“Pearl Harbor” (2001) is a romantic war drama directed by Michael Bay. The film is set against the backdrop of the infamous Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II, blending historical events with a fictional love story. The plot centers on childhood friends and Army Air Corps pilots Rafe McCawley (Ben Affleck) and Danny Walker (Josh Hartnett).

Both men fall in love with the same woman, Evelyn Johnson (Kate Beckinsale), a Navy nurse. Their lives and love triangle are dramatically altered by the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Rafe initially leaves to fight in the Battle of Britain, leaving Evelyn and Danny behind. Believing Rafe to be dead after his plane is shot down, Evelyn and Danny grow closer, eventually falling in love. However, Rafe returns unexpectedly, complicating their relationships just as the Japanese launch their attack on Pearl Harbor.

The film vividly portrays the chaos and heroism during the attack, highlighting the bravery of the military personnel and the devastating consequences of the surprise assault. In the aftermath of the attack, Rafe and Danny volunteer for a dangerous retaliatory mission, the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo, further testing their friendship and loyalty. The film concludes with a poignant resolution of their love triangle amidst the backdrop of ongoing war.