As the 4th of July approaches, we’re getting ready for fireworks and beach barbecues.
If you feel like adding a movie to your holiday weekend plans, Netflix offers plenty of options for whatever your Independence Day vibe might be.
Watch With Us is recommending five films that approach the 4th of July from different angles — a comedic look at patriotism starring Will Ferrell, a war movie starring Tom Cruise and a documentary about Taylor Swift, to name a few.
Whatever your holiday spirit looks like, there’s a movie for it!
‘Born on the Fourth of July’ (1989)
Born on the Fourth of July seems like an obvious pick simply because of its name, but it’s also a powerful, emotional drama — and a perfect watch for Independence Day.
11 New Movies to Watch This Weekend on Netflix, Max, Hulu, Amazon Prime, More
Based on the true story of Vietnam War veteran Ron Kovic, the film stars Tom Cruise in one of his most critically acclaimed performances. Directed by Oliver Stone, this Oscar-winning movie dives deep into themes of patriotism, sacrifice and disillusionment as Kovic transforms from a proud Marine to an anti-war activist.
It’s a gripping reminder that loving your country sometimes means questioning it — making it a thought-provoking July 4 pick.
‘Miss Americana: Taylor Swift’ (2020)
Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or not, there’s no denying that Taylor Swift has become one of America’s most influential cultural figures.
In this documentary, which explores her growth as both an artist and a person, she examines her own relationship to patriotism as she decides to speak out about politics for the first time. It’s a fascinating look at a once-in-a-generation artist.
After all, there’s nothing more American than freedom of speech.
‘The Notebook’ (2004)
The Notebook isn’t an obvious 4th of July pick, but its old-school Americana aesthetic, World War II plotline and epic love story earn it a spot on this list.
Besides, if you don’t feel fireworks when Noah (Ryan Gosling) and Allie (Rachel McAdams) kiss, you’re probably just not paying attention.
The Notebook follows this star-crossed couple — working-class Noah and heiress Allie — over decades as social class and misunderstandings keep them apart. But the moving movie assures us that love conquers all.
‘Barbie’ (2023)
Just like Barbie, we can be anything. But on the 4th of July, we’re more like Ken (Ryan Gosling) — our job is just “beach.”
If you’ve been “beaching” too hard and you’re now nursing a sunburn, curl up on the couch with this phenomenal movie from director Greta Gerwig.
5 Must-Watch Netflix Movies to Stream in the Summer
Stereotypical Barbie (Margot Robbie) must leave the feminist utopia that is Barbieland and venture to the Real World, where she learns that “all problems of feminism and equal rights” have actually not been solved by Barbie dolls.
In addition to its social commentary about the nature of womanhood, Barbie is also a hilarious satire of American corporate culture, so it’s also a great one to enjoy if you’ve got the day off from your Real World job.
‘Eurovision Song Contest: The Story of Fire Saga’ (2020)
Americans have the 4th of July — but how do other nations celebrate their patriotism? With the Eurovision Song Contest, of course!
This over-the-top comedy starring Will Ferrell and Rachel McAdams lovingly mocks the global phenomenon that is Eurovision, following Lars and Sigrid as they attempt to win the competition on behalf of their small town of Húsavík, Iceland.
The colorful cast of characters is more vibrant than any fireworks display and includes Dan Stevens as a Russian Eurovision singer, Pierce Brosnan as Lars’ disapproving father, and several real Eurovision winners from past decades.
It’s unapologetically silly in the way that Ferrell does best, and if you’re not feeling particularly patriotic right now, it’s a great way to transport yourself around the globe.
