10 Most Patriotic Movies to Watch for Independence Day July 4th

June 17, 2020 by Aubrey Meister

Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year and we're ready for some celebrating in whatever form it takes. With July 4th quickly approaching, it’s time to make plans. With many Americans likely spending July 4th at home this year, the need for different forms of celebrations is high. One idea is to watch movies on Independence Day. 

You can watch a movie in the comfort of your home, or you could set up a projector in your backyard for an activity that your neighbors will enjoy too. Fortunately, there are plenty of 4th of July-related movies to enjoy. Choose one of these films, pop some popcorn, and relax with your family and friends. 

Here is a complete list of the best movies you can watch on Independence Day. 

Best Movies for Independence Day

Jaws

Jaws is a classic summertime flick. The movie features everything that goes down after a shark attack in a small beach community and - it takes place on July 4, making it the perfect movie to watch on the holiday! If you like the first one, try one of the sequels for a full day of Independence Day movies.

Forrest Gump

Forrest Gump features several major events in American history, including the Vietnam War, Watergate, and more. All of these events are shown from Forrest’s point of view and give a fun, fictional take on certain events of American history. If you haven’t watched this classic movie, July 4th is a great day to enjoy it.

The Sandlot

The Sandlot is a fun movie that the whole family can watch. It will have the kids laughing nonstop. The Sandlot features a classic 4th of July scene and is about summertime experiences, so it fits in with the 4th of July theme. Baseball and summer are what this perfect July 4th movie is all about. 

You can complete this Independence Day movie session with some grilled meat. Use one of these Crowd Cow discount codes to save on your online meat delivery:

1776

1776 is a musical that retells the story of the original American Independence Day when the United States officially became a country, which was in 1776. This musical features real dialogue that comes from letters and memoirs from those who were participants in the very first Independence Day too.

I Know What You Did Last Summer

I Know What You Did Last Summer is another classic summer movie that takes place on the 4th of July weekend. The storyline features four friends who are then followed by a fisherman. This horror/mystery movie is a solid pick for scary movie lovers and makes a wonderful (yet frightful) Independence Day movie to watch.

The Patriot

In The Patriot, a South Carolinian farmer seeks revenge after his son is murdered by a British officer during the American Revolution. Mel Gibson plays the father who must reawaken his inner soldier to take revenge and help fight back the British.

The American President

If you’re into romantic comedies, The American President is a good movie for July 4th for you. The story features a widowed U.S. president who’s running for reelection. He falls in love with a lobbyist and the often times comedic romance keep this movie at the top of our list.

National Treasure

National Treasure is another great choice for Independence Day because the story is all about a map on the back of the Declaration of Independence. This action movie follows a treasure hunter as he works to find a national treasure and features fan-favorite Nicolas Cage.

Yankee Doodle Dandy

Yankee Doodle Dandy is filled with patriotic music, including "You're a Grand Old Flag,” "Over There,” and many other songs perfect for July 4th 2020. This musical follows the life of composer, singer, and dancer George M. Cohan.

Glory

Glory is all about the first African-American regiment fighting in the Civil War. The regiment’s leader, Robert Gould Shaw, must fight prejudices while also being a soldier in battle. The movie honors those who lost their lives during the Civil War.