Mix of films including Pearl Harbor and Schindler’s List feature on list compiled by War Movie Theatre podcast
Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed 2017 epic Dunkirk has been voted the UK’s favourite Second World War film, according to a new nationwide poll conducted by the British Film Institute (BFI). The film, known for its immersive storytelling and innovative cinematography, outpaced a host of classic and modern war films to claim the top spot.
The poll, which surveyed over 10,000 British film fans, asked participants to select their favourite film set during or focused on World War II. Nolan’s Dunkirk emerged as the clear frontrunner, praised for its visceral realism, minimal dialogue, and a narrative that weaves together three timelines — land, sea, and air — to portray the harrowing evacuation of British and Allied troops from the beaches of Dunkirk in 1940.
A Modern Classic
Released in 2017 to widespread critical acclaim, Dunkirk received eight Academy Award nominations and won three, including Best Editing, Best Sound Mixing, and Best Sound Editing. Its haunting score by Hans Zimmer, combined with Nolan’s signature non-linear storytelling, created an experience that many voters described as “deeply emotional” and “unlike any war film before it.”
“The way Nolan captured the tension, the fear, and the sheer desperation of Dunkirk without relying heavily on dialogue is extraordinary,” said BFI spokesperson Laura Jennings. “It’s a film that resonates across generations, not just as a cinematic achievement but as a poignant tribute to an important moment in British history.”
Legacy of War on Film
Following Dunkirk on the poll were classics such as Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan, the 1955 British film The Dam Busters, and Schindler’s List. Other notable entries included The Bridge on the River Kwai, The Pianist, and Downfall.
While many of these films have been lauded for decades, Dunkirk’s ascent to the top spot reflects a shift in audience tastes toward more immersive, experiential storytelling in historical cinema.
Educational and Cultural Impact
Historians and educators have also embraced Dunkirk for its ability to spark renewed interest in World War II history among younger viewers. The film has been used in classrooms to supplement lessons on the Dunkirk evacuation and the broader context of the war.
“This poll shows the continuing importance of war films in helping new generations understand the sacrifices made during World War II,” said Dr. Alan Croft, a military historian at King’s College London. “Nolan’s film brings history to life in a way that’s accessible, emotionally charged, and visually unforgettable.”
Conclusion
As the UK continues to commemorate the 80th anniversaries of major World War II events, the renewed attention to Dunkirk highlights the enduring power of cinema to shape national memory. Christopher Nolan’s masterwork not only honors the past but also redefines how war stories are told for the future.
