A rediscovered World War II epic is free to stream
Some films that falter at the box office find an audience later, and Roland Emmerich’s Midway is a prime example. Released in 2019, the film dramatizes the pivotal 1942 naval clash that shifted momentum in the Pacific Theater. After a mixed theatrical run, Midway is now available to stream for free on Tubi, making it easy to revisit — or discover — a modern, large-scale retelling of the Battle of Midway.
What the film covers
Midway dramatizes the events surrounding the U.S. Navy’s confrontation with the Imperial Japanese Navy at Midway Atoll, a small chain of islands in the northwestern Hawaiian Islands. The battle is widely regarded by historians as a turning point in World War II’s Pacific campaign. The film follows the leaders, pilots and sailors who faced long odds and played decisive roles in the clash, focusing on strategy, intelligence breakthroughs and the bravery of individual servicemembers.
Who made it and who’s in it
- Director: Roland Emmerich, known for grand, effects-driven pictures.
- Writer: Wes Tooke.
- Release date: November 8, 2019.
- Rating and runtime: PG-13, 138 minutes.
- Genres: Historical drama, action.
Midway assembles a sizable ensemble cast that includes:
- Dennis Quaid (portraying a figure connected to President Reagan in the film)
- Woody Harrelson
- Patrick Wilson
- Mandy Moore
- Luke Evans
- Aaron Eckhart
- Ed Skrein
- Nick Jonas
The filmmakers aimed for a mix of intimate character moments and large-scale aerial and naval sequences, balancing human drama with cinematic spectacle.
How it was received
Critical and audience responses diverged after the film’s release. On Rotten Tomatoes, Midway holds a 42% critic rating, reflecting mixed reviews that often praised the film’s scope while calling out shortcomings in dialogue and character depth. By contrast, the movie found strong favor with general viewers, earning a 92% score on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter — an indicator that many non-critics found it entertaining and emotionally engaging.
Common critical notes included:
- Strengths: Ambitious action set pieces, period detail in the battle sequences, and a clear reverence for the historical subject.
- Criticisms: Some reviewers pointed to underdeveloped character arcs and uneven dialogue, which could blunt emotional impact for viewers seeking more character-driven storytelling.
The film’s approach to history
Midway leans into the drama of the moment: intelligence victories, rapid decision-making and the high-risk nature of carrier-based warfare. While it foregrounds spectacle — including aerial dogfights and shipboard action — it also attempts to honor the individuals whose actions shaped the outcome. Viewers interested in World War II history will recognize the film’s focus on the strategic importance of Midway Atoll and the broader implications of the battle for the Pacific campaign.
Why watch it now?
- Accessibility: Midway is currently streaming free on Tubi, lowering the barrier for viewers who missed it in theaters.
- Scale: If you appreciate big-scale war filmmaking with modern VFX and practical effects, the battle sequences are a central draw.
- Ensemble cast: The film brings together familiar faces across generational lines, offering both star turns and quieter performances.
- Reassessment potential: Given the strong audience response compared to critics’ views, the movie invites re-evaluation — especially for viewers who prioritize entertainment and immersive action over strictly character-driven drama.
Quick facts
- Title: Midway
- Director: Roland Emmerich
- Writer: Wes Tooke
- Release date: November 8, 2019
- Runtime: 138 minutes
- Rating: PG-13
- Streaming: Available free on Tubi
Final take
Midway is not a flawless historical epic, but it succeeds as a crowd-pleasing wartime spectacle that highlights a critical moment in World War II. If you’re in the mood for rousing naval and aerial sequences framed by a clear historical premise — and you don’t want to pay to watch it — streaming it on Tubi is a convenient way to judge the film for yourself.