10 Best Movies Like Megan Leavey | Similar-List

Megan Leavey (2017) is a heartfelt war drama based on the true story of a young woman’s military journey and the transformative bond she forms with her military dog. The film, starring Kate Mara as Megan, portrays the emotional and psychological aftermath of war, focusing on themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and the invisible scars of PTSD. Megan’s journey—personal redemption, emotional healing, and deep camaraderie with her dog Rex—captures the human cost of war and the healing power of companionship. The central relationship between Megan and Rex becomes a beacon of hope amid war’s brutality, showing how bonds formed in the heat of conflict can offer healing and strength.

For those who were moved by Megan Leavey's emotional depth and enduring themes, here’s a curated selection of films that explore similar narratives—films that examine the impact of war, the resilience of those who serve, and the complex emotional journeys of soldiers and their animal companions. These movies delve into the human cost of conflict, PTSD, and the often-overlooked psychological toll of military service.

10 Best Movies Like Megan Leavey

American Sniper (2014)

American Sniper highlights the devastating after-effects of war for soldiers returning home, grappling with the trauma of their experiences.

While Clint Eastwood’s biographical war drama American Sniper depicts a significantly higher body count than Megan Leavey's, both films profoundly explore the psychological toll of war and the immense difficulty of reintegrating into civilian life after returning from the battlefield. American Sniper tells the story of Chris Kyle (played by Bradley Cooper), a Navy SEAL sniper with 255 confirmed kills over four tours in Iraq. The film chronicles Kyle’s internal battle with the emotional and psychological consequences of combat, offering a somber look at the impact of war on soldiers' mental health.

The film focuses heavily on PTSD, which resonates with Megan Leavey's emotional core. Both films explore the challenges faced by veterans upon returning home, but where Megan Leavey centers on the deep emotional bond between a soldier and her military dog, American Sniper delves deeper into the personal and familial strain of PTSD. Cooper’s performance as Chris Kyle is both raw and haunting, capturing the complex emotional turmoil of a man torn between the brutal realities of war and the struggle to return to a semblance of normal life.

What makes American Sniper especially powerful is its focus on the unseen scars of combat. While Megan Leavey emphasizes the healing power of companionship and the bond between a soldier and her dog, American Sniper shows the devastating consequences of war on the human psyche and how those who return often struggle with feelings of isolation and a lack of understanding from those who have never experienced war firsthand. It also highlights the neglect and challenges that veterans face when trying to reintegrate into society, offering a stark and sobering look at the emotional fallout of war.

While Megan Leavey is ultimately about healing, American Sniper serves as a cautionary tale, underscoring the horrific psychological costs of war. Both films remind us that while war may end, the impact on those who serve is far from over, making American Sniper an essential watch for anyone interested in exploring the long-term effects of combat and the emotional challenges faced by those who return home.

Private Benjamin (1980)

Private Benjamin offers a unique and comedic look at the experiences of female soldiers, shedding light on the challenges women face when stepping into the traditionally male-dominated world of the military.

While Megan Leavey is a serious portrayal of a female soldier's emotional and psychological struggles during wartime, Private Benjamin provides a much lighter take on the military experience, focusing on personal growth and empowerment. The film stars Goldie Hawn as Judy Benjamin, a wealthy and sheltered young woman who, after the sudden death of her husband, impulsively joins the U.S. Army to escape her previous life. Initially unprepared for the harshness of military life, Benjamin's journey transforms into self-discovery, independence, and unexpected resilience.

Like Megan Leavey, Private Benjamin explores personal struggle and strength themes but with a comedic twist. It takes on the military’s gender expectations, exposing the way female soldiers often have to prove themselves in environments that are often dismissive or hostile towards women. Through Judy's journey, the film examines how a woman can thrive in a male-dominated space, learning to adapt, overcome stereotypes, and gain the respect of her fellow soldiers. While Megan Leavey is more focused on warfare's physical and emotional challenges, Private Benjamin offers a nuanced exploration of the societal pressures placed on women, particularly in traditionally male spheres like the military.

