The 15 Best Aerial War Movies Ever Made

Summary

• Aerial war movies capture the essence of air warfare through striking visuals and touching stories of bravery and sacrifice.
• Works like
  Twelve O’Clock High
  and
  The Memphis Belle
  blend historical accuracy with cinematic flair, standing as exemplary war movies.
• Films such as
  Red Tails
  ,
  Iron Eagle
  , and
  Flyboys
  offer varied perspectives on aerial combat, combining action with historical significance.

The world of aerial war movies offers moviegoers a good portrayal of the skies’ battles and the feats of bravery that define aerial combat. From the early days of aviation to the modern era, these films capture the essence of air warfare with striking visuals and touching stories. They portray the skill, strategy, and courage required to master flight in the heat of conflict. Often set in historical events that shaped the course of history, movies like Dunkirk stand as some of the best war movies of all time.

As the genre has evolved, it has provided audiences with a range of stories that blend historical accuracy with cinematic flair, with films like Twelve O’Clock High being acknowledged as one of the most accurate WW2 movies. The most notable films in this category have managed to convey the complexity of air battles while also presenting the human element behind the scenes. Whether focusing on actual historical events or fictionalized accounts, these movies are a significant part of war cinema.

You are watching: The 15 Best Aerial War Movies Ever Made

Movie	Release Year
The Memphis Belle: A Story of a Flying Fortress	1944
The Final Countdown	1980
Midway	2019
Red Tails	2012
Red Baron	2008
Squadron 303	2018
Pearl Harbor	2001
Iron Eagle	1986
Twelve O’Clock High	1949
Les Chevaliers du Ciel	2005
Flyboys	2006
Dunkirk	2017
The Tuskegee Airmen	1955
Top Gun: Maverick	2022
Tora! Tora! Tora!	1970

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15 The Memphis Belle: A Story of a Flying Fortress (1944)

A True Story Of Courage And Perseverance

A standout WWII documentary is Memphis Belle. Directed by William Wyler, the film shows the final bombing mission of the Boeing B-17 bomber Memphis Belle. It combines real combat footage with later-added sound, capturing a mission against submarine pens in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The documentary provides an inside look at the crew’s experience. The footage’s transition from ordinary scenes to combat also helps make a contrast between the calm before the storm and the intense reality of battle.

Viewers can grasp the true nature of the mission, seeing real people and events come to life beyond just numbers and facts.

Though the film has a narrator who frames the mission within a propaganda context, it remains a compelling portrayal of courage and heroism. By turning down the sound, viewers can grasp the true nature of the mission, seeing real people and events come to life beyond just numbers and facts. The aerial sequences and the film’s use of dream-like imagery make Memphis Belle a moving and valuable document of WWII history, reflecting the power of both art and war.

Memphis Belle (1990) PG-13DramaWarAction

During World War II, the young crew of the B-17 bomber “Memphis Belle” is tasked with one final mission before they can return home: bomb a heavily defended German city. As they face the terrifying reality of aerial combat, the crew is tested by the imminent danger of their objective.

Director Michael Caton-Jones Release Date October 12, 1990 Studio(s) Warner Bros Pictures , County Natwest Ventures , Enigma Pictures , Fujisankei Communication Group , British Satellite Broadcasting , BSB Writers Monte Merrick Cast Matthew Modine , Eric Stoltz , Tate Donovan , D.B. Sweeney Runtime 107 minutes Main Genre Drama Expand

14 Red Tails (2012)

A Less Popular Version Of The Tuskegee Airmen’s Story

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Red Tails is an action-adventure movie based on the true events of the Tuskegee Airmen during World War II. The movie follows the brave actions of African American fighter pilots who battled for their country despite the unjust racial prejudice they faced, proving themselves in aerial battles over Europe in their signature red-tailed aircraft.

Director George Lucas Cast Cuba Gooding Jr , Bryan Cranston , David Oyelowo

The film aimed to shine some light on the significant achievements and racial challenges faced by the pioneering African American pilots during World War II. With George Lucas’s name attached the expectations were high. Despite its ambitious scope, the film struggled with general audiences due to its lackluster script and missed opportunities to fully explain the emotional weight of the Tuskegee Airmen’s story, especially compared to other films. The aerial combat scenes, while occasionally visually engaging, did not deliver the intensity or realism that could have elevated the film completely.

