10 Amazing Movies to Watch That Celebrate America

Happy Independence Day to my fellow Americans! Today I wanted to get into the spirit by sharing some patriotic movies to watch on this great day. These movies are either historical or just embody American culture, either way, they celebrate America!

If you’re not from the USA, then here is a list of some amazing movies that you should watch no matter where you’re from (they’re just darn good)!

This is by no means all the movies out there that fit this theme. So, if you have some that I didn’t include on this list, please do share! 🙂

Forrest Gump

Everything about this movie is great. Forrest doesn’t live a bland life and even with a slight disability, he’s able to accomplish so much. It follows several decades of Forrest’s life, showing many iconic historical events/people or even just the culture of that time. To me, it embodies a lot of American culture.

Saving Private Ryan

A story about a group of soldiers willing to risk their lives to save one man paired with amazing filmmaking makes one of the best war films I’ve seen. This movie has also been “critically noted” for the realistic battle scenes. It’s a must see for everyone.

Black Hawk Down

Based on the true story of a 101st Airborne Division Black Hawk being shot down during a mission to capture Mohamed Farrah Aidid. The soldiers who made it out of the helicopter crash then have to survive in the hostile territory of Mogadishu. It’s another story depicting soldiers willing to put themselves in danger to save each other.

American Sniper

Based on the true story of Chris Kyle, this movie shows a different side of war. Yes, there are scenes of battle; yes, you see his time spent in war; but what this movie also does, is show what happens to a person’s psyche during war. It’s a very emotional movie. Also, it’s one of Bradley Cooper’s best performances.

The Patriot

A movie that portrays the early years of our country, and as the summary describes it “reflects the stubborn pride of a young country’s most dedicated supporters“. This movie tells the story of a man who joins the American Revolution to fight for his farmland. I mean, it even has the word “Patriot” in the title. 

The Alamo

I saw this movie for the first time recently and I’ve got to say, it’s a fantastic movie. It’s based on the true battle for the Alamo and that even though the American’s didn’t win the first time, they persevered and came out on top.

Flags of Our Fathers

This movie tells the story of the battle of Iwo Jima and the now iconic photo of American soldiers raising the flag. Clint Eastwood directed this film and directed a “companion” film titled Letters from Iwo Jima which tells the story for the Japanese perspective.

World Trade Center

A film that pays homage to the first responders on 9/11. It’s very emotional, but important, as it is a day that will forever be one of the most tragic days in American history. Just as it is important to honor our military, it’s important to honor our police, firefighters, national guard and everyone else who defends and protects us. Be ready to cry.

The Sandlot

I included a lot of historical films on this list because they’re all wonderful and important, but sometimes we just want a good laugh. The Sandlot is a film perfect for nostalgia, featuring the classic American pastime: baseball. You can’t not enjoy this one.

Independence Day

Aliens attack & the country bands together to defeat them? Yep, this has to be on the list, even if it is a little bit ridiculous. xD

What are some of your favorite patriotic movies?

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*Disclaimer: These are movies. Even ones based on true stories may take “Hollywood liberties”. So, while most of these movies are historically accurate, some may have added/changed events for drama.