At The Movies

Taking Chance Age Rating: TV-PG Runtime: 78 minutes Studio: HBO Films A quiet journey of honor follows one Marine officer as he escorts a fallen young Marine home, reminding the nation what dignity, sacrifice, and respect look like. Ratings: My Rating: 74% The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 57% Metacritic: 76/100 TMDb: N/A Plot Summary: Based on real events, Taking Chance follows Lt. Col. Michael Strobl, played by Kevin Bacon, as he volunteers to escort the body of 19-year-old Marine Lance Cpl. Chance Phelps from Dover Air Force Base to his hometown in Wyoming. The film is not a combat movie as much as a solemn tribute. It shows the careful military process of preparing, transporting, and honoring a fallen service member, while Strobl witnesses quiet acts of respect from military personnel and civilians along the way. Critics Review: Critics generally viewed Taking Chance as a respectful, restrained, and emotionally powerful military drama. Many praised its quiet to...

Sands of Iwo Jima Age Rating: TV-PG Runtime: 109 minutes Studio: Republic Pictures A hard-bitten Marine sergeant trains men for war, only to lead them into one of the most brutal battles of World War II. Ratings: My Rating: 82% The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 7.0/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 100% Metacritic: 75/100 TMDb: N/A Plot Summary: Sgt. John Stryker is a tough, demanding Marine whose men resent his harsh training and cold discipline. But as they move from preparation into combat at Tarawa and then Iwo Jima, they begin to understand that his severity is meant to keep them alive. The film follows the Marines through fear, loss, sacrifice, and growing respect for Stryker, ending with the iconic raising of the flag on Mount Suribachi. Critics Review: Critics generally praise the film as a strong patriotic World War II drama, especially John Wayne’s performance as Sgt. Stryker. The battle scenes and use of real combat footage give it weight and historical texture. Some critic...

The Enemy Below Age Rating: Approved Runtime: 98 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox A tense World War II naval thriller that transforms a deadly cat-and-mouse battle between an American destroyer captain and a German U-boat commander into a deeply human story about honor, leadership, and respect between enemies. Ratings: My Rating: 7.6/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 86% Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 7.0/10 Plot Summary: Set during the Battle of the Atlantic in World War II, The Enemy Below follows Captain Murrell, commander of the American destroyer escort USS Haynes, as he detects and pursues a German U-boat commanded by Captain von Stolberg. What begins as a tactical hunt quickly becomes a psychological duel between two experienced naval officers determined to outthink and outmaneuver one another. As the pursuit continues across the ocean, both captains face mounting pressure from exhaustion, damaged equipment, and the responsibility of protecting their crews. Murrel...

Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. Age Rating: PG-13 Runtime: 132 minutes Studio: Angel Studios Country of Origin: Belgium, Ireland As Nazi darkness swallowed Europe whole, one pastor faced an impossible choice: remain faithful to peace or risk everything to confront evil before it consumed the world. Ratings: My Rating: 78% The Dove Foundation: PG-13 IMDb: 6.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 66% Critics / 92% Audience Metacritic: 58/100 TMDb: 7.0/10 Plot Summary: Set during the rise of Nazi Germany and World War II, Bonhoeffer: Pastor. Spy. Assassin. follows the life of German theologian and pastor Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a deeply committed Christian who becomes increasingly alarmed by Adolf Hitler’s growing power and the corruption of the German church by Nazi ideology. After studying abroad in the United States and experiencing the influence of African American churches in Harlem, Bonhoeffer returns to Germany with a stronger conviction that Christianity must actively resist injustice and racism. ...

Sergeant York  Age Rating: NR Runtime: 134 min  Studio: Warner Bros. Pictures  Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Standalone  Franchise Position: N/A Literary hook of the show/movie A devout but conflicted Tennessee farmer must reconcile his Christian pacifism with his duty to serve in World War I, ultimately becoming one of America’s most celebrated war heroes. Ratings My Rating: 7.6/10 The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 7.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 81% Critics / 86% Audience Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 7.2/10 Plot Summary Based on the true story of Alvin C. York, Sergeant York follows a young Tennessee farmer whose sharpshooting skills fail to give his life purpose. After a violent barroom episode and a lightning encounter, York experiences a profound religious conversion. When World War I breaks out, he seeks conscientious objector status, but is ultimately drafted. On the front lines, York’s marksmanship and leadership lead to the capture of many Germ...