While Red Tails did manage to include many moments of tension, its portrayal of their struggles and victories felt shallow. However, the strong performances by some cast members and the film’s efforts to depict historical events make it feel more like a polished, Disney-style version of a significant story, providing a very different take on these types of movies.

13 Iron Eagle (1986)

An Action-Packed Military Rescue Mission

Iron Eagle PG-13ActionThrillerWar Where to Watch

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*Availability in US Director Sidney J. Furie Cast Louis Gossett Jr. , Jason Gedrick , David Suchet , Larry B. Scott , Caroline Lagerfelt , Jerry Levine Release Date January 17, 1986 Writers Kevin Elders , Sidney J. Furie Runtime 117 minutes Main Genre Action Expand

Iron Eagle is one of the best aerial war movies, even though it’s not exactly realistic. The movie tells the story of a teenager named Doug, who, with the help of an experienced jet pilot, steals two F-16 fighters to rescue his father from another country. The plot is completely over-the-top and filled with impossible scenes, but that’s what made it so entertaining. The film is full of 1980s charm, with hilarious dialogue, outrageous hairstyles, and a great soundtrack featuring bands like Queen and Twisted Sister. Watching Doug and his friends pull off their mission was both funny and intense..

While it’s not as famous as other entries from the same year, Iron Eagle has a special place in movie history. It’s part of the era’s trend of kids taking on adult situations, similar to movies like E.T. and Real Genius. The movie may have continuity errors and impossible scenes, but that’s part of its charm. The acting was solid, with Jason Gedrick as Doug and Louis Gossett Jr. as Col. ‘Swede’ Larsen. This film is for anyone who enjoys dated, action-packed movies. Regardless of its flaws, Iron Eagle remains an entertaining film that captures the spirit of the ’80s.

12 Pearl Harbor (2001)

Hollywood’s Dramatic Take On A Historic Tragedy

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Two best friends and pilots find themselves caught in a love triangle with a dedicated nurse just as the catastrophic attack on Pearl Harbor plunges America into war. The events of December 7 dramatically change their lives, and the film tells a dramatized tale set during the event that marked the United States’ entry into World War II.

Director Michael Bay Release Date May 25, 2001 Studio(s) Touchstone Pictures , Jerry Bruckheimer Films Distributor(s) Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures Writers Randall Wallace Cast Ben Affleck , Josh Hartnett , Kate Beckinsale , Cuba Gooding Jr. , Tom Sizemore , Jon Voight , Colm Feore , Alec Baldwin Runtime 183 minutes Main Genre Drama Expand

Pearl Harbor, one of the best movies directed by Michael Bay, was an ambitious attempt to dramatize the infamous 1941 attack the U.S. went through during World War II. Known for his flair for explosive visuals, Bay delivers impressive special effects and a heart-wrenching depiction of the devastation. The film followed two friends, Rafe McCawley and Danny Walker, whose lives are disrupted by a love triangle with nurse Evelyn during the Pearl Harbor attack. The movie is a three-hour depiction of the attack, encapsulating the horrors of that day.

The love triangle, while intended to add feeling, often feels forced and melodramatic, with lines like, “I love you so much it hurts” coming off as clichéd and out of place in a war film. This subplot, combined with Bay’s characteristic focus on spectacle over substance, results in a film that suffers from uneven pacing and an overlong runtime. In the end, Pearl Harbor is a classic that offers a better cinematic look at the attack.

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11 Les Chevaliers du Ciel (2005)

French Pilots In A Tale Of Heroism

At first glance, the French movie Les Chevaliers du Ciel, or Sky Fighters, might seem underwhelming: the plot is somewhat thin, the actors are decent but not outstanding, and it occasionally drags. However, the true strength of the movie lies in its breathtaking aerial cinematography. The film shows flights with such stunning beauty that its shortcomings can be forgiven.

Celebrated for the authentic look of the Mirage 2000-10’s, this French production’s aerial combat brings the high-speed fighter jets to life on screen. The film’s detailed depiction of modern military aviation definitively stands out in the genre. The movie’s aerial shots are a visual feast. The producers captured the artistry of flying in a way that few films have achieved. It’s not just about the aircraft themselves but also the sheer impressiveness of flying. For aviation enthusiasts or anyone interested in flying, these scenes are worth the watch.

