In honor of Independence Day, we’re talking to you about 10 movies that showcase the best of what America has to offer. These films are a mix of Hollywood blockbusters and critically-acclaimed indies, but they all have one thing in common: they were made by filmmakers who are proud Americans.
Lone Star (1996)
Lone Star, directed and written by John Sayles, is a 1996 American mystery drama film set in the small town of Frontera, Texas. The film’s ensemble cast includes Chris Cooper, Kris Kristofferson, Matthew McConaughey, and Elizabeth Peña. Lone Star tells the story of Sheriff Sam Deeds (Cooper), who reopens a cold case involving the death of his father (Kristofferson), the former sheriff of Frontera. As Deeds investigates the case, he uncovers secrets that lay hidden in the town for years. Lone Star is a film that captures the essence of small-town America. It’s a place where everyone knows everyone else’s business, and where secrets are often hidden in plain sight. The film explores themes of family, love, betrayal, and redemption. Lone Star is a must-see for fans of American cinema. It’s a beautiful film with terrific performances from its entire cast.
12 Angry Men (1957)
One of the best things about America is its melting pot culture, and nowhere is that more evident than in “Angry Men”. This classic film follows a group of 12 men who are jury members in a murder trial. The men come from all different walks of life and have different opinions on the case, but they’re forced to work together in order to reach a verdict. “Angry Men” is not only a great example of American culture, but it’s also a great film in its own right. The acting is superb, the plot is gripping, and the film features some of the best dialogue ever written. If you’re looking for a film that showcases the best of America, then “Angry Men” is definitely one to check out.
Army of Shadows (1969)
One of the most underrated films of all time, “Army of Shadows” is a French Resistance thriller set during World War II. The film follows a group of resistance fighters who are constantly on the run from the Gestapo. Despite its slow pacing, “Army of Shadows” is an incredibly suspenseful film that features some of the most impressive cinematography ever captured on film.
Moonraker (1979)
The third entry in the James Bond franchise, Moonraker was released in 1979 and is widely considered to be one of the best entries in the series. The film sees Bond investigate the disappearance of a space shuttle, which leads him to uncover a plot by Hugo Drax (played by Michael Lonsdale) to wipe out all life on Earth and start anew with a new race of humans. While Moonraker is very much a product of its time, it’s also a film that captures the best of American culture. From the opening sequence set at California’s Universal Studios to the final showdown set atop the Golden Gate Bridge, Moonraker is crammed full of iconic American locations. The film also features some of the most spectacular stunts ever seen on screen, including a zero-gravity fight scene that still holds up today. So if you’re looking for a James Bond film that truly showcases the best of American culture, then Moonraker is definitely worth checking out.
The Deer Hunter (1978)
The Deer Hunter is a 1978 American epic drama film directed by Michael Cimino about a trio of blue-collar friends from Pennsylvania who enlist in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director. The Deer Hunter has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the Vietnam War and its effects on the soldiers who fought in it. The film is also notable for its use of Russian Orthodox church music, which plays an important role in the film’s soundtrack.
Modern Times (1936)
Modern Times is a 1936 American comedy film written and directed by Charlie Chaplin in which his Little Tramp character struggles to survive in the modern, industrialized world. The film also features Paulette Goddard, Henry Bergman, Tiny Sandford, and Chester Conklin. The film was Chaplin’s first “talkie”, as it includes a synchronized musical score and sound effects. It was also the last appearance of the Little Tramp character who had been Chaplin’s staple since 1915. Modern Times was critically successful upon its release and is today considered one of Chaplin’s best films.
Seven Samurai (1954)
There are few movies more quintessentially American than Seven Samurai. The story of a group of seven masterless samurai who band together to protect a small village from marauding bandits, it has everything that makes great cinema: action, drama, comedy, and romance. But what makes Seven Samurai truly special is its depiction of the American ideal of teamwork and self-sacrifice.
These seven men (and one woman) put aside their personal differences and come together to fight for a common cause, even though they know they may not all survive. It’s an inspiration tale that reminds us that we’re all in this together, and that we’re strongest when we work as a team.
A Woman Under the Influence
There are plenty of great American films that showcase the best of our culture, but “A Woman Under the Influence” is a particularly powerful one. The 1974 drama tells the story of a housewife who gradually loses her grip on reality, much to the dismay of her husband and children. Although it might not be an easy watch, “A Woman Under the Influence” is a masterpiece that captures the complexity of mental illness and its impact on family dynamics. It’s a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
(1974)
There are a lot of great American movies that were released in 1974. Here are just a few of the best: The Godfather Part II: This movie is a classic and it shows the dark side of the American dream. Chinatown: This movie is a noir classic that shows the seedy underside of Los Angeles. The Conversation: This movie is a suspenseful thriller that explores the world of surveillance and paranoia. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre: This movie is a horror classic that helped define the genre.
Rocky V
Rocky V is a movie that showcases the best of American culture. The film tells the story of Rocky Balboa, a former professional boxer who returns to his home city of Philadelphia to find that he has lost everything. Despite this, Rocky is determined to make a comeback and fight for the title one last time. The film is an inspirational story of never giving up, even when the odds are against you. It also highlights the importance of family and friends, and how they can help you through tough times. Rocky V is a feel-good movie that will leave you cheering for the underdog.
(1989)
1989 was a great year for American cinema. Classic films like “Do the Right Thing” and “When Harry Met Sally” were released, and they continue to be loved by audiences today. These movies showcase the best of American culture, depicting characters and stories that everyone can relate to. If you’re looking for a film that accurately portrays American life, then look no further than 1989’s “Do the Right Thing.” The movie follows the residents of a Brooklyn neighborhood as they grapple with issues of race, class, and gentrification.
Despite the heavy subject matter, the film is ultimately a celebration of human resilience and unity. Another film worth watching is “When Harry Met Sally.” This romantic comedy tells the story of two friends who slowly fall in love with each other over the course of several years. It’s a relatable and heartwarming story that perfectly captures the complexities of modern relationships.
The Wild One (1953 ))
The Wild One is a cult classic film that centers around a group of motorcycle gang members who terrorize a small town. The film stars Marlon Brando as the leader of the gang, and he gives a captivating performance that helped to cement his status as one of the most iconic actors of all time. The film also features a young Lee Marvin, who would go on to have a long and successful career in Hollywood. The Wild One is an important film because it was one of the first to really showcase the rebellious nature of youth culture in America. It’s a gritty and realistic portrayal of how some young people choose to live their lives, and it’s still relevant today. If you’re looking for a film that captures the essence of American culture, then The Wild One is definitely worth watching.