There is no doubt that withthe increase in streaming services, every platform must fight to create a compelling database of movies and television shows that not only feature an epic story but are diverse in genres. In the past couple of years,Huluhas quietly amassed an impressive collection of movies ranging from comedies and crime dramas to slice-of-life and high-octane action flicks.
However, its library ofwarmovies from all eras is what makes it stand out. From tense dramas to thrilling historical docs, Hulu has an array of wartime tales available to stream. While it may not have as flashy an interface as some competitors, buried within Hulu’s deep archives are cinematic war masterpieces. Whether it’s a recent thriller likeDunkirkor a more comedic take likeThe Death of Stalin, these movies can transport viewers to the exact environment of the time.
They offer fascinating glimpses into key moments in history and celebrate the unsung heroes. Several movies secure their place in the category of innovative filmmaking as well. Here are the 19 best war movies on Hulu to watch right now.
Updated on August 25, 2025, by Rachel Johnson:This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
15Centurion (2010)
Dog SoldiersandThe Descent’s Neil Marshall took a break from masterful horror films to turn out a highly underrated sword-and-sandals flick. Led by Michael Fassbender (just before he made it big) and Olga Kurylenko,Centurionis one of themore underrated films of the 2010s, regardless of genre. The narrative follows the Roman Empire in AD 117 as they slaughter their way across Spain — that is until they run into the Pict tribe.
Underrated Action
The acting inCenturionis top-notch, and the mystery surrounding its narrative (the real-world disappearance of the Roman Empire’s Ninth Legion) is compelling both in reality and in the movie. While the film’s low $12 million budget can show, given the scope of its narrative and the complexity of the action sequences,Centurionis overall a cohesive and worthwhile viewing. That said, more squeamish viewers might want to give it a pass.
14The Death of Stalin (2017)
This hysterical political satire fromVeepcreator Armando Iannucci is a star-studded riot that has many logical complaints about bureaucracy. When Soviet leader Joseph Stalin passes away, everyone in his inner circle scrambles for the power he’s now lost. It’s absurd, witty, and timeless. Though the film isset in Soviet Russia, all the characters speak plain English without accents, making this stylish wartime comedy film a fantastic overall package.
Cutting Jabs and Ridiculous Backstabbing
The Death of Stalin, like all of Iannucci’s works, is talky, and that’s a good thing. Iannucci is a master of mixing well-versed government talk with hilarious insults that seem to come from a more modern time. The phenomenal cast includes Steve Buscemi, Jason Isaacs, Andrea Riseborough, and Paddy Considine, who are all perfectly cast. Political intrigue and military power struggles are given a breath of fresh air with constant wordplay and infectiously memorable punchlines.
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13Sicario: Day of the Soldado (2018)
Sicario: Day Of The Soldado
Sicario: Day of the Soldadomay not be nearly as powerfulas the Denis Villeneuve film that preceded it, but it’s a fine addition to the canon nonetheless.Sicario:Day of the Soldadogives viewers a boots-on-the-ground view of the war on drugs. This time, there is extra tension involved, since, at the heart of all the blazing bullets, there is a young girl in danger. Stefano Sollima is in the director’s chair this time around, having previously worked on the belovedGomorrahtelevision series.
A Taught, Tense Action Flick
While Emily Blunt sat this one out, Benicio Del Toro, Josh Brolin, and Jeffrey Donovan are still utterly endearing and fully in their element. They reprise their roles as assassin Alejandro Gillick, CIA officer Matt Graver, and CIA officer Steve Forsing, respectively. However, the best aspect ofSicario: Day of the Soldadocomes in the form of a newcomer. Before this, singer Isabela Merced’s only real macro-scale exposure was the poorly receivedTransformers: The Last Knight, and seeing her excel in a better film and better role is delightful.
12The East (2020)
The Eastis a war film that centers around a young Dutch soldier who’s deployed to the Netherlands’ colony of Indonesia in an attempt to suppress the post-WWII independence rebellion. Seeing the depravity of the situation and the brutality of his commander, there’s a shift in his conscience. Rather than glorify ideas of war and colonization,The Easttakes care to do the exact opposite.
Colonization Through the Eyes of a Young Soldier
The Eastprovides a closer look atthe ills of colonizationby creating a class divide where one man’s rebellion can be viewed as another man’s freedom. The film highlights the intricate relationship between duty and humanity. It’s propelled by great performances and Lennart Verstegen’s breathtaking cinematography.
11Red Cliff (2008)
Chronicling the brutal naval battle that took place in China during the end of the Han dynasty in AD 208–209, the epic war dramaRed Clifffollows the cunning General Cao Cao as he leads a powerful army to take over the kingdoms of East Wu and Xu, ruthlessly killing both innocent civilians and courageous soldiers rebelling against his forces. Military general and savvy strategist Zhou Yu rallies his fearless warriors to help eliminate the oppressive General, leading to a bloody battle among the forces.