10 Squadron 303 (2018)

The Heroic Combat of The Polish Squadron

Squadron 303 might not have had the biggest budget, but it’s definitely a movie worth watching for fans of war films. Even though it sometimes looks a bit rough around the edges, the story and the performances of the actors make up for it. The movie does an amazing job with its flying scenes, using good camera work and sound effects to impress spectators.

The film could have been even better with a bit more polish. The character development, especially of Victoria Brown, feels a bit shallow and not very engaging. There are also some confusing flashbacks and a rushed ending, which might make the story feel incomplete. Despite these issues, Squadron 303 manages to present the true story of the Polish pilots during the Battle of Britain in a way that’s both exciting and educational.

9 The Final Countdown (1980)

Time Travel Meets Naval Warfare

The Final Countdown PGSci-FiActionAdventure

The Final Countdown is a sci-fi war film directed by Don Taylor. It stars Kirk Douglas and Martin Sheen as crew members of the USS Nimitz, a modern nuclear-powered aircraft carrier that mysteriously travels back in time to the day before the attack on Pearl Harbor. The film explores the moral and tactical dilemmas faced by the crew as they grapple with the potential to alter history.

Director Don Taylor Cast Kirk Douglas , Martin Sheen , Katharine Ross , James Farentino , Ron O’Neal , Charles Durning , Victor Mohica , James Coleman Release Date August 1, 1980 Writers Thomas Hunter , Peter Powell , David Ambrose Runtime 103 Minutes Main Genre Sci-Fi Expand

The Final Countdown emerges in the realm of aerial war movies, being a blend of science fiction and military drama. The film’s intriguing premise provides a fresh twist on historical fiction. Despite its somewhat stale reception, the movie excels with its realistic acting, special effects, and dynamic air sequences that depict the intensity of wartime aviation. The film’s commitment to the technicalities of the USS Nimitz and its aircraft enhances its appeal, making it a captivating experience for enthusiasts of both the war and science fiction genres.

Furthermore, the film’s depiction of time-travel adds layers to the movie, contrasting modern technology with an important moment in history. The seamless integration of real naval operations with the speculative elements of time travel demonstrates a rare level of cooperation and authenticity. Even though The Final Countdown may not have the highest ratings, its ability to combine thrilling aerial maneuvers with a thought-provoking plot makes it a memorable entry in the genre.

8 Flyboys (2006)

Fiction And History Collide In World War I

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*Availability in US Director Tony Bill Cast James Franco , Scott Hazell , Mac McDonald , Philip Winchester , Todd Boyce , Karen Ford Release Date September 22, 2006 Runtime 139 minutes Main Genre Action

Flyboys is a straightforward film about American volunteers fighting for the French during World War I. While not as deeply focused on historical accuracy, it effectively captures the adrenaline and excitement of aerial combat, with some special effects added to the flying sequences. James Franco delivers a charismatic character, even if the dialogue gets cheesy at times.

The film excels at showing the highs and lows of its characters, exhibiting camaraderie and bravery among American volunteer pilots.

Although Flyboys is not as epic as other war dramas, it provides an engaging look at the Lafayette Escadrille’s valor and sacrifices. The film excels at showing the highs and lows of its characters, exhibiting camaraderie and bravery among American volunteer pilots who fought for France before the U.S. entered World War I. While it may not leave audiences changed, its action-packed scenes make it an entertaining popcorn flick with a touch of historical insight.

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7 The Red Baron (2008)

A German Perspective On World War I Air Combat

Set during World War I, The Red Baron offers a new take on aerial warfare. Despite some technical imperfections, the film impresses with its meticulous production design. The movie portrays the iconic Red Baron, played by Matthias Schweighöfer, as a character who is going through the brutal realities of war. While it can veer from historical accuracy at times, the film delivers a strong narrative and features striking aerial combat scenes that bring the era’s biplanes to life.

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The film is distinguished by its attempt to present a nuanced view of its German characters, countering typical stereotypes of wartime brutality. The personal struggles and ethical dilemmas faced by the Baron highlight the human side of war, though historical liberties are taken to enhance the dramatic effect.

