“Kandahar” was released in 2023, just a few months after the Taliban took control of Afghanistan. The film’s message about the dangers of war and the importance of freedom is especially timely. Butler gives a strong performance as a CIA agent who must race against time to escape Afghanistan. He brings a sense of urgency and desperation to the role, and he is believable as both a soldier and a father. If you’ve already watched “Kandahar,” and want to see more movies like it, here are the movies we recommend you watch.
1. American Sniper (2014)
“American Sniper” received critical acclaim for its intense and powerful portrayal of the realities of warfare, as well as for Bradley Cooper’s nuanced and unforgettable performance as Chris Kyle. The film also garnered controversy for allegedly glorifying or justifying the war, as well as for portraying Iraqis in a negative light.
The film depicts the life of Chris Kyle, from his early years as a rodeo cowboy in Texas to his time as a sniper in the Iraq War. During his time in Iraq, Kyle becomes known as the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history with a total of 160 confirmed kills. However, his success on the battlefield takes a heavy toll on him both physically and mentally, causing him to struggle with PTSD and strained relationships with his family.
2. 12 Strong (2018)
“12 Strong” is a powerful and emotionally resonant tribute to the brave men and women who risked their lives to serve their country in Afghanistan. It is a testament to the courage and determination of the soldiers who fought in one of the most challenging and significant military campaigns in recent history.
Directed by Nicolai Fuglsig and starring Chris Hemsworth, Michael Shannon, and Michael Peña. The movie begins with the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, and the subsequent decision by the U.S. government to launch a military response in Afghanistan. Captain Mitch Nelson (Chris Hemsworth) is a Green Beret who must lead his team of twelve soldiers into battle against the Taliban, despite having no combat experience himself.
3. Honorable Mention: Black Hawk Down (2001)
“Black Hawk Down” is a gritty and realistic portrayal of the horrors of war, especially when it comes to the effects on both soldiers and civilians. The film does not shy away from showing the graphic violence and death that occur during the battle, nor does it hesitate to show the psychological toll that war takes on those who participate.
Directed by Ridley Scott, based on the non-fiction book of the same name by Mark Bowden. It follows a group of U.S. Army Rangers and elite Delta Force soldiers who are sent into Mogadishu to capture key lieutenants of the Somali warlord Mohamed Farrah Aidid. However, their mission quickly goes awry, as their helicopters are shot down and they become trapped behind enemy lines in the hostile city.
4. Extraction (2020)
“Extraction” is a solid entry in the action-thriller genre, boasting impressive visual effects and an engaging lead performance from Chris Hemsworth. The film features some stunning action sequences, including a memorable 12-minute long take that immerses the viewer in the heat of battle. Chris Hemsworth delivers a strong performance as Tyler Rake, showcasing his physicality and charisma in equal measure.
Directed by Sam Hargrave and starring Chris Hemsworth, Rudhraksh Jaiswal, and Randeep Hooda. It follows Tyler Rake (Chris Hemsworth), a black-market mercenary who is hired to rescue the kidnapped son of an international crime lord from the clutches of a rival gang in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
5. Triple Frontier (2019)
directed by J.C. Chandor, the story follows a group of former Special Forces operatives who reunite to plan a heist in South America.
“Triple Frontier” is an enjoyable and exciting adventure-thriller that will appeal to fans of heist films and action movies. While it may not break any new ground in terms of storytelling or character development, it is a well-crafted and entertaining ride with plenty of thrills and suspense.
6. Turtles Can Fly (2004)
The movie is set in Iraqi Kurdistan just before the United States launched the Iraq War and follows the struggles of a young boy named Satellite (Soran Ebrahim) and his fellow refugees.
“Turtles Can Fly” has been lauded for its realistic portrayal of the experiences of ordinary people living through wartime, as well as its nuanced exploration of themes such as hope, trauma, and resilience. The film showcases the talents of its young cast, particularly Soran Ebrahim as Satellite, whose charismatic and gutsy performance is both heart-warming and heartbreaking.
7. War Machine (2017)
“War Machine” is a thought-provoking and entertaining satire that provides a critical examination of the Afghanistan War and American foreign policy in general. While it may not be an easy watch, the film offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of modern warfare and the challenges faced by those who try to bring it to an end.
The story is loosely based on the nonfiction book “The Operators” by Michael Hastings and follows the events of the Afghanistan War. The film centers around General Glen McMahon (Brad Pitt), a charismatic but unconventional military leader who is tasked with bringing an end to the war in Afghanistan. McMahon is determined to win the hearts and minds of the Afghan people, but his approach to the conflict clashes with the political realities back in Washington D.C.