World War I took place between 1914 to 1918, which was over 100 years ago. Several films have been created in memory of this historical event over the years since the end of this gruesome war. Many are in black and white, as they were created many years ago, while more recent films take advantage of modern technology to recreate various events.
This list compiles the best World War I movies to be released as users on IMDb have rated them based on their personal preferences. The films cover a variety of events throughout the war and help to give new meaning to these historical events. Keep reading to learn about the 10 best World War I epics as they are ranked by IMDb!
The Dawn Patrol, 1938 (7.5)
This film was released back in 1938 and follows two veteran pilots, Courtney and Scott, as they watch new pilots arrive and die every day. The casualty rate is unimaginable for this French squadron and viewers experience a variety of emotions as the film takes them on a journey. It was given a rating of 7.5 from IMDb due to the superior acting performances and the excellent layout of the scenes.
Wings, 1927 (7.5)
This film follows to men who become fighter pilots and fight to win the love of the same woman, named Sylvia. The pair come from different social classes, and Sylvia’s heart already belongs to one of the men, but this doesn’t stop her from leading on the other. The boys fight throughout the film and eventually learn to work together which is why this film was given a rating of 7.5 on IMDb.
Sergeant York, 1941 (7.7)
This is loosely based on the true story of Alvin York, an American who was originally a conscientious objector when he was drafted for the war. This reasoning to avoid service was denied and he was faced with the dilemma to kill or be killed.
It was given a rating of 7.7 on IMDb after he saved the lives of many after capturing several Germans during his service.
The African Queen, 1951 (7.7)
When World War I breaks out, a British reverend on a mission in Africa is killed by fever after German troops destroy his things and beat him. The reverend’s sister must find a way home and hops aboard a steamboat which she is determined to use to help in the war effort.
She outfits the boat with a torpedo to take out a German warship and faces several other perils along the way. IMDb users gave it a rating of 7.7 as they were taken on different sort of adventure in this World War I film.
Johnny Got His Gun, 1971 (7.9)
This film follows the journey of an American soldier who finds himself blind, deaf, and missing limbs after an artillery shell attack. He lies in a hospital bed unable to move as he desperately tries to discover if he is awake or dreaming. IMDb users gave it a rating of 7.9 as viewers were transported into the body of a man who was stuck inside of his own mind.
The Big Parade, 1925 (7.9)
This film follows the journey of a wealthy young man who enlists in the war after falling for the propaganda the United States released after they entered. He makes friends with a few working-class soldiers and falls in love with a Frenchwoman.
This film was given a rating of 7.9 on IMDb as viewers watched the man change as the war altered his own perspectives.
All Quiet On The Western Front, 1930 (8.0)
This film is based on a German novel that follows a group of German boys who enlist in the war. It showcases the tragedies they experience as their concept of morality is questioned as they watch bodies fall around them.
Unlike other films, it focuses on the feelings of the soldiers as their perception of war is changed, rather than the telling of a particular battle. IMDb users gave it a rating of 8.0 as fans fell in love with the anti-war statements shared with viewers throughout the film.
Lawrence Of Arabia, 1962 (8.3)
T.E. Lawrence is the main character in this film who has been given a variety of titles over the years. It shows flashbacks of his adventures through the war as he goes on a journey that eventually puts him at the head of an army that aids in destroying the power of the Ottoman Empire.
It was given a rating of 8.3 on IMDb and fans love this alternate view of the war that focuses on other parts of the world during this tumultuous time.
1917, 2019 (8.3)
This film was just released in 2019 that is loosely based on the true story of two soldiers who race into enemy territory to deliver a message. It is filled with suspense and the camerawork helps viewers feel like they are a part of the action. IMDb users gave this film a rating of 8.3 for the acting and the amazing shots that show what it was like for these soldiers during this war.
Paths Of Glory, 1957 (8.4)
This film is set in 1916 and follows the battle of the French and Germans in the style of trench warfare. It uncovers the truth behind some orders that show no regard for the number of casualties and the consequences for soldiers who refuse to obey. It was given a rating of 8.4 on IMDb, which puts it at the top of this list, as soldiers are forced to make decisions about their impossible orders.
