10 great World War 2 films you’ve probably never seen
From battlefield heroism to the struggles on the home front, the Second World War inspired a wide array of cinematic responses.
These films, whether patriotic, dramatic, or emotionally resonant, reflect the complexity of the war through the lens of 1940s and early 1950s Hollywood.
Whether designed to boost morale or shed light on overlooked stories, these 10 films – some propaganda, others poignant dramas – remain compelling and informative decades later.
10. Bombs Over Burma (1942)
Synopsis: A Chinese schoolteacher working with the Allies uncovers a traitor helping the Japanese in occupied Burma.
Why watch: Featuring Anna May Wong, this film presents a rare Asian female lead in a patriotic resistance role.
Watch: Bombs Over Burma
9. The Navy Way (1944)
Synopsis: A diverse group of new Navy recruits undergo rigorous training as they prepare for war.
Why watch: A morale-boosting film that highlights unity and discipline, offering insight into WWII-era military indoctrination.
Watch: The Navy Way
8. Submarine Alert (1943)
Synopsis: A radio engineer uncovers a Nazi plot to use American broadcasting stations to guide enemy submarines to U.S. convoys.
Why watch: A tense espionage thriller that captures wartime paranoia and the importance of civilian vigilance.
Watch: Submarine Alert
7. Aerial Gunner (1943)
Synopsis: Two rival airmen find redemption and camaraderie as they fight side by side in a bomber squadron.
Why watch: Offers an engaging look at aerial warfare with an emphasis on brotherhood and sacrifice.
Watch: Aerial Gunner
6. Lady from Chungking (1942)
Synopsis: A courageous Chinese resistance leader disrupts Japanese operations while shielding downed American pilots.
Why watch: Anna May Wong shines again in a role that merges action and resistance with emotional strength.
Watch: Lady from Chungking
5. This is the Army (1943)
Synopsis: A musical revue follows soldiers putting on a show to raise money for the war effort, featuring performances by real servicemen.
Why watch: A unique mix of entertainment and patriotism, this Technicolor musical includes a cameo by Ronald Reagan and songs by Irving Berlin.
Watch: This is the Army
4. ‘Gung Ho!’: The Story of Carlson’s Makin Island Raiders (1943)
Synopsis: A dramatised account of a daring U.S. Marine raid against Japanese forces in the Pacific.
Why watch: Packed with action and spirit, this film exemplifies the gung-ho mentality of elite Marine Raiders.
Watch: ‘Gung Ho!’: The Story of Carlson’s Makin Island Raiders
3. Identity Unknown (1945)
Synopsis: A war amnesiac returns home and tries to rediscover who he is — and who he was before the war.
Why watch: A rare post-war narrative that grapples with trauma, memory, and the human cost of combat.
Watch: Identity Unknown
2. Go For Broke! (1951)
Synopsis: Follows the all-Japanese American 442nd Regimental Combat Team as they fight valiantly in Europe.
Why watch: A groundbreaking tribute to the heroism of Nisei soldiers, starring real-life veteran Van Johnson.
Watch: Go For Broke!
1. Three Came Home (1950)
Synopsis: Based on a true story, a British woman and her family are interned in a Japanese prison camp in Borneo.
Why watch: A harrowing and deeply moving portrayal of civilian suffering, anchored by Claudette Colbert’s powerful performance.
Watch: Three Came Home