This curated list of films delves into the complex world of military psychologists involved in special operations. These movies not only provide thrilling narratives but also offer a glimpse into the psychological warfare and the mental toll of covert missions. They are invaluable for those interested in the intersection of psychology, military strategy, and human resilience.

The Peacemaker (1997)
Description: While primarily an action film, it includes elements of psychological profiling in the pursuit of nuclear terrorists.
Fact: This was the first film to be released by DreamWorks SKG.


The Siege (1998)
Description: This thriller involves the psychological aspects of counter-terrorism operations, with a focus on the mental strain on both terrorists and those combating them.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the theme of domestic terrorism in the U.S.


The Bourne Identity (2002)
Description: Jason Bourne's journey involves psychological manipulation and memory recovery, highlighting the mental aspects of covert operations.
Fact: The film was a major success, spawning a franchise with several sequels.


The Manchurian Candidate (2004)
Description: A remake of the 1962 film, it deals with psychological manipulation and brainwashing of soldiers for political gain.
Fact: The original film was based on a novel by Richard Condon.


The Hurt Locker (2008)
Description: While not explicitly about a psychologist, the film delves into the psychological effects of war on an EOD team, with a focus on the mental state of the soldiers.
Fact: Kathryn Bigelow became the first woman to win an Academy Award for Best Director for this film.


The Ghost Writer (2010)
Description: This political thriller involves a ghostwriter uncovering dark secrets about a former British Prime Minister, with psychological undertones.
Fact: The film was Roman Polanski's last feature film to date.


The Men Who Stare at Goats (2009)
Description: This satirical film explores the U.S. Army's attempts to harness psychic abilities for military purposes, showcasing the role of psychologists in unconventional warfare.
Fact: The film is loosely based on real-life experiments by the U.S. military to create "psychic soldiers."


The Good Shepherd (2006)
Description: This film explores the early days of the CIA, with a deep dive into the psychological operations and the personal sacrifices made by its operatives.
Fact: Robert De Niro directed and co-starred in this film, which was his second directorial effort.


Zero Dark Thirty (2012)
Description: This film follows the CIA's hunt for Osama bin Laden, with a significant focus on the psychological profiling and interrogation techniques used.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of enhanced interrogation techniques.


The Wall (2017)
Description: This film focuses on the psychological warfare between a sniper and his trapped victim, showcasing the mental games played in military engagements.
Fact: The entire film takes place in one location, emphasizing the psychological tension.
