But as you march down the ranks of the 10 most powerful war films ever to grace the Oscars, you'll find a few unexpected titles holding their ground, each bringing its own unique firepower to the cinematic frontline.
These movies, ranging from stark, gritty portrayals of frontline combat to deeply personal, heart-wrenching stories, have not only captured the attention of the Academy but also etched themselves in the memories of audiences with their compelling narratives and raw, unflinching look at the realities of war, reminding us that it's so not about flashy-looking big battle scenes.
As you delve into this lineup, prepare for a few surprises tucked away like hidden landmines.
Those are the films that, while they might not have marched in with the fanfare of 'Apocalypse Now,' still pack a punch strong enough to leave a lasting impact, showing that sometimes the most powerful stories are those that catch you off guard, challenging your perceptions of what a war movie can be.