Top 5 WW2 Romantic Dramas

Romance probably isn't the first thing that comes to mind when something like World War II is mentioned. Nevertheless, some truly romantic - and often tragic - films have captured some magnificent stories over the years. Some of these you've heard of, some, perhaps not. But all of them are worth watching. They aren't each necessarily about the war itself, but all of them at least take place during that time. Not to mention these were made during the golden age of Hollywood -- you know, when actors were believable, and stories were actually meaningful.

Has anyone not heard of this? I can't imagine that being the case. Nominated for 8 Oscars, this film took home 3. Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in perhaps their most famous roles. Set in Casablanca, Morocco, Bogart plays a cranky club owner who's establishment attracts all kinds - including Nazis. By chance, he winds up in possession of some valuable documents intended for sale to the highest bidder. Unfortunately for him, the highest bidder is someone from his past - someone he'd rather forget. Cue dramatic music.

Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman (yes, her again). Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, that ought to let you know this is going to be a bit dark. Nominated for 2 Oscars. Bergman's father was German spy who committed suicide whilst in prison. She's then offered the opportunity to redeem her family name by spying on a group of German scientists. Grant is her handler, and she quickly falls in love with him, but he doesn't appear to share the feeling.

Greer Garson and Walter Pidgeon. Nominated for 12 Oscars, it won 6. The Miniver family enjoys comfortable means, but are not quite upper-crust. Their son falls in love with, and marries, the granddaughter of a Lady, despite the Lady's objections. Eventually the son feels it's his duty to join the Air Force and while he's away his town is badly bombed and things go wrong at home.

Burt Lancaster, Montgomery Clift, Deborah Kerr, Donna Reed, Frank Sinatra. This film won 8 Oscars, it was nominated for 13. Set in 1941 Hawaii, just before Pearl Harbor happens. Clift is transferred to a new company and his Captain wants him to box for them. Clift refuses and the Captain makes his life hell. In the meantime, his wife (Kerr) is seeking solace in the arms of other men, most notably Burt Lancaster - and she's falling in love.

Spencer Tracy, Irene Dune. Nominated for an Oscar. Tracy was a bomber pilot who was shot down in action. He dies, and becomes guardian angel to another pilot. He even helps the guy romance his old girlfriend!

Keep in mind, these are staged during a tragic period in world history. You will not find anything that resembles "Sleepless in Seattle" on this list. Most of the time you wind up with unrequited love, so beware! They are all worth watching, though.