7 Best War Documentaries on Hulu Right Now

Discovering the best war documentaries on Hulu can provide unique insights into historic and modern-day conflicts. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious, these documentaries offer compelling storytelling and factual depth. Dive into these top picks and experience powerful narratives that will leave a lasting impression.

1. The Vietnam War

IMDb Score: 9.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%

Runtime: 1080 minutes

This exhaustive documentary series by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick is an immersive exploration of the Vietnam War, delving into every aspect of the conflict. With previously unseen footage and testimony from those who lived through the events, it paints an intricate picture of a deeply divisive chapter in history. It’s a long series, sure, but every minute is packed with poignant revelations and stories of resilience.

2. Restrepo

IMDb Score: 7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%

Runtime: 93 minutes

“Restrepo” takes you straight into the heart of Afghanistan with a platoon of U.S. soldiers. This gripping documentary, co-directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, offers an unfiltered look at the daily reality of modern warfare. With its raw and immersive approach, it captures both the heroics and the harrowing challenges faced by soldiers, leaving viewers with a deep respect for their courage.

3. They Shall Not Grow Old

IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100%

Runtime: 99 minutes

Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old” brings World War I soldiers back to life with astonishingly restored footage. By adding color and sound to century-old clips, this documentary offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of soldiers. It’s a mesmerizing experience that humanizes history, making it accessible to modern audiences and ensuring these stories of bravery are never forgotten.

4. For Sama

IMDb Score: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 99%

Runtime: 100 minutes

“For Sama” is a deeply personal and emotional journey through the Syrian civil war. Told from the perspective of Waad Al-Kateab, a young mother, and filmmaker, it provides a raw, eyewitness account of living through conflict. Her gripping narrative, combined with haunting visuals, captures the essence of war’s impact on families and communities. It’s heart-wrenching yet incredibly enlightening.

5. The Fog of War

IMDb Score: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 98%

Runtime: 107 minutes

“The Fog of War” features former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara’s candid reflections on the complexities of war and decision-making. Directed by Errol Morris, this Oscar-winning documentary is a fascinating insight into the mind of one of the key figures of the 20th century. The film’s philosophical undertones and McNamara’s introspection make it a compelling watch.

6. Cartel Land

IMDb Score: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%

Runtime: 100 minutes

“Cartel Land” dives into the gritty reality of the drug war on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. Directed by Matthew Heineman, the documentary follows two vigilante groups as they battle cartels. It’s tense, gripping, and provides a shocking look at the societal impact of the drug trade. The film delivers a profound understanding of the human cost of this ongoing conflict.

7. Generation Kill

IMDb Score: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

Runtime: 420 minutes

While technically a mini-series rather than a documentary, “Generation Kill” offers an authentic portrayal of the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Based on the book by Rolling Stone journalist Evan Wright, it follows the Marines of the First Recon Battalion. With its realistic depiction of modern warfare, it’s an enthralling watch that captures the chaos and camaraderie of military life.