6 Midway (1976)

Strategic Decisions In The Pacific Theater

Midway (1976) PGActionDramaHistoryWar

Midway is a war film directed by Jack Smight, focusing on the pivotal Battle of Midway during World War II. The film features an ensemble cast, including Charlton Heston, Henry Fonda, and James Coburn, and centers on both the American and Japanese naval strategies. Utilizing actual combat footage, Midway offers a detailed depiction of the events that marked a turning point in the Pacific Theater.

Director Jack Smight Cast Charlton Heston , Henry Fonda , James Coburn , Glenn Ford , Hal Holbrook , Robert Mitchum , Toshiro Mifune , Cliff Robertson Release Date June 18, 1976 Writers Donald S. Sanford Runtime 132 Minutes Main Genre War Expand

Unlike many war films that focus heavily on individual heroics, Midway takes a broader view, showing how high-stakes decisions made by military leaders can turn the tide of war. The film emphasizes the strategic elements of the Battle of Midway, depicting how commanders used limited and sometimes unreliable information to make crucial decisions. This approach turns the battle into a giant chess match, where every move and counter-move can determine the outcome. The focus on strategic decision-making provides a fresh take on how grand battles are won or lost.

Although some of the special effects may seem dated compared to modern standards, the inclusion of real combat footage adds historical depth. Featuring an impressive cast of actors like Henry Fonda and Charlton Heston, the film delivers solid performances that do drive the narrative forward. While not without its flaws, such as a somewhat weak personal subplot, Midway remains a valuable addition to the genre.

5 Twelve O’Clock High (1949)

Leadership Challenges In World War II

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Twelve O’Clock High is a World War II drama centered around General Frank Savage, played by Gregory Peck, who takes charge of a struggling bomber group facing low morale and high casualties. Directed by Henry King, the film explores themes of leadership, resilience, and the psychological toll of war, providing an in-depth look at the challenges faced by the U.S. Army Air Forces during intense aerial combat over Europe.

Director Henry King Cast gregory peck , Hugh Marlowe , Gary Merrill , Millard Mitchell , Dean Jagger , Robert Arthur , Paul Stewart , John Kellogg Release Date December 21, 1949 Writers Sy Bartlett , Beirne Lay Jr. , Henry King Main Genre War

Twelve O’Clock High is considered one of the most accurate World War II movies ever made. The movie tells the story of Colonel Frank Savage, played by Gregory Peck, who is tasked with turning around a bomber group during the war. The film does an excellent job of portraying the intense pressures and psychological tolls on young American pilots and their leaders. Unlike many other war movies, it focuses more on the drama and the characters’ challenges, rather than just the military aspects.

“Daylight precision attacks” are carefully planned strikes made during the day. These attacks are done with great accuracy, aiming to hit specific targets exactly where intended, rather than just general areas.

The use of real WWII footage adds to the film’s sense of realism, and the scenes with Harvey Stovall recalling the story while standing on an abandoned airstrip, gave it a nostalgic-feel. The film’s screenplay, written by Sy Bartlett and Beirne Lay Jr., is rooted in the historical reality of the U.S.’s efforts to prove the effectiveness of daylight precision attacks. The characters are well-developed, and the acting is solid, with Peck and Jagger delivering standout performances. The movie also avoids common war film clichés, focusing instead on the harsh realities of leadership and the sacrifices made by the pilots.

4 Dunkirk (2017)

A Tale Of Survival And Evacuation

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This epic tale of World War II tells the story of soldiers from Belgium, Britain, Canada and France, who are surrounded by the German army, and the dangerous operation that evacuated and saved the lives of thousands.

Director Christopher Nolan Cast Kenneth Branagh , Aneurin Barnard , Mark Rylance , Tom Hardy , James D’Arcy , Jack Lowden , Cillian Murphy , Harry Styles , Fionn Whitehead , Barry Keoghan Release Date July 21, 2017 Studio(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Distributor(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Christopher Nolan Runtime 106 minutes Budget $82.5–150 million Expand

With its realism and immersive storytelling, Dunkirk, one of the best movies directed by Christopher Nolan, used real airplanes and remote-controlled models with a touch of CGI, to craft some of the most realistic scenes of aerial combat. They even had actors sit in two-seater planes with real pilots flying them. This attention to detail makes the flying scenes look so real that viewers could feel the action.

