Pearl Harbor (2001) blends sweeping romance with explosive historical drama, capturing the events leading up to and following the infamous attack that drew the U.S. into World War II. With Ben Affleck, Josh Hartnett, and Kate Beckinsale at the center of a heartfelt love triangle, the film delivers both emotional weight and aerial action on an epic scale.
Do you remember who flew into danger, who came back from the dead, and who made the ultimate sacrifice? Take this 10-question trivia challenge and test your memory of this dramatic war-time saga
Pearl Harbor (2001) Trivia Questions & Answers
- Who plays pilot Rafe McCawley in Pearl Harbor (2001)?
Correct Answer: Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck takes on the role of Rafe McCawley, a daring and determined American pilot whose love for Evelyn and close friendship with Danny form the emotional core of the film. His character’s presumed death and unexpected return are key turning points in the story.
- Who is Rafe’s best friend and fellow pilot?
Correct Answer: Danny Walker
Josh Hartnett portrays Danny Walker, Rafe’s loyal friend and fellow pilot. The two grow up together and enlist in the Army Air Corps. Their bond is tested when Rafe is presumed dead and Danny falls in love with Evelyn — creating a complex emotional triangle.
- Who plays the nurse Evelyn Johnson?
Correct Answer: Kate Beckinsale
Kate Beckinsale stars as Evelyn, a kind and strong-willed military nurse. She becomes romantically involved with both Rafe and Danny at different points in the film, and her torn emotions reflect the broader human toll of war.
- What significant battle is the central historical event in the film?
Correct Answer: Attack on Pearl Harbor
The film dramatizes the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 — a pivotal moment in history that led to the United States’ entry into World War II. The attack sequence is one of the most visually intense and tragic parts of the film.
- Where is Rafe sent before the attack on Pearl Harbor?
Correct Answer: Europe, to fight with the RAF
Rafe volunteers to fly with the British Royal Air Force in the Battle of Britain, believing it’s the best way to contribute to the war. He is shot down and presumed killed, which sets the stage for the emotional and romantic developments that follow.
- What tragic event changes the course of the love triangle?
Correct Answer: Rafe is presumed dead
Rafe’s disappearance and presumed death leave Evelyn heartbroken. As she mourns, she and Danny grow closer and eventually fall in love — only for Rafe to return alive, throwing all their lives into emotional chaos.
- What is the name of the Japanese admiral who leads the attack?
Correct Answer: Admiral Yamamoto
Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto, portrayed in the film with historical reverence, is the architect of the Pearl Harbor attack. Though the film simplifies some details, it depicts him as a reluctant commander who understands the gravity of provoking the U.S.
- Which U.S. president is depicted reacting to the attack?
Correct Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt
President Franklin D. Roosevelt, played by Jon Voight, delivers an impassioned speech following the attack. In one dramatic scene — inspired by legend — he rises from his wheelchair to demonstrate American resolve, symbolizing the nation’s defiance.
- What dangerous mission are Rafe and Danny selected for after the attack?
Correct Answer: The Doolittle Raid
In retaliation for Pearl Harbor, Rafe and Danny are recruited into the Doolittle Raid — a real-life mission where U.S. bombers launched from an aircraft carrier to strike Japan. It was a bold operation meant to boost American morale after the attack.
- How does the film end for Rafe and Evelyn?
Correct Answer: They raise Danny’s son together
Danny dies heroically during the Doolittle Raid, sacrificing himself to save Rafe. Afterward, Rafe returns home and raises Danny’s child with Evelyn, honoring their friendship and the life they all shared. The final scenes show them living peacefully on a farm, suggesting a bittersweet but hopeful future.
