Delving into the world of military bases through documentaries offers a fascinating insight into the lives of those who serve, the technology they use, and the strategic importance of these installations. This curated list of ten films provides an unparalleled look at military bases around the globe, showcasing their operations, history, and the human stories behind the fences. Whether you're a military enthusiast or simply curious about the unseen aspects of military life, these documentaries are bound to captivate and enlighten.
The Fog of War (2003)
Description: While not exclusively about military bases, this documentary features former US Secretary of Defense Robert S. McNamara discussing his experiences, including the strategic decisions made from military command centers during the Vietnam War.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.
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The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009)
Description: While a fictional comedy, this film is inspired by real events and explores the unconventional military experiments conducted at Fort Bragg, offering a satirical take on military bases and their secretive projects.
Fact: The film is based on the book by Jon Ronson, who investigated the US military's New Age experiments.
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The Invisible War (2012)
Description: This powerful documentary investigates the epidemic of rape within the US military, focusing on the experiences of victims at various military bases and the institutional response to these crimes.
Fact: The film led to significant changes in military policy regarding sexual assault.
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Secrets of the SAS: In Their Own Words (2016)
Description: This documentary series delves into the elite British Special Air Service (SAS), including their training, operations, and the military bases they operate from. It's a rare look at one of the most secretive units in the world.
Fact: The series includes interviews with former SAS members, offering a firsthand account of their experiences.
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The Base (1999)
Description: This documentary explores the operations of a US military base in the Middle East, focusing on the daily lives of soldiers, their interactions with local populations, and the strategic importance of the base.
Fact: The film was shot with the cooperation of the US military, providing a rare insider's perspective.
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The War Room (1993)
Description: This documentary captures the behind-the-scenes operations of Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, including the strategic planning that took place at various military bases used for campaign strategy sessions.
Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.
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The Pentagon Wars (1998)
Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film is based on true events and provides a humorous yet insightful look at the development of military equipment at the Pentagon, offering a glimpse into the bureaucratic side of military bases.
Fact: The film is based on the book by Colonel James G. Burton, who exposed the inefficiencies in military procurement.
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Camp Victory, Afghanistan (2010)
Description: This documentary follows the lives of British soldiers at Camp Bastion in Afghanistan, showcasing the daily challenges, camaraderie, and the impact of military life on their families back home.
Fact: The film was nominated for a BAFTA for Best Factual Series.
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Inside Area 51 (2018)
Description: This documentary takes viewers on an exclusive journey into the most secretive military base in the world, exploring the myths, legends, and the reality of Area 51. It features interviews with former employees and experts who shed light on the base's activities.
Fact: The film was made with the cooperation of several former Area 51 workers, providing unprecedented access to the facility's history.
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Inside the Green Berets (2007)
Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at the training and operations of the US Army Special Forces, including their time at various military bases around the world.
Fact: The film includes exclusive footage from Fort Bragg, the home of the Green Berets.
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