Best Movies To Celebrate The Fourth Of July

HOLLYWOOD, CA — July 4th isn't just about grilling and sparklers. It’s also about cannonballing into the deep end, dodging rogue frisbees, playing baseball, and claiming the last slice of pie like it’s a national duty. But beyond all the fun, barbecue smoke and lawn chairs, it's also a day to reflect on the stories that bring us together — and yes, to watch movies that celebrate the grit, charm and character of the American spirit in all its complexity, glory and hope.

Whether you're hosting a backyard movie night, planning a family-friendly movie marathon, or just looking to pair your fireworks with a cinematic spark, this guide has you covered.

So, grab a seat, pass the popcorn and let freedom stream.

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Nine Movies Celebrating America

All-American Nostalgia & Small-Town Charm

"The Sandlot" (1993)

Tom Guiry, Mike Vitar, Patrick Renna; directed by David Mickey Evans

A shy new kid in town stumbles into the world of neighborhood baseball, where a ragtag crew of misfits welcomes him into a summer of scraped knees, pool crushes, fireworks, and facing a backyard beast with a legendary bark. It’s a warm, funny, and timeless celebration of youth, belonging, and the thrill of doing something brave for the first time.

"Forrest Gump" (1994)

Tom Hanks, Robin Wright, Gary Sinise; directed by Robert Zemeckis

Forrest may not be a genius, but with kindness, heart, and a knack for being in the right place at the right (historical) moment, he rewrites what it means to live a full life. From the war-torn jungles of Vietnam to a shrimp boat off the Gulf Coast, his journey is an emotional tour of America’s best, worst, and weirdest decades — with a box of chocolates in hand.

Heroism, History & High Stakes

"A Few Good Men" (1992)

Tom Cruise, Jack Nicholson, Demi Moore; directed by Rob Reiner

When a slick Navy lawyer is assigned to defend two Marines accused of murder, he uncovers a web of secrecy and moral ambiguity at the highest ranks. What starts as legal protocol turns into an exploration of truth, power and duty inside the courtroom — culminating in a verbal showdown for the ages.

"Hidden Figures" (2016)

Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monáe; directed by Theodore Melfi

Behind America’s historic space missions stood three brilliant Black female NASA mathematicians, whose calculations sent astronauts into orbit. Working under intense pressure and systemic discrimination, they broke through barriers with brilliance, grace and pure grit — changing the space race and history itself.

"National Treasure" (2004)

Nicolas Cage, Diane Kruger, Justin Bartha; directed by Jon Turteltaub

Ben Gates isn’t your average history buff — he’s a treasure hunter with a taste for conspiracy and a plan to steal the Declaration of Independence to uncover a Founding Fathers–era secret. Fast-paced, and quirky, it’s like a U.S. history exam written by Indiana Jones.

Civic Spirit & Democracy in Action

"Independence Day" (1996)

Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman; directed by Roland Emmerich

As Earth faces annihilation, a scrappy coalition of brains, brawn, and bravery bands together to fight back against a technologically superior alien force. And then there's that presidential speech — the one that could bring a tear to an eagle’s eye, sizzling with star-spangled spirit. Need we say more?

"Mr. Smith Goes to Washington" (1939)

James Stewart, Jean Arthur, Claude Rains; directed by Frank Capra

An earnest newcomer to the U.S. Senate discovers that ideals and integrity are no match for backroom politics — until he stands up to speak truth in a legendary filibuster. A black-and-white classic that still delivers a punch to the gut and a swell in the heart.

Family Fun & Freedom for All Ages

"An American Tail" (1986)

Phillip Glasser, Dom DeLuise, Erica Yohn; directed by Don Bluth

Little Fievel Mousekewitz dreams of a land where the streets are paved with cheese. But after immigrating from Russia to the U.S., he’s separated from his family and must journey through a big, unfamiliar world. A bittersweet animated adventure filled with courage, music and one enormous Statue of Liberty.

"Night at the Museum" (2006)

Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Carla Gugino; directed by Shawn Levy

What should have been a quiet security job turns into total chaos when the exhibits at New York’s Museum of Natural History spring to life after sundown. Teddy Roosevelt dispenses advice, Attila the Hun causes mayhem, and history becomes hilariously hands-on in this delightfully chaotic caper.