The Holocaust, one of the most horrific events in human history has several adaptations. Some in the form of novels, some in video games, and some in the form of best World War 2 movies that managed to visualize the depth of the horror involved.
These holocaust movies will tell you about sagas of those who were unlucky enough to be the victim of human greed and dirty politics, and also of those who were brave enough to be on the right side of history.
But be warned- despite being dramatic recreations of events, most of these movies are hard to watch; these stories, these details of horror bury themselves deeper into your mind and make you question everything.
So, do you want to do this?
If so, let’s start with my pick of the best World War 2 movies!
Jojo Rabbit
- Director: Taika Waititi
- Cast: Roman Griffin Davis, Thomasin McKenzie, Scarlett Johansson
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
I am starting the list with a tragic comedy because it grabs well the perspective of not only victims but also of fanatics who followed Hitler. The story of Jojo Rabbit revolves around a young boy in the Hitler Youth who is a diehard fan of Hitler, a fan that big that he imagines being guided by the dictator himself.
But life decides to make him question his beliefs when he meets a young Jewish girl who turns out to be nothing like what he was told about Jews. From there, a story of tragedy, blended with some humor, some kindness, some bravery, and lots of love begins. This movie is my go-to flick that I often revisit and if you have not watched it yet, please do!
Dunkirk
- Director: Christopher Nolan
- Cast: Fionn Whitehead, Barry Keoghan, Mark Rylance
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
The stunning direction of the legendary Christopher Nolan brings the story of heroes from allied forces to the screen. In 1940, German forces managed to surround Allied troops on the beaches of Dunkirk. The story tells the tale of one of the largest soldier rescues ever with over 330,000 soldiers rescued.
The story of Dunkirk is complimented by great direction and Hans Zimmer’s scores that made the movie immortal. It is an experience that can’t be defined by any critics’ reviews, instead, you have to feel it yourself to understand the beauty of it.
Inglorious Basterds
- Director: Quentin Tarantino
- Cast: Brad Pitt, Diane Kruger, Eli Roth
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
In the world of Holocaust movies, Quentin Tarantino also takes the cup of delivering one of the best on-screen sagas. The story tells the tale of a group of Jewish US soldiers who plan to assassinate the top Nazi leaders.
Set up in France during the Nazi occupation, Inglorious Basterds is famous for one of the scariest villains from this part of history- Hans Landa played by Christoph Waltz. This World War II film uniquely blends historical events with fictional storytelling, creating a gripping and unforgettable cinematic experience.
Oppenheimer
- Director: Christopher Nolan
- Cast: Cillian Murphy, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr.
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
One of the newest World War 2 movies, the movie focuses on the story of American scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his participation in building the atomic bomb that changed the history of wars. Christopher Nolan’s saga of Robert is more focused on the politics that led to the invention of the bomb and after it fulfilled its purpose.
As always, Christopher Nolan has delivered a great sense of direction that probably no other director could imagine. To put it simply, it’s not just a political delicacy that is served but also a visual treat.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
- Director: Mark Herman
- Cast: Asa Butterfield, David Thewlis, Rupert Friend
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
One of the saddest holocaust movies, The Boy in the Striped Pajamas leaves a scar that takes time to heal. When I started the movie, I was ready for what was coming, yet the ending caught me off-guard.
I won’t give away much about its plot, except the fact, that kids from two separate sides form a friendship that was not supposed to exist, especially in a time like that. But it happened, and the things that followed were the consequences. A warning though, keep tissue paper with you if you are going to dive into this cinematic gut-wrenching masterpiece.
The Zookeeper’s Wife
- Director: Niki Caro
- Cast: Jessica Chastain, Johan Heldenbergh, Daniel Brühl
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
There have been movies about people during the holocaust, but what about the animals? How did they pay the cost of the war that humans started? This remarkable nothing-lesser-than-a-poetry tells how far the compassion of a human heart can go to protect.
The story focuses on The Zookeeper’s Wife who comes up with a plan to hide Jews in her zoo to safeguard them during the Nazi invasion of Poland. The well-threaded saga by Niki Caro, best known for her directorial project Anne with an E, throws light on the true story of kindness, bravery, and rebellion during times when hope was losing its breath, the world was sinking into the echoes of screams, tears, and blood.
