Fourth of July is the perfect time to celebrate with a lineup of patriotic and inspiring films that capture the spirit of Independence Day. Whether you’re looking for thrilling action, heartfelt drama, or historical adventure, these movies offer something for everyone. From alien invasions to superhero origin stories, treasure hunts, and musicals, each film not only entertains but also reflects the values and history that make America unique. Here are some top picks to stream this Independence Day, complete with synopses and insights into their public reception and cultural significance.
Independence Day
“Independence Day,” directed by Roland Emmerich, is a 1996 sci-fi action film that follows the story of a disparate group of people who come together to launch a counterattack against an alien invasion on July 4th. Starring Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, and Bill Pullman, the film centers on a computer genius (Goldblum) who deciphers a countdown signal and a hotshot fighter pilot (Smith) who becomes a key player in the fight. The President of the United States (Pullman) leads the nation in a battle for humanity’s survival, culminating in a large-scale, explosive confrontation.
Upon its release, “Independence Day” was a box office smash, grossing over $817 million worldwide and becoming the highest-grossing film of 1996. It received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who praised its special effects, action sequences, and cast performances, particularly those of Smith and Goldblum. The film’s patriotic themes and exhilarating spectacle have cemented it as a Fourth of July favorite, reflecting America’s resilience and unity. It also won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects and was nominated for Best Sound. In 2016, the film spawned a sequel Independence Day: Resurgence (Apple TV, Prime Video)
Where to Stream: Hulu
Captain America: The First Avenger
“Captain America: The First Avenger,” directed by Joe Johnston, is a 2011 superhero film that tells the origin story of Steve Rogers (Chris Evans), a frail young man who is transformed into the super-soldier Captain America during World War II. Armed with his indestructible shield, Captain America leads the fight against the villainous Red Skull (Hugo Weaving), who plans to use a mysterious artifact called the Tesseract to dominate the world. The film highlights themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the spirit of American patriotism.
Well-received by audiences and critics alike, Captain America raised over $370 million worldwide. Critics praised Evans’ portrayal of the titular hero, the film’s nostalgic wartime setting, and its balance of action and character development. It stands out as a cultural touchstone within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), setting the stage for Captain America’s central role in future films. The movie’s depiction of American values and its thrilling, heartfelt narrative have made it a popular choice for Fourth of July viewings.
Where to Stream: Disney+
National Treasure
Directed by Jon Turteltaub and released in 2004, “National Treasure” is an adventure film starring Nicolas Cage as Benjamin Franklin Gates, a historian and treasure hunter. Gates embarks on a quest to uncover a hidden treasure linked to America’s founding fathers, racing against time and rivals to solve clues hidden within historical artifacts, including the Declaration of Independence. The film blends history with action and intrigue, leading to a thrilling chase across iconic American landmarks.
“National Treasure” was a commercial success, grossing over $347 million worldwide. It received mixed reviews from critics, who found its plot far-fetched but entertaining. The film has since gained a cult following, particularly for its imaginative use of American history and its family-friendly appeal. Its cultural relevance lies in its celebration of American heritage and ingenuity, making it a fitting film for Fourth of July festivities. Its adventurous spirit and engaging storyline continue to captivate audiences of all ages.
Where to Stream: Disney+
Hamilton
“Hamilton,” directed by Thomas Kail and released as a film version of the Broadway musical in 2020, captures Lin-Manuel Miranda’s acclaimed stage production. The musical tells the story of American Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, blending hip-hop, R&B, and traditional musical styles to narrate his rise from immigrant orphan to influential statesman. The film version features the original Broadway cast, including Miranda as Hamilton, and covers themes of ambition, legacy, and the shaping of America’s political landscape.
A unique take on history, “Hamilton” received widespread acclaim from both audiences and critics, celebrated for its innovative music, diverse cast, and powerful storytelling. The film version brought the Broadway experience to a global audience, earning praise for its direction and the performances of the cast. It has been hailed as a cultural phenomenon, sparking renewed interest in American history and discussions about representation and inclusion. The musical’s patriotic themes and its impact on modern theater make it an ideal choice for Fourth of July celebrations.
Where to Stream: Disney+
Forrest Gump
“Forrest Gump,” directed by Robert Zemeckis and released in 1994, stars Tom Hanks as the titular character, a kind-hearted man with a low IQ who inadvertently influences several historical events in the 20th century. The film follows Forrest’s journey through life, witnessing key moments in American history, from the Vietnam War to the Watergate scandal, all while staying true to his love for Jenny (Robin Wright). The narrative is framed by Forrest recounting his life story to strangers at a bus stop.
This heartwarming look at Americana was a massive success, grossing over $678 million worldwide and winning six Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Hanks. Critics and audiences praised its heartfelt storytelling, emotional depth, and Hanks’ iconic performance. The film’s portrayal of American history and its underlying message of perseverance and innocence have made it a beloved classic. Its cultural impact and heartwarming narrative make it a fitting choice for Fourth of July viewing, celebrating the American spirit.
Where to Stream: Paramount+
Top Gun: Maverick
“Top Gun: Maverick,” directed by Joseph Kosinski and released in 2022, is the long-awaited sequel to the 1986 classic “Top Gun.” The film follows Pete “Maverick” Mitchell (Tom Cruise), who returns to the elite flying school as an instructor, facing his past while training a new generation of pilots. Maverick must navigate complex relationships, including one with his former rival’s son, and confront the challenges of modern aerial warfare, culminating in a high-stakes mission.
“Top Gun: Maverick” received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences, praised for its thrilling action sequences, emotional depth, and Cruise’s charismatic performance. The film grossed over $1 billion worldwide, becoming one of the highest-grossing films of 2022. Its nostalgic appeal, coupled with contemporary themes, resonated with both fans of the original and new viewers. The film’s celebration of bravery, camaraderie, and the American military makes it a perfect addition to Fourth of July streaming lists, capturing the spirit of patriotism and heroism.
Where to Stream: Prime Video | Paramount+