This curated selection of films delves into the intricate world of military psychiatry during wartime. These movies not only explore the psychological toll of war on soldiers but also highlight the crucial role of psychiatrists in helping them cope with trauma. This collection provides a unique perspective on the mental health challenges faced by those in combat, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the human side of war.

The Best Years of Our Lives (1946)
Description: This classic film includes a subplot where a veteran seeks help from a military psychiatrist to deal with his post-war trauma and reintegration into civilian life.
Fact: The film was one of the first to address the psychological effects of war on returning soldiers.


The Men (1950)
Description: This film focuses on a WWII veteran dealing with paralysis and his interactions with a military psychiatrist, highlighting the emotional and psychological recovery process.
Fact: Marlon Brando's performance in this film was critically acclaimed, marking one of his early roles.


Fear Strikes Out (1957)
Description: Although not directly about war, this film features a military psychiatrist helping a baseball player with his mental health, paralleling the struggles of soldiers.
Fact: The film is based on the true story of baseball player Jimmy Piersall.


The Manchurian Candidate (1962)
Description: This political thriller involves a military psychiatrist who uncovers a brainwashing plot, showcasing the manipulation of soldiers' minds during the Korean War.
Fact: The film was considered so controversial that it was pulled from circulation after the assassination of JFK.


Jacob's Ladder (1990)
Description: This psychological thriller follows a Vietnam War veteran dealing with PTSD, with scenes involving military psychiatrists trying to understand his hallucinations and mental state.
Fact: The film's ending was changed multiple times during production to keep the mystery intact.


The Hurt Locker (2008)
Description: While not exclusively about a psychiatrist, this film features a military psychologist who evaluates the protagonist's mental state, showcasing the psychological effects of war on bomb disposal experts.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life experiences of journalist Mark Boal, who embedded with a bomb squad in Iraq.


The Veteran (2011)
Description: A British soldier returns from Afghanistan and struggles with PTSD, with scenes involving military psychiatrists trying to help him adjust.
Fact: The film was shot in London and provides a gritty look at the life of a modern soldier.


Coming Home (1978)
Description: While primarily about a Vietnam vet's return home, the film includes scenes with military psychiatrists addressing the mental health issues faced by returning soldiers.
Fact: Jane Fonda won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role in this film.


The War Within (2005)
Description: This film explores the life of a Pakistani-American who returns from Afghanistan, dealing with PTSD and seeking help from a military psychiatrist.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of the Muslim-American experience post-9/


The Wall (2017)
Description: While primarily a sniper thriller, the film includes psychological warfare elements where a military psychiatrist's role is implied in the mental battle between the characters.
Fact: The film was shot in a single location, emphasizing the psychological tension.
