The Fog of War is a gripping documentary that delves deep into the complexities of war through the eyes of former U.S. Secretary of Defense, Robert S. McNamara. If you enjoyed this thought-provoking film, you might be interested in exploring similar documentaries and war dramas that provide profound insights into the human and political aspects of conflict. Here are 18 movies like The Fog of War that are sure to captivate you.

1. The Thin Blue Line

This documentary by Errol Morris investigates the wrongful conviction of Randall Dale Adams for the murder of a police officer. Through meticulous interviews and reenactments, it questions the integrity of the justice system. The film stars Randall Adams and David Harris.

2. Hearts and Minds

A powerful documentary about the Vietnam War, Hearts and Minds examines the cultural and political climate of the era. Directed by Peter Davis, it features interviews with both American and Vietnamese participants, providing a multi-faceted view of the conflict.

3. 13th

Directed by Ava DuVernay, this documentary explores the intersection of race, justice, and mass incarceration in the United States. It features interviews with scholars, activists, and politicians, including Angela Davis and Cory Booker.

4. Restrepo

This documentary follows a platoon of U.S. soldiers deployed in Afghanistan’s Korengal Valley. Directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, it provides an unfiltered look at the realities of war. The film stars the soldiers of the platoon.

5. The Act of Killing

Directed by Joshua Oppenheimer, this documentary challenges former Indonesian death squad leaders to reenact their real-life mass killings in whatever cinematic genres they wish. The film stars Anwar Congo and Herman Koto.

6. Waltz with Bashir

An animated war documentary, Waltz with Bashir follows director Ari Folman as he investigates his own memories of the 1982 Lebanon War. The film features voice acting by Ari Folman and Ron Ben-Yishai.

7. The Gatekeepers

This documentary features interviews with six former heads of the Shin Bet, Israel’s secret service agency. Directed by Dror Moreh, it provides an insider’s perspective on Israel’s security operations and policies.

8. Citizenfour

Directed by Laura Poitras, Citizenfour documents the story of Edward Snowden and his revelations about the NSA’s surveillance programs. The film stars Edward Snowden, Glenn Greenwald, and Laura Poitras herself.

9. The Unknown Known

Another documentary by Errol Morris, this film features an extensive interview with former U.S. Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. It delves into his career and the decisions that led to the Iraq War.

10. No End in Sight

Directed by Charles Ferguson, this documentary critically examines the American occupation of Iraq. It features interviews with high-ranking officials and soldiers, providing a comprehensive look at the war’s failures.

11. The Invisible War

This documentary exposes the epidemic of sexual assault in the U.S. military and the struggles victims face in seeking justice. Directed by Kirby Dick, it features interviews with survivors and advocates.

12. Taxi to the Dark Side

Directed by Alex Gibney, this documentary investigates the use of torture by the U.S. in the War on Terror. It focuses on the case of an Afghan taxi driver who died in U.S. custody. The film features interviews with military personnel and legal experts.

13. The Tillman Story

This documentary tells the story of Pat Tillman, an NFL player who left his career to join the Army and was later killed in Afghanistan. Directed by Amir Bar-Lev, it examines the military cover-up of the circumstances surrounding his death.

14. Standard Operating Procedure

Directed by Errol Morris, this documentary investigates the events of the Abu Ghraib prison scandal. It features interviews with the soldiers involved and explores the broader implications of their actions.

15. Where to Invade Next

In this satirical documentary, Michael Moore “invades” various countries to discover what the U.S. can learn from their social and economic policies. The film features interviews with citizens and officials from several nations.

16. The Fog of War: Eleven Lessons from the Life of Robert S. McNamara

Directed by Errol Morris, this documentary features an extensive interview with Robert S. McNamara, exploring his insights and experiences from his time as U.S. Secretary of Defense. The film provides a nuanced look at the complexities of war and decision-making.

17. The Corporation

This documentary critically examines the modern-day corporation and its role in society. Directed by Mark Achbar and Jennifer Abbott, it features interviews with corporate insiders, critics, and activists.

18. Why We Fight

Directed by Eugene Jarecki, this documentary explores the reasons behind America’s involvement in wars since World War II. It features interviews with military personnel, politicians, and historians, providing a comprehensive look at the military-industrial complex.

These films offer a variety of perspectives on war, justice, and politics, much like The Fog of War. Whether you’re interested in historical events, personal stories, or broader societal critiques, these documentaries and dramas are sure to provide valuable insights.