World War I, also known as the “Great War” or the “War to End All Wars”, was a global conflict that lasted from 1914 to 1918. It involved many of the world’s great powers assembled in two opposing alliances: the Allies and the Central Powers. Over 9 million combatants and 7 million civilians died as a result of the war, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in history.
While World War II tends to get more attention in popular media, World War I has also inspired many great films over the decades. These movies capture the tragedy, heroism, and human drama of this earth-shattering conflict. Here are the 26 best World War I movies of all time, ranked:
1. All Quiet on the Western Front (1930)
Directed by Lewis Milestone, this epic war film follows a group of idealistic German schoolboys as they enthusiastically enlist to fight in World War I, only to have their patriotism shattered by the grim realities of trench warfare. It won the Academy Awards for Best Picture and Best Director.
The film is a powerful anti-war statement that captures the physical and psychological devastation of the war on the front lines. It features groundbreaking cinematography, including a famous tracking shot that follows the young soldiers as they charge out of the trenches into battle. The film’s message about the futility and waste of war still resonates today.
2. Paths of Glory (1957)
Stanley Kubrick’s Paths of Glory is set during World War I and tells the story of Colonel Dax (played by Kirk Douglas), a French commanding officer who must defend three of his men against charges of cowardice after they refuse to continue a suicidal attack.
The film is a scathing indictment of the military’s disregard for the lives of its soldiers. Kubrick’s signature visual style is on full display, with the trenches and battlefields of the Western Front providing a bleak backdrop for the human drama. The film builds to a powerful conclusion as Dax makes an impassioned plea for justice on behalf of his men.
3. Lawrence of Arabia (1962)
While not solely focused on World War I, David Lean’s sweeping historical epic Lawrence of Arabia features the conflict as a major part of its story. The film depicts the experiences of T.E. Lawrence, a British officer who played a key role in the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during the war.
Shot in stunning widescreen cinematography, the film is a visual masterpiece that captures the vast scope and beauty of the Arabian desert. Peter O’Toole delivers a magnetic performance as the complex and enigmatic Lawrence, who struggles with divided loyalties and his own identity throughout the film. It won seven Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.
4. Gallipoli (1981)
Directed by Peter Weir and starring a young Mel Gibson, Gallipoli tells the story of two Australian sprinters who enlist to fight in World War I. They are sent to the Gallipoli peninsula in Turkey, where they experience the brutal realities of trench warfare.
The film is a powerful and poetic meditation on the bonds of friendship and the senseless tragedy of war. Weir’s direction is masterful, capturing both the youthful exuberance of the main characters and the stark horrors they face on the battlefield. The film’s depiction of the doomed Gallipoli campaign serves as a microcosm for the larger futility of the war.
5. A Very Long Engagement (2004)
A Very Long Engagement is a French romantic war drama directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. The film tells the story of a young woman’s relentless search for her fiancé, who might have been killed during World War I. As she investigates his possible demise, she uncovers the stories of the men who fought alongside him.
The film is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of love, loss, and the scars of war. Audrey Tautou delivers a luminous performance as the determined protagonist, and the film’s depiction of trench warfare is both harrowing and poetic. It was nominated for two Academy Awards.
6. War Horse (2011)
Steven Spielberg’s War Horse follows the journey of a thoroughbred horse named Joey who is sold to the British cavalry during World War I. As Joey experiences the war from both the British and German sides, the film depicts the bond between horse and rider amidst the chaos of the conflict.
Shot in Spielberg’s signature heartfelt style, the film is a sweeping and emotional tribute to the horses that served in World War I. The battle sequences are visceral and intense, capturing the terror and confusion of trench warfare. The film also features a strong ensemble cast of British actors, including Emily Watson, David Thewlis, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
7. Wings (1927)
Wings was the first film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Directed by William A. Wellman, the silent film tells the story of two young Americans who enlist as combat pilots in World War I. As they compete for the affections of the same woman, they must also confront the perils of aerial combat.
The film is notable for its spectacular aerial sequences, which were groundbreaking at the time. Wellman, who was a World War I pilot himself, brought a realism and authenticity to the dogfight scenes. The film also features a famous sequence of a plane crashing into a French village, which was filmed using over 100 cameras.
8. The Grand Illusion (1937)
Directed by Jean Renoir, The Grand Illusion is a French war drama that depicts a group of French prisoners of war during World War I. As the prisoners plot their escape, the film explores the class divisions and nationalistic tensions that underlie the conflict.
Considered a masterpiece of world cinema, the film is a humanistic and deeply moving anti-war statement. Renoir’s direction is subtle and understated, allowing the characters’ interactions to reveal the absurdity and tragedy of war. The film was banned in Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy for its pacifist themes.
9. Sergeant York (1941)
Sergeant York is a biographical war film that tells the true story of Alvin York, one of the most decorated American soldiers of World War I. Gary Cooper stars as York, a pacifist from the Tennessee backwoods who becomes a hero after single-handedly capturing over 130 German soldiers.
Directed by Howard Hawks, the film is a patriotic and inspiring tribute to York’s heroism and faith. Cooper’s performance is understated and authentic, capturing York’s humble nature and inner strength. The film’s battle sequences are tense and well-staged, showcasing York’s remarkable marksmanship and courage under fire.
