War movie dubbed 'the best ever' is 'even more harrowing than Saving Private Ryan'

Taegukgi: The Brotherhood of War is a 2004 South Korean film that tells the story of two brothers forced to fight on opposite sides of the Korean War.

22:53 ET, Sat, Jun 7, 2025 | UPDATED: 22:55 ET, Sat, Jun 7, 2025

Those who have seen it said that the film is full of raw emotion and powerful performances.

Those who have seen it said that the film is full of raw emotion and powerful performances. (Image: IMDb)

War flicks rank among the most beloved film genres, with classics like Saving Private Ryan and Full Metal Jacket frequently cited as top-tier favorites. However, some exceptional war films fly under the radar.

One such movie has been hailed by audiences as "the best war movie ever," yet it remains largely unknown outside of South Korea.

The 2004 South Korean epic Taegukgi: The Brotherhood of War, set during the tumult of the Korean War, chronicles the lives of two brothers, Jin-tae and Seok, who were thrust into military service amid the chaos of 1950.

With a fierce resolve to shield his younger sibling, Jin-tae embarks on perilous assignments, aiming to earn Jin-seok's discharge.

Viewers who have discovered this gem describe it as a treasure trove of raw emotion and stellar acting, offering a stark portrayal of wartime atrocities.

The film is set during the Korean War.

The film is set during the Korean War. (Image: IMDb)

"This movie blew my mind," exclaimed Google reviewer Caleb An. "Fast forward a decade later and still it remains number one on my list relative to the genre. Hacksaw Ridge would be number two if you need a better idea as to how good this film was."

Mike Taba, another enthusiast, drew parallels to Saving Private Ryan, stating: "If you like Saving Private Ryan, you'll like this too.

"Brotherhood and sacrificing are the main themes, and the most important thing it tries to tell us is how war changes humans into something else."

Ben Scale remarked: "Battle scenes are more vivid, gritty and harrowing than Hollywood war movies. I was genuinely hurting during the tragic climax. An epic and harrowing war movie."

DON'T MISS...

Beloved Heath Ledger film taken off Netflix as fans rage

Lady Gaga joins Netflix's Wednesday as she guest stars alongside Jenna Ortega

Ridley Scott declares he's 'done' with Alien franchise and critiques sequels

The film tells the story of two brothers, Jin-tae and Jin-seok.

The film tells the story of two brothers, Jin-tae and Jin-seok. (Image: IMDb)

Helmed by Kang Je-gyu with lead performances from Jang Dong-gun and Won Bin, Taegukgi marked a monumental success in South Korea's cinematic landscape.

Box Office Mojo reports that it garnered over $68 million (£50mn) worldwide, with £38 million coming from South Korea alone.

The motion picture clinched the Best Film title at the Asia Pacific Film Festival and boasts an 80% critical rating on Rotten Tomatoes, complemented by a 93% audience score.

Moreover, IMDb lists it among its compilation of "Great Unknown War Movies," recommending it as essential viewing for aficionados of the genre.