Have you been captivated by the thrilling aerial battles and heartfelt stories in “Masters of the Air”? Did you find yourself glued to the screen, eager to learn more about the brave pilots of World War II? If you’re anything like us, you’re probably searching for your next historical war series fix! Ever wondered what other amazing shows are out there that can give you the same rush and emotional depth as “Masters of the Air”?
Well, you’re in luck! If you love shows like Masters of the Air, you’re in for a treat. We’ve compiled a list of 20 must-watch series that will transport you back to the battlefields of World War II and beyond. From gripping war dramas to powerful military TV shows, get ready to explore a world of courage, sacrifice, and unforgettable stories. Let’s dive into these incredible shows like historical war series that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
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Dive into More WWII History: Series Like Masters of the Air
If you’re searching for WWII dramas that capture the intensity and emotion of “Masters of the Air,” look no further. These series offer compelling narratives, historical accuracy, and unforgettable characters that will resonate with fans of the Apple TV+ hit.
1. Band of Brothers
Summary: “Band of Brothers” follows the incredible journey of Easy Company, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, from their training in the United States to their heroic exploits in Europe during World War II. This historical war series portrays the brutal realities of war through the eyes of these young soldiers as they fight in major battles like the Battle of the Bulge and liberate concentration camps. It’s a raw and unflinching look at the bonds of brotherhood forged in the crucible of war.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Like “Masters of the Air,” “Band of Brothers” is produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, guaranteeing a similar level of quality and historical detail. Both are considered landmark WWII dramas, renowned for their realistic depictions of combat and their focus on the personal stories of soldiers. If you appreciated the strong ensemble cast and character-driven narrative of “Masters of the Air,” you’ll find yourself equally invested in the men of Easy Company.
2. The Pacific
Summary: “The Pacific” shifts the focus to the Pacific Theater of World War II, following the intertwined journeys of three U.S. Marines – Robert Leckie, Eugene Sledge, and John Basilone – as they battle the relentless Japanese forces across Guadalcanal, Peleliu, and Okinawa. This military TV show vividly portrays the unique challenges and horrors of jungle warfare, highlighting the physical and psychological toll on the soldiers fighting in this brutal environment.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Also executive produced by Spielberg and Hanks, “The Pacific” serves as a companion piece to “Band of Brothers” and shares many similarities with “Masters of the Air.” All three are high-budget, visually stunning shows like Band of Brothers, emphasizing historical accuracy and character development. If you were drawn to the intense combat sequences and the exploration of camaraderie in “Masters of the Air,” “The Pacific” offers a similarly immersive and emotional experience, but in the vastly different setting of the Pacific War.
3. Generation Kill
Summary: Based on Evan Wright’s book, “Generation Kill” is a military TV show that offers a gritty and realistic portrayal of the first weeks of the Iraq War in 2003, as seen through the eyes of a Marine battalion. The series follows a Rolling Stone reporter embedded with the unit, capturing the chaos, confusion, and often darkly humorous realities of modern warfare. It’s a stark and unflinching look at the lives of young Marines on the front lines.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While set in a different war, “Generation Kill” shares the focus on the bonds of brotherhood and the psychological impact of combat that are central to shows like military TV shows such as “Masters of the Air.” Both series excel at depicting the day-to-day lives of soldiers, highlighting their camaraderie and resilience in the face of extreme pressure. If you appreciated the realistic portrayal of military life in “Masters of the Air,” “Generation Kill” will offer a similarly compelling, though more contemporary, perspective.
4. Das Boot
Summary: “Das Boot” (The Boat) is a classic German WWII drama that plunges viewers into the claustrophobic and terrifying world of a German U-boat crew during the Battle of the Atlantic. The series, initially a film and later expanded into a longer series, portrays the psychological strain and physical hardships endured by the young men trapped in a submarine, constantly hunted by Allied forces. It offers a unique perspective on the war from the German side.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Like “Masters of the Air,” “Das Boot” is a tense and immersive historical war series that places viewers directly into the heart of combat. While “Masters of the Air” focuses on aerial warfare, “Das Boot” explores the equally perilous world of submarine warfare. Both series are known for their attention to detail and their ability to create a palpable sense of tension and danger. If you were captivated by the suspenseful missions in “Masters of the Air,” “Das Boot” will deliver a similar experience in a different, equally compelling setting.
