10 Lost War Series Worth Revisiting Now

A Look Back at Forgotten War Shows That Deserve a Second Chance

War and conflict have long been a staple of television, with countless shows exploring the themes of battle, sacrifice, and resilience. While many of these series have become household names, others have fallen into obscurity, often overlooked despite their quality and historical significance. This article highlights some of the best war-themed shows that, for various reasons, didn't receive the attention they truly deserve.

'Home Fires' (2015–2016)

Set during World War II, Home Fires is a British series that takes a unique approach by focusing on life in the British Isles rather than the front lines. Based on a novel by Julie Summers, the show explores the efforts of the Women's Institute in supporting the war effort from behind the scenes. While the second season didn't quite live up to the first, it still offers a compelling look at the contributions of those who served from the home front. Despite being made just a decade ago, it's now largely forgotten, even though it deserves more recognition.

'Shaka Zulu' (1986)

This ten-part miniseries tells the story of King Shaka of the Zulu Kingdom in present-day South Africa. It follows his rise to power and his resistance against British colonialism in the early 19th century. Although it received mixed reviews in South Africa, it was well-received internationally, especially in Germany. Despite its critical acclaim, Shaka Zulu remains an underrated war-themed show that hasn't found the lasting spotlight it deserves.

'The Long Road Home' (2017)

Set during the Iraq War, The Long Road Home is a miniseries that follows a U.S. Army unit during the Siege of Sadr City in 2004. While it didn't achieve the same level of popularity as Generation Kill, it still offers a gripping portrayal of the chaos and challenges faced by soldiers in modern warfare. Though it received some criticism for feeling like propaganda, it provides a valuable perspective on the tactical and logistical aspects of war.

'Turn: Washington's Spies' (2014–2017)

Set during the American Revolutionary War, Turn: Washington's Spies explores the Culper Ring, America's first spy network. The series starts slowly but gains momentum as it delves into the brutal realities of the conflict. Later seasons received rave reviews due to increased budgets and larger-scale production. However, it has since faded from public memory, despite its strong storytelling and historical depth.

'The Pillars of the Earth' (2010)

Based on Ken Follett's novel, this eight-part miniseries is set during the Middle Ages in England. It follows the construction of a cathedral amidst political turmoil and civil war. With a star-studded cast including Donald Sutherland and Eddie Redmayne, the show was critically acclaimed and even won an Emmy. Yet, it has largely been forgotten over the years, which is a shame given its quality and historical significance.

'Shōgun' (1980)

Before Hulu and FX's 2024 version, there was the original 1980 miniseries based on Dan Clavell's novel. Set during Japan's Edo Period, it explores an alternate history featuring fictional characters inspired by real figures. Though shorter than the 2024 adaptation, it was a remarkable achievement for its time and won three Golden Globes. However, it has since been overshadowed by its more recent counterpart.

'North and South' (1985–1994)

This trilogy of miniseries spans nine years and focuses on the American Civil War. It follows the forbidden friendship between two soldiers from opposing sides, highlighting the deep divisions within the country. Based on John Jakes' novels, the series was critically acclaimed and won an Emmy. Despite its success, it has largely been forgotten in the 21st century.

'Gallipoli' (2015)

A miniseries based on the 1980s film starring Mel Gibson, Gallipoli tells the story of Australian and New Zealand soldiers during World War I. While it received good reviews, it struggled with low viewership and was eventually shortened. Despite this, it offers a powerful depiction of the challenges faced by young soldiers during the Gallipoli campaign.

'Women at War' (2022)

This French and Belgian Netflix series focuses on the lives of four women during World War I, highlighting their roles in the war effort from behind the front lines. Though it was popular in Europe, it didn't gain much traction in North America. Its exploration of the crucial contributions of women during the war makes it a compelling watch for fans of World War I content.

'Transatlantic' (2023)

Set during World War II, Transatlantic follows the Emergency Rescue Committee as it helps civilians escape Nazi-occupied Europe. Based on a novel by Julie Orringer, the seven-part miniseries received critical acclaim for its portrayal of real historical figures and the gravity of the situation. While it wasn't widely discussed after its release, it remains a powerful and historically significant series worth watching.