As America gears up for its annual Fourth of July celebrations, the holiday offers more than just barbecues and fireworks—it’s also a prime time for movie marathons that capture the spirit of Independence Day. From tales of historic valor and patriotism to thrilling alien invasions and heartwarming stories of the American dream, there’s a rich tapestry of films that resonate deeply with the holiday’s themes. Streaming platforms like Max, Prime, Hulu, Tubi, and Disney+ have curated collections perfect for the occasion, making it easier than ever to dive into cinematic journeys that celebrate American history and culture.
One of the quintessential films synonymous with July 4th is Roland Emmerich’s 1996 blockbuster Independence Day. This sci-fi action movie, starring Will Smith, Bill Pullman, and Jeff Goldblum, tells the story of a sudden alien invasion that threatens Earth just before the nation's Independence Day. The film’s iconic speech by President Thomas J. Whitmore, played by Pullman, rallying the world to fight for freedom, has become a staple of patriotic cinema. With groundbreaking visual effects and thrilling action sequences, Independence Day not only captured audiences but also grossed over $817 million worldwide on a $75 million budget. It earned an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and a Grammy for its score, solidifying its place in cinematic history. The sequel, Independence Day: Resurgence (2016), though featuring Pullman and Goldblum reprising their roles, failed to match the original’s success critically and at the box office, with Will Smith absent due to scheduling conflicts.
The making of Independence Day itself is a fascinating story. Emmerich and co-writer Dean Devlin conceived the idea during the press tour for their earlier film Stargate in 1994. Imagining gigantic spaceships hovering over Earth’s major cities sparked the idea for a large-scale alien invasion movie, something Hollywood hadn’t seen in years. They wrote the script in just over three weeks while vacationing in Mexico. Twentieth Century Fox acquired the script for $7.5 million plus a share of the profits, greenlighting the project with a $71 million budget. Notably, several roles were written with specific actors in mind, including Bill Pullman as the president and Jeff Goldblum as the tech-savvy scientist. The lead role of fighter pilot Steven Hiller was initially offered to Ethan Hawke, who declined, leading to Will Smith’s casting—despite studio doubts about his international appeal at the time. The production was extensive, spanning locations from New York to California and utilizing a mix of practical effects and CGI. For example, the destruction of the White House was achieved using an 11-foot-wide model filmed at 300 frames per second, creating a memorable and tangible explosion. The film’s marketing campaign, including a now-famous Super Bowl commercial, was pivotal to its massive success, with Steven Spielberg predicting it would be the year's top-grossing film—a forecast it fulfilled by earning $306 million domestically and over $500 million overseas.
But Independence Day is just one piece of the patriotic film puzzle. For those interested in historical dramas, 1776 (1972) offers a musical retelling of America’s founding fathers navigating the creation and presentation of the Declaration of Independence. Available for free on Tubi, it features an ensemble cast portraying figures like Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson as they debate and fight for the country’s freedom from British rule.
Another historical gem is Young Mr. Lincoln (1939), directed by John Ford and starring Henry Fonda. This film explores Abraham Lincoln’s early years as a lawyer in Illinois, including his first homicide case. Recognized for its cultural significance and preserved in the National Film Registry, it’s accessible for free on the Roku Channel.
War movies also play a vital role in Independence Day viewing. Steven Spielberg’s Saving Private Ryan (1998) is a harrowing depiction of World War II’s Normandy invasion, following Captain John H. Miller’s mission to rescue Private James Ryan. The film’s realistic portrayal of sacrifice and brotherhood earned it multiple Oscars and remains a must-watch on Prime Video. Similarly, Glory (1989) tells the story of one of the first African American regiments in the Union Army during the Civil War, featuring powerful performances by Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman. Washington earned his first Oscar for this film, which highlights the courage and patriotism of Black soldiers fighting for freedom.
For those who prefer stories of personal resilience and the American dream, Robert Zemeckis’ Forrest Gump (1994) is a perfect pick. Starring Tom Hanks, the film follows Forrest’s journey through pivotal moments in 20th-century American history, meeting figures like Elvis Presley and President John F. Kennedy. Praised for its storytelling and emotional depth, it won six Oscars, including Best Picture, and is available on Tubi and other platforms.
Sports fans can enjoy A League of Their Own (1992), a heartwarming film about the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League formed during World War II. Directed by Penny Marshall and starring Tom Hanks and Geena Davis, the movie celebrates women stepping up during a challenging era and was added to the National Film Registry in 2012. Meanwhile, The Sandlot (1993) captures the nostalgic spirit of childhood and baseball, featuring a memorable July 4th game underscored by fireworks—a tradition in ballparks across the country.
For a classic political drama, Frank Capra’s Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939) remains a powerful tale of a young senator standing up against corruption. James Stewart’s portrayal of Jefferson Smith embodies the idealism and determination central to American democracy. The film earned 10 Oscar nominations and is also preserved in the National Film Registry.
Other notable films include Patton (1970), a biographical war drama about the complex General George S. Patton during World War II, and Dances with Wolves (1990), which explores the American frontier and Native American Sioux culture during the Civil War era. Both films received multiple Oscars and offer profound reflections on American history and identity.
For those seeking a blend of action and patriotism, Top Gun (1986) remains a beloved classic. Directed by Tony Scott and made with the cooperation of the U.S. Navy, it follows young fighter pilots navigating rivalry, loss, and camaraderie. The film’s high-octane aerial sequences and iconic soundtrack make it a thrilling addition to any Independence Day marathon.
Beyond historical and action-packed narratives, the Fourth of July movie lineup also embraces musicals and lighter fare. Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942), starring James Cagney as George M. Cohan, is a biographical musical celebrating American patriotism through song and dance. Meanwhile, National Treasure (2004) offers a fun, adventurous treasure hunt centered on the Declaration of Independence, starring Nicholas Cage.
Even more reflective selections like Oppenheimer (2023) provide a sobering look at America’s role in the development of nuclear weapons during World War II, highlighting the complex legacy of scientific achievement and moral responsibility.
Whether viewers are drawn to epic alien battles, stirring war dramas, inspiring biographies, or nostalgic sports tales, the Fourth of July offers a perfect opportunity to explore the many facets of American history and culture through film. These movies not only entertain but also remind us of the enduring values of freedom, sacrifice, and unity that the holiday commemorates.
