The Art of War by Sun Tzu [2009]

Sun Tzu was the Nostradamus of warfare and his book Art of War, written 2,400 years ago, is still the ultimate how-to guide for winning at conflict (regardless of the context). This documentary uncovers the true story behind the legendary Art of War text, and illustrates how Sun Tzu's principles helped tip the scales in history's most important battles - from the Vietnam War, the invasion of Normandy in WWII (D-Day), Gettysburg in the American Civil War, and Sun Tzu's own battles. It also deciphers the clues behind the strange life of Sun Tzu himself - a mysterious figure who appears out of nowhere, leads a great army to victory, then disappears into the mountains. Follow his principles and you win. Ignore them and you lose.

Many of Sun Tzu's principles appear here as he actually wrote them, on narrow strips of wood tied together with string. After highlighting these principles, the show then segues into a well delineated and clearly presented exploration of the principles in action… or not, as the case may be.

What are some of those principles?

Know your enemy and know yourself.
Win without fighting.
When engaging with your enemy, avoid their strengths and attack their weaknesses.

This is a show I would use to teach military strategy. And business strategy. And creative project strategy. And relationship strategy.

If you're at all interested in military history and/or if you want to learn some applied wisdom for your life, your job, your relationships – get Art of War. Watch and learn.

Year released: 2009
Director: David Padrusch
Writers: David Baeumler, David Padrusch
Narrator: James Lurie
Feature interviews with military strategists: Mark McNeilly, Andrew R. Wilson, Foo Check Teck, Richard Gabriel, Bevin Alexander
Length: 1h 30m
Studio : ‎ Lionsgate