As Saturday marked the 239th year since the good ol’ US of A declared their independance from Britain, this week we celebrate FREEDOM. So kick back, crack open a Budweiser and a bag of deep-fried pork rinds and let us take you through a cinematic exploration of the finest American propaganda we can come up with.
American Patriotism comes in a variety of flavours; from pro-war, big-budget action flicks to independently funded stories of standing up to big government, it doesn’t matter how you stick it to the man, or even if the man is sticking it to a different, less free man. We’ve curated a fine selection of films where the protagonist sees injustice, oppression, or just some green-ooze blooded commies and seeks to correct their lack of freedom. Without further ado, tonight’s contenders:
Top Gun (1986) – 110 mins
As students at the United States Navy’s elite fighter weapons school compete to be best in the class, one daring young pilot learns a few things from a civilian instructor that are not taught in the classroom.
Independence Day (1996) – 145 mins
The aliens are coming and their goal is to invade and destroy Earth. Fighting superior technology, mankind’s best weapon is the will to survive.
The Patriot (2000) – 165 mins
Peaceful farmer Benjamin Martin is driven to lead the Colonial Militia during the American Revolution when a sadistic British officer murders his son.
Born on the Fourth of July (1989) – 145 mins
The biography of Ron Kovic. Paralyzed in the Vietnam war, he becomes an anti-war and pro-human rights political activist after feeling betrayed by the country he fought for.
Team America: World Police (2004) – 98 mins
Popular Broadway actor Gary Johnston is recruited by the elite counter-terrorism organization Team America: World Police. As the world begins to crumble around him, he must battle with terrorists, celebrities and falling in love.