5 Great Movies and TV Shows Inspired by Catch-22

Joseph Heller’s iconic novel Catch-22 is widely regarded as one of the most significant works of 20th-century literature. The satirical book centers on the illogical nature of war and bureaucracy, exemplified through the experiences of disillusioned World War II bombardier Captain John Yossarian.

Catch-22’s unique blend of humor, absurdity, and grim reality have inspired countless filmmakers and writers to create movies and TV shows that capture its essence. If you’re a fan of the book, you’ll definitely want to check out the following movies and TV shows that embody the spirit of Catch-22.

1. Catch-22 (1970)

It’s only fitting to start with the 1970 adaptation of Heller’s classic by director Mike Nichols. The film stars Alan Arkin as Yossarian, along with a stellar supporting cast including Art Garfunkel, Martin Balsam, Jack Gilford, and Anthony Perkins, among others. Though the film doesn’t quite capture the complexity and absurdity of the novel, Arkin’s deeply compelling portrayal of Yossarian, combined with some truly hilarious set pieces, makes it more than worth the watch.

Buy or rent Catch-22 (1970) on Amazon.

2. Catch-22 (2019)

In 2019, George Clooney co-produced, directed, and starred in a six-part miniseries adaptation of Catch-22 for Hulu. This modern take on the classic story provides a more accurate and complete retelling of the novel, utilizing the miniseries format to explore the full depth of Heller’s satirical insights. The excellent ensemble cast, including Christopher Abbott as Yossarian, Kyle Chandler, Hugh Laurie, and Clooney himself, brings the characters to life, giving viewers plenty of reasons to laugh and cry.

Watch Catch-22 (2019) on Hulu.

3. MASH (1970-1983)

The hugely influential TV show MASH takes many cues from Catch-22 in its portrayal of the hilarity and absurdity of war. Set during the Korean War, this classic series revolves around the staff of a mobile army surgical hospital (hence the title) and their various attempts to maintain their sanity while coping with the horrors of war. With a strong emphasis on black comedy and sharp satire, MASH strikes a balance between the gravity of its setting and the inherent absurdity of military life - much like Catch-22. Fans of Heller’s book will definitely appreciate its spirit.

Watch MASH on Amazon.

4. Slaughterhouse-Five (1972)

Kurt Vonnegut’s classic Slaughterhouse-Five is often compared to Catch-22, with both novels addressing the absurdity of war in different yet similar ways. The 1972 film adaptation of Vonnegut’s novel by director George Roy Hill, starring Michael Sacks as protagonist Billy Pilgrim, captures the essence of the book just as effectively. With its surreal blend of satire and science fiction, time-traveling protagonist, and anti-war message, Slaughterhouse-Five is an engrossing watch for fans of both novels.

Buy or rent Slaughterhouse-Five (1972) on Amazon.

5. Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb (1964)

No list of satirical anti-war films would be complete without Stanley Kubrick’s masterful dark comedy, Dr. Strangelove. The film centers around an accidental nuclear apocalypse triggered by the actions of a paranoid general, and showcases the insane bureaucracy that led to the situation. Boasting career-defining performances by Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, and Sterling Hayden, Dr. Strangelove is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the satirical power of Catch-22.

Buy or rent Dr. Strangelove on Amazon.