and directed by Francis Ford Coppolla, the film is not only a great
war story but is also considered by many to represent the dark side of
the human psyche. Starring Martin Sheen, Harrison Ford, Marlon Brando,
and Robert Duvall, the movie certainly enjoys a cast that is to be
admired.
Saving Private Ryan
Taking place during WWII, Saving Private Ryan presents a unique story
during one of the country’s most trying times. The special effects and
graphic ealism of the movie are truly amazing. In addition, it offers an
excellent cast of actors, including Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, and even Vin
Diesel. Directed by Steven Spielberg, the film achieved critical acclaim
by receiving Academy Awards for Best Sound, Best Cinematography, Best
Editing, Best Sound Editing, and Best Director. It was also nominated
for six other Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
We Were Soldiers
Based on a novel written by a Lieutenant General and a reporter that
were at the Battle of Ia Drang in Vietnam, We Were Soldiers takes a
personal look into the lives of real soldiers and events that took place
at the time. Directed by Randall Wallace and starring Mel Gibson, it is
one of only a few war movies to depict the feelings, actions, and
thoughts of soldiers on both sides of the war.
Glory
Glory, which takes place during the American Civil War, stars Matthew
Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman. The movie, which was
released in 1989, tells the riveting and heart wrenching story of coming
of age of African American soldiers as they are placed on the
battlefield for the first time.
Each of these movies stirs the emotions and puts
the viewer on the battlefield, showing the emotional, mental, and
physical toll the soldiers undergo during wartime and when on the
battlefield. They also delve into the politics behind these wars,
including depicting the roles of commanders and politicians that are no
where near the actual battlefield.
