4 Best Movies to Kick off Your Fourth of July Week

No need to feel (red, white and) blue, Fourth of July is finally here! It’s time to throw some hot dogs and hamburgers on the grill, because we’re celebrating America’s 242nd birthday the only way we know how! Read on to find out our US team’s all time, all American movies… in no particular order:

Jaws (1975)

Are your friends planning on dragging you to a super crowded beach on Wednesday (seriously, who’s idea was it to have 4th of July on a Wednesday this year?) and you’re not really feeling it? Time to cue up Jaws. One the greatest movies about sharks ever made, Jaws follows the story of our protagonist, Bruce. Did you know that the shark had a name in Jaws? He’s named after Spielberg’s lawyer. Fun Fact! Anyway, Bruce is trying to enjoy a nice quiet weekend by himself on the beach, but is rudely interrupted by dozens of tourists. Bruce takes it upon himself to clean house but sadly does not succeed. Long story short, think twice about heading to the beach this 4th of July. Or at least, stay out of the water…

Favorite Quote:

“Martin, it’s all psychological. You yell, “Barracuda,” everybody says, “huh, what?” You yell “Shark,” we’ve got a panic on our hands on the Fourth of July.” – Mayor Vaughn

Top Gun (1986)

Get ready because we’re taking the highway to the Danger Zone for this next movie! Seriously, could we vote to change the National Anthem to “Danger Zone?”. Shout out to Kenny Loggins for creating such a beautiful piece of work. Anyway, there’s more to Top Gun than just the incredible, super American 80’s soundtrack. Did you know that the film was based on a real US real flight school called U.S. Navy Fighter Weapons School? But it was also known as TOPGUN which was waaaay catchier. Despite it being a film that truly captures the competitive American spirit, no word on if the attendees of the real flight school spent their time playing volleyball.

Favorite Quote:

“I feel the need…for speed!” – Maverick and Goose

Independence Day (1996)

Have you ever thought to yourself on Fourth of July, “Man, I really wish there were more explosions going on right now”? Boy, have we got the movie for you. Independence Day is probably one of the few films that really encapsulates how despite all odds, when it really comes down to it, the country will band together to create a united front…to destroy alien invaders. Okay, we know, it’s a bit silly, but rooting for Will Smith will probably be the most fun you’ll have all holiday. Besides, it’s right in the name – how could you not watch it?

Favorite Quote:

“Didn’t I promise you fireworks?” – Captain Steven Hiller

Team America: World Police (2004)

Nothing says “America” like marionettes against terrorism. From the brilliant minds of South Park, Team America: World Police allows us to get in touch with our inner patriot, the way that only puppets can. While the movie is a bit too raunchy to discuss in detail, it’s definitely an American classic.