Sunday promises to be quite an eventful day for the United States, that’s for sure.
The nation is currently hosting an exciting World Cup tournament, attracting tourists from across the globe, and it’s still celebrating its team’s impressive victory over Paraguay last Friday.
To heighten the festivities, the White House is throwing a distinctive UFC event on its lawn in honor of America’s 250th birthday.
Adding to the significance, this day also marks President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and Flag Day.
What could encapsulate patriotism more than that?
To honor such a pivotal day for national pride, we’ve picked four movies perfect for celebrating Flag Day.
These films will surely get your patriotic spirit soaring and cement your pride in being American.
“The Patriot” (2000)
Let’s kick things off with a film that quite literally has patriotism in its title.
In “The Patriot,” Mel Gibson takes center stage as Benjamin Martin during the Revolutionary War, and it’s impossible to look away.
Now, it might be a somewhat clumsy retelling, but it delivers all the elements you’d expect from a wartime narrative about a fervent American fighting for his country.
Gibson shines in his role, and we can’t overlook Heath Ledger as Martin’s son Gabriel, along with Jason Isaacs in his fun portrayal of the redcoat villain Colonel William Tavington.
I can’t think of a better way to kick off the Flag Day celebrations than with a nostalgic nod to our colonial roots.
“Apollo 13” (1995)
Shifting from revolutions to the space race, this ’90s classic proudly exemplifies American determination over its 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Tom Hanks is fantastic, as ever, in his role as Captain Jim Lovell on the ill-fated mission, earning both himself and the film several accolades.
“Apollo 13” serves as a testament to the idea that America can overcome any challenge.
It’s also more precise historically compared to “The Patriot,” without omitting any of the inspiring elements that define our nation’s legacy.
This film harks back to an era before Hollywood often critiqued American men, making it a fun watch from a more straightforward time.
“Top Gun: Maverick” (2022)
The original “Top Gun” ranks among my all-time favorites, but the sequel, released nearly 40 years later, might even take the cake in terms of patriotism—if that’s even possible.
“Maverick” is packed with pro-American themes and images, featuring updated villains and narratives suitable for today’s viewers.
Perhaps it’s because the film emerged during a time when it felt unpopular to champion America, but “Top Gun: Maverick” really stands out amidst a wave of less traditional narratives.
While the original “Top Gun” was certainly patriotic, many action films from the Reagan era shared a similar spirit.
This sequel, however, stands apart in its unabashed celebration, so wear your love for it proudly on this patriotic occasion.
“Miracle” (2004)
What could symbolize patriotism better than an underdog American team triumphing against the mighty Russia at their own game on U.S. soil?
Nothing. “Miracle” might just be the ideal film to put you in the Flag Day spirit.
Few cinematic moments rival Coach Herb Brooks’ stirring locker room address, where he declared the American boys to be the best hockey team in the world.
Kurt Russell does a stunning job embodying Brooks, and the whole supporting cast is exceptional.
So, cue up “Miracle” and have a bit of fun with your friends and family by repeating Coach Brooks’ iconic question, “Who are you playing for?” That’s probably the kind of spirit he would have appreciated.
Happy Flag Day, Patriots!