Although the tone is much lighter, Private Benjamin still touches on the internal conflicts that women face in the military, such as the struggle to reconcile their identity with their expectations. This sense of empowerment and self-realization resonates with Megan Leavey, where the protagonist must also navigate the complexities of military life while forging her own sense of purpose and identity.

For viewers who appreciated Megan Leavey's themes of empowerment and resilience, Private Benjamin offers a lighter but still impactful exploration of the female soldier experience. It blends humor with insight into the unique challenges women face in combat and military environments.

The Wall (2017)

The Wall is a gripping psychological thriller that delves into the intense psychological strain faced by soldiers in modern-day warfare, particularly those stationed in conflict zones like Iraq. While Megan Leavey offers a poignant portrayal of the emotional and physical toll of war on a soldier’s life, The Wall focuses more on the mental and emotional battles that soldiers face during combat.

Set in the unforgiving Iraqi desert, the film centers around two American soldiers, played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson and John Cena, who find themselves pinned down by an unseen sniper. The tight, suspenseful narrative unfolds almost entirely within a small, claustrophobic space, highlighting the mental anguish, paranoia, and fear that come with being under constant threat in a war zone. The Wall is not just a story of physical survival; it's an exploration of how isolation, fear, and psychological pressure can break a soldier's resolve.

Much like Megan Leavey, The Wall portrays the extreme stress and trauma experienced by soldiers during wartime, albeit from a different perspective. Where Megan Leavey focuses on the bond between a soldier and her dog as a means of emotional survival, The Wall showcases the internal struggle of soldiers as they confront their own vulnerabilities, both in terms of their physical survival and their mental endurance.

The movie also delves into the psychological tactics of war. The sniper, an embodiment of the invisible enemy, forces the soldiers to confront their worst fears and their own isolation, both from the outside world and from each other. This theme of psychological warfare mirrors the emotional toll shown in Megan Leavey, where the protagonist’s personal battles—PTSD, isolation, and a struggle for connection—serve as the core of the narrative.

For viewers who appreciated the raw emotional realism of Megan Leavey, The Wall offers a more intense, suspense-filled look at how war’s psychological scars manifest in high-pressure, life-or-death situations. Both films highlight the silent and unseen consequences of conflict, emphasizing how soldiers cope with extreme stress, trauma, and the harsh realities of war. If you’re drawn to movies that explore the mental strain of battle, The Wall is a must-watch.

G.I. Jane (1997)

G.I. Jane provides a powerful and, at times, gritty exploration of gender dynamics within the military, presenting a feminist perspective on the intense challenges faced by women in a male-dominated environment. While Megan Leavey sheds light on a soldier’s bond with a military dog and her journey to overcome personal trauma, G.I. Jane tackles the struggle for respect, equality, and survival that female soldiers often encounter when they challenge the system’s gender norms.

The film stars Demi Moore as Jordan O'Neil, a Navy SEAL recruit who faces intense physical and psychological tests in a grueling military training program. The film's central theme revolves around her determination to prove that women can meet the same standards as men in the armed forces, despite facing discrimination, mockery, and hostility from her male counterparts and commanding officers. Through O'Neil's journey, G.I. Jane explores the broader issues of sexism and institutional barriers that women in the military must navigate, making it an essential companion to Megan Leavey for those interested in female-centric war narratives.

Much like Megan Leavey, which showcases the protagonist’s resilience in the face of personal struggles, G.I. Jane portrays a woman’s perseverance in the face of gender-based adversity. Both films emphasize the emotional and mental fortitude required to succeed under pressure. However, G.I. Jane leans more heavily on themes of gender equality, showing the protagonist as someone who must not only overcome physical challenges but also battle against ingrained stereotypes and discrimination within the military ranks.

The intense training sequences in G.I. Jane parallel the grueling experiences faced by soldiers in Megan Leavey, albeit with a more direct focus on the social barriers women face. The film also explores themes of isolation and personal sacrifice, as O'Neil's single-minded pursuit of military excellence leads to strained relationships and personal losses. Her character’s journey is a stark reminder that the path to respect in a field dominated by men requires not just physical strength but also immense mental resilience.

