Must-Watch World War II Movies That Bring History to Life

World War II has been the backdrop for some of the most gripping stories ever put to film. These movies offer a window into the human side of war. Yes, there is always a human side!!! Some will have you holding your breath, while others will break your heart. If you're up for movies and history lessons together, these WWII films are a great place to start.

Saving Private Ryan (1998)

Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan doesn’t waste any time. The opening sequence drops you right onto Omaha Beach on D-Day, and it’s about as close as a film can get to making you feel the chaos of war. It’s a story about sacrifice as a group of soldiers set out to find a missing paratrooper.

Schindler’s List (1993)

Schindler’s List tells the true story of Oskar Schindler, a man who saved over a thousand Jewish lives by employing them in his factory. Shot in stark black and white, the film is a reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust. It’s not an easy watch, remember that before you start.

Life Is Beautiful (1997)

This one’s a gut punch in the best way. Life Is Beautiful follows a father who shields his son from the grim reality of a Nazi concentration camp by making it all seem like a game. It’s a film that reminds you how powerful love and laughter can be.

The Pianist (2002)