Navy SEAL Brandon Webb Unveils His Best Military Movies across Decades

Join me on a gritty journey through time as we pull our chute straps tight for an adrenaline-fueled ride through the annals of military cinema, guided by yours truly, Navy SEAL Brandon Webb.

These movies are the real deal, the ones that won’t make me slap my face with both hands with all that made-up Hollywood crap. They capture the true essence of war, the raw emotions, and the genuine experiences of those who have been in the thick of it. These films don’t sugarcoat the realities or glamorize the chaos; they present it as it truly is. From the post-war readjustment to the adrenaline-pumping chaos on the battlefield, these movies offer a glimpse into the profound impact of war on the human spirit. So, if you’re looking for authentic war films that don’t hold back, this list has got you covered.

I reckon killing generals could get to be a habit with me. – Major Reisman

1940s: “The Best Years of Our Lives” (1946) In the aftermath of World War II, this poignant film delves into the lives of three veterans returning home to face the challenges of readjusting to civilian life.

Best quotes:

• “I thought I had a pretty good life. Then I went away.” – Fred Derry
• “I can’t get the sight out of my mind. I can’t unsee it.” – Al Stephenson

1950s: “The Bridge on the River Kwai” (1957) Set during World War II, this gripping tale of honor, duty, and the clash of cultures showcases the audacious spirit of soldiers held captive by the Japanese in a prisoner-of-war camp.

Best quotes:

• “Madness! Madness!” – Colonel Nicholson
• “Be happy in your work.” – Colonel Saito

1960s: “The Dirty Dozen” (1967) An unorthodox mission that brings together a ragtag group of rebellious soldiers, this film blends action, dark humor, and an all-star cast.

Best quotes:

• “I reckon killing generals could get to be a habit with me.” – Major Reisman
• “When we’re done, we’ll make the Enola Gay look like a kid’s popgun.” – Major Reisman

1970s: “Apocalypse Now” (1979) In this hallucinatory journey into the heart of darkness during the Vietnam War, Thompson’s countercultural insights merge with Webb’s appreciation for the psychological toll of combat. Director Francis Ford Coppola’s epic masterpiece confronts the horrors of war, testing the limits of sanity, and challenging the very essence of humanity.

Best quotes:

• “I love the smell of napalm in the morning.” – Lieutenant Colonel Kilgore
• “The horror… the horror.” – Colonel Kurtz

The soundtrack of the film is renowned for its eclectic selection of songs, featuring tracks from artists such as The Doors, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Richard Wagner’s “Ride of the Valkyries.”

1980s: “Full Metal Jacket” (1987) Stanley Kubrick’s visceral examination of the Vietnam War captures the raw intensity and dark humor that permeates military life. We follow a group of Marines through the dehumanizing process of training and the brutalities of war.

Best quotes:

• “I am Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, your senior drill instructor.” – Gunnery Sergeant Hartman
• “Me so horny. Me love you long time.” – Da Nang Hooker

The film showcased a mix of popular songs from the Vietnam War era, including tracks by artists like The Rolling Stones, Nancy Sinatra, and Mickey Mouse March, along with a score composed by Abigail Mead.

“Platoon” (1986) is a war film directed by Oliver Stone that portrays the brutal reality of the Vietnam War. The movie follows a young soldier named Chris Taylor, played by Charlie Sheen, as he endures the hardships, moral dilemmas, and psychological toll of the conflict. The film offers a gritty and realistic depiction of the war, exploring themes of morality, camaraderie, and the dehumanizing nature of combat.

The music in “Platoon” plays a crucial role in enhancing the emotional impact and immersing the audience in the chaotic and harrowing atmosphere of war. The film’s soundtrack, curated by Oliver Stone and music supervisor Bunny Andrews, features a blend of iconic songs from the 1960s that were popular during the Vietnam War era.

Here are some notable songs featured in “Platoon”:

1. “Adagio for Strings” by Samuel Barber: This hauntingly beautiful classical composition serves as the main theme for the film, adding a sense of melancholy and introspection to several poignant scenes.
2. “Tracks of My Tears” by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles: This soulful Motown classic provides a brief respite from the intensity of the war, capturing moments of solace and nostalgia for the soldiers amidst the chaos.
3. “White Rabbit” by Jefferson Airplane: The psychedelic rock anthem by Jefferson Airplane perfectly complements a pivotal scene, evoking a sense of disorientation and surrealism as the soldiers encounter the effects of drugs in the war.
4. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong: This iconic and bittersweet ballad serves as a poignant contrast to the brutality of war, emphasizing the stark contrast between the idealized world and the harsh realities faced by the soldiers.
5. “The Tracks of My Tears” by The Platoon Cast: In addition to the original version by Smokey Robinson, the cast of “Platoon” performs a rendition of the song, infusing it with a raw, emotional resonance that reflects the characters’ experiences.

The combination of these carefully selected songs with the film’s intense and visceral storytelling creates a powerful and immersive viewing experience. The music helps to evoke the era and captures the emotional journey of the characters, while also serving as a stark reminder of the cultural backdrop against which the war unfolded.