For viewers who appreciate the themes of empowerment and personal growth in Megan Leavey, G.I. Jane offers a compelling look at a woman fighting to carve out her place in the military, defying both physical and societal expectations. The film is a profound statement on overcoming adversity, asserting one’s worth, and standing up against injustice in the harshest of environments. If you’re drawn to films that showcase the determination of women in challenging situations, G.I. Jane is an essential addition to your watchlist.

Zero Dark Thirty (2012)

Zero Dark Thirty offers a gripping, intense portrayal of the decade-long hunt for Osama bin Laden, focusing on the tireless efforts of intelligence agents and military operatives. While its focus is on counterterrorism rather than the emotional journey of soldiers or their bonds with animals, the film shares with Megan Leavey a deep exploration of the psychological and emotional toll that war and its aftermath take on those involved.

Directed by Kathryn Bigelow, Zero Dark Thirty follows CIA analyst Maya (Jessica Chastain) as she relentlessly pursues leads to track down the Al-Qaeda leader. The film takes viewers through a complex and harrowing narrative that highlights the persistence, sacrifice, and moral ambiguity involved in counterterrorism operations. Similar to how Megan Leavey delves into the long-lasting emotional scars caused by war, Zero Dark Thirty sheds light on the personal cost of war, albeit from the perspective of those in the intelligence community and military involved in high-stakes operations.

While Megan Leavey explores the emotional connection between a soldier and her military dog, Zero Dark Thirty examines the emotional cost of the obsessive pursuit of justice and the toll it takes on Maya. Throughout the film, Maya is portrayed as both determined and deeply isolated as she faces personal and professional sacrifices in her relentless search for bin Laden. This mirrors the emotional isolation experienced by soldiers like Megan Leavey, who are profoundly affected by their experiences in combat. Both films showcase the internal struggles of those driven by duty and the psychological burden of war but through very different lenses.

In terms of storytelling, Zero Dark Thirty is more focused on the procedural aspects of intelligence gathering and military strategy. Yet, the film also explores the ethical dilemmas and personal costs involved in the hunt for bin Laden. Maya’s journey is one of moral complexity as she grapples with the justification of extreme measures in the pursuit of justice. Similarly, Megan Leavey addresses the moral complexities soldiers face, especially in dealing with the traumatic consequences of war and the need for healing. Both films underscore the personal cost of war—whether through the lens of a soldier’s trauma or a CIA operative's ethical challenges.

For those who were moved by the portrayal of sacrifice and the psychological toll of war in Megan Leavey, Zero Dark Thirty offers a complementary narrative that explores the different but equally significant sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice. Both films highlight the emotional complexity of those who serve, emphasizing the resilience required to face the aftermath of war, whether in the form of PTSD, moral ambiguity, or emotional isolation.

If you’re interested in films that explore the personal and psychological consequences of war and the sacrifices of those in service, Zero Dark Thirty is a compelling watch. While it differs in tone and setting, it shares with Megan Leavey a profound meditation on the human cost of conflict and the emotional resilience required to endure it.

A Private War (2018)

A Private War presents a poignant and gripping portrayal of the life and legacy of Marie Colvin, one of the most fearless war correspondents of our time. Directed by Matthew Heineman, the film explores Colvin's unrelenting commitment to telling the stories of those caught in the horrors of war, even at the cost of her own safety. Much like Megan Leavey, A Private War highlights the personal sacrifices of individuals in conflict zones, focusing on the emotional and physical toll of war on those who bear witness to its devastation.

Marie Colvin, played by Rosamund Pike, is a journalist who devoted her career to covering some of the most dangerous conflict zones around the world. The film chronicles her experiences in war-torn countries like Sri Lanka, Libya, and Syria, and delves into the toll her work takes on her mental and emotional well-being. Her encounters with violence, loss, and trauma mirror the struggles faced by military personnel like Megan Leavey, who, despite their bravery, must grapple with the lasting scars of war.

A Private War focuses on the psychological costs of war, not just for soldiers but for those who report on its horrors. Colvin's experiences are depicted with raw intensity, as the film portrays her inner turmoil and the toll that years of covering conflict have on her emotional state. This theme resonates with Megan Leavey, where the protagonist’s emotional journey with her military dog Rex is marked by the trauma of war and the difficulties of post-war reintegration. Both films emphasize the emotional burden of bearing witness to suffering and how that can alter one's perception of the world.