Bona Fide Blockbuster Hit
The sweeping picture is jam-packed full of electrifying action sequences, stunning cinematography, and captivating imagery, and upon its release shattered box office records and garnered widespread critical acclaim.Red Cliffwas a major hit for Asian cinema and brilliantly recounts the events that led up to the legendary Chinese battle, remaining faithful to history while delivering a truly engrossing tale.
10Burial (2022)
Read our review
Set against the backdrop of WWII,Burialrevolves around a group of elite Russian soldiers who are tasked with transporting the last mortal remains of Hitler to Stalin back in Russia. En route, they are savagely attacked by Nazi ‘werewolves,’ creating an ultimate face-off between two groups of highly-trained infantry. Charlotte Vega (Wrong Turn,American Assassin) does a fantastic job in the lead role of Brana Brodskaya, with additional cast members including the likes of Barry Ward, Bill Milner, Niall Murphy, and Tom Felton.
A Simple but Effective Take
As straightforward a premise as it is,Burialas a movie is a simple war thriller that really gives you a boots-on-the-ground perspective. Its brief length allows for brisk and snappy pacing, keeping the tension high while showcasing some impressive production values along the way. Though you may not find any actual lycanthropes inBurial, the visceral thrills of its deadly journey will still leave you with goosebumps.
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9WarHunt (2022)
WarHuntfollows a US military scout team that battles more than just enemy forcesduring the Second World War. After a plane crashes behind enemy lines in Germany’s Black Forest, the men venture deep into the forest to retrieve the plane’s contents. But they soon confront a supernatural shapeshifting entity stalking them through the shadowy woods. Robert Knepper (Prison Break) and Jackson Rathbone (Twilight) co-star as Sergeants Brewer and Walsh, respectively.
Supernatural War-Based Horror
WarHunttakes things up a notch compared to the average war film by marrying trigger-happy soldiers with supernatural elements and striking the perfect balance between fear and adrenaline. This novel combination of gritty wartime action and chilling horror provides genuinely tense visuals as the soldiers try to make sense of their situation. War is horrifying enough on its own, and the genre-blending here pushes it over the edge.
8Medieval (2022)
Director Petr Jákl fashions a bold and brutal movie,Medieval, that gives audiences a harsh look at the concept of power through the rise and fall of a Czech icon and warlord of the early 15th century — Jan Žižka. Filmed on location in the Czech Republicwith brilliant cinematographybut little historical accuracy, the movie immerses viewers in muddy battlefields, rich romance, and the political betrayals of the time.
A War Epic That Pulls No Punches
Ben Foster plays the character of Žižka with deep sincerity, communicating just how severe the clashes between warlords and brothers can be.Medievalportrays the era in a visceral and grounded way, with poignant commentary on violence and the deep scars it leaves behind. With a close and intimate feel, it’s a deeply affecting war story.
7Official Secrets (2019)
Official Secrets
Based onThe Spy Who Tried to Stop a War, arecount of a riveting storywritten by Marcia & Thomas Mitchell, this outstanding film follows British intelligence officer Katharine Gun and her heroic act to stop the Iraq War. The year is 2003, and Gun has just received confidential information from the NSA that states that the United States has been spying on UN Security Council members to blackmail them into voting in favor of the war.
A Shocking War-Adjacent True Story
Keira Knightley is stunning in her fight for transparency. As a woman of good conscience, she chooses global peace over her safety.Official Secretsputs us right in the middle of the tense and nail-biting aftermath of a brave decision. For a film that deals with complicated themes of loyalty and patriotism,Official Secretshandles sensitive sequences well and creates an objective ethos that’s structured based on facts. It’s less of an outright war movie than some of its peers, but its adjacency to the Iraq War and central conflict of patriotism lands it in the war category.
6The Last Full Measure (2020)
The Last Full Measure
The Last Full Measuretells the story of William Pitsenbarger, a U.S. Air Force Pararescue medic who worked tirelessly during the Vietnam War and illuminated the humanity lost during wartime. Despite putting his life on the line and saving 60 men in the Army’s 1st Infantry Division, his efforts remained unsung for thirty-four years. The film marks the last on-screen film appearances of both Peter Fonda and Christopher Plummer, who play the roles of Jimmy Burr and Frank Pitsenbarger respectively.
Shining Light on a Hero
More often than not, the bravery and perseverance of those who showed great valor during the world’s darkest times go unnoticed and remain buried until years after — if they resurface at all. But this film brings forward Pentagon staffer Scott Huffman (played earnestly by Sebastian Stan), who is determined to get Pitsenbarger a Medal of Honor. In the process, however, Huffman finds himself untangling webs of bureaucracy and politics. Thisstirring war dramaproves how purpose may emerge long after the “action is over.”
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