Schindler’s List
- Director: Steven Spielberg
- Cast: Liam Neeson, Ralph Fiennes, Ben Kingsley
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
This 1993 release is one of the highest-rated World War 2 movies in existence. Starred by legends like Liam Neeson and Ben Kingsley, the movie shows the transition of a man from a corrupt businessman to one of the kindest souls to exist ever.
Set during the Nazi-occupied Poland, industrialist Oskar Schindler starts sheltering his Jewish workforce by bribing Nazi officers. Using his connections at high places and every ounce of possible wealth, this remarkable man managed to cheat Nazis and save plenty of Jewish citizens from a grim fate the time had decided for them. Fun fact; it has managed to secure 7 Oscars, 91 wins, and 49 nominations overall.
Honestly, I love this movie from the bottom of my heart, and I have a feeling you will love it too!
The Imitation Game
- Director: Morten Tyldum
- Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
Prepare to dive into the brilliant mind of Alan Turing in The Imitation Game. This film portrays the gripping story of the man who cracked the Enigma code, a feat that significantly shortened World War II. Benedict Cumberbatch delivers an outstanding performance, bringing Turing’s genius and tragic vulnerability to life.
The narrative elegantly captures the tension of wartime codebreaking while delving into the personal struggles Turing faced due to his homosexuality in an unforgiving era. It’s a blend of intellectual triumph and poignant human drama, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the unsung heroes of history.
Personally, while I admired Turing’s brilliance, the ending of his fate in this universe broke me into pieces.
Fury
- Director: David Ayer
- Cast: Brad Pitt, Shia LaBeouf, Logan Lerman
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
Step into the brutal, relentless chaos of tank warfare with Fury. This movie, directed by David Ayer, throws you into the final days of World War II as a weary tank crew, led by Brad Pitt’s stoic Wardaddy, makes its last stand against overwhelming odds.
The claustrophobic setting inside the tank and the visceral battle scenes create an intense, immersive experience. Each crew member’s story adds depth to the film, portraying the harrowing realities and the brotherhood forged in the heat of battle.
Fury is a raw, unflinching depiction of war that stays with you long after the credits roll. Watching this, I couldn’t help but feel the weight of their struggles and the bond that kept them fighting. It’s a grim reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.
Saving Private Ryan
- Director: Steven Spielberg
- Cast: Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, Tom Sizemore
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
No list of World War II movies would be complete without Steven Spielberg’s masterpiece, Saving Private Ryan. The film’s opening sequence, depicting the D-Day invasion, is legendary for its stark realism and emotional impact.
Tom Hanks stars as Captain John Miller, tasked with the mission to find and bring home Private James Ryan, whose brothers have all been killed in action. The journey through war-torn Europe is fraught with peril, showcasing the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers in heart-wrenching detail.
Spielberg’s direction, coupled with the superb cast, creates a cinematic experience that is both epic and profoundly personal. This film is not just a viewing experience but a tribute to the countless heroes of the Greatest Generation. I remember feeling a profound sense of gratitude and respect for those who served, and it made me reflect deeply on the true cost of freedom.
Sisu
- Director: Jalmari Helander
- Cast: Jorma Tommila, Aksel Hennie, Jack Doolan
- Streaming On: Amazon Prime
Sisu is a hidden gem that shines a light on the lesser-known theatres of World War II. Directed by Jalmari Helander, this Finnish film follows a solitary prospector in Lapland who, after discovering gold, has to fight for his life against Nazi soldiers who will stop at nothing to take it from him.
The raw beauty of the Finnish wilderness serves as a stunning backdrop to this gritty tale of survival and resistance. Jorma Tommila’s performance as the determined and resilient prospector is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Sisu is not just a story of personal tenacity, but also a broader testament to the spirit of resistance against oppression. I found myself on the edge of my seat, rooting for the protagonist and marveling at his unyielding spirit. This film is a gripping, atmospheric journey that brings a fresh perspective to the war genre.
If you’re looking to explore more gripping tales, check out our list of new releases that will captivate your interest and expand your movie horizons.
