"Four Must-Watch War Films on Streaming Services: Dunkirk, Saving Private Ryan, All Quiet on the Western Front, De Oost"

News - 17 November 2023
When looking for war films to watch on streaming or VOD services, it can be overwhelming with so many options available. However, FilmTotaal has chosen four war films that stand out and are definitely worth watching at least once.nnOne of these films is "Dunkirk," directed by Christopher Nolan and starring Fionn Whitehead, Tom Hardy, and Harry Styles.

Set in 1940, the film follows the true story of hundreds of thousands of British and Allied soldiers trapped on the narrow beach of Dunkirk with the Nazis closing in on them. Despite the seemingly impossible situation, a rescue operation is launched with private boats coming to their aid.nnAnother must-watch war film is "Saving Private Ryan," directed by Steven Spielberg and featuring Tom Hanks, Tom Sizemore, and Edward Burns.

The film follows Captain Miller as he leads a special mission to find and bring home Private Ryan, the last surviving son of the Ryan family after his brothers are killed in action during World War II. The mission becomes a suspenseful and gripping journey as they search for Private Ryan in German-occupied territory.nn"All Quiet on the Western Front" is a war film directed by Edward Berger and starring Felix Kammerer, Albert Schuch, and Aaron Hilmer.

The film follows seventeen-year-old Paul who, along with his friends Albert and Muller, voluntarily joins the German army during the First World War. As they are sent to the Western Front, they quickly realize the harsh reality of life in the trenches and the futility of the conflict. Paul's perceptions of the enemy and war itself are challenged as he is forced to fight until the bitter end.

nnLastly, "De Oost" directed by Jim Taihuttu and starring Martijn Lakemeier, Marwan Kenzari, and Jonas Smulders, is set in Indonesia in 1946 during the War of Independence. The film follows young soldier Johan as he is sent to the Dutch East Indies and comes under the command of the brutal Captain Raymond Westerling. Johan is part of an elite corps tasked with suppressing the rebel uprising in South Celebes, leading to a violent and morally ambiguous mission that blurs the lines between good and evil.

nnEach of these war films offers a unique perspective on the realities of war, highlighting the sacrifices, struggles, and moral dilemmas faced by those caught in the midst of conflict. Whether you are a fan of historical dramas or action-packed war stories, these films are sure to leave a lasting impact and spark important conversations about the human experience during times of war.nnSo, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to different eras and conflicts with these four unforgettable war films that deserve a spot on your watchlist.