Pearl Harbor (2001) is an epic war drama film directed by Michael Bay, known for its large-scale action sequences and dramatic love story set against the backdrop of World War II. The film stars Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale and focuses on the events surrounding the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, which led to the United States’ entry into World War II.

The story centers on two childhood friends, Rafe McCawley (Ben Affleck) and Danny Walker (Josh Hartnett), who become daring fighter pilots. Both men fall in love with the same woman, Evelyn Johnson (Kate Beckinsale), a Navy nurse. Rafe volunteers to fight in Britain as part of the Eagle Squadron, leaving Danny and Evelyn behind. Presumed dead after a mission gone wrong, Rafe’s unexpected return creates emotional tension as Danny and Evelyn have grown closer during his absence.

The film builds toward the devastating surprise attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces, portrayed through explosive action sequences and visual effects. The aftermath of the attack is depicted through the heroic efforts of Rafe, Danny, and other soldiers who fight to defend the harbor, and it eventually leads to their participation in the Doolittle Raid, a retaliatory air strike on Tokyo.