When it comes to streaming gripping narratives set against the backdrop of conflict and heroism, Hulu has a compelling lineup to offer. Among the plethora of genres available on the platform, war-themed shows stand out for their intense drama, historical significance, and powerful performances. This article delves into the 10 best war shows on Hulu, providing a detailed look at each series along with key information like run time, director, release date, and actors. These selections are perfect for those who appreciate the intricacies of military tactics, the poignancy of wartime relationships, and the raw realism of historical battles.
10. The Brave
This military drama focuses on both the complex world of America’s elite undercover military heroes and the personal sacrifices they make. “The Brave” completes our list of the 10 best war shows on Hulu, offering a unique perspective on modern warfare and team dynamics.
- Run Time: 13 episodes, 43 minutes each
- Director: Various, including Brad Anderson
- Release Date: 2017
- Actors: Anne Heche, Mike Vogel, Tate Ellington
9. Vikings
While “Vikings” features the Norse warriors’ expansion across Europe, it is essentially a show about war and conquest. Its epic battles and political intrigue secure its spot among the 10 best war shows on Hulu.
- Run Time: 89 episodes, 45 minutes each
- Director: Various, including Michael Hirst
- Release Date: 2013-2020
- Actors: Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Alexander Ludwig
8. Homeland
“Homeland,” although primarily a political thriller, delves deeply into the personal and national consequences of the War on Terror. Its complex characters and intense plot twists make it a pivotal show among the 10 best war shows on Hulu.
- Run Time: 96 episodes, 55 minutes each
- Director: Various, including Leslie Linka Glatter
- Release Date: 2011-2020
- Actors: Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Damian Lewis
7. Generation Kill
This miniseries offers a raw and candid look at the early stages of the Iraq War, following the Marines of the 1st Reconnaissance Battalion. “Generation Kill” stands out in the 10 best war shows on Hulu for its authentic depiction of military operations and the camaraderie among soldiers.
- Run Time: 7 episodes, 70 minutes each
- Director: Susanna White, Simon Cellan Jones
- Release Date: 2008
- Actors: Alexander Skarsgård, James Ransone, Lee Tergesen
6. 11.22.63
Though not a traditional war show, “11.22.63,” based on Stephen King’s novel, involves a time-travel plot to prevent JFK’s assassination, which indirectly ties into the Cold War period. Its inclusion in the 10 best war shows on Hulu is due to its intricate storytelling that weaves historical figures and events into a gripping narrative about the impacts of war and politics.
- Run Time: 8 episodes, 50 minutes each
- Director: Kevin Macdonald
- Release Date: 2016
- Actors: James Franco, Chris Cooper, Sarah Gadon
5. Das Boot
Based on Lothar-Günther Buchheim’s novel and the subsequent 1981 film, “Das Boot” presents the intense experience aboard a German U-boat during WWII. This gripping series examines both the claustrophobic world of submarine warfare and the complex dynamics on land, making it a strong contender among the 10 best war shows on Hulu.
- Run Time: 18 episodes, 60 minutes each
- Director: Andreas Prochaska
- Release Date: 2018-present
- Actors: Vicky Krieps, Tom Wlaschiha, August Wittgenstein
4. TURN: Washington’s Spies
This series is a riveting historical drama that tells the lesser-known story of America’s first spy ring during the Revolutionary War. “TURN: Washington’s Spies” combines historical events with thrilling espionage, making it a captivating addition to the 10 best war shows on Hulu.
- Run Time: 40 episodes, 45 minutes each
- Director: Various, including Rupert Wyatt and Ed Bianchi
- Release Date: 2014-2017
- Actors: Jamie Bell, Seth Numrich, Daniel Henshall
3. Catch-22
Adapted from Joseph Heller’s seminal novel, “Catch-22” is a satirical war series that explores the absurdity of war through the eyes of Captain John Yossarian, a U.S. Army Air Forces B-25 bombardier during WWII. The show’s mix of dark humor, tragic irony, and the bureaucratic absurdity of war makes it a standout in the 10 best war shows on Hulu.
- Run Time: 6 episodes, 45 minutes each
- Director: George Clooney, Grant Heslov, Ellen Kuras
- Release Date: 2019
- Actors: Christopher Abbott, Kyle Chandler, George Clooney
2. The Pacific
As a companion piece to “Band of Brothers,” “The Pacific” focuses on the U.S. Marine Corps’ actions in the Pacific Theater of WWII. It is a profound exploration of the brutal realities of war and its psychological impacts on soldiers. This series is a must-watch within the 10 best war shows on Hulu for its intense portrayal of combat and personal sacrifice.
- Run Time: 10 episodes, 60 minutes each
- Director: Various, including Tim Van Patten and Jeremy Podeswa
- Release Date: 2010
- Actors: James Badge Dale, Jon Seda, Joseph Mazzello
1. Band of Brothers
“Band of Brothers,” based on Stephen E. Ambrose’s nonfiction book, remains a hallmark among the 10 best war shows on Hulu. This miniseries chronicles the experiences of Easy Company of the US Army 101st Airborne division during WWII. From their rigorous training to the harrowing D-Day landings and beyond, the series is renowned for its deep humanization of soldiers, stunning cinematography, and historical accuracy
- Run Time: 10 episodes, 60 minutes each
- Director: Various, including Phil Alden Robinson and David Frankel
- Release Date: 2001
- Actors: Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Donnie Wahlberg
In conclusion, Hulu’s catalog of war-themed series offers a wide array of perspectives on conflict, ranging from historical to contemporary settings. Each series listed in the 10 best war shows on Hulu provides a unique insight into the courage, sacrifice, and complexities of warfare. These shows not only entertain but also provoke thought about the broader implications of war and its profound impact on human lives. Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of intense drama, Hulu’s selection of war shows is sure to have something that will capture your interest and keep you hooked.
