During the forming of this list I was blown away by the sheer number of patriotic films that have been made in the US. In going through the pile of possibilities, I have intentionally chosen not to just represent saccharine movies which show only the good side of life – the films I have picked include war films, films about corruption, and films involving racism. There is, however, one underlying current in all of them – they all involve the triumph of freedom – the very heart of American patriotism. I have excluded films that would not be considered to be the best of the best – for that reason don’t expect to see Independence Day or The Patriot here. Please feel free to mention your own favorites in the comments. This list also contains a competition. Happy 4th of July!
The Sullivans (also known as the Fighting Sullivans) is a true story of five brothers who died when their ship was destroyed during a naval battle in the Pacific during World War II. Their deaths changed U.S. military policy about family enlistments (limiting siblings serving together), and later acted as a partial story catalyst for “Saving Private Ryan,” which was about the rescue of one family’s last surviving military son. Despite the battle deaths of the Sullivans, the film spends little time with them in uniform. Instead, it is a movie about growing up in heartland USA–Waterloo, Iowa. The constantly scrapping brothers (thus the title, “The Fighting Sullivans”) are likable, funny, and loyal to their siblings.
Glory recounts the bravery of a group of Civil War soldiers often overlooked by history–the 54th Regiment of Massachusetts, a troop of free black men who fought to help win liberty for their enslaved brothers. Based on the historical novels One Gallant Rush by Peter Burchand and Lay This Laurel by Lincoln Kirstein and the letters of Robert Gould Shaw, the film follows the youthful Colonel Shaw (Matthew Broderick) as he takes responsibility for readying these soldiers for battle.
This film is set in the rural American south during the depths of the Depression; two children watch as their principled father takes a stand against intolerance. Based on Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize winning book of 1960. Atticus Finch is a lawyer in a racially divided Alabama town in the 1930s. He agrees to defend a young black man who is accused of raping a white woman. Many of the townspeople try to get Atticus to pull out of the trial, but he decides to go ahead.
Enactment of the work of Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein who uncovered the dirty tricks campaign and the coverup of the White House’s involvement in the Watergate break in. The stories they wrote were very instrumental in the eventual resignation of President Richard Nixon. This is an engrossing mystery that reminds us why the founding fathers placed such great value on freedom of the press. Additionally, it illustrates how no one – not even the President, is above the law.
Rocky Balboa (a true American underdog) is a struggling boxer trying to make the big time. Working in a meat factory in Philadelphia for a pittance, he also earns extra cash as a debt collector. When heavyweight champion Apollo Creed visits Philadelphia, his managers want to set up an exhibition match between Creed and a struggling boxer, touting the fight as a chance for a “nobody” to become a “somebody”. The match is supposed to be easily won by Creed, but someone forgot to tell Rocky, who sees this as his only shot at the big time.
The Nazis, exasperated at the number of escapes from their prison camps by a relatively small number of Allied prisoners, relocates them to a high-security “escape-proof” camp to sit out the remainder of the war. Undaunted, the prisoners plan one of the most ambitious escape attempts of World War II. Based on a true story.
A musical portrait of composer/singer/dancer George M. Cohan. From his early days as a child-star in his family’s vaudeville show up to the time of his comeback at which he received a medal from the president for his special contributions to the US, this is the life- story of George M. Cohan, who produced, directed, wrote and starred in his own musical shows for which he composed his famous songs.
Following the Allied invasion of Normandy, two brothers lay dead in the wake of the onslaught. Meanwhile, in New Guinea, a third brother has been killed fighting the Japanese. After the Army General Staff learns that a fourth brother is missing in the French countryside, a rescue mission is ordered to find the young soldier and return him safely home. The mission is mounted by a veteran Ranger Captain commanding a squad of men who have mixed feelings about risking their lives to “Save Private Ryan”.
The story of General George S. Patton, Jr. during World War II. His battlefield genius garners him fear and respect from the Germans, and resentment and misunderstanding from the Allies. A military historian and poet, he believes he was a warrior in many past lives, and that he is destined for something great during this life, but his stubbornness and controversial methods nearly prevent the fulfillment of that destiny.
Naive and idealistic Jefferson Smith, leader of the Boy Rangers, is appointed on a lark by the spineless governor of his state. He is reunited with the state’s senior senator–presidential hopeful and childhood hero, Senator Joseph Paine. In Washington, however, Smith discovers many of the shortcomings of the political process as his earnest goal of a national boys’ camp leads to a conflict with the state political boss, Jim Taylor. Taylor first tries to corrupt Smith and then later attempts to destroy Smith through a scandal.