While Colvin’s work is journalistic rather than military, the emotional resilience and determination she exhibits are strikingly similar to the qualities demonstrated by Megan Leavey. Both women are driven by a sense of duty and a desire to make a difference, even when that means facing personal danger and trauma. In Colvin's case, her courage and commitment to truth, no matter the personal cost, are central themes that align with Leavey’s own battle to cope with the emotional aftermath of war.

What makes A Private War especially compelling for those who appreciated Megan Leavey is its exploration of the psychological toll of war on individuals who serve in very different capacities. While Megan connects deeply with her military dog in the healing process, Colvin’s solace comes from her relentless pursuit of the truth. Yet, both women must contend with the aftermath of their experiences—whether it is dealing with PTSD, isolation, or moral ambiguity. A Private War serves as a powerful reminder that war affects everyone involved, not just those who fight on the front lines.

If Megan Leavey left you thinking about the emotional cost of war and the resilience required to overcome it, A Private War offers a similar meditation on trauma, healing, and the courage to continue even when the cost is high. Both films provide a raw, unfiltered look at the human spirit’s ability to withstand the horrors of conflict while maintaining a sense of purpose and determination.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot (2016)

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot offers a unique and slightly lighter perspective on the challenges of war reporting, blending humor with the harsh realities of conflict in the Middle East. Directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, the film is based on the memoir of journalist Kim Barker, who navigated the complexities of reporting from war zones, particularly Afghanistan, during the early years of the U.S. military presence there. Starring Tina Fey in a dramatic turn as Barker, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot explores the often absurd and chaotic nature of wartime while also delving into deeper emotional and psychological territory—a narrative element shared with Megan Leavey.

While Megan Leavey focuses on the emotional and physical toll of war on a female Marine and her bond with a military dog, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot takes a more comedic approach to the struggles faced by a female journalist in the same region. Kim Barker, much like Megan, is thrown into a male-dominated environment and must navigate the dangers of the war while also contending with the inherent absurdities of life in a conflict zone. While the tone of Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is lighter and more humorous than the deeply emotional Megan Leavey, both films explore the intersection of gender, war, and resilience, each offering a unique look at the psychological toll of war on women.

At its heart, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot is about the complexities of being a woman in a high-stress, high-risk profession. As Kim Barker ventures deeper into the world of war reporting, she must confront both the dangers of the battlefield and the emotional cost of seeing humanity at its worst. Like Megan, Kim struggles with her sense of identity and purpose and the emotional fallout of her experiences. The film highlights her gradual transformation from an unsure and somewhat naive journalist into a more hardened yet deeply empathetic individual—an arc that resonates with Megan Leavey's exploration of personal growth through adversity.

What makes Whiskey Tango Foxtrot particularly relevant for fans of Megan Leavey is its exploration of how individuals cope with the emotional and psychological effects of war in different capacities. While Megan’s healing journey centers around her connection with her military dog, Kim’s coping mechanisms are often humorous yet reveal a deeper emotional core. The film expertly balances moments of levity with sobering reflections on the complexities of war, personal sacrifice, and the emotional weight carried by those who witness violence and destruction firsthand.

If you appreciated Megan Leavey for its poignant exploration of trauma, healing, and personal growth, Whiskey Tango Foxtrot offers a different but equally compelling take on the emotional challenges of war. Through its mix of humor, heart, and hard-hitting moments, the film underscores the resilience required to navigate conflict zones—whether as a soldier, a reporter, or anyone caught in the whirlwind of war. It reminds viewers that, while the stakes may be high, the human capacity to find humor, connection, and strength in the darkest of times is just as powerful as the bonds formed in the midst of battle.

The Stopover (2016)

The Stopover is a powerful, intimate drama that offers a poignant exploration of the emotional and psychological struggles faced by female soldiers returning from a combat zone. Directed by Olivier Peyton, the film centers on two French soldiers, Sandrine and Louise, who, after completing a tour in Afghanistan, stopover in Cyprus for a mandatory debriefing before heading home. In this brief window of time, they must confront not only the trauma of war but also the unresolved emotional challenges they face as women in a traditionally male-dominated military environment.

