Patriotic American Movies – 10 Films That Honor the USA
For all the industries that have been shipped overseas, America is still the entertainment capital of the world. And what better way to celebrate our great nation than with one of its greatest exports?
In honor of the Fourth of July, here are 10 patriotic classics that are sure to turn the silver screen red, white and blue.
'Saving Private Ryan'
‘Saving Private Ryan’ tells the triumphant story of a group of US soldiers (among them Tom Hanks) who venture behind enemy lines to rescue a paratrooper whose three brothers have been killed in action and who’s mother is to receive the devastating news of her sons’ deaths all at once.
'Apollo 13'
When a manned moon mission goes wrong, three astronauts (Tom Hanks, Kevin Bacon, Bill Paxton) are forced to find their own way back home while the nation watches, gripped with anxiety and fear.
'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington'
In Frank Capra’s populist parable, a political novice (James Stewart) thrust into a Senate seat illustrates the idea that one exceptional – but also ordinary – person can make a difference in government.
'Gettysburg'
Set during the bloodiest battle of The Civil War, ‘Gettysburg’ depicts this epic turning point in American history from both sides of the battle field.
'United 93'
Set aboard United Flight 93, one of four planes hijacked on 9/11, ‘United 93’ presents a real-time account of the heroic actions of ordinary Americans that foiled this terrorist plot.
'Patton'
An unflinching look at controversial Four Star World War II General George S. Patton Jr. (George C. Scott), ‘Patton’ illustrates the great but also flawed military genius that not only led to great victories but also to his ultimate dismissal as Occupation Commander of Germany.
'Dave'
When a philandering and corrupt President falls into a coma after suffering a stroke during an extra-marital tryst, an affable lookalike (Kevin Kline) is brought in to replace him and does far more good for the country than the real man in charge.
'Born on the Fourth of July'
A story of the patriotism that comes from questioning government and demanding accountability, Oliver Stone’s ‘Born on the Fourth of July’ tells the story of a paralyzed Vietnam vet (Tom Cruise) who becomes an anti-war, pro-human-rights activist after feeling betrayed by the country for which he sacrificed so much.
'Independence Day'
When the world is invaded by aliens, it’s the old U.S. of A. to the rescue. And what better day to save humanity from obliteration and enslavement than the same day we declared our independence?
'Rocky IV'
A true underdog story, Sly Stallone’s ‘Rocky IV’ tells the story of a scrappy, rags-to-riches World Heavyweight Champ who goes to Soviet Russia to avenge the death of his former rival, Apollo Creed.