Chillopedia | War is something that has existed since the dawn of man. Only a small fraction of the total population has first-hand experience with war, however, but there have been several films that have taken a look at the various aspects of war unflinchingly so that others can begin to understand the realities of armed conflict.
The Nerd Stash: “Whether the concept is too graphic, too realistic, or just entirely unacceptable, these movies are just too disturbing to bare.”
Pop Cultured: "In this article, we shall count down five acclaimed war films that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime."
5 World War 2 Movies that will help understand the scenarios that made Oppenheimer create the atomic bomb.
You could make a respectable list of 10 also. I'd include Full Metal Jacket, Black Hawk Down and even Casualties Of War.
Hurt locker was my favorite, the film is so realistic. among the top 5 that was shown, i only saw platoon and saving private ryan...i think hurt locker is slightly better than platoon.