The Best War Movies of John Wayne
AMC Movie List

The Best War Movies of John Wayne

Which movie wins the battle between the Duke's war flicks?

rank title points votes your vote
1 In Harm's Way
The thinking man's war movie stars an older Wayne as a demoted officer with a chance to redeem himself by taking on the Navy's brass. 2146 3616
2 Sands of Iwo Jima
The Duke is perfect as a tough-talking drill sergeant with a heart of gold, whipping his charges into fighting shape. 2141 3393
3 The Longest Day
Wayne shines among an all-star cast in the original blockbuster about the invasion of Normandy. 2114 3382
4 They Were Expendable
Wayne and John Ford's classic makes clear the cruel truth of war: men who sacrifice everything for a cause greater than themselves. 1915 2991
5 The Green Berets
The Duke's most controversial flick is nothing if not memorable and distills the essence of his philosophy. He directed it, too. 1574 3418
6 Flying Leathernecks
Wayne whips a crew of hotshot fighter pilots into shape for battles. The Duke is as gruff and authoritative as ever. 1507 2611
7 The Fighting Seabees
Sure, it's basically a propaganda flick, but the Duke is in fine form, and the ending will have you reaching for the tissues. 1491 2647
8 Back to Bataan
Wayne plays a guerrilla warrior aiding the Philippines against Japan. His magnetism makes up for the flick's racism. 1324 2446
9 Operation Pacific
War and romance come together as Wayne fights to get a sub into working condition and win back his ex-wife. 973 2367
10 The Wings of Eagles
Directed by John Ford, this pic stars Wayne as a reckless WWI aviator who loses use of his legs and works to get them back. 555 1573
11 The Sea Chase
Wayne goes against type as a German who hates the Third Reich as much as the Americans -- so not that against type. 283 2201