Independence Day: Top American Movies to Watch this July 4
So, the patriarchal celebrations are coming to an end for another year and the idea of the clean-up is something you’d rather avoid. Don’t start boxing away your red-white-and-blue decorations just yet. After the fireworks and those last few beers with your Bruce Springsteen vinyl, why not relax—put your feet up—and watch one of our top American patriotism films to round off a perfect weekend.
1) American Sniper (2014)
American Sniper depicts the powerful story of a real-life hero, called Chris Kyle. Kyle dedicated his life to the red-white-and-blue, saving countless lives with his incredible bravery as a Navy SEAL. Bradley Cooper, you can tell, is proud to portray such an honorable American liberator and does so with heartfelt passion. And an ode to American bravery, ex-military man, and Hollywood actor, Clint Eastwood, effortlessly brought this film to life as the film’s director.
Even better, American Sniper is at your fingertips. Check it out on Netflix now!
2) Lone Survivor (2013)
Peter Berg—writer of Patriot’s Day (2016)— directs Lone Survivor, a true story of the failed Operation Red Wings mission. Berg depicts the valiant efforts of a four-man Navy SEAL squad. Real heroes Mike Murphy, Marcus Luttrell, Danny Dietz, and Matthew Axelson are the focal point of this patriarchal masterpiece—they sacrificed everything for their country and brotherhood. If this movie doesn’t ramp up your American spirit, nothing will.
You’re in luck. Available to watch on Netflix now.
3) Live Free or Die Hard (2007)
When cyber-terrorists shut down Washington D.C., it’s up to our all-American hero, John McClane, to save the day in this fourth chapter of the Die Hard franchise. Yippee Ki Yay!
Available on Amazon to rent or buy!
4) Top Gun (1986)
Fly into the danger zone with Tom Cruise in this adrenaline-filled story which sees the cocky but talented Maverick compete to be the number one elite fighter pilot. When an accident reduces Maverick to withdrawing from the Top Gun school, he fearlessly redeems himself when his country needed him most—when an enemy plane was America-bound.
Available on Netflix and Paramount+!
5) Rocky IV (1985)
Fighting for glory and the star-spangled banner, Sylvester Stallone’s character, Rocky Balboa, takes the war to Russia in this fourth installment of the boxing franchise. With lots of hope, honor, and the national anthem glorifying the end scene, Rocky IV is a love letter to all American citizens.
Available on Prime Video, yano.
If your July 4th activities don’t yet include a family-get-together film, maybe these patriarchal movies will help you make a new annual tradition.
by Rachel Turner