While not specifically patriotic, this film is loved by millions and it covers some of the most important modern historical events in US history. In the film, a man with a low IQ has accomplished great things in his life and been present during significant historic events – in each case, far exceeding what anyone imagined he could do. Yet, despite all the things he has attained, his one true love eludes him. “Forrest Gump” is the story of a man who rose above his challenges, and who proved that determination, courage, and love are more important than ability.
At 1pm GMT tomorrow, I will select one commenter from this list to win a prize of the great recently published book Top 10 For Men – a book of over 250 lists of interest to men (though women will no doubt love it also). Topics include What’s the most common murder weapon? What is the hottest variety of chilli? Who is the most searched for woman on the internet? To read an official excerpt of the book, go here.
The prize winner will be one randomly selected commenter – as usual you can enter more than one comment to improve your chances, but your comments must add value to this list – that means no comments designed just to have a better chance at winning. The winner must be a registered user of the List Universe. You can click here to register.
Finally, many thanks to Octopus Books for donating the prize for this competition.
Notable Extras: Apollo 13, Air Force One, Avalon, and many many more.
Some synopses courtesy of IMDB
Another film list of movies I haven’t seen. Although I have seen Forrest Gump, that was an awesome movie!
Any reason eight out of 10 are pre-1980? Or is it coincidental?
Tempyra: coincidental – though note that two mentioned in the omissions and two in the introduction are post 1980s too – I guess they just made blockbuster patriotic films better in the past.
I’m really glad to see To Kill a Mockingbird here – amazing novel and movie!
Same with Forrest Gump, one of my favorite movies of all time.
j.walk: To Kill a Mockingbird is one of my all time favorite novels! The film is great too.
First film list in which I have seen more than 6 movies.
A great list but I dont actually understand why Independence Day and Patriot are not there.
Three Kings, Born on the Fourth of July and Pearl Harbour are also nice patriotic movies. Can be added as Notable Omissions
pankhudi: Independence day and The Patriot are not included because they are not anywhere near the calibre of the films which DID make it to the list – this is not just well known or popular films about patriotism – they have to have some artistic merit
“Glory” – one of the finest movies ever made IMO – doesn’t make me feel patriotic, as i’m Irish, but i can see what it does for Americans
I have the movie poster framed on my wall – thats how much i love this movie.
I’m glad you didn’t include I.Day + The Patriot – Both awful movies IMO
I hope all you Canadians have a great day today.
Ok, everyone, Happy 4th of July. I’ll try to watch a few of these movies tonight.
Jamie: I think there is a law in the US that says when you mention American patriotism you are obligated to mention John Wayne.
I’m not a big fan of musicals BUT the movie “1776″ the story of the writing of the Declaration of Independence is pure patriotism. AND I agree The Patriot has to be on this list.
Hey what about Sergent York?
I don’t know, When I saw this list I thought “Dave” would be on there. It’s about a guy who’s drafted into being a body double for the president, when the president then suddenly dies so he takes command. At least, it’d been one of my favorite movies ever.
Excellent List.
Saw them all except Rocky.
That clip of Gregory Peck is great.
islanderbst: You are correct about the law. (1) you saved LV by mentioning him and (2) Jamie is in NZ, so he is exempt
True about the lack of artistic merit of Gibson’s ‘The Patriot’
Of course this is in the ‘Related List’ section:
http://listverse.com/humor/top-10-reasons-jfrater-doesnt-want-to-write-another-film-list/
It should be required reading before you post a comment
Born on the 4th of July would have to be one of the least patriotic films for America.
I agree with everything on this list however. Another excellent list Jamie. I would say almost anything made before the 70′s in America could be classed as patriotic. Including films such as Twelve Angry Men, The Manchurian Candidate and It’s a Wonderful Life.
Oh, sweet freedom! I love having the freedom to eat until I am miserable, and let the little pyromaniac in me out to play… and watching these movies while I do it will make the perfect 4th!!
All the President’s Men is an excellent movie and book and I highly recommend it. I also think that Apollo 13 should have made it into the top 10.
I loved Forrest Gump! I really get that sense of pride when I watch it.
