There are two kinds of people. First there are the outgoing, good-time Fourth of July, life of the party, shooting the firecrackers, sunburning, celebrating patriots. Then there are those of us who are smart enough to stay home out of the sun, enjoy the air conditioning, and watch a movie. For those stalwart souls intelligent enough to stay home, chill, and watch movies, the following is a list of appropriate DVDs. (I am not including Born on the Fourth of July on my list. It is way too serious and thought-provoking.)
In The Crossing, Jeff Daniels proved he was an actor of stature when he starred as George Washington, Commander-in-Chief and abject failure. The time was Christmas, 1776. The Continental Army was up against the wall, nearly defeated, generals at one another’s throat. George Washington had a reputation as a total failure, the man who started the French and Indian War. Jeff Daniels’ portrayal of George Washington starts out as a man almost unable to command the respect of his generals who treat him deplorably. Desparate, as Christmas Eve rapidly approaches he hatches a rash, highly dangerous plot to navigate the Delaware River and attack the Hessian brigades billeted in Trenton. As Daniels’ Washington becomes more assured of himself, growing in self-confidence, Daniels’ appearance changes. By the time the film is over, the almost broken Washington has achieved his legendary stature as first in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen.
Sometimes we just need to spend the afternoon fighting a few aliens. Independence Day, with Will Smith and Bill Pullman, is yet another successful remake of H. G. Wells’ visionary War of the Worlds. Okay, you’ve seen it. We’ve all seen it. Just admit you enjoy it and go pop the corn.
How the West Was Won was one of the most influential films in my life. The cast included Debbie Reynolds, Gregory Peck, Jimmy Stewart, and just about every other Hollywood heavyweight. Alfred Newman’s soundtrack is magnificent.
If we are listing epics, we cannot forget one of my personal favorites, The Right Stuff. Not only did it tell the story of the Mercury Project but it made stars out of Dennis Quaid, Scott Glenn, and Ed Harris. The soundtrack is moving and quite beautiful.
Article comments
1 - Steve Poulter
V for Vendetta
2 - Victor Lana
I would vote for Borat in this category. It's nothing but funny and features the title character botching "The National Anthem." Classic stuff.
3 - SJ Reidhead
I am laughing at myself. While writing much of this piece, I was watching NATIONAL TREASURE. Then I managed to forget to add it to the list!
4 - Mary K. Williams
nice list! I'm sure along with National Treasure others will mention some flicks to add to the list. It's part of the fun, right?