Are you a fan of war documentaries like Restrepo? If so, you’re in for a treat. Restrepo is a gripping war documentary that immerses viewers in the harrowing experiences of soldiers in Afghanistan. Here are 18 similar movies that capture the raw, unfiltered realities of war.
1. Korengal
Korengal is the sequel to Restrepo, continuing the story of the soldiers stationed in Afghanistan’s Korengal Valley. Directed by Sebastian Junger, this documentary delves deeper into the emotional and psychological toll of war on the soldiers.
2. The Hornet’s Nest
The Hornet’s Nest follows two journalists embedded with U.S. troops in Afghanistan. The film, directed by David Salzberg and Christian Tureaud, offers a gripping and personal look at combat through the lens of those who live it.
3. Armadillo
Armadillo is a Danish documentary that follows a group of soldiers deployed to Afghanistan. Directed by Janus Metz, the film provides an unflinching look at the daily lives and struggles of these soldiers.
4. Hell and Back Again
Directed by Danfung Dennis, Hell and Back Again juxtaposes the experiences of a Marine sergeant in Afghanistan with his return to civilian life. The film stars Sergeant Nathan Harris and his wife, Ashley.
5. Combat Obscura
Combat Obscura is a raw and unfiltered documentary shot by Marine Corps videographer Miles Lagoze. It offers a candid look at the daily lives of Marines in Afghanistan, capturing moments that are often left out of official military footage.
6. Restrepo: Afghan Outpost
This National Geographic documentary provides an in-depth look at the same platoon featured in Restrepo. It offers additional perspectives and footage not seen in the original film.
7. The Tillman Story
Directed by Amir Bar-Lev, The Tillman Story explores the life and controversial death of NFL player-turned-soldier Pat Tillman. The film examines the military cover-up that followed his death in Afghanistan.
8. No End in Sight
No End in Sight is a documentary that critiques the handling of the Iraq War. Directed by Charles Ferguson, the film features interviews with high-ranking officials and provides a detailed analysis of the war’s mismanagement.
9. Taxi to the Dark Side
Directed by Alex Gibney, Taxi to the Dark Side investigates the U.S. government’s use of torture in the War on Terror. The film focuses on the story of an Afghan taxi driver who died in U.S. custody.
10. Gunner Palace
Gunner Palace follows the lives of American soldiers stationed in a bombed-out palace in Baghdad. Directed by Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker, the film captures the surreal and often chaotic nature of the soldiers’ experiences.
11. The Fog of War
Directed by Errol Morris, The Fog of War is a documentary about the complexities of war, featuring interviews with former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara. The film delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced during wartime.
12. Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience
This documentary, directed by Richard E. Robbins, explores the experiences of soldiers through their own writings. The film features readings by actors such as Robert Duvall and Beau Bridges.
13. Dirty Wars
Dirty Wars, directed by Rick Rowley, follows investigative journalist Jeremy Scahill as he uncovers the hidden truths behind America’s covert wars. The film exposes the dark side of U.S. military operations around the globe.
14. The Invisible War
Directed by Kirby Dick, The Invisible War investigates the epidemic of sexual assault within the U.S. military. The film features interviews with survivors and examines the systemic issues that allow such crimes to persist.
15. Why We Fight
Why We Fight, directed by Eugene Jarecki, is a documentary that explores the reasons behind America’s involvement in wars. The film features interviews with military personnel, politicians, and historians.
16. The War Tapes
Directed by Deborah Scranton, The War Tapes is a documentary filmed by soldiers themselves. The film provides a personal and unfiltered look at the experiences of soldiers deployed in Iraq.
17. Restrepo: One Platoon, One Valley, One Year
This documentary is another in-depth look at the platoon featured in Restrepo, offering additional footage and interviews. Directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, the film continues to explore the harsh realities of war.
18. The Kill Team
Directed by Dan Krauss, The Kill Team is a documentary that examines the moral complexities faced by soldiers in Afghanistan. The film focuses on a group of soldiers involved in the killing of innocent civilians and the subsequent cover-up.