5. Catch-22
Summary: Based on Joseph Heller’s satirical novel, “Catch-22” is a darkly comedic military TV show set during World War II, following the misadventures of Captain John Yossarian, a bombardier desperately trying to escape his service. The series uses humor and absurdity to critique the bureaucracy and madness of war, while still acknowledging the bravery and sacrifice of the airmen.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While “Catch-22” adopts a more satirical tone compared to the straightforward drama of “Masters of the Air,” both series share a focus on the experiences of airmen in World War II. As shows like Masters of the Air, both depict the psychological toll of aerial combat and the bonds between crew members. If you enjoyed the camaraderie among the airmen in “Masters of the Air” and are open to a more darkly humorous take on the subject matter, “Catch-22” offers a unique and thought-provoking perspective.
6. World on Fire
Summary: “World on Fire” is a sweeping WWII drama that tells the story of the war through the eyes of ordinary people from various countries caught up in the global conflict. The series follows interconnected characters in Britain, Poland, France, Germany, and the United States, showing how their lives are irrevocably changed by the war. It’s a broad and ambitious portrayal of the war’s widespread impact on individuals and families.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Like “Masters of the Air,” “World on Fire” is a large-scale historical war series that aims to depict World War II from multiple perspectives. While “Masters of the Air” focuses on the air war, “World on Fire” broadens its scope to encompass the ground war and the home front. If you appreciated the historical scope and character-driven stories in “Masters of the Air,” “World on Fire” offers a similarly ambitious and emotionally resonant experience, expanding the canvas to include a wider range of characters and locations.
7. The Crown
Summary: While not strictly a war series, “The Crown” is a historical drama that spans decades of British history, beginning with Queen Elizabeth II’s ascension to the throne in the aftermath of World War II. The series explores the political and personal challenges faced by the Queen and the Royal Family, set against the backdrop of major historical events. It’s a richly detailed and character-driven portrayal of royal life and 20th-century history.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Although “The Crown” is not primarily focused on WWII, it is set in the era immediately following the war, and the war’s legacy and impact are subtly present throughout the series. As shows like historical war series, both “The Crown” and “Masters of the Air” are meticulously researched and beautifully produced period dramas. If you appreciated the historical setting and the focus on leadership and duty in “Masters of the Air,” “The Crown” offers a similarly compelling, though thematically different, exploration of the post-war world and the burdens of leadership.
8. TURN: Washington’s Spies
Summary: “TURN: Washington’s Spies” is a military TV show set during the American Revolutionary War, focusing on the story of Abraham Woodhull, a farmer who forms a spy ring to help the Continental Army against the British. The series blends historical fact with fictionalized drama to create a thrilling espionage story set during a pivotal period in American history.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While set in a different war and time period, “TURN: Washington’s Spies” shares the themes of courage, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict that are central to shows like military TV shows such as “Masters of the Air.” Both series explore the risks and sacrifices made by individuals in wartime, albeit in vastly different contexts. If you were drawn to the themes of bravery and duty in “Masters of the Air,” “TURN: Washington’s Spies” offers a similarly engaging, though historically earlier, exploration of these themes in the context of espionage and the American Revolution.
9. Medal of Honor
Summary: “Medal of Honor” is a docuseries that tells the true stories of Medal of Honor recipients from various conflicts, including World War II, Vietnam, and Afghanistan. Each episode focuses on a different individual, using dramatic reenactments and archival footage to recount their acts of extraordinary bravery and selflessness that earned them the nation’s highest military honor. It’s a powerful and moving tribute to real-life heroes.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While a docuseries rather than a fictional drama, “Medal of Honor” directly connects to the themes of bravery and sacrifice explored in shows like Masters of the Air. Both focus on the extraordinary courage of individuals in wartime, though “Medal of Honor” does so by showcasing real-life stories of heroism. If you were inspired by the acts of valor depicted in “Masters of the Air,” “Medal of Honor” will provide an even more direct and impactful experience by presenting the true stories of medal recipients.
