The best war movies of 2026 showcase a diverse range of stories, settings, and cinematic styles, reflecting both historical conflicts and modern warfare themes. Among the most notable titles are “Primitive War,” “Eleanor the Great,” and “Warfare,” each offering unique perspectives on war and its impact on individuals and societies.
“Primitive War” (2025/2026) is set during the Vietnam War in 1968. It follows a recon unit called Vulture Squad sent into an isolated jungle valley to investigate the fate of a missing Green Beret platoon. The film explores the tension and danger of jungle warfare, emphasizing the psychological and physical challenges faced by soldiers in hostile environments. Directed by Luke Sparke and starring Ryan Kwanten and Tricia Helfer, it combines action with a suspenseful atmosphere[1].
“Eleanor the Great” (2025) takes a different approach by focusing on the aftermath of war through the eyes of Eleanor Morgenstein, a 94-year-old woman who recounts her experiences and losses. This film blends personal storytelling with historical reflection, highlighting the long-term effects of war on individuals and families. Directed by Scarlett Johansson and featuring June Squibb and Chiwetel Ejiofor, it offers a poignant narrative that contrasts with more traditional combat-focused war films[1].
“Warfare” (2025) centers on a platoon of Navy SEALs on a dangerous mission in Ramadi, Iraq. The film delves into the chaos of modern urban warfare and the brotherhood among soldiers. Directed by Alex Garland and Ray Mendoza, with performances by D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai and Will Poulter, it presents a gritty and realistic portrayal of contemporary military operations, emphasizing both action and the emotional toll on service members[1].
Another significant war-related film gaining attention is “One Battle After Another,” which, although released in 2025, continues to influence the war movie landscape into 2026. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, it is set during the Battle of Stalingrad in World War II and has been praised for its epic action sequences and thematic depth. It contrasts with earlier war films like “Enemy at the Gates” by offering a more dynamic and entertaining take on the historical battle, earning a 95% certified fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes[3].
While not strictly a war movie, the fan-made concept trailer for “World War Z 2” (2026) imagines a continuation of the global apocalyptic conflict from the original film. Featuring Brad Pitt and Robert Downey Jr., it portrays a new kind of war against a viral outbreak, blending action, horror, and survival themes on a massive scale. This film reflects the evolving nature of war cinema by incorporating speculative and science fiction elements into the genre[5].
Additionally, Prime Video has acquired “The Grey House,” a Civil War drama starring Kevin Costner and Morgan Freeman, which is expected to contribute to the war movie offerings in 2026. This film promises to explore the American Civil War with a focus on personal and historical drama, adding to the variety of war narratives available to audiences[6].
In summary, the best war movies of 2026 cover a broad spectrum from historical battles like Vietnam and Stalingrad to modern conflicts in Iraq and speculative apocalyptic wars. They combine intense action, emotional storytelling, and diverse perspectives, making the genre rich and varied for viewers interested in the many facets of war and its consequences[1][3][5][6].
