The Best Movies About Nazis & Nazi Germany
The most volatile time period in modern history was the period of Nazi reign in Germany and the Holocaust. Stories from the Jews that managed to survive these events from Nazi Germany have left us inspired, awed and shocked us at what truly took place during the Adolf Hitler regime. Many good films have been made based on stories about the Nazis, but what are the best movies about Nazis? Vote up the best films below and see where your favorites rank!
The movies on this list feature Nazis in one way or another. Most of these flicks are based on true stories that are almost too horrific to be imagined. Others take a fictional approach but still present a great storyline, and will still leave you in tears at the end. There are a number of movies on this list that have become some of the most classic in movie history!
This list features the best movies about Nazis including, The Pianist, Where Eagles Dare, The Great Escape, Letters from Iwo Jima, Schindler’s List, Soldier of Orange, Kelley’s Heroes, Saving Private Ryan, and Hangmen Also Die. Vote up the best films about Nazis below or add one that is truly great but not already on the list.
- Liam Neeson, Ben Kingsley, Ralph Fiennes
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
In this powerful and emotional film, Liam Neeson portrays Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saves the lives of over a thousand Polish Jews during the Holocaust by employing them in his factories. The movie presents a striking depiction of human resilience and compassion amidst the horrors of war and genocide. Directed by Steven Spielberg, it received numerous accolades and remains one of the most significant films about fighting against Nazis.
- Alexandra Lara, Bruno Ganz, Thomas Kretschmann
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Oliver Hirschbiegel
Set during the final days of Adolf Hitler's rule, this German drama focuses on the perspective of Hitler's secretary, Traudl Junge, as played by Alexandra Maria Lara. The film provides an in-depth look at the collapse of the Third Reich from within Hitler's bunker while also exploring various forms of resistance among its members. Bruno Ganz delivers a chilling portrayal of Hitler in his last moments, making this movie a must-watch for those interested in World War II history.
- Adrien Brody, Thomas Kretschmann, Frank Finlay
- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Roman Polanski
This critically acclaimed biographical drama tells the story of Władysław Szpilman, a Polish-Jewish pianist who struggles to survive during World War II. Adrien Brody delivers an unforgettable performance as Szpilman, showcasing both his immense talent as a musician and his will to live amidst the Nazi occupation of Warsaw. Directed by Roman Polanski, it is both heartbreaking and inspiring tale that demonstrates the power of human resilience in times of darkness.
- Jürgen Prochnow, Herbert Grönemeyer, Uwe Ochsenknecht
- Released: 1982
- Directed by: Wolfgang Petersen
Das Boot provides an intense look into life aboard a German U-boat during World War II through the eyes of its crew members struggling against Allied forces and their own fears. This gripping war drama explores themes such as loyalty, duty, and camaraderie amongst men faced with isolation and constant danger while battling enemies above water. Directed by Wolfgang Petersen, it remains one of the most authentic depictions of naval warfare ever put on screen.
- Tom Hanks, Edward Burns, Tom Sizemore
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
Directed by Steven Spielberg and starring Tom Hanks, this epic World War II drama revolves around a group of American soldiers on a mission to save one man, Private James Ryan (Matt Damon), whose brothers have all been killed in combat. The film's realistic portrayal of battle scenes and its exploration of camaraderie among soldiers emphasizes the bravery and sacrifice required to fight against Nazi forces during World War II.
- Steve McQueen, James Garner, Richard Attenborough
- Released: 1963
- Directed by: John Sturges
This classic war film, directed by John Sturges, follows a group of Allied prisoners of war as they plan and execute an elaborate escape from a German POW camp. Featuring an ensemble cast including Steve McQueen, James Garner, and Richard Attenborough, the story showcases the resourcefulness and determination needed to resist Nazi oppression. Based on real events, it is an inspiring tale that has become one of the most beloved war films in cinema history.