Patriotic Films for Independence Day Viewing

By Rachel Turner 27/08/2026 3 min read 6 views

After a full day of celebrating Independence Day, sometimes the best way to wind down is to settle in for a patriotic summer movie. Although there aren’t many films about the day itself, there are plenty of great movies to watch on the 4th of July. Whether you want to watch a historical movie, an action-packed favorite, or a family-friendly pick everyone can enjoy, there’s something for every kind of gathering.

Warfare (2025) is a movie inspired by the real-life Battle of Ramadi in 2006, exploring the lives of Navy SEAL platoon Alpha One as they experience a major casualty in the Iraq War. The movie features an ensemble cast, including Cosmo Jarvis, Will Poulter, and Charles Melton.

Chasing Liberty (2004) is a rom-com that follows the life of Anna Support, a young woman whose dad is the President of the United States. As she manages to escape security while on a diplomatic trip to Europe, she meets a British stranger named Ben who may just teach her what it means to fall in love for the first time.

42 (2013) is a movie that explores the journey Jackie Robinson embarked on to become the first Black player in the MLB. This film is a great choice for baseball fans and those interested in history. They will find the story of Jackie Robinson fascinating.

The film The Right Stuff (1984) explores the birth of NASA and the seven brave men who volunteered to be at the forefront of exploration. It stars Sam Shepard as Chuck Yeager. Lincoln (2012) is another historical drama, based on Doris Kearns‘ biography, which stars Daniel Day-Lewis as the famous 16th president.

Jackie (2016) is a movie that explores the life of Jackie Kennedy, the First Lady to President John F. Kennedy. The film stars Natalie Portman and shows the strength she had after the devastating death of her husband. It is a powerful portrayal of a woman who played a significant role in American history.

On the Basis of Sex (2019) explores the journey of Ruth Bader Ginsburg to the top of the U.S. legal system, all while being a wife and eventual mother. Top Gun: Maverick (2022) is a sequel to the iconic original Top Gun, where Maverick joins a young group of Top Gun graduates for a dangerous mission.

The Harder They Fall (2021) highlights the Black trailblazers of the West, including Nat Love. This revisionist Western film is action-packed and filled with lines that will have you cheering for the “bad guys.” Da 5 Bloods (2020) is a film where four veterans return to Vietnam to find the remains of their squad leader and the gold they buried. It features the incomparable Chadwick Boseman.

Harriet (2019) tells the story of Harriet Tubman‘s incredible legacy, including leading the Underground Railroad and guiding enslaved people to freedom. National Treasure (2004) is a Nicolas Cage action flick that is pure campy fun.

Independence Day (1996) is a sci-fi action film where Captain Steven Hiller and President Whitmore are on a mission to save the United States from an alien invasion. Born On the Fourth of July (1989) is another movie that explores American history and culture.

These movies offer a great way to celebrate the 4th of July and learn about American history and culture. With a range of options from historical dramas to action-packed favorites, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. They provide a unique perspective on the country’s past and its people.

Watching a movie on the 4th of July is a great way to relax.