The Movie Hall of Fame: Action/War

This article showcases the greatest war/action movies you should add to your watch list. Each movie was nominated by anonymous individuals as the best action/war movie. Stay tuned until the end of the article, where I will announce the top three war/action movies.

The nominations include Dunkirk (2017), Greyhound (2020), 1917 (2019), All Quiet on the Western Front (2022), Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant (2023), American Sniper (2014), Hacksaw Ridge (2016), Saving Private Ryan (1998), Fury (2014), and Brothers (2009).

Dunkirk

Christopher Nolan’s “Dunkirk” is a masterful and intense portrayal of one of World War II’s most harrowing events, the evacuation of British and Allied troops from the beaches of Dunkirk, France. The film’s narrative structure is innovative, weaving together three perspectives — land, sea, and air — each with its own timeline that converges in a gripping climax. The minimal dialogue, reliance on visual storytelling, and Hans Zimmer’s relentlessly tense score create an immersive and almost visceral experience. The ensemble cast, featuring standout performances from Fionn Whitehead, Mark Rylance, and Tom Hardy, brings humanity and urgency to the historical drama. “Dunkirk” is a cinematic triumph, capturing war’s chaos, heroism, and desperation with both technical brilliance and emotional depth.

Greyhound

“Greyhound,” directed by Aaron Schneider and starring Tom Hanks, is a riveting World War II naval thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Hanks, who also penned the screenplay, delivers a compelling performance as Commander Ernest Krause, leading his convoy across the treacherous North Atlantic while under constant threat from German U-boats. The film’s tight, 90-minute runtime enhances the relentless tension and urgency, making every decision and maneuver feel critical. The action sequences are expertly crafted, immersing the audience in the chaos and danger of naval warfare. While the character development is somewhat sparse, the film excels in portraying the sheer intensity and high stakes of its setting, resulting in a gripping and immersive war drama.

1917

“1917,” directed by Sam Mendes, is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping World War I epic that immerses viewers in the harrowing experiences of two young British soldiers. The film’s innovative continuous-shot technique, masterfully executed by cinematographer Roger Deakins, creates an intense, real-time journey through the war-torn landscape. George MacKay delivers a compelling performance as Lance Corporal Schofield, capturing the character’s determination and vulnerability. The film’s pacing and tension are perfectly balanced, making each moment feel urgent and impactful. “1917” is not just a technical marvel but a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers, offering a unforgettable cinematic experience.

All Quiet on the Western Front

“All Quiet on the Western Front” is a harrowing and poignant adaptation of Erich Maria Remarque’s classic novel, masterfully capturing the brutal realities of World War I through the eyes of young German soldier Paul Bäumer. The film’s stark and unflinching portrayal of trench warfare highlights the senseless violence and devastating impact on the human spirit. Stunning cinematography and sound design immerse the audience in the chaotic and claustrophobic atmosphere of the battlefield, while the performances, particularly by the lead actor, evoke deep empathy and sorrow. This adaptation is a powerful and sobering reminder of the horrors of war, resonating with contemporary relevance and emotional intensity.

Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant

The Covenant is a gripping war drama directed by Guy Ritchie, featuring Jake Gyllenhaal as Master Sergeant John Kinley and Dar Salim as Ahmed, his Afghan interpreter. The film masterfully blends intense action sequences with deep emotional storytelling, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the human cost of war. Gyllenhaal and Salim deliver compelling performances, portraying a bond forged in the crucible of conflict. The cinematography captures Afghanistan’s stark beauty and harsh realities, while Ritchie’s direction maintains a relentless pace, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The Covenant is both a poignant tribute to the unsung heroes of war and a powerful narrative about the enduring human spirit.

American Sniper

“American Sniper,” directed by Clint Eastwood, is a gripping and emotionally intense portrayal of Chris Kyle, a Navy SEAL sniper known for his record number of confirmed kills. Bradley Cooper delivers a powerful performance as Kyle, capturing the complexities of a soldier’s life, from his dedication to his comrades and country to the psychological toll of warfare. The film balances intense combat scenes with poignant moments of Kyle’s struggle to reintegrate into civilian life, offering a nuanced perspective on the personal costs of war. Eastwood’s direction is respectful and critical, creating a compelling narrative that honors Kyle’s service while prompting viewers to reflect on the broader implications of war. “American Sniper” is not just a war film; it’s a deep exploration of heroism, trauma, and the relentless pursuit of duty.

Hacksaw Ridge

“Hacksaw Ridge,” directed by Mel Gibson, is an extraordinary war film that tells the remarkable true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic during World War II. Andrew Garfield delivers a powerful performance as Doss, whose unwavering commitment to his faith and principles leads him to save 75 men during the Battle of Okinawa without carrying a weapon. The film masterfully balances intense, harrowing battle scenes with a deeply moving narrative about courage, conviction, and the human spirit. Gibson’s direction ensures that the film is a gripping war drama and a poignant tribute to an unsung hero. “Hacksaw Ridge” is an inspiring and visceral cinematic experience that highlights an individual’s extraordinary impact, even in the most brutal of circumstances.

Saving Private Ryan

“Saving Private Ryan,” directed by Steven Spielberg, is a harrowing and masterful depiction of World War II that sets a new benchmark for war films. The movie follows Captain John Miller (Tom Hanks) and his squad as they embark on a perilous mission to find and bring home Private James Ryan (Matt Damon) after his brothers are killed in action. From the brutal and visceral opening sequence on Omaha Beach to the emotionally charged finale, Spielberg’s direction and Janusz Kamiński’s cinematography create a profoundly immersive experience. The film’s raw portrayal of combat, combined with powerful performances, particularly by Hanks, captures war’s chaos, sacrifice, and humanity. “Saving Private Ryan” is both a tribute to the bravery of soldiers and a poignant reminder of the costs of war, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Fury

“Fury” is a visceral and gripping war film that plunges viewers into the harrowing realities of combat during World War II. Directed by David Ayer, the movie follows a Sherman tank crew, led by the seasoned and battle-hardened Sergeant Don “Wardaddy” Collier (played by Brad Pitt), as they navigate the treacherous landscapes of Nazi-occupied Germany in the waning days of the war. The film’s unflinching portrayal of the horrors of war is both brutal and poignant, capturing the camaraderie, sacrifice, and moral complexities faced by soldiers in the heat of battle. With intense action sequences, stellar performances from its ensemble cast, and a gripping narrative, “Fury” stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst the chaos of war.

Brothers

“Brothers” is a gripping and emotionally charged drama that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics and the aftermath of war. Directed by Jim Sheridan, this film follows the intertwined lives of two brothers, Sam (Tobey Maguire) and Tommy (Jake Gyllenhaal), whose paths diverge drastically when Sam is deployed to Afghanistan, leaving behind his wife Grace (Natalie Portman) and their two daughters. A poignant exploration of trauma, guilt, and redemption ensues as the brothers confront their demons and struggle to rebuild their shattered lives. Maguire and Gyllenhaal deliver powerhouse performances, capturing the raw intensity of their characters’ inner turmoil. With its gripping narrative and stellar cast, “Brothers” is a poignant and thought-provoking cinematic experience that leaves a lasting impact.

Results

3rd place: 1917

2nd place: Dunkirk

1st place: American Sniper

While these 3 extraordinary movies take home bragging rights, I highly encourage you to add each and every one of these thrilling movies to your watch list. Also, if you object to these unquestionable results, please join the Roundup and write your objectively wrong opinions in a counter article.

Stay tuned for more movie reviews on the Jesuit Roundup.