When you aren’t busy grilling or watching fireworks you should definitely check out one of our Top 10 Movies for the 4th of July. Our list is perfect for both patriots and cynics as it showcases films that both celebrate the history of our country, sometimes question it and also highlight a need for change. Let us know if we missed your favorite and enjoy! Also be sure to check out our 4th of July TakePart links below:

takepart to support the veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan wars this Independence Day.

takepart to learn how you can Take Action to encourage others to vote and speak their peace.

takepart to help keep the internet independent this Independence Day - Save the Internet!

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10. Election Day : A verite look at election day 2004 and how we vote in this country. With the upcoming election this film brings to light much that we should be discussing about what it means to be American. Also it premieres on PBS tonight : http://www.pbs.org/pov/pov2008/electionday/

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9. Army of Shadows : I know this film is French, but that doesn’t change the fact that it is an amazing tale of resistance and comradeship. A film about standing up for what you believe in the most serious way, Army of Shadows may be the perfect non-American film to watch this Independence Day.

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8. Jaws: It’s set during the summer, it’s tons of fun and somebody actually gets eaten on the 4th of July. This is really a no-brainer, scary and funny 4th film.

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7. My Girl: A film for the entire family, My Girls takes place during the summer, features a beautiful and touching 4th of July scene and also focuses on what it means to grow up (which is a good lesson any day of the week). Plus Macaulay Culkin is adorable!

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6. Yankee Doodle Dandy : Features the classic 4th of July tune and stars someone I love, James Cagney. Enough said!

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5. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington : A classic American take on standing up for what you believe in, Mr Smith Goes to Washington will warm you heart and make you beleive that change is possible - although it can be a tough ride.

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4. The Thin Red Line: A quiet meditation on what it means to be at war, The Thin Red Line brings up questions we should all be considering on a day in which we celebrate our freedom.

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3. 1776: A musical story of the days leading to July 4th, 1776 is not only full of fun songs but lot’s of facts about how it is we came to celebrate the 4th of July. The perfect musical for your 4th.

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2. The War Tapes: On a day where we celebrate freedom it would be irresponsible to not think about the fact that we are at war. The War Tapes is a complicated film about a complicated war told from the soldiers perspective. It addresses what it really means to stand up and fight for your country.

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1. Born on the Fourth of July : Perhaps the most obvious fourth film, it nonetheless captures everything about what it really means to love America and be a patriot. The story of a young man who wants nothing more than to fight for America and the effects of that fighting , Born on the Fourth of July should be required viewing.

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