As August comes to an end, that means you only have a few days to watch some of the best movies on Netflix.
Watch With Us is here to make sure you don’t miss any of the films that will be exiting the platform soon.
One such movie, Charlie Wilson’s War, will be gone after August 31 — and it’s got a great cast, interesting themes and fascinating real-world context.
Here’s why we think you should add this historical biopic comedy to your Netflix watch list this Labor Day weekend.
‘Charlie Wilson’s War’ Tells a True Story That Many People Don’t Know
This 2007 film tells the story of Operation Cyclone, a multi-year covert operation to help overthrow the Soviet regime in Afghanistan. In 1980, the government was reluctant to engage with such a plan, until three individuals stepped in — socialite and activist Joanne Herring (played here by Julia Roberts), Texas Congressman Charlie Wilson (Tom Hanks) and CIA Agent Gust Avrakotos (Philip Seymour Hoffman).
The film, directed by Mike Nichols from a script by Aaron Sorkin, shows how Wilson was swayed by Herring to get involved in the conflict, and how the friendship between Wilson and Avrakotos allowed them to push for more funding. The secretive nature of Operation Cyclone meant that Wilson was rarely lauded for his efforts.
Charlie Wilson’s War isn’t just entertaining — it’s also an educational peek into a little-known chapter of Cold War history.
It’s a Rare Breed of Historical Film
It’s not often that historical biopics lean as heavily into comedy as Charlie Wilson’s War does — while there’s typically some wry and witty dialogue, most maintain a serious tone overall. The character of Charlie Wilson is so unserious, however, that the film can commit to its comedic elements. Hanks does an excellent job creating a character who’s outrageous and larger than life, without creating a caricature.
Sorkin’s script is full of sharp and funny dialogue, as well as the clever social satire the writer is known for.
The result is a film that blends history and humor in a way that few other biopics dare to attempt.
The Characters — and Their Mission — Are Refreshingly Flawed
Charlie Wilson is not your typical hero. He’s a drinker and cocaine user who staffs his office almost exclusively with attractive women. The film never paints him, Herring or Avrakotos, as perfect — but that’s what makes their passion so inspiring. We are all prone to failure, we all have flaws — but that doesn’t mean we can’t do our best to help. Hanks, Roberts and Hoffman make the characters lovable and charming, despite their flaws.
Interestingly, the movie also subtly pays homage to what would befall Afghanistan after the Soviets were ousted — the rise of the Taliban. The largely comedic movie ends on something of a down note, with the knowledge that Wilson and his compatriots weren’t able to secure the future of Afghanistan by pushing the U.S. government to provide education and infrastructure. It’s a fascinating acknowledgement of how even the best-laid plans can fall apart, which is also unusual for a historical film of this tone.
The movie leans into complexity — of the people and also of the geopolitics at play — leaving the audience painfully aware that no matter how charismatic you may be, you may be unable to reach your goals.
This layered ending makes Charlie Wilson’s War a movie that lingers long after the credits roll.
August 31 is the last day to watch Charlie Wilson’s War on Netflix.