10. Bomb Girls
Summary: “Bomb Girls” is a Canadian WWII drama that tells the untold stories of women working in a munitions factory during World War II. The series focuses on the lives and experiences of these women as they navigate the challenges of wartime work, personal relationships, and societal expectations. It’s a unique and often overlooked perspective on the war effort, highlighting the vital contributions of women on the home front.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While “Bomb Girls” focuses on women on the home front rather than airmen in combat, it shares the WWII dramas setting and the exploration of wartime experiences with “Masters of the Air.” Both series depict the impact of the war on individuals and communities, albeit from different angles. If you appreciated the historical setting and character-driven narratives of “Masters of the Air,” “Bomb Girls” offers a similarly engaging, though thematically distinct, perspective on the World War II era, focusing on the often-untold stories of women’s contributions.
11. Foyle’s War
Summary: “Foyle’s War” is a British detective WWII drama set in England during and immediately after World War II. The series follows Detective Chief Superintendent Christopher Foyle as he investigates crimes in a seaside town, uncovering a dark underbelly of wartime society while the world is at war. It’s a compelling mystery series set against the backdrop of historical events.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Although a crime drama, “Foyle’s War” is deeply embedded in the WWII dramas setting and atmosphere of wartime Britain, similar to “Masters of the Air”. While “Masters of the Air” focuses on the combat front, “Foyle’s War” explores the impact of the war on the home front and the societal changes it brought about. If you appreciated the historical accuracy and period detail in “Masters of the Air,” “Foyle’s War” offers a similarly immersive experience, but through the lens of a captivating detective series.
12. The Sinking of the Laconia
Summary: “The Sinking of the Laconia” is a two-part WWII drama miniseries based on the true story of the Laconia incident in 1942, where a German U-boat sank a British ship carrying civilians, Allied soldiers, and Italian prisoners of war. The series explores the complex moral dilemmas faced by the U-boat captain as he attempts to rescue survivors while facing the dangers of Allied attacks.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Like “Masters of the Air,” “The Sinking of the Laconia” is a historical war series that portrays the difficult moral choices and human drama of World War II. While “Masters of the Air” focuses on aerial combat, “The Sinking of the Laconia” explores the equally perilous world of naval warfare and the ethical complexities of war at sea. If you were moved by the human stories and moral dilemmas in “Masters of the Air,” “The Sinking of the Laconia” offers a similarly powerful and thought-provoking experience based on a real-life wartime tragedy.
13. Charité at War
Summary: “Charité at War” is a German WWII drama series set in the Charité hospital in Berlin during World War II. The series follows the lives of doctors, nurses, and patients as they navigate the challenges of wartime medicine, political pressures, and personal conflicts within the hospital walls. It’s a medical drama set against the backdrop of Nazi Germany.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While set in a hospital rather than on the front lines, “Charité at War” is a WWII drama that shares the historical setting and the exploration of human resilience in wartime with “Masters of the Air.” Both series depict the impact of the war on individuals and communities, albeit in different spheres of life. If you appreciated the historical detail and character-driven stories in “Masters of the Air,” “Charité at War” offers a similarly engaging, though thematically distinct, perspective on the World War II era, focusing on the challenges faced by medical professionals in wartime Berlin.
14. Home Fires
Summary: “Home Fires” is a British WWII drama series that focuses on the lives of women in a rural English village during World War II. The series portrays how the war impacts their lives on the home front, as they deal with rationing, air raids, and the absence of their husbands and sons. It’s a character-driven drama highlighting the strength and resilience of women during wartime.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Like “Bomb Girls,” “Home Fires” offers a home front perspective on WWII dramas, contrasting with the combat focus of “Masters of the Air.” However, both series explore the pervasive impact of World War II on communities and individuals. If you appreciated the human stories and historical setting of “Masters of the Air,” “Home Fires” provides a similarly engaging, though thematically different, exploration of the war era, focusing on the experiences of women in a rural English village.
