Are you a fan of gripping war stories and powerful narratives? Look no further than Netflix for a wide selection of captivating military documentaries. With its vast catalog of movies and shows, Netflix offers an array of options for history buffs, war enthusiasts, or anyone looking to dive into the world of military conflicts. From World War II to modern-day battles, there’s something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best military documentaries available on Netflix, ensuring you have the ultimate binge-watching experience.
World War II in Colour: Witness History Unfold
If you’re a fan of original footage and want to experience World War II like never before, “World War II in Colour” is a must-watch documentary series. Narrated by Robert Powell, this series combines both original and digitally colorized footage, some of which had never been seen before. With its 13 episodes, “World War II in Colour” takes you on a journey through the Western Front, Eastern Front, North Africa, and the Pacific. This immersive experience will give you a deeper understanding of the monumental events that shaped the world.
The Vietnam War: A Masterpiece by Ken Burns
Directed by renowned documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, “The Vietnam War” is an epic 10-part series that took over 10 years to create. With original interviews from 79 witnesses, including veterans and protesters, this documentary provides an in-depth exploration of one of the most controversial wars in American history. Through 24,000 photos and 1,500 hours of video footage, Burns leaves no stone unturned in his quest to shed light on the complexities and consequences of the Vietnam War. With a total runtime of over 17 hours, this series is a must-watch for any history enthusiast.
The Russian Revolution: Unveiling a Historical Upheaval
Delve into the captivating story of the Russian Revolution with this surprisingly detailed documentary. Despite its runtime of less than an hour, this British production offers a comprehensive look into the growing rivalry between the Romanov and Ulyanov families. Witness the fall of the Romanov dynasty, the rise of Lenin’s Bolshevik party, and the dramatic transformation of Russia’s political landscape. This documentary provides a concise yet informative insight into the events that shaped the course of history.
The Age of Tanks: Unleashing Mechanical Power
“The Age of Tanks” takes you on a thrilling journey through the history of one of the most revolutionary inventions of the 20th century—the tank. From Basil Henriques, the first man to drive a tank in active combat during World War I, to their role in the German Blitzkrieg, the Cold War, and modern-day conflicts, this series explores the impact of tanks on warfare. Gain a deeper understanding of their strategic significance and the pivotal role they played in shaping military tactics.
Five Came Back: When Filmmakers Became Soldiers
Narrated by the iconic Meryl Streep, “Five Came Back” tells the extraordinary story of five renowned American film directors—John Ford, William Wyler, John Huston, Frank Capra, and George Stevens—who found themselves on the frontlines during World War II. This three-part series explores the 40 documentaries and training films these directors made to support the war effort. With over 100 hours of archival footage and interviews, “Five Came Back” offers a unique perspective on the intersection of filmmaking and war.
Dying to Tell: The Courageous Journalists on the Frontlines
In a modern age filled with instant news updates, “Dying to Tell” focuses on the brave journalists who risk their lives to bring us stories from the frontlines. Directed by Hernan Zin, this documentary offers a fascinating insight into the experiences of war reporters. Through interviews, unseen footage, and discussions with health professionals, the film highlights the physical and emotional toll of their work. Gain a deeper appreciation for the role journalists play in keeping the world informed.
Medal of Honor: Heroic Tales of Bravery
“The Medal of Honor” is the highest military decoration awarded in the United States. This TV series tells the heroic stories of eight recipients, each episode dedicated to an individual who displayed exceptional courage and selflessness in the face of danger. With a mix of interviews, reenactments, and archive footage, this series takes you through four significant battles in American history, spanning World War II, the War in Afghanistan, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Experience the bravery and sacrifice of these extraordinary individuals.
Behind Enemy Lines: Churchill’s Commandos
During the dark days of World War II, Winston Churchill created the Commandos—a specialized unit tasked with turning the tide of the war. “Behind Enemy Lines” explores the role of these units at critical junctures, including Dunkirk, the St Nazaire Raid, the North African campaign, and Operation Market Garden. This four-part documentary uncovers the daring missions and courageous acts that helped shape the course of history. Experience the tension and heroism as you follow these elite forces behind enemy lines.
November 13: Attack on Paris: A City Under Siege
Terrorism leaves a lasting impact on the world, and the November 2015 Paris attacks remain etched in our collective memory. This three-part documentary chronicles the events of that fateful day, providing a timeline of proceedings and featuring interviews with survivors and eyewitnesses. Gain a deeper understanding of the devastating impact of terrorism and the resilience of a city under siege. This documentary serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of tragedy.
Nazi Concentration Camps: Unveiling the Horrors
Of all the horrors witnessed during World War II, the Nazi concentration camps were among the most devastating. This groundbreaking film, compiled from 80,000 feet of Allied military footage, provides a camp-by-camp analysis of the atrocities committed. Originally used as evidence in the Nuremberg trials, this documentary played a crucial role in securing convictions against high-ranking Nazi officials. Witness the harrowing realities of the Holocaust and ensure that such atrocities are never forgotten.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the incredible military documentaries available on Netflix. Whether you’re interested in World War II, the Vietnam War, or other significant historical events, these films offer a unique perspective on the sacrifices, heroism, and devastating consequences of war. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be captivated by the immersive storytelling of these powerful documentaries.
Remember, this is just a selection of the best military documentaries on Netflix. If you have any other recommendations or hidden gems that we missed, feel free to share them in the comments below. Happy binge-watching!
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