10. The African Queen (1951)
While primarily set in German East Africa during World War I, The African Queen is more of an adventure romance than a traditional war film. Directed by John Huston and starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, the film follows a mismatched pair who must navigate a treacherous river to destroy a German gunboat.
Bogart and Hepburn have crackling chemistry as the rough-hewn mechanic and the prim missionary who gradually fall in love. Huston’s direction is masterful, capturing the lush beauty and hidden dangers of the African landscape. The film’s depiction of the small-scale conflicts in the African theater of World War I adds an interesting historical dimension to the story.
11. The Blue Max (1966)
The Blue Max is a British war film that tells the story of a German fighter pilot during World War I. George Peppard stars as Bruno Stachel, a working-class soldier who becomes a flying ace in the German Air Force, driven by his ambition to win the prestigious Blue Max medal.
The film is notable for its spectacular aerial sequences, which were filmed using real vintage aircraft. The dogfight scenes are thrilling and intense, capturing the daring and skill of the World War I pilots. The film also explores the class divisions and politics within the German military, as Stachel’s success threatens the aristocratic order.
12. Joyeux Noël (2005)
Joyeux Noël (French for “Merry Christmas”) is a multinational film that depicts the real-life Christmas truce of 1914, when soldiers on the Western Front temporarily ceased fighting and fraternized with each other in no man’s land.
The film follows a group of French, Scottish, and German soldiers as they cautiously emerge from their trenches and share food, drink, and stories. As they get to know each other as human beings, the absurdity and tragedy of the war becomes all the more apparent. The film is a poignant and hopeful reminder of the shared humanity that exists even in the midst of conflict.
13. Flyboys (2006)
Flyboys is a fictionalized account of the Lafayette Escadrille, a group of young American pilots who volunteered to fight for France before the United States entered World War I. James Franco stars as Blaine Rawlings, a Texas rancher who joins the squadron and becomes a flying ace.
The film features impressive aerial sequences that capture the excitement and danger of World War I dogfights. While the story is somewhat formulaic, the film’s depiction of the camaraderie and courage of the Lafayette Escadrille is inspiring. The film also explores the toll that combat takes on the young pilots, both physically and emotionally.
14. Beneath Hill 60 (2010)
Beneath Hill 60 is an Australian war drama that tells the true story of a group of Australian miners who were recruited to dig tunnels beneath the German lines during World War I. As they work to plant explosives and defend the tunnels, they must also confront the ever-present danger of cave-ins, gas attacks, and enemy raids.
The film is a tense and claustrophobic thriller that captures the courage and ingenuity of the Australian tunnelers. The performances are strong across the board, with Brendan Cowell delivering a standout turn as the tough and resourceful leader of the group. The film’s depiction of the underground war on the Western Front is a fascinating and little-known aspect of World War I history.
15. The Lost Battalion (2001)
The Lost Battalion is a made-for-TV war drama that depicts the true story of a group of American soldiers who were isolated and surrounded by German forces during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive of 1918. As they fight to hold their position and await rescue, they must endure heavy casualties and dwindling supplies.
The film is a powerful and emotional tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the American soldiers. The battle sequences are intense and realistic, capturing the chaos and terror of trench warfare. The film also explores the leadership and camaraderie of the soldiers, as they struggle to maintain hope and unity in the face of overwhelming odds.
16. The Trench (1999)
The Trench is a British war drama that follows a group of young British soldiers as they await the start of the Battle of the Somme in 1916. As they huddle in their trench and try to cope with the fear and anticipation, they bond over shared stories and experiences.
The film is a intimate and poignant character study that captures the humanity and vulnerability of the soldiers. The performances are excellent, with a young Daniel Craig delivering a standout turn as the tough and battle-hardened Sergeant Winter. The film’s depiction of the soldiers’ mental and emotional state on the eve of battle is haunting and unforgettable.
17. Passchendaele (2008)
Passchendaele is a Canadian war drama that tells the story of a Canadian soldier who returns home from the Western Front after being wounded in battle. As he recovers and falls in love with a nurse, he is haunted by his memories of the war and the loss of his comrades.
The film is a powerful and emotional exploration of the physical and psychological scars of war. The battle sequences are intense and visceral, capturing the mud, blood, and chaos of trench warfare. The film also explores the impact of the war on the home front, as the characters struggle to rebuild their lives and relationships in the aftermath of the conflict.
18. The Dawn Patrol (1938)
The Dawn Patrol is an American war drama that tells the story of a group of British fighter pilots during World War I. Errol Flynn stars as Captain Courtney, a veteran pilot who takes a group of young recruits under his wing and tries to prepare them for the harsh realities of aerial combat.
The film is notable for its realistic depiction of the dangers and stresses of flying missions over the Western Front. The aerial sequences are thrilling and well-staged, capturing the speed and agility of the World War I fighter planes. The film also explores the toll that the war takes on the pilots, both physically and emotionally, as they struggle to maintain their sanity and courage in the face of constant danger.