15. Manhunt: The Search for Bin Laden
Summary: “Manhunt: The Search for Bin Laden” is a docuseries that tells the true story of the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden following the 9/11 attacks. The series uses interviews with CIA analysts and operatives, along with dramatic reenactments, to detail the intelligence work and relentless pursuit that finally led to bin Laden’s capture. It’s a gripping real-life spy thriller.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While set in a different conflict and time period, “Manhunt: The Search for Bin Laden” shares the themes of dedication, strategy, and high-stakes operations that are also present in military TV shows like “Masters of the Air.” Both series depict complex missions and the individuals involved in executing them, albeit in vastly different contexts. If you were intrigued by the strategic planning and execution of air missions in “Masters of the Air,” “Manhunt: The Search for Bin Laden” offers a similarly compelling, though more contemporary, exploration of intelligence operations and the pursuit of a high-value target.
16. SEAL Team
Summary: “SEAL Team” is a military TV show that follows the professional and personal lives of the elite Navy SEALs of Bravo Team as they plan and execute dangerous, high-stakes missions around the world. The series offers a contemporary look at the challenges and sacrifices faced by special operations forces in the modern era.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While set in the modern military, “SEAL Team” shares the focus on teamwork, courage under fire, and the intense bonds of brotherhood that are central to shows like military TV shows such as “Masters of the Air.” Both series depict the demanding training, dangerous missions, and personal sacrifices made by elite military units. If you appreciated the camaraderie and high-stakes missions in “Masters of the Air,” “SEAL Team” offers a similarly engaging, though more contemporary, experience focused on modern special operations forces.
17. Six
Summary: “Six” is a military TV show that follows Navy SEAL Team Six, specifically focusing on a mission to eliminate a Taliban leader in Afghanistan. The series delves into the personal lives of the SEALs and the psychological toll of their dangerous profession, alongside intense action sequences.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Similar to “SEAL Team,” “Six” is a contemporary military TV show that resonates with the themes of brotherhood, courage, and the psychological impact of combat found in shows like military TV shows such as “Masters of the Air.” While “Masters of the Air” is set in WWII and focuses on airmen, “Six” offers a modern perspective on special operations forces, but both series explore the demanding nature of military service and the bonds between soldiers. If you were drawn to the camaraderie and intense missions in “Masters of the Air,” “Six” provides a similarly engaging, though contemporary, experience focused on modern Navy SEALs.
18. Strike Back
Summary: “Strike Back” is a military TV show that follows the missions of Section 20, a secretive branch of British military intelligence, as they tackle global terrorist threats. The series is known for its high-octane action, international locations, and focus on the dangerous lives of counter-terrorism operatives.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While a contemporary action series, “Strike Back” shares the themes of teamwork, high-stakes missions, and international conflict that can also be found in shows like military TV shows such as “Masters of the Air.” Although “Masters of the Air” is set in WWII and focuses on air warfare, “Strike Back” offers a modern take on military action and international intrigue, but both series deliver thrilling narratives centered around military operations and the individuals involved. If you enjoyed the suspenseful missions and international scope of “Masters of the Air,” “Strike Back” provides a similarly engaging, though contemporary, experience in the world of modern counter-terrorism.
19. The Liberator
Summary: “The Liberator” is a WWII drama miniseries that tells the true story of the 522nd Field Artillery Battalion, an all-Latino American unit that fought its way across Europe during World War II. The series is notable for its unique rotoscoping animation style and its focus on the often-untold stories of Latino soldiers in the war.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: Like “Masters of the Air,” “The Liberator” is a historical war series that portrays the experiences of American soldiers in World War II, emphasizing the bonds of brotherhood and the challenges of combat. While “Masters of the Air” focuses on airmen, “The Liberator” tells the story of a ground unit, but both series are set in the European theater of WWII and explore the courage and sacrifices of American soldiers. If you were drawn to the historical setting and the focus on camaraderie in “Masters of the Air,” “The Liberator” offers a similarly compelling, though visually distinct, perspective on the war, highlighting the contributions of Latino soldiers.