Much like Megan Leavey, The Stopover highlights the unique challenges that women face in the military, where the pressures of combat are compounded by gender expectations and the often-overlooked emotional toll of war. The film delves into the psychological complexities of the female soldiers' experiences, particularly how they navigate trauma, sexual assault, and the difficulties of reintegrating into society after war. The tension between the sisters-in-arms, both physically and emotionally worn from their time in Afghanistan, underscores the deep bonds formed in the chaos of conflict, much like the connection between Megan and her military dog, Rex, in Megan Leavey.

What sets The Stopover apart is its focus on the intersection of sexual trauma and combat, an element often underrepresented in war films. Through the lens of Sandrine and Louise, the film explores the complexities of trauma, both visible and invisible, and how women soldiers, in particular, struggle with feelings of alienation and vulnerability. The film’s quiet yet intense portrayal of their mental and emotional states echoes the raw honesty of Megan Leavey, especially in depicting the struggle to confront past horrors while trying to maintain personal strength and identity.

In a more subtle way than Megan Leavey, The Stopover also touches on the idea of resilience in the face of unimaginable emotional burdens. As the women engage in their final debriefing, they must reconcile with the emotional scars of war while also processing their personal trauma. In Megan Leavey, Megan’s healing is heavily influenced by her bond with Rex, while in The Stopover, the women must rely on each other and the fleeting connections they form in an environment that is anything but safe or supportive.

Both films share a profound exploration of the psychological aftermath of war, but The Stopover brings a distinct focus on female soldiers’ experiences in a male-dominated military culture. Its depiction of the emotional and psychological scars carried by these women offers a necessary and powerful counterpoint to traditional war narratives. For those moved by the emotional depth and character-driven storytelling in Megan Leavey, The Stopover provides a compelling, honest look at the complex mental and emotional toll of war, particularly from the perspective of women navigating trauma in conflict zones.

If you're seeking films like Megan Leavey's that delve into the challenges of women in war, the emotional weight of post-traumatic stress, and the resilience of soldiers coping with their experiences, The Stopover is a thought-provoking and essential watch. It powerfully reminds us that the cost of war is not just measured in battles fought but in the lives irrevocably altered by the psychological scars left behind.

Thank You For Your Service (2017)

Thank You for Your Service is a gripping and heartfelt drama that delves into the emotional and psychological toll of war, focusing specifically on the struggles of soldiers returning home with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Directed by Jason Hall, the film follows a group of U.S. veterans as they grapple with the haunting memories of their service in Iraq and the challenges they face in reintegrating into civilian life. This portrayal of PTSD is deeply resonant, providing an unflinching look at the mental health crisis many soldiers face when they return home from war.

Similar to Megan Leavey, Thank You for Your Service places a strong emphasis on the personal and emotional costs of war, especially the long-term effects that aren’t immediately visible. Just as Megan Leavey explores the emotional scars left on its protagonist, a young Marine struggling with the aftermath of war, Thank You for Your Service brings the painful realities of PTSD to the forefront, showing how these invisible wounds continue to affect soldiers long after they leave the battlefield. Through the stories of characters like Adam Schumann (played by Miles Teller), the film portrays the intense inner battles that soldiers face as they try to navigate the transition from war to home life.

The film’s portrayal of PTSD is particularly poignant, not only focusing on the emotional strain but also exploring the difficulties veterans face in seeking help. Thank You for Your Service addresses the stigma surrounding mental health within the military and the underfunded veteran care system that often leaves soldiers to fend for themselves in their darkest moments. This resonates with Megan Leavey in its exploration of the emotional fallout of war, where Megan’s trauma, while deeply personal, is also a reflection of the broader difficulties soldiers face when returning to a society that may not fully understand or acknowledge the weight of their experiences.

