Few collaborators have been as impactful as Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg in bringing World War II stories to life. Their series and films have not just entertained millions but also educated them about the complexities and human experiences of one of history's most tumultuous periods. From the gritty realism of "Saving Private Ryan" to the expansive narratives of "Band of Brothers" and "The Pacific," this duo has consistently pushed the boundaries of war movies.
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Their work stands out for its meticulous attention to historical accuracy, combined with powerful storytelling that conveys the human side of war. Each project they undertake isn't just a presentation of historical events, but a deeper exploration into the lives, struggles, and sacrifices of individuals caught in the throes of global conflict. Spielberg's directorial prowess and Hanks' keen understanding of character-driven narratives have made their WWII projects more than just films and series; they are profound educational experiences.
With their latest project, "Masters of the Air," set to release on Apple TV+, the Hanks-Spielberg team promises to continue this tradition. By focusing on the air battles over Nazi Germany, this series is poised to open a new chapter in their ongoing exploration of the Second World War, promising viewers another compelling blend of drama, history, and humanity.
'Saving Private Ryan' (1998)
DreamWorks Pictures
Stars: Tom Hanks, Matt Damon, Tom Sizemore
The duo's first collab came with "Saving Private Ryan." The landmark World War II film, directed by Spielberg and starring Hanks, is known for its realistic portrayal of war. The movie opens with the D-Day invasion on Omaha Beach, which is one of the most visceral and intense depictions of combat ever filmed. The scene sets a tone of authenticity and brutality that pervades the entire movie.
The film's narrative centers on Captain John Miller (Hanks) and his squad, tasked with finding Private James Ryan (Matt Damon). Ryan's three brothers have been killed in combat, and the mission is to bring him home to prevent his mother from losing all her sons to the war.
The journey to find Ryan is both physical and emotional, as the soldiers question the logic and value of risking lives for a single man. The film explores themes of duty, sacrifice, and the personal toll of war. Standout moments include the silent hand-to-hand combat in a ruined city and the climactic battle in a French village, which are not only technically impressive but also emotionally charged.
Stream it on: Max
'Band of Brothers' (2001)
HBO
Stars: Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Donnie Wahlberg
Spielberg and Hanks reunited to produce the miniseries "Band of Brothers," which chronicles the experiences of Easy Company, part of the 101st Airborne Division, from their training through the end of World War II. The series is based on the book of the same name by historian Stephen E. Ambrose.
Each episode focuses on different characters, providing a deep, personal view of the war. The series excels in showing the bond and camaraderie among the soldiers, as well as the harrowing experiences they endure. Notable episodes include "Bastogne," which portrays the brutal conditions during the Battle of the Bulge, and "Why We Fight," revealing the discovery of a concentration camp, a pivotal moment that brings a new understanding of their mission to the soldiers.
The series is lauded for its attention to detail, character development, and realistic combat scenes, making it one of the most respected depictions of World War II in television history.
Stream it on: Netflix, Max
'The Pacific' (2010)
HBO
Stars: James Badge Dale, Jon Seda, Joseph Mazzello
"The Pacific" is another miniseries from the Hanks-Spielberg collaboration, focusing on the Pacific Theater of World War II. It follows three main characters: Robert Leckie (James Badge Dale), Eugene Sledge (Joseph Mazzello), and John Basilone (Jon Seda), across different battles against the Japanese forces.
The series is known for its graphic and realistic depiction of combat and the unique challenges faced in the Pacific Theater, including the harsh jungle environments and the cultural differences between the American and Japanese soldiers. Standout moments include the Battle of Peleliu and Iwo Jima, showcasing intense and brutal combat scenes, and the emotionally charged personal struggles of the soldiers.
"The Pacific" is praised for its production value, intense battle scenes, and the portrayal of the psychological impact of war on soldiers. It provides a stark, unflinching look at a part of World War II that is less frequently depicted in popular media.
Stream it on: Netflix, Max
'Masters of the Air' (2024)
Apple TV+
Stars: Austin Butler, Barry Keoghan, Anthony Boyle
The highly anticipated Apple TV+ miniseries "Masters of the Air" is set to premiere on January 26, 2024. This latest venture from producers Spielberg and Hanks elevates the World War II narrative to new heights — quite literally, at 25,000 feet above the theater of war.
"Masters of the Air" delves into the harrowing experiences of the "Bloody 100th" airmen, known for their dangerous bombing raids over Nazi Germany. The series is penned by John Orloff, known for his work on "Band of Brothers," and Graham Yost, the creator of "Justified." Leading the cast are Oscar nominees Austin Butler ("Elvis") and Barry Keoghan ("The Banshees of Inisherin"), who portray the courageous bomber boys of the Bloody 100th, depicting their remarkable journey through liberation and survival against Nazi capture.
Echoing the impactful storytelling of its predecessors and Spielberg and Hanks's first WWII collaboration, "Saving Private Ryan," "Masters of the Air" is based on compelling firsthand accounts of the war. It adapts material from Donald L. Miller's 2006 bestseller, also titled "Masters of the Air." This source offers an in-depth look at America's 8th Air Force and its bomber crews, whose missions over Germany were fraught with danger and high mortality rates, surpassing even those of infantrymen on the ground. The narrative focuses on the Bloody 100th, a bomb squad that endured such severe losses they earned their grim moniker.
Further enriching the narrative, the miniseries incorporates elements from "A Wing and a Prayer," the 1993 autobiographical account by Harry Crosby, a member of the Bloody 100th. Anthony Boyle ("Tetris") brings Crosby's experiences to life on the screen, adding depth and personal perspective to this intense and historic drama.
Stream it on: Apple TV+
