Today is Veteran’s Day so here is a look at some related films. For this list I’ve chosen films that focus less on combat and more the lives of soldiers after the war.
The Best Years of Our Lives
Three World War II veterans return home and struggle to adjust to civilian life.
Born on the Fourth of July
Directed by Oliver Stone, this film tells the true story of Ron Kovic, a Vietnam veteran who became a major figure in the anti-war movement.
Coming Home
Hal Ashby’s film focuses on a woman in a love triangle between her husband and a soldier who suffered a paralyzing combat injury.
Dead Presidents
An African American Vietnam veteran adjusts to life at home but economic desperation pushes him toward a life of crime.
The Deer Hunter
This film examines the way the experiences of the Vietnam War impacted people from a small industrial town.
The Great Santini
Based on the novel by Pat Conroy, this film focuses on a military family with a domineering father played by Robert Duvall.
The Hurt Locker
One of the few films about the war in Iraq to actually penetrate the public consciousness, The Hurt Locker tells the story of a bomb squad and the impact of a culture of war on the individual.
The Messenger
A wounded soldier is assigned to a Casualty Notification Team and is partnered with an experienced soldier who instructs him on the procedures of his job.
Restrepo
A documentary about American soldiers stationed in the Korengal Valley in Afghanistan. The film includes interviews with the solders as they reflect on their service.
Stop Loss
A veteran of the Iraq war completes his tour of duty but is forced into re-enlisting. This film is notable since actors have become stars including Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Channing Tatum.