Instead of focusing on one character, it shows the event from three perspectives: on the beach, at sea, and in the air. This helps viewers understand the full scope and the different challenges faced by soldiers, sailors, and pilots. The film’s soundtrack, composed by Hans Zimmer, and the sound design heighten the tension, making spectators hold their breaths.

While some parts might be tough to watch because of the intense scenes of drowning and battles, the movie does an excellent job of showing how the soldiers felt during this battle. Even though it doesn’t have a lot of dialogue, the powerful visuals and sounds make Dunkirk a must-see film.

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3 The Tuskegee Airmen (1995)

Honoring The Pioneers Of The Tuskegee Training Program

The Tuskegee Airmen tells the true story of the first all-Black squadron of fighter pilots who trained in Tuskegee, Alabama. These pilots, known as the “Fighting 99th” and later part of the 332nd Fighter Group, faced intense racial discrimination but still managed to achieve an unparalleled record of not losing a single bomber they escorted during their missions over Germany. The movie depicts their bravery, skill, and the significant problems they overcame, making it a memorable and inspiring film.

The Tuskegee Airmen who spoke about the movie said that the racism they faced in real life was even harsher than what the film shows. They felt that most of the other parts of the movie were accurate.

The film also sheds light on lesser-known events, such as the moment when Lieutenant Gynne Pierson used only his aircraft’s machine guns to sink a German destroyer. This true event is just one example of the feats performed by the Tuskegee Airmen. These pilots’ problems, along with their ultimate triumphs, reveal the importance of their contributions during World War II.

2 Top Gun: Maverick (2022)

A High-Flying Sequel With Modern Flair

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Top Gun: Maverick is the sequel to the 1986 original film starring Tom Cruise as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, a top-tier pilot in the Navy. Thirty years after the original film’s events, Maverick is asked to head up a section of the TOP GUN program to embark on a dangerous mission. Things become personal when the program includes the son of Maverick’s late friend, forcing him to confront his past.

Director Joseph Kosinski Cast Tom Cruise , Miles Teller , Jennifer Connelly , Val Kilmer , Jay Ellis , Jon Hamm , Bashir Salahuddin , Charles Parnell , Lewis Pullman , Glen Powell , Monica Barbaro , Ed Harris Release Date May 27, 2022 Writers Ashley Miller , Justin Marks , Peter Craig , Zack Stentz Runtime 130 Minutes Main Genre Action Expand

When it hit theaters, Top Gun: Maverick caught everyone by surprise with its incredible flying scenes and intense action. Many people had mediocre expectations because it’s hard to make a successful sequel to an older classic like the original. From the very beginning, the movie had viewers both entertained and on the edge of their seats. The flying scenes were so realistic and thrilling that the audience felt as if they were in the cockpit with Maverick themselves.

One of the best things about Top Gun: Maverick is the details that prove Tom Cruise’s obsession with realistic flight scenes paid off. The 1986 film was already a hit with its flying scenes and unforgettable characters, but Maverick takes it to a whole new level. Director Tony Scott originally wanted Top Gun: Maverick to be a serious war film, with pilots always wearing their oxygen masks for realism.

Still, the producers pushed for a more entertaining movie. This time, the filmmakers stuck to practical effects instead of relying on green screens, putting the cast in real F-18 jets. The story has high stakes and plenty of meaning, with many callbacks to the original that fans will love.

1 Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970)

A Dramatic Reenactment Of Pearl Harbor

One of the best war movies ever made is Tora! Tora! Tora! It tells the story of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor with great attention to detail. The film shows how the Japanese pilots trained for the attack, flying over mountains and dropping torpedoes just like they did in real life. They even use the exact wording from historical communications and quotes. The movie’s realistic portrayal helps viewers understand the historical events and the reasons behind them, making it both educational and engaging.

“Tora! Tora! Tora!” is a Japanese phrase that translates to “Tiger! Tiger! Tiger!” in English. This was the code word used by Japanese forces during the attack on Pearl Harbor to signal that their surprise attack had begun.

Another reason Tora! Tora! Tora! stands out is its balanced perspective, showing the story from both the Japanese and American sides. The Japanese parts were directed by Japanese filmmakers, and the American parts by American filmmakers, giving a real feel to both viewpoints. This dual perspective helps viewers see the full picture of what led to the attack on Pearl Harbor. While the special effects might seem outdated compared to modern movies, the film’s focus on historical accuracy makes it a must-watch.

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