“Platoon” is widely regarded as one of the most impactful and realistic war films, earning critical acclaim for its raw portrayal of the Vietnam War and its effects on the soldiers involved. Oliver Stone’s direction, the powerful performances, and the evocative music all contribute to making “Platoon” a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant cinematic experience.

1990s: “Black Hawk Down” (2001) Based on true events in Somalia, this gripping film depicts the harrowing Battle of Mogadishu. SOFREP’s appreciation for special operations illuminates the heroism and sacrifices of the U.S. Army Rangers and Delta Force operators in their quest to survive and rescue their comrades.

Best quotes:

• “This is my safety, sir.” – Private First Class Blackburn
• “Leave no man behind.” – Lieutenant Colonel McKnight

The film’s soundtrack primarily consisted of an intense and immersive score composed by Hans Zimmer, complementing the high-stakes action and emotional depth of the story.

In the heart-stopping war epic “Saving Private Ryan” (1998), masterfully directed by Steven Spielberg, we are thrust into the chaos and brutality of World War II. Led by the indomitable Captain John Miller, portrayed by the remarkable Tom Hanks, a squad of U.S. Army Rangers embarks on a treacherous mission to find and rescue Private James Francis Ryan, played by the talented Matt Damon. One of my favorites for sure.

“Saving Private Ryan” is a tribute to the indomitable spirit and sacrifices of those who fought in the crucible of World War II. Through the lens of Spielberg and the steadfast performances of the cast, we are reminded of the unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of war and the extraordinary courage that resides within the hearts of ordinary men.

Best quotes from the movie

• “The real heroes are the ones who gave their lives for their country.” – Private Jackson
• “I don’t know anything about Ryan, I don’t care. The man means nothing to me; it’s just a name. But if, you know, if going to Remal, and finding him so he can go home, if that earns me the right to get back to my wife, then, then that’s my mission.” – Captain John Miller
• “You want to leave? You want to go off and fight the war? All right. All right. I won’t stop you. I’ll even put in the paperwork. I just know that every man I kill, the farther away from home I feel.” – Private James Francis Ryan
• “Someday we might look back on this and decide that saving Private Ryan was the one decent thing we were able to pull out of this whole godawful, shitty mess.” – Sergeant Horvath

2000s:

“The Hurt Locker” (2008)”Hurt Locker” (2008), directed by Kathryn Bigelow, takes us deep into the intense and hazardous world of a U.S. Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit during the Iraq War. The film centers around Staff Sergeant William James, played by Jeremy Renner, an exceptional but reckless bomb disposal expert whose skills and temperament put him and his team on a treacherous path. Through its immersive storytelling, “Hurt Locker” explores the psychological toll of war, the adrenaline-fueled tension of combat, and the personal struggles faced by those on the frontlines.

Best quotes:

• “The rush of battle is often a potent and lethal addiction, for war is a drug.” – Opening Quote
• “If I’m gonna die, I’m gonna die comfortable.” – Sergeant William James
• “War is a force that gives us meaning.” – Colonel Reed
• “You probably heard we ain’t in the prisoner-takin’ business, we in the bomb diffusin’ business. And cousin, business is a-boomin’.” – Sergeant JT Sanborn
• “Sometimes the thing you love the most is the thing that’ll kill you.” – Sergeant JT Sanborn
• “I’m the guy who does his job. You must be the other guy.” – Sergeant William James

“Jarhead” (2005) Drawing from Anthony Swofford’s memoir, this film offers a uniquely introspective portrayal of the Gulf War. Also, understanding of the psychological toll on soldiers merges in a darkly humorous examination of the monotony, camaraderie, and disillusionment experienced by Marines in the desert.

Best quotes:

• “Every war is different; every war is the same.” – Anthony Swofford
• “Welcome to the suck.” – Staff Sergeant Sykes

The film featured a diverse soundtrack that captured the atmosphere of the Gulf War period, incorporating tracks from artists such as Public Enemy, The Doors, and The Rolling Stones, along with an original score by Thomas Newman.

(Photo: Brandon Webb with SEAL TEAM 3 in Afghanistan, 2001)

Conclusion

From the emotional rollercoaster of post-war readjustment to the adrenaline-pumping chaos of the battlefield, these best military movies across decades captivate audiences with their unyielding action, dark humor, and poignant reflections on the indomitable human spirit. It’s been one hell of a guiding journey, exposing the raw realities and unspoken truths of the military cinematic experience. Strap in and embrace the ride, for these films grip your soul and plunge you headfirst into the heart-pounding chaos and unwavering camaraderie that define the warrior ethos. So take a breath, my friend, and remember the sacrifices, the triumphs, and the unbreakable bonds forged amidst the crucible of war. This is more than mere entertainment; it’s a tribute to those who have faced the crucible and emerged as legends. Keep that fire burning within and honor the heroes who walked before us.

Author’s Note: If you like action, check out our thriller series. 

Haunted by the death of his best friend and hunted by the FBI for war crimes he didn’t commit, Finn lands on an island paradise that turns into his own personal hell in this gripping follow-up to Steel Fear and Cold Fear—from the New York Times bestselling writing team Webb & Mann. Buy it now.