In Hollywood, Independence Day weekend has long been dedicated to classic, cutting-edge movies, setting the tone for summer and showcasing some of the year's biggest action-packed blockbuster films. Movies likeTerminator 2: Judgment Day,Men in Black, andSpider-Man 2are prime examples of action/adventure films that benefit from the extended holiday, giving families a chance to enjoy quality cinema together.
As you look for exciting ways to bring your family closer this Fourth of July weekend, consider heading out to see one of these five must-watch movies.
5. How To Train Your Dragon
If you’re looking for imaginative, high-flying adventure that gives Disney live-action films a run for their money, check out DreamWorks’How to Train Your Dragon.Its heartfelt story and lovable characters make it a must-watch for people of all ages.
How to Train Your Dragontells the wholesome story of a Young Viking named Hiccup who forms an unexpected bond with an adorable dragon named Toothless. Even though the bond is forged with the purest intentions, it's an act of rebellion, challenging centuries of traditions and going against everything the Vikings stand for. However radical, this rebellious act becomes a crucial component to achieving peace during a time of war, where Vikings and dragons are determined to be at odds with one another.
How to Train Your Dragonis a heartfelt underdog story of empathy, friendship, and standing up for what you believe in. Its stunning visuals are backed by an epic score, which comes together to craft a grand escape for the Fourth of July weekend.
4. F1: The Movie
If you’re a sucker for a good ol' fashioned redemption story check outF1: The Movie. Its high-speed formula goes full throttle on authenticity, creating an immersive experience that demands to be seen in IMAX.
From the visionary behindTop Gun: Maverickcomes a film about guts, camaraderie, and defying impossible odds.F1follows Sonny Hayes, a washed-up race car driver who comes out of retirement for a final shot at glory when he’s asked to join a struggling team that’s all out of options. It’s here that Hayes teams up with Joshua Pearce, a young, arrogant driver who still has a lot to learn. As their egos clash, Hayes and Pearce must fight to find a way to pull off a miraculous win that will not only save their careers but teach them the value of teamwork along the way.
In addition to its authentic portrayal of auto racing culture,F1is a charming underdog story about realizing your potential and the formula needed to make a good team work. Don’t let the nearly three-hour runtime fool you,F1is wildly entertainingwith cutting-edge camera techniques that put viewers right behind the wheel, delivering action-packed scenes that get more than just engines running.
3. Mission: Impossible - The Final Reckoning
If you haven’t had the chance to check out the eighth installment ofMission: Impossible,this Fourth of July weekend would be the perfect time. After all, an espionage flick is perfect for this time of year, packed with the tension and suspense we love to see in Blockbuster hits.
Picking up just two months afterDead Reckoning,Mission: Impossible- The Final Reckoningfollows Ethan Hunt and the IMF team as they continue their “impossible” mission of tracking down the Entity, an evil AI with the power to destroy the world. With the stakes higher than ever, Ethan must rely on the aid of his allies for a final shot at stopping a global catastrophe that threatens the lives of people worldwide.
Staying true to the formula that has worked seven movies strong,Mission: Impossible- Final Reckoningis a thrilling send-off with unparalleled action that leaves audiences struggling to catch their breath. Its death-defying stunts and grandiose scope give it a larger-than-life feel that families can enjoy right along with their fireworks.
2. From the World of John Wick: Ballerina
After busting down some flame-broiled burgers, why not want to wash it down with a classic revenge story?Ballerinais an action thrillerthat rivals the magic ofJohn Wick, stunning audiences with its deadly dance of bodies, bullets, and blood.
Set in theJohn Wickuniverse,Ballerinafollows one woman’s perilous journeytoward retribution. After enduring the grueling training of the Ruska Roma, assassin Eve seeks vengeance for her slain family by hunting down those responsible. But as she descends deeper into a world of violence and betrayal, Eve must confront not only her enemies but the darkness within herself.
Ballerinais an assassin film that’s heavy on the action, delivering over-the-top combat with a fury that doesn’t let up. It doesn’t attempt to replaceJohn Wick, but comfortably exists alongside it, making it a surprisingly good addition to theJohn Wickuniverse and a must-see this Fourth of July weekend.
1. Final Destination: Bloodlines
While the Fourth of July weekend usually calls for fireworks and family films, sometimes you want a movie that keeps you on edge, andFinal Destination: Bloodlinesis exactly that. It’s a refreshing contrast to the typical Blockbuster formula, trading thrilling grand adventure for dread and gore.
Final Destination: Bloodlinesdives deeper into the mythology of its iconic franchise, shifting the focus from “who, what, when, and where” to “why.”Bloodlinesfollows Stefanie, a college student who returns home to uncover her family’s mysterious connection to a deadly cycle after being tormented by recurring visions of death.
In a summer stacked with roaring beasts and family fun,Final Destination: Bloodlinesoffers something more sinister: the thrill of watching fate unfurl before your very eyes.
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