I know you specifically left off Independence Day, but I have to say the speech that the president gives just before battle REALLY sends the pride vibrating through my veins! It may be quirky, it may be sci-fi, but that speech brings a tear to my eye everytime!
LOL, I hadn’t seen the “Top 10 reasons JFrater doesn’t want to write another film list”! Thanks for noticing stevenh (I usually don’t pay attention to the related lists thingie)
Is a mini-series a movie? The little figures on the screen do move, after all. I’m thinking about ADAMS, the HBO “movie.” I honestly find it a little difficult to feel very patriotic about my USA lately, but the story of John and Abigail Adams, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, et. al., totally got to me.
This is the first film list where I’ve seen each film! Excellent list, I just bought To Kill a Mockingbird on DVD a few days ago, I love it that much, and watching the last few scenes in Glory always gives me tingles!
To Kill A Mockingbird & Forrest Gump… you are a man after my heart Jamie!
To Kill A Mockinbird is easily my favourite books and one of my favourite movies. Gregory Pecks portrayal of Atticus Finch is brilliant. He absolutely nailed the character. He fully deserved the Oscar that year.
Forrest Gump is another of my favourite movies. Everything is brilliant from the story to the soundtrack. I fully agree with you, and I believe that Forrest Gump is a perfect example of how following your path and giving your all is the best way to lead a good life.
The HBO mini-series “Band of Brothers” is tops, I highly recommend it if one is interested in the stories of Easy Company of the 101st airborne during WII, it’s done very well.
I would also add Miracle. The story of the 1980 USA Olympic Hockey team. If that movie doesn’t get you believing in America, nothing will.
Thoroughly enjoyed this list! I love that the movies are about “the triumph of freedom” We should always try to remember that that IS what the USA stands for… Happy 4th Everyone!
I am from the Scotland we dont even celebrate the 4th of July but i still loved this list! Mainly because i havnt seen a few of these movies, except Forrest Gump which in my view should have been number 1!
lol
Great list. Though I didn’t expect it to be from Mr.Frater, especially when he didn’t write anything about the New Zeland national day( Feb.6th I believe?):-}
I didn’t know there were any patriotic Kiwis out there. February 6th is Waitangi Day – there isn’t a ‘New Zealand Day’ as far as I know.
im sorry but how does To Kill a Mockingbird constitute as a patriotic movie?
B.Quinn: I believe it is because it is a stand for Freedom, Truth and Justice.
Why do you believe it is not?
This a really nice list jfrater and nice of you to do.
From someone that is not from the states you still nailed most of my favorites.
B.Quinn, did you read the intro? I think if To Kill a Mockingbird was not listed it wouldn’t be a complete list.
Boy, am I happy to see Patton there! Glory should be about 3 and Patton number 1 but still nice list!
Patton is among the best war movies in the world, ever made!
This is a great list but I’m surprised you put the “fighting sullivans” and “Private Ryan” on it as they are about the same topic and yet you left off “1776″ and “John Adams”. Happy independance day everyone
Great choices, though I’ve only seen 4/11 — the ones we watched in American History. I would have liked to see 1776 on there as it is a neat musical with catchy tunes, but I guess its not “best of the best.” Thirteen Days is also well done, and it represents the path to freedom from the USSR’s diplomatic cruelty which is not represented anywhere on the list. But I respect these choices regardless.
I loved the Sullivans that was a great movie. When I was in high school I went on a field trip over Easter Break with ROTC. We went to Camp LeJeune (sp) in North Carolina, which is a marine base and the only thing they had on the base to do (that we could do legally) was go bowling or go to the movies and they were playing the sullivans in the theater there. I probably saw it four or five times that week we were down there.
Excellent movie for sure
Great list Jamie.
Extra glad you included Glory, one of my favorite movies. (I have a fondness for Matthew Broderick)
Any that popped into mind that are not included on the list are covered in the notable omissions.
To satisfy the need for a John Wayne move, maybe we could include The Sands of Iwo Jima. A definite classic.
Nice list. Glad Pearl Harbor wasn’t on it because it’s such a terrible and historically laughable film. The historical travesties committed there would fill an entire issue of Time magazine.
For a much better presentation, see “Tora! Tora! Tora!” about Pearl Harbor and “Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo” about the Doolittle Raid, with Van Johnson as real-life Doolittle hero Ted Lawson.
lol, rocky worked in a meat factory. does that mean he worked inside a cow?