19. Aces High (1976)
Aces High is a British war drama that follows a group of young British fighter pilots as they arrive at a Royal Flying Corps base in France during World War I. As they learn to fly and fight, they must also confront the ever-present danger of death and the psychological toll of combat.
The film is a gritty and realistic portrayal of the lives of World War I pilots, capturing the camaraderie, gallows humor, and constant stress of their existence. The aerial sequences are impressive, filmed using real vintage aircraft and featuring thrilling dogfight scenes. The film also explores the class divisions and generational tensions within the British military, as the young pilots clash with their older, more traditional commanders.
20. The Red Baron (2008)
The Red Baron is a German biographical film about the life of Manfred von Richthofen, the famous World War I flying ace known as the “Red Baron”. The film follows von Richthofen’s career as a fighter pilot, from his early victories to his eventual death in combat.
The film is a visually stunning and action-packed portrayal of aerial combat during World War I. The dogfight scenes are thrilling and well-choreographed, capturing the speed and danger of the battles in the sky. The film also explores von Richthofen’s personal life and relationships, including his romance with a nurse and his rivalry with other flying aces.
21. The Fighting 69th (1940)
The Fighting 69th is an American war drama that tells the story of the 69th Infantry Regiment, a unit of Irish-American soldiers who fought in World War I. James Cagney stars as Jerry Plunkett, a tough and rebellious soldier who clashes with his commanding officer and struggles to find his place in the regiment.
The film is a patriotic and inspiring tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the American soldiers who fought in World War I. The battle sequences are well-staged and intense, capturing the chaos and violence of trench warfare. The film also explores the themes of loyalty, duty, and redemption, as Plunkett learns to put aside his personal demons and fight for his fellow soldiers.
22. The Big Parade (1925)
The Big Parade is an American silent war drama that follows a group of American soldiers as they enlist and fight in World War I. John Gilbert stars as Jim Apperson, a wealthy young man who joins the army and falls in love with a French girl while serving in France.
Directed by King Vidor, the film is an epic and emotional portrayal of the American experience in World War I. The battle sequences are stunning and realistic, capturing the scale and horror of trench warfare. The film also explores the human cost of the war, as the characters struggle with loss, trauma, and the challenges of returning home after the conflict.
23. Johnny Got His Gun (1971)
Johnny Got His Gun is an American anti-war drama based on the novel by Dalton Trumbo. The film tells the story of Joe Bonham, a young American soldier who is severely wounded in World War I and left without limbs, eyes, ears, or a mouth. As he lies in a hospital bed, he reflects on his life and the futility of war.
The film is a powerful and disturbing meditation on the human cost of war. The performances are raw and intense, with Timothy Bottoms delivering a haunting portrayal of a man trapped in his own body. The film’s anti-war message is uncompromising and unflinching, forcing the viewer to confront the reality of the sacrifices made by soldiers in wartime.
24. King and Country (1964)
King and Country is a British war drama that tells the story of a young British soldier who is accused of desertion during World War I. Tom Courtenay stars as Private Hamp, a shell-shocked soldier who wanders away from his unit and is court-martialed for cowardice.
The film is a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the injustices and absurdities of military justice during wartime. The performances are excellent, with Courtenay delivering a sympathetic and nuanced portrayal of a soldier struggling with the trauma of war. The film’s depiction of the court-martial proceedings is tense and gripping, as Hamp’s defense attorney (played by Dirk Bogarde) fights to save his life.
25. Regeneration (1997)
Regeneration is a British war drama based on the novel by Pat Barker. The film tells the story of Siegfried Sassoon, a British poet and soldier who is sent to a military hospital after publicly criticizing the war effort. As he receives treatment for shell shock, he forms a bond with his psychiatrist and fellow patients.
The film is a sensitive and nuanced exploration of the psychological impact of war on soldiers. The performances are excellent, with Jonathan Pryce delivering a standout turn as the compassionate psychiatrist who helps Sassoon confront his trauma. The film’s depiction of the treatment of shell shock victims is both fascinating and disturbing, shedding light on a little-known aspect of World War I history.
26. Shoulder Arms (1918)
Shoulder Arms is an American silent comedy film written, directed by, and starring Charlie Chaplin. The film follows Chaplin’s iconic Tramp character as he enlists in the army and is sent to France to fight in World War I. Despite his bumbling nature, he manages to capture a group of German soldiers and becomes a hero.
The film is a lighthearted and satirical take on the war, poking fun at the absurdities and indignities of military life. Chaplin’s physical comedy is on full display, as he navigates the trenches and battles with his trademark grace and wit. While the film’s portrayal of the war is somewhat sanitized, it still manages to convey a sense of the hardships and sacrifices endured by the soldiers.
Conclusion
These 26 films represent some of the best and most powerful depictions of World War I in cinema history. From epic dramas to intimate character studies, they capture the bravery, sacrifice, and tragedy of this devastating conflict. They remind us of the human cost of war and the importance of remembering and honoring those who served and died.
Whether you are a history buff, a film enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a moving and thought-provoking viewing experience, these films are essential viewing. They offer a window into a pivotal moment in world history and a testament to the enduring power of cinema to educate, inspire, and move us.
