Military checkpoints are often the unsung heroes of war films, serving as critical junctures where tension, strategy, and human drama unfold. This curated list of ten war films focuses on these pivotal locations, offering viewers a unique perspective on the conflicts of the 20th and 21st centuries. Each film provides a deep dive into the psychological and physical battles fought at these strategic points, making them essential viewing for anyone interested in military history, strategy, and the human condition under duress.
The Battle of Algiers (1966)
Description: This classic film includes scenes of French paratroopers setting up checkpoints in Algiers to control the city during the Algerian War of Independence.
Fact: The film was banned in France for several years due to its depiction of the French military.
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The Green Berets (1968)
Description: This Vietnam War film features several scenes at military checkpoints, illustrating the strategic importance and the daily life of soldiers in such locations.
Fact: John Wayne, who starred in the film, was a vocal supporter of the Vietnam War, influencing the film's pro-war stance.
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Black Hawk Down (2001)
Description: This film includes scenes where U.S. forces secure checkpoints in Mogadishu, Somalia, during the infamous Battle of Mogadishu, highlighting the chaos and strategic importance of these locations.
Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, with some scenes filmed in the actual locations in Mogadishu.
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The Hurt Locker (2008)
Description: Although primarily about bomb disposal, the film features several scenes at military checkpoints in Iraq, showcasing the daily risks and psychological toll on soldiers.
Fact: Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to win the Best Director Oscar for this film.
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Lone Survivor (2013)
Description: While not exclusively about a checkpoint, the film includes scenes where Navy SEALs are ambushed at a remote outpost in Afghanistan, highlighting the vulnerability of such positions.
Fact: The film was based on the non-fiction book by Marcus Luttrell, one of the SEALs involved in the real-life mission.
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The Outpost (2020)
Description: This film recounts the true story of the Battle of Kamdesh, where U.S. soldiers at Combat Outpost Keating in Afghanistan faced a massive Taliban attack. It's a gripping tale of survival and bravery at a remote and vulnerable checkpoint.
Fact: The film was shot in Bulgaria, standing in for Afghanistan. The real-life soldiers from the battle served as consultants on set.
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13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi (2016)
Description: While focusing on the Benghazi attack, the film includes scenes at the CIA annex, which served as a makeshift checkpoint during the siege.
Fact: The film was directed by Michael Bay, known for his action-packed style, which adds to the intensity of the checkpoint scenes.
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The Siege of Jadotville (2016)
Description: Irish troops are besieged at a remote UN outpost in Congo, showcasing the strategic importance of checkpoints in peacekeeping missions.
Fact: The film was based on the book by Declan Power, who also served as a military consultant for the film.
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The Wall (2017)
Description: Two American soldiers are pinned down by an Iraqi sniper at a remote desert checkpoint, leading to a tense psychological battle. The film explores themes of isolation and survival in a minimalist setting.
Fact: The entire film was shot in a single location, with most of the dialogue occurring through radio communication.
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Checkpoint (2003)
Description: A documentary that follows the lives of Israeli soldiers manning checkpoints in the West Bank, offering a raw look at the daily operations and moral dilemmas at these military posts.
Fact: The film was directed by Yoav Shamir, who spent months with the soldiers to capture their experiences authentically.
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