I am not American and many of these movies are before my time, but I am quite the fan of Saving Private Ryan. Being Canadian, there aren’t a whole lot of movies quite like any of these. Such a shame !
Happy 4th of July though !
Sgt. York (1941-Gary Cooper) should have made the list. It tells the story of a religious pacifist who was sent to fight in WWI and became a hero–after finding the ‘happy medium’ between his pacifism and fighting honorably without losing sight of his personal beliefs.
jfrater
Forest Gump a great movie but not a patriotic one. The same goes for Rockey.
“The Patriot” should be near the top of this list. (and you left it off completly”
It defiantly underlines the need and continued following of the 2nd amendment.
The creator of these lists always seems to show a leftest lean.
But it is your list.
I just never find myself agreeing with your lists dealing with the USA.
Come on you put America on the top of your list of most dangerous places. Give me a break.
I would argue that the movie 300 should be included in this list. When I watched it, I found myself comparing much of it to the current US wars and the Bushisms that go with them. Although it is about Sparta, it seemed like the producers were giving quite a large nod to the USA.
What, no Team America?!?
Great list! Most of these movies I wouldn’t originally think as “patriotic” but you have some really good choices.
Ive seen 3 of the 11 movies given here. Though they are great!
I have also seen 3 of these, but there are a lot of other ones out there.
I was surprised by some of your picks this time. I loved the movie Glory. I should watch that one again even if it makes me cry.
This would be an incredibly hard list for anyone to write; I think you did it justice, Jamie. Defining the criteria must have been difficult.
I do agree with “Dave”, however. Mr. Smith… is the quintessential patriotic movie, and Kevin Kline is the closest actor I’ve seen come to the unabashed innocence and patriotic fervor that Jimmy Stewart portrayed in his movies. I also liked An American President, but I think it would have made a top 20, but not a top 10.
Oh, and PLEASE write to nerikasne@hotmail.com if you are a regular poster to this site. I’m coming up with a birthday present for the site and need your assistance. It’s free, I promise.
I was just thinking about this very topic this morning, wishing I’d called in to Mick LaSalle’s podcast (San Francisco Chronicle film reviewer http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/mlasalle/detail?blogid=38&entry_id=27659) to ask him which movies make him the proudest to be an American. TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD would have been my choice. Another good one is TO BE OR NOT TO BE, starring the great American patriot and actress Carole Lombard, who tragically died in a plane crash while raising war bonds to support our troops. Also THE GLENN MILLER STORY, for reasons just cited above.
Jamie is correct. It’s not so much that they made better patriotic movies in the old days, but rather that the Vietnam War radically altered our belief in the proper use of our military might.
To answer B.Quinn’s question, why is TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD considered patriotic, it is because, unlike a movie like YANKEE DOODLE DANDY, it doesn’t merely sing and shout about what a great nation we are, it demonstrates why.
Major props to Kittym for mentioning BAND OF BROTHERS. Although it’s not a movie per say, it fills me with a sense of pride and gratitude to be an American.
Thanks for the list Jamie!
Great list, Patton and the Great Escape make me feel very patriotic. Now I’m gonna go watch some fire works.
Umm, yeah I dont c how rocky n forrest gump are patriotic movies, but then again dats my opinion. Happy 4th of july to evry1!! ^_^
I c how forrest gump was a patriotic film but not rocky. Saving private ryan-beautiful =’( *sniffle*
Extra props for a non-American making a great list, too!
If we’re examining mini-series, then I put my chip in for John Adams. It’s the grittier side of patriotism.
I always spend Xmas abroad nowadays & perhaps the only thing I miss about the UK is veging out on the sofa & watching the traditional annual Boxing Day rerun of ‘The Great Escape’. The sequences featuring Steve McQueen on the motorbike are some of the most exhilarating in movie history. Love that movie.
‘Forrest Gump’, on the other hand, is dire. Hollywood at its most glib & sentimental.
In my opinion.
Too funny Jamie. We’ve got TomCruise.com in the top banner ad.
What I really would’ve liked seeing on here was Band of Brothers. It’s amazing, though slightly long… Ten DVDs long, actually… I might go watch one right now, for that matter.
Very nice list Jamie, you picked great movies for this category. As a notable omission I would pick United 93. I love that movie, it was very sad and very real.
Happy 232nd birthday USA