Ike: Countdown to D-Day Age Rating: TV-PG Runtime: 89 minutes Studio: A&E Television Networks Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A commander weighed down by history’s greatest gamble must inspire divided allies to unity — and lead the greatest invasion in human history before time runs out. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 83% (audience) Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.7/10 Plot Summary: Ike: Countdown to D-Day dramatizes the crucial ninety days leading up to Operation Overlord, the Allied invasion of Normandy in June 1944. Tom Selleck stars as General Dwight D. Eisenhower, depicting his struggles to coordinate British, American, and Canadian leaders while preparing for one of the most complex military operations ever undertaken. The film focuses on the human side of command — the diplomatic balancing act between figures such as Churchill, Montgomery, and Patton, and the emotional weight Eisenhower...

Ernest in the Army Runtime: 85 minutes Studio: Emshell Producers Group, Cabin Fever Entertainment Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Ernest Franchise Position: 9 Ernest joins the Army and, despite being assigned a simple desk job, winds up in the middle of a desert war where his clumsy heroics unexpectedly save the day. Ratings: My Rating: 4.9/10 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 4.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: Audience 34% Metacritic: 36/100 TMDb: 4.5/10 Plot Summary: Dreaming of adventure, Ernest P. Worrell enlists in the Army and is assigned to drive a tank. What begins as harmless bumbling quickly escalates when Ernest and his unit are sent into combat against a ruthless dictator in the Middle East. Through his usual slapstick misadventures, Ernest must somehow find the courage to protect his friends and save the day, proving once again that even the most unlikely hero can make a difference. Critics Review: Ernest in the Army received poor reviews, with critics citing uninspire...

The Blue Max Runtime: 156 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United Kingdom / United States Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A World War I aerial epic about the ruthless ambition of a German fighter pilot seeking the coveted Blue Max medal, and the cost of glory in modern warfare. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: Not rated by The Dove Foundation IMDb: 7.1/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 100% Metacritic: Not available TMDb: Insufficient data Plot Summary: Lt. Bruno Stachel, a former infantry corporal of modest origin, transfers to the Imperial German Air Service in 1918. Obsessed with earning the Blue Max by shooting down 20 enemy aircraft, Stachel pursues aerial victories with single-minded ambition. Along the way he clashes with aristocratic pilots such as Lt. Willi von Klugermann, whose privileged background Stachel resents. Stachel’s ruthless tactics include a controversial kill of an observation plane and a lie about an opponent’s victory that bring...

Battle of Britain Runtime: 150 minutes Studio: 20th Century Fox Country of Origin: United Kingdom Language: English Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A The film dramatizes the heroic defense of Britain against the German Luftwaffe during World War II, focusing on both RAF pilots and German airmen during the pivotal 1940 battle. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0 IMDb: 7.6 Rotten Tomatoes: 83% Metacritic: 75 TMDb: 7.4 Plot Summary: In 1940, as Nazi Germany plans to invade Britain, the Royal Air Force (RAF) must fight an overwhelming air assault to protect their homeland. The film follows the experiences of British and German pilots, highlighting courage, sacrifice, and strategic ingenuity. Large-scale aerial battles and tense dogfights depict the stakes of wartime Britain. Critics Review: Critics praised the film for its realistic aerial combat sequences, impressive scale, and historical accuracy. Some noted that while the large ensemble cast could be confusing, the depiction of RAF heroism rem...

Das Boot Runtime: 149 minutes Studio: Bavaria Film Country of Origin: Germany Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A A gripping and realistic portrayal of life aboard a German U-boat during World War II. Ratings: My Rating: 9.0 The Dove Foundation: Not Rated IMDb: 8.4 Rotten Tomatoes: 98% Metacritic: 85 TMDb: 8.3 Plot Summary: Das Boot follows the crew of U-96, a German submarine, as they embark on a perilous mission in the Atlantic during World War II. The film delves into the claustrophobic and tense environment aboard the submarine, highlighting the psychological and physical toll of warfare on the crew members. Critics Review: Critics have lauded Das Boot as one of the greatest war films ever made. The film's taut direction, realistic portrayal of submarine life, and intense performances have been widely praised. The 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes reflects its critical acclaim, with reviewers highlighting its breathtaking tension and devastating intelligence . Christian Perspect...

