The Greatest War Movies Ever Made, According to a Retired General

In this episode of The Bulwark, culture editor Sonny Bunch interviews retired General Mark Hurtling about his curated list of the greatest war films ever made, emphasizing their value not just as entertainment but as tools for leadership and strategic learning. Hurtling, drawing from his military experience, frames war movies as part of the 'three-legged stool' of military education—alongside formal training and operational experience—arguing that they offer profound insights into personality dynamics, strategic planning, and the human cost of war. He walks through his top 12 picks, from the Civil War epic Gettysburg to the modern intelligence thriller Zero Dark Thirty, highlighting how each film reveals critical lessons about command, ego, risk, and the often-fragile link between tactical excellence and strategic success. The conversation underscores a recurring theme: even the most heroic small-unit leadership can fail without coherent grand strategy and political clarity. Hurtling’s analysis reveals a deeper cultural and institutional critique: many war films, especially those from the post-Vietnam and Iraq/Afghanistan eras, accurately portray the grit and competence of soldiers but often fail to address the larger strategic failures that undermine their sacrifices. He points to films like A Bridge Too Far and Restrepo as cautionary tales where brilliant tactical execution couldn't overcome flawed or overly optimistic strategic planning. The episode concludes with a haunting reflection on Courage Under Fire, which explores the tragic consequences of friendly fire and the moral weight of command decisions. Together, these films serve as both tribute and warning, urging leaders—military and civilian alike—to prioritize not just bravery, but wisdom, humility, and strategic coherence.