"...or interesting psychological insights into what draws mankind into war in the first place."

This latter bit of criteria is why I included Apocalypse Now and The Hurt Locker. Perhaps they aren't as "realistic", but they are intended to interrogate the evil in the soul of mankind, and as such, I think deserved inclusion as great war films.

I certainly wouldn't dream of arguing with veterans or those currently serving in combat in terms of what is and isn't realistic in a film. I merely comment on cinematic merit. Platoon was a film I strongly considered for this list too, and I gave it an honourable mention accordingly.

Thank you, and I'm glad you enjoyed the article. :)