20. Line of Duty
Summary: “Line of Duty” is a British police procedural series that follows AC-12, a controversial police anti-corruption unit. While not a military TV show or WWII drama, the series is known for its intense investigations, complex characters, and exploration of moral ambiguity within a high-pressure environment.
Resemblance to Masters of the Air: While “Line of Duty” is a police drama set in contemporary times, it shares the themes of duty, integrity, and high-stakes operations that can also be found in shows like military TV shows such as “Masters of the Air.” Although vastly different in setting and genre, both series explore the pressures and ethical dilemmas faced by individuals working in high-stakes professions and the strong bonds that form between colleagues. If you appreciated the themes of duty and camaraderie in “Masters of the Air” and enjoy suspenseful, character-driven dramas, “Line of Duty” offers a similarly compelling, though thematically distinct, experience in the world of law enforcement and anti-corruption.
FAQ About Shows Like Masters of the Air
Q: What makes “Masters of the Air” so popular?
A: “Masters of the Air” captivates viewers with its stunning aerial combat sequences, its focus on real historical events, and its deeply human portrayal of the airmen of the 100th Bomb Group. The combination of high-stakes action and emotional storytelling resonates with audiences interested in WWII dramas and shows like historical war series.
Q: Are shows like “Band of Brothers” and “The Pacific” related to “Masters of the Air”?
A: Yes! “Band of Brothers,” “The Pacific,” and “Masters of the Air” are often considered a trilogy of shows like Band of Brothers or shows like The Pacific, produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks. They all share a similar style, high production value, and focus on different aspects of World War II. If you loved “Masters of the Air,” you’ll definitely want to check out these shows like WWII dramas.
Q: I’m looking for more shows specifically about air warfare. Are there other options besides “Masters of the Air” and “Catch-22”?
A: While “Masters of the Air” is quite unique in its dedicated focus on bomber crews, “Catch-22” also offers a look at airmen’s experiences, albeit with a satirical tone. For other shows like military TV shows focusing on different branches, you might explore series about naval aviation or documentaries about air warfare history to further delve into this area.
Q: Where can I watch these shows like “Masters of the Air”?
A: Most of the shows like historical war series mentioned are available on streaming services. “Band of Brothers,” “The Pacific,” and “Masters of the Air” are on Max (formerly HBO Max). “Generation Kill” is also on Max. “Das Boot” is available on Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, depending on your region. “Catch-22” is on Hulu. “World on Fire” is on PBS Masterpiece and Amazon Prime Video. “The Crown” and “Line of Duty” are on Netflix. “TURN: Washington’s Spies” and “SEAL Team” are on Paramount+. “Medal of Honor” and “The Liberator” are on Netflix. “Bomb Girls” and “Home Fires” are available on various streaming platforms, so check your local listings. “Foyle’s War” is on Acorn TV and Amazon Prime Video. “The Sinking of the Laconia” is available for purchase or rent on various platforms. “Charité at War” can be found on MHz Choice and Amazon Prime Video. “Manhunt: The Search for Bin Laden” and “Six” are on Showtime.
Q: Are there any shows similar to “Masters of the Air” set in other wars?
A: Yes, absolutely! “Generation Kill” is set during the Iraq War, “TURN: Washington’s Spies” is set during the American Revolution, and “Manhunt: The Search for Bin Laden” is set in the post-9/11 era. These shows like military TV shows offer compelling stories of courage and conflict in different historical settings, similar to the themes explored in shows like historical war series such as “Masters of the Air”.
Q: I prefer factual shows. Are there any documentaries similar to “Masters of the Air”?
A: “Medal of Honor” is a fantastic docuseries that tells true stories of military heroism. You might also enjoy documentaries about World War II aviation or the Eighth Air Force specifically, to learn more about the historical context of “Masters of the Air.” Google Search or YouTube can help you find excellent shows like WWII dramas in documentary format.
We hope this list of shows like Masters of the Air provides you with plenty of exciting viewing options! Whether you’re in the mood for more shows like Band of Brothers, are fascinated by shows like The Pacific, or want to explore other shows like WWII dramas and shows like military TV shows, there’s something here for every fan of historical war series. Happy watching!