Much like the bond between Megan and her dog Rex, Thank You for Your Service also emphasizes the importance of community and support in the healing process. Adam and his fellow veterans find solace in each other’s company, forming tight-knit bonds as they navigate the difficult terrain of PTSD together. The film highlights how, even in the face of immense personal pain, the connection between veterans—much like the deep, unspoken understanding between soldiers and their canine partners—can provide a path toward recovery.

The film is also a reflection of the societal challenges faced by veterans, particularly when it comes to the difficulty of reintegrating into family life and civilian society. For Adam, this transition proves to be just as difficult as his time in Iraq, as he struggles to communicate with his wife and reconcile the man he was before and after his deployment. The theme of reintegration in Thank You for Your Service is a vital one and closely aligns with the themes of healing and adaptation explored in Megan Leavey. Both films shine a light on the often-overlooked emotional struggles of soldiers post-war, reinforcing the importance of understanding, empathy, and proper care in the aftermath of conflict.

For viewers who were moved by the deep emotional undercurrents of Megan Leavey, Thank You for Your Service is a must-watch. It offers a raw, unfiltered look at the human cost of war, providing an insightful exploration of PTSD, reintegration, and the lasting effects of trauma. Both films emphasize the resilience of those affected by war, highlighting their journey toward healing and showing how connections—whether with fellow soldiers or with beloved animals—are essential in that process.

Max (2015)

Max (2015) is a compelling and emotional film that centers around the bond between a young boy and a military dog who has been traumatized by the horrors of war. Much like Megan Leavey, this film underscores the unique and profound connection between soldiers and their canine partners, exploring the healing and emotional support these animals offer in the aftermath of combat.

The story follows Max, a military working dog who served in Afghanistan alongside his handler, Kyle Wincott. After Kyle is killed in action, Max is left struggling with his own PTSD and becomes a difficult, emotionally withdrawn dog. When Kyle’s family, including his younger brother Justin, takes in Max, they form an unlikely but deeply emotional bond. As Justin helps Max overcome his trauma, the film highlights the healing power of love and trust, both for the dog and for the humans who care for him.

Similar to Megan Leavey, Max explores themes of post-traumatic stress disorder but from the perspective of a military dog who has seen the brutalities of war. While Megan Leavey focused on the emotional toll war takes on its human characters, Max offers a unique perspective on the psychological effects of war on military animals, whose emotional and physical scars often go unnoticed. Both films highlight the emotional resilience of animals and soldiers and how the bond between them can be a source of comfort and healing.

In addition to its focus on the bond between humans and dogs, Max also portrays the healing process through shared experiences of trauma. Just as Megan and Rex’s relationship helps her work through the pain of her own PTSD, Justin’s relationship with Max helps both the boy and the dog deal with their respective grief and trauma. The film explores how animals, through their loyalty and unwavering companionship, can become an essential part of the healing process for those who have experienced war.

Max’s struggle to adjust to life after losing his handler reflects the deep emotional scars that military dogs often carry, which society often overlooks. Much like the struggles soldiers face in Megan Leavey, the film shines a light on the silent but profound emotional impact that war has on those who serve, whether human or animal. It reminds us that the cost of war extends beyond human lives, and the emotional toll on military dogs deserves just as much attention and respect.

Max is a must-watch for viewers who were moved by Megan Leavey’s exploration of the bond between soldiers and their dogs. It offers a heartwarming yet heart-wrenching portrayal of the deep emotional connections that can form between humans and animals in the wake of war. Both films illuminate the unspoken trauma experienced by soldiers and military dogs alike, showing how their shared experiences can lead to a powerful and transformative healing journey. Whether you're drawn to Megan Leavey's or Max's emotional depth, both films offer poignant stories about the resilience, loyalty, and healing that emerge from the bond between humans and their military animal companions.

If you were deeply moved by the themes of resilience, healing, and sacrifice in Megan Leavey, these films will undoubtedly resonate with you. Each one offers a unique perspective on the human (and animal) costs of war, delving into the psychological toll of combat, the bonds between soldiers and their dogs, and the emotional recovery required to move forward after the battlefield. Whether it's the impact of PTSD, the special relationship between soldiers and their canine partners, or the strength of women in the military, these films continue the conversation started by Megan Leavey, providing a rich, emotional exploration of the lasting effects of war.