Gun Guy’s Top 7 Fourth of July Movies

In the world of cinema, few dates hold as much significance as the 4th of July. This patriotic holiday not only celebrates the country’s independence, but also serves as the backdrop for the release of blockbuster movies, launching some of the most iconic films in cinematic history. Our must-watch list includes movies that incorporate guns, shooting, explosions, and nonstop action as part of their storytelling, making them fitting choices for viewing around the 4th of July weekend.

1.Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024)

Let’s start with a new-for-2024 release. It’s not coming to theaters, but Netflix has you covered! Funnyman turned action hero Eddie Murphy returns to the big screen reprising his role as everyone’s favorite smartass cop, Axel Foley. Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F (2024) releases to everyone who has access to a Netflix account on July 3rd. Axel Foley returns to the 90210 to uncover a conspiracy as only he knows how—like a bull in a china shop. They kept some of the campy 80’s and 90’s tropes that made the originals classics, with a more modern and darker twist for these times. With plenty of shooting and gun fights and action it looks like Netflix is our only hope for this 4th of July.

2.The Patriot (2000)

Starring Mel Gibson, this historical war film was released on June 28th 2000, close enough to the 4th of July to count. The Patriot is a historical war film starring Mel Gibson as Benjamin Martin, a former soldier who is drawn into the American Revolutionary War after his family is directly affected by British atrocities. The film follows Benjamin as he reluctantly becomes a key figure in the fight for American independence, leading a militia group against the British forces. The movie portrays the harsh realities of war, the personal sacrifices made by individuals, and the struggles faced by families during the tumultuous time of the Revolutionary War. “The Patriot” is known for its intense battle scenes, emotional storytelling, and strong performances from the cast.

3.Independence Day (1996)

Independence Day is a 1996 science fiction film starring Will Smith, Jeff Goldblum, Bill Pullman, and Randy Quaid, among others. The movie became a classic blockbuster, praised for its groundbreaking special effects, particularly the visual spectacle of the massive alien ships and the thrilling aerial dogfights. The ensemble cast, led by Will Smith and Jeff Goldblum, deliver strong performances (and some wonderful catchphrases … “Welcome to Earth!”).

Originally released around the 4th of July, the movie’s theme of humanity uniting against a common enemy resonated with audiences, especially in the United States. Independence Day became a cultural phenomenon, influencing other sci-fi films and leaving a lasting impact on popular culture.

4.Armageddon (1998)

Armageddon is a 1998 science fiction disaster film directed by Michael Bay. It was released on July 1, 1998. The film features an ensemble cast including Bruce Willis, Ben Affleck, Liv Tyler, Billy Bob Thornton, and Steve Buscemi, among others. The movie’s premise of a massive asteroid on a collision course with Earth creates high stakes and a sense of urgency that drives the intense action throughout the film.

Armageddon balances its disaster movie elements with emotional storytelling, particularly focusing on the relationship between the characters played by Bruce Willis and Liv Tyler, adding a human touch to the impending catastrophe. It’s known for its spectacular visual effects, particularly during the thrilling sequences of space exploration and the attempts to prevent the asteroid from colliding with Earth. With its mix of action, humor, and heart, Armageddon delivered a quintessential popcorn movie experience that still resonates with audiences.

5.Big Trouble in Little China (1986)

Big Trouble in Little China is a 1986 action-comedy film directed by John Carpenter. Released on July 2, 1986, the film stars Kurt Russell as Jack Burton, Kim Cattrall, Dennis Dun, and James Hong, among others. The film blends elements of action, comedy, fantasy, and martial arts, creating a unique and entertaining movie experience that has gained a cult following over the years.

The movie’s campy humor, over-the-top characters, and exaggerated action sequences have endeared it to fans who appreciate its quirky and unconventional style. Kurt Russell’s portrayal of the lovably inept hero Jack Burton, along with the colorful supporting characters, has left a lasting impression on viewers. Big Trouble in Little China has influenced later films, TV shows, and video games, cementing its legacy in popular culture despite its initial box office performance.

6.Die Hard 2: Die Harder (1990)

Die Hard 2 is a 1990 action film directed by Renny Harlin. Released on July 4, 1990, the film stars Bruce Willis reprising his role as John McClane, along with Bonnie Bedelia, William Sadler, and Reginald VelJohnson, among others. Following the success of the original Die Hard film, Die Hard 2 delivers high-octane action sequences, intense suspense, and memorable one-liners that captivated audiences.

Set in an airport on Christmas Eve, the film’s setting adds a unique twist to the action genre, creating a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere as John McClane battles terrorists in a high-stakes situation. Bruce Willis’ portrayal of the wisecracking but capable LAPD detective John McClane solidified his status as an action movie icon, and his performance continues to be a highlight of the film. The film’s plot, involving a group of terrorists taking control of an airport and threatening the lives of passengers, provides a compelling and adrenaline-pumping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, the combination of adrenaline-fueled action, memorable characters, thrilling plot and plenty of gun play, combined with Bruce Willis’ performance as John McClane, makes Die Hard 2 a classic blockbuster movie. And the cherry on top—Die Hard 2 was the second movie ever that featured a Glock pistol! Unfortunately, this also started the bad press and rumors about Glock pistols that continue to this day! John McClane: “That punk pulled a Glock 7 on me. You know what that is? It’s a porcelain gun made in Germany. It doesn’t show up on your airport X-ray machines, and it costs more than you make in a month.” Well, unintentional comedy is still comedy, right?

7.Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991)

Terminator 2: Judgment Day is a 1991 science fiction action film directed by James Cameron released on July 3, 1991. The film stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator, Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor, and Edward Furlong as John Connor. A pioneer in the use of groundbreaking visual effects, this innovation wowed audiences and set new standards for visual effects in action films.

Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of the Terminator, now reprogrammed as a protector, is iconic and memorable. Linda Hamilton’s transformation into the tough and resourceful Sarah Connor also resonated with audiences. Terminator 2 is known for its intense action sequences, including thrilling chases, epic battles, and explosive set pieces that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. The film goes beyond being just an action spectacle by delving into themes of humanity, sacrifice, and the bond between a mother and her son, adding emotional depth to the high-octane thrills. The combination of cutting-edge visual effects, iconic characters, thrilling action, emotional depth, and cultural impact solidifies Terminator 2: Judgment Day as a classic 4th of July weekend blockbuster movie that continues to be celebrated and revered by audiences.

What’s your favorite Fourth of July movie? Tell us in the comments!

—James the “XDMAN” Nicholas, Mr. UnPewFessional Himself!