The Incredible Mr. Limpet Runtime: 99 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A A mild-mannered man magically transforms into a talking fish and helps the U.S. Navy fight Nazis during World War II. Ratings: My Rating: 6.6/10 (IMDb 6.6, Rotten Tomatoes audience 72% → 7.2, Metacritic N/A, TMDb 6.5 → 6.5) The Dove Foundation: Approved for All Ages IMDb: 6.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 72% audience Metacritic: N/A TMDb: 6.5/10 Plot Summary: Henry Limpet, a meek bookkeeper who is passionate about fish, dreams of joining the Navy during World War II but is rejected due to his poor eyesight. While on a seaside trip, he magically transforms into a fish and discovers he can talk and swim like one. As a fish, Mr. Limpet befriends a crab and a lady fish, then joins forces with the U.S. Navy, using his new abilities to spot and help sink German U-boats. Torn between his loyalty to the human world and his new underwater life, Henry ultimately embraces his true purpose benea...

Casablanca Runtime: 102 minutes Studio: Warner Bros. Country of Origin: United States Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A In war-torn Casablanca, nightclub owner Rick Blaine must choose between his love for former flame Ilsa Lund and helping her husband escape from the Nazis, navigating romance, sacrifice, and political intrigue. Ratings: My Rating: 9.0 The Dove Foundation: PG IMDb: 8.5 Rotten Tomatoes: 99% Metacritic: 100 Plot Summary: Rick Blaine, a cynical expatriate in Casablanca, encounters Ilsa Lund and her husband, Victor Laszlo, a resistance leader. Rick struggles between rekindling past love and assisting a greater cause, ultimately making a heroic sacrifice for the greater good during World War II. Critics Review: Widely regarded as one of cinema’s greatest films, praised for its storytelling, iconic performances, and memorable dialogue. Strengths include Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman’s chemistry, atmospheric cinematography, and morally complex plot. Christian ...

Taking Chance Runtime: 77 minutes Age Rating: TV-PG Release Date: February 21, 2009 Based on a True Story: The journal of Lt. Col. Michael Strobl, U.S. Marine Corps Studio: HBO Films, Civil Dawn Pictures, Motion Picture Corporation of America Franchise: Standalone Franchise Position: N/A When one falls, another brings him home. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 57% (Critics), 80% (Audience) Metacritic: 76/100 Plot Summary: Taking Chance tells the true story of Lt. Col. Michael Strobl, a U.S. Marine officer who volunteers to escort the body of PFC Chance Phelps, a 19-year-old Marine killed in Iraq, back to his hometown in Wyoming. The film carefully follows Strobl’s journey across the country as he observes the immense respect shown by strangers, service members, and airline staff for the fallen soldier. Through his experiences, Strobl gains a deeper appreciation for the personal cost of war, the dignity of sacrifice, and the quiet ways in...

Operation Petticoat Runtime: 124 Age Rating: Approved Release Date: December 5, 1959 Studio: Universal International Franchise: N/A A comedic portrayal of a U.S. Navy submarine's misadventures during World War II, focusing on the challenges faced by its crew as they navigate wartime obstacles with humor and ingenuity. Ratings: My Rating: 7.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 81% (Critics), 81% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Lieutenant Commander Matt Sherman (Cary Grant) commands the USS Sea Tiger, a submarine damaged during the Japanese attack on the Philippines. With limited resources and a crew facing various challenges, Sherman enlists the help of Lieutenant Nick Holden (Tony Curtis), a con artist, to procure necessary supplies. As they embark on their mission, the crew encounters a group of army nurses, leading to humorous situations aboard the submarine. Critics Review: Critics have praised the film for its lighthearted approach to wartime cha...

Mister Roberts Runtime: 123 Age Rating: Approved Release Date: July 30, 1955 Based on a Book: Mister Roberts by Thomas Heggen Studio: Warner Bros. A comedic yet poignant portrayal of life aboard a U.S. Navy cargo ship during WW2, focusing on the frustrations and camaraderie of the crew as they endure the monotony of supply missions far from the front lines. Ratings: My Rating: 8.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.6/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 93% (Critics), 84% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Lieutenant (j.g.) Doug Roberts, the cargo officer aboard the USS Reluctant, yearns for a transfer to a combat zone to contribute more directly to the war effort. However, his aspirations are thwarted by the tyrannical Captain Morton, who denies the crew liberties and privileges. Despite the captain's oppressive rule, Roberts becomes a source of inspiration and moral support for the crew, balancing his duties with acts of rebellion against the captain's authority. Critics Review: Critic...

