USS Seawolf (SSN-21)

Best Submarine Movies

By Raymond Lockley

The submarine movie is a fascinating subgenre of the war or action movie category. Subs constrain the actors and the action, and create a strong psychological backdrop for high-pressure situations and life-and-death stories. A great submarine movie is not only dramatic and entertaining, but also makes the most of this unique setting. The viewer can also look forward to strong performances in the roles of the commanding officers and chiefs.

With thanks to those who have served hard sea duty in the "Silent Service", here is my list of the best American submarine movies:

  1. Run Silent Run Deep (1958)
  2. Crimson Tide (1995)
  3. U-571 (2000)
  4. The Enemy Below (1957)
  5. K-19: The Widowmaker (2002)
  6. The Hunt for Red October (1990)
  7. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954)

Honorable mention

A great submarine movie that hit the American market, but was in German with English subtitles:

To index of lists