While some celebrate the 4th of July with barbecues and fireworks, others might prefer to stay in and watch movies that either take place during the holiday or encapsulate its meaning, and one film from the 1990s remains the quintessential 4th of July watch. Of course, there are a variety of options to choose from. Hollywood has produced a countless number of movies depicting real events in United States history, including Glory, Lincoln, Gettysburg, and more. Meanwhile, others like Captain America: The First Avenger and Forrest Gump are also among some of the best movies to watch on July 4th.

Despite a large library of patriotic films to choose from to celebrate America’s Independence Day, one is undoubtedly the best of the best. It was released in the mid-1990s and still holds up 30 years later. The 1990s action movie is a popular watch when the 4th of July comes around, and it will seemingly stay that way for many years to come.

Independence Day Still Remains The Best 4th Of July Movie

Independence Day Was Released On July 3, 1996

Independence Day premiered almost 30 years ago, but it’s still the best 4th of July movie ever made. For starters, it takes place on the American holiday. The fictional story answers the question of what would happen if aliens invaded the United States on July 4th. Yes, the concept is a bit bizarre compared to other patriotic films like Born on the Fourth of July or Saving Private Ryan. However, Independence Day and its ending celebrate the spirit of unity, a quality that America was founded on, as several American heroes join forces to save the country and the world.

The 1996 science fiction action film, directed by Roland Emmerich and written by Emmerich and Dean Devlin, stars Will Smith as a Marine pilot, Bill Pullman as the President of the United States, and Jeff Goldblum as a highly intelligent technician. Together, they are all integral in defending the country and the world from the aliens. Ultimately, Independence Day is the perfect 4th of July film because highlights the American spirit and is a great movie to watch with one’s family.

Independence Day’s Lasting Legacy Explained

The 1996 Film Is Still Popular Today

It has been almost three decades since 20th Century Fox released Independence Day, but it remains one of the most popular films to watch on the 4th of July. It was a huge box office success when it premiered in 1996, earning $817.4 million against a $75 million budget, making it the highest-grossing movie of the year. The science fiction action film’s success continues several years later due to its entertaining and patriotic qualities. Plus, many networks still air Independence Day every year on and around July 4th, ensuring its everlasting legacy as the best 4th of July movie.