Midway Runtime: 138 Age Rating: PG-13 Release Date: November 8, 2019 Studio: Lionsgate, Summit Entertainment Franchise: Midway Franchise Position: 2 A modern retelling of the Battle of Midway, focusing on the strategic intelligence and aerial combat that turned the tide in the Pacific Theater during WW2. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.7/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 42% (Critics), 92% (Audience) Metacritic: 49/100 Plot Summary: Set against the backdrop of the Pacific Theater in WW2, the film chronicles the events leading up to and following the Battle of Midway. It highlights the pivotal role of intelligence officers and naval aviators in countering Japan's plans after the attack on Pearl Harbor. The narrative intertwines personal stories with large-scale naval battles, emphasizing the strategic importance of Midway Atoll. Critics Review: Critics noted that while the film boasts impressive visual effects and a star-studded cast, its screenplay and character devel...

Midway Runtime: 131 Age Rating: PG Release Date: June 18, 1976 Based on a Book: The Battle of Midway by Craig L. Symonds Studio: Universal Pictures A dramatization of the Battle of Midway, highlighting the strategic decisions and personal stories that led to a pivotal American victory. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 41% (Critics), 67% (Audience) Metacritic: 48/100 Plot Summary: In June 1942, U.S. Navy Admiral Chester W. Nimitz leads an outnumbered fleet to intercept and destroy a Japanese attack against Midway Atoll, marking a turning point in the Pacific Theater. The film portrays the battle's strategic planning and execution, focusing on both military leaders and the personal lives of those involved. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews; some praised its historical accuracy and ensemble cast, while others criticized its pacing and reliance on stock footage. Despite this, it was a commercial success, grossing over $100 ...

In Harm’s Way Runtime: 159 Age Rating: NR Release Date: April 6, 1965 Based on a Book: Harm’s Way by James Bassett Studio: Paramount Pictures A seasoned U.S. Navy officer is reassigned after a Pearl Harbor attack, seeking redemption and command in the Pacific theater. Ratings: My Rating: 7.0/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 7.2/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 37% (Critics), 67% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Captain Rockwell “Rock” Torrey (John Wayne) survives the Pearl Harbor attack but is demoted after his ship is sunk. Reassigned to a desk job, he navigates personal and professional challenges, including a strained relationship with his son and a romance with a Navy nurse. As the U.S. enters World War II, Torrey is given a second chance to lead a critical mission in the Pacific, aiming to prove his worth and restore his honor. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews; some critics praised its epic scope and performances, while others found it lacking in depth. Bosley Crowther ...

Flight of the Intruder Runtime: 115 Age Rating: PG-13 Release Date: January 18, 1991 Based on a Book: Flight of the Intruder by Stephen Coonts Studio: Paramount Pictures Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A During the Vietnam War, a U.S. Navy A-6 Intruder bomber pilot schemes with a hardened veteran to make an unauthorized air strike on Hanoi. Ratings: My Rating: 5.8/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 5.8/10 Rotten Tomatoes: 23% (Critics), 51% (Audience) Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: Set during the Vietnam War, the film follows Lt. Jake Grafton, a U.S. Navy A-6 Intruder bomber pilot, who becomes disillusioned with the constraints placed on his missions. He teams up with a seasoned veteran, Lt. Cmdr. Virgil Cole, to plan an unauthorized airstrike on Hanoi. Their decision leads to internal conflicts and challenges as they confront the realities of war and military regulations. Critics Review: The film received mixed to negative reviews. Critics pointed out inconsistencies in the plot an...

The Fighting Seabees https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0036824/ Runtime: 96 Age Rating: NR Release Date: January 27, 1944 Studio: Republic Pictures Franchise: N/A Franchise Position: N/A A civilian construction boss trains a team of workers to build airstrips in the Pacific during WW2, leading to the formation of the U.S. Navy's Seabees. Ratings: My Rating: 6.5/10 The Dove Foundation: N/A IMDb: 6.4/10 Rotten Tomatoes: N/A Metacritic: N/A Plot Summary: During WW2, Wedge Donovan, a civilian construction boss, is tasked with building airstrips in the Pacific for the U.S. Navy. Initially, his workers are unarmed and unprepared for combat. However, after a Japanese attack, Donovan trains his crew to defend themselves, leading to the formation of the Seabees, the Navy's construction battalions. The film portrays the challenges and heroism of these workers turned soldiers. Critics Review: The film received mixed reviews. While some appreciated its portrayal of the Seabees' contribution...