World War II fans have been feasting this July, with a slew of new releases and streaming additions. From the PVOD hit Pressure starring Brendan Fraser and Andrew Scott to the documentary series World War II with Tom Hanks, there's no shortage of wartime content. But one of the most ambitious and underrated projects of the last two decades is about to vanish from Paramount+.
Clint Eastwood's Flags of Our Fathers, released in 2006, is set to leave the streaming service on August 1, 2026. The film, which marks its 20th anniversary this year, is a companion piece to Eastwood's Letters from Iwo Jima. Together, they tell the story of the Battle of Iwo Jima from both American and Japanese perspectives—a bold, almost revolutionary approach that feels especially poignant in today's divided climate.
A Tale of Two Films
Flags of Our Fathers focuses on the American side, following the lives of the soldiers who raised the flag on Iwo Jima and the subsequent propaganda campaign that turned them into heroes. Starring Ryan Phillippe, Adam Beach, and Jesse Bradford, the film explores the gap between manufactured heroism and the grim reality of war. Its counterpart, Letters from Iwo Jima, told from the Japanese perspective, earned stronger reviews and a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score, compared to Flags' 76%. Commercially, Flags grossed $65 million worldwide on a $90 million budget, while Letters made $68 million on just $19 million.
Despite its lower box office, Flags of Our Fathers remains a compelling and visually stunning film. The Rotten Tomatoes consensus calls it "both a fascinating look at heroism, both earned and manufactured, and a well-filmed salute to the men who fought at the battle of Iwo Jima."
Why You Should Watch Before It Leaves
If you haven't seen Flags of Our Fathers, now is the time. The film is a rare example of a director tackling the same event from two opposing viewpoints, offering a nuanced take on war that goes beyond simple patriotism. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in WWII history or Eastwood's filmography.
For those who enjoy Eastwood's work, you might also check out Clint Eastwood's 'The Good, the Bad and the Ugly' Rides to Prime Video in July 2026. And if you're in the mood for more WWII content, Scott Eastwood's WWII Thriller 'Lucky Strike' Bombs on Rotten Tomatoes—Is It Worth Watching? offers a modern take on the genre.
Don't miss your chance to stream Flags of Our Fathers on Paramount+ before it departs on August 1. It's a piece of cinematic history that deserves a watch.
