Content Warning: The following article contains spoilers for the movies mentioned. War films inherently evoke deep emotions due to the traumatic nature of warfare, which is one of humanity’s most devastating experiences. Typically, these films portray a somber or bleak narrative, aiming to remind viewers of the grim realities of conflict and the futility that often accompanies it. Consequently, the conclusions of these films reflect this tone, occasionally offering a glimmer of hope that better days may follow, or illustrating that a mission, despite significant sacrifices, was ultimately achieved.
Conversely, some films take a dramatically different approach, delivering unexpected and gut-wrenching endings that leave audiences reeling. This technique is often employed to evoke a powerful emotional response, effectively reinforcing the film’s message. Such conclusions in war movies are not merely tragic; they can be heart-wrenching, severing the emotional connections viewers have developed with the characters throughout the story.
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‘The Imitation Game’ (2014)
Directed by Morten Tyldum
The Imitation Game is a poignant biopic set against the backdrop of World War II, focusing on the life of Alan Turing (Benedict Cumberbatch), who is often heralded as the father of modern computing. Turing was a brilliant British mathematician tasked by the British government with creating a machine capable of intercepting and decoding complex Nazi communications, leading to the development of one of the earliest computers. This groundbreaking work proved crucial to the Allied victory, enabling covert operations that monitored Nazi movements without their awareness.
Despite his monumental contributions, Turing’s legacy is marred by the societal attitudes of his time. As a gay man in an era where homosexuality was illegal, he faced severe repercussions upon being discovered. He was subjected to a criminal conviction that led to forced hormonal treatments and chemical castration in a misguided attempt to “cure” him of his identity. Tragically, the film culminates in the revelation of Turing’s untimely death, likely by suicide, underscoring the devastating impact of societal prejudice and the personal toll it took on him. As such, the ending is profoundly tragic, illustrating how a person who should have been celebrated as a hero instead faced persecution, highlighting the deep-rooted injustices that can overshadow remarkable achievements.
The Imitation Game
- Release Date
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November 28, 2014
- Runtime
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114 minutes
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‘Das Boot’ (1981)
Directed by Wolfgang Petersen
Das Boot is a gripping naval warfare film set during World War II that chronicles the harrowing experiences of a German submarine crew. Life aboard a submarine is fraught with peril, and the crew endures immense physical and psychological challenges as they fight to complete their mission. Throughout their journey, they witness the loss of comrades, grapple with trauma, and gradually become disillusioned with their cause, yet they remain steadfast in their resolve to return home.
When the crew finally arrives at their home port, the dead and injured are disembarked, and the remaining members experience a fleeting sense of relief as they anticipate reuniting with their families. However, this moment of respite is tragically short-lived when a bombing raid strikes, resulting in catastrophic casualties, including the loss of many survivors, while their submarine is sunk. In essence, every hardship they faced together, all the sacrifices made, amounted to nothing, as their families await their return in vain.
Das Boot
- Release Date
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September 17, 1981
- Runtime
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149 Minutes
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‘Anthropoid’ (2016)
Directed by Sean Ellis
