TV

5 Best Period Dramas About World War II to Stream on Netflix, Disney+ & Amazon Prime

5 Best Period Dramas About World War II to Stream on Netflix, Disney+ & Amazon Prime
Image credit: HBO, BBC One

The best titles to show the duality of war.

There are many period dramas and historical shows that cover the events of the most devastating war the world has ever seen. Of course, you cannot take everything you see in a show like this as the truth, but you can take a few moments that catch your attention and make an effort to educate yourself a bit more.

If you find yourself fascinated by the 1940s and in awe of the bravery shown by the soldiers, here are 5 of the best WWII TV series to watch:

Band of Brothers (Netflix )

Based on the book of the same name by historian Stephen E. Ambrose and created by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, the Band of Brothers had no chance of being anything but a success. This 11-episode story captures the events that took place during WWII with the "Easy" Company, also known as the 2nd Battalion of the 101st Airborne Division.

The Pacific (Netflix)

Another miniseries, this time focusing on the battle of the U.S. Marines against a determined Japanese force on Okinawa that would rather die than surrender. The heroes are faced with the terrible moral choice of losing the battle and possibly losing their own lives, or sacrificing the lives of Okinawan civilians.

World On Fire (Disney Plus)

Produced by BBC One, this drama shows the Second World War from the perspective of civilians caught up in the devastating events in different parts of Europe. The show is really hard to watch at times, but gives a clear perspective on how differently the war affected Europe compared to the United States.

Das Boot (Amazon Prime Video )

If you're sure you've heard the title before, it's because this 2018 television series is a sequel to the 1981 movie of the same name. The show's narrative is divided into two parts: one focuses on the events aboard U-612k, and the other takes viewers to the French city of La Rochelle to cover the actions of the land resistance.

SAS: Rogue Heroes (Amazon Prime Video)

Rogue Heroes just premiered in 2022 and claims to be "mostly true" to the origins of the British Army's Special Air Service (SAS). Founded in a Cairo hospital in 1941, the unit went on to carry out the most dangerous missions deep behind enemy lines. If you care little for historical accuracy but enjoy action, you will not be disappointed.