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SALT LAKE CITY — The Fourth of July may have come and gone already, but I know a way you can party like a patriotic rock star the rest of the week. Here is a list of five movies to watch that will keep you in the "American" mood and also remind you how freaking awesome our country is. U-S-A! U-S-A! U-S-A!
"He's not human. He's like a piece of iron." -- Ivan Drago
That's right Ivan; the Italian Stallion is like a piece of iron. "Rocky IV" may not be the most heartfelt and well- written Rocky of the franchise, but what it lacked in depth it made up for in music montages and America is awesome-ness.
Watching Rocky take out Drago in the final scene will make you want to run out, buy a pair of American flag boxing shorts and train in an old barn. Now that's American.
"He better be worth it. He better go home and cure a disease, or invent a longer-lasting light bulb." -- Captain Miller
Steven Spielberg's World War II epic is a film that helps all of us remember the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for all of us. The film is, at times, difficult to watch, but it could very well change your perspective on the way you look at the "Greatest Generation."
Tom Hanks is at his best in the film and Spielberg delivers an unforgettable film that will be considered a classic for years to come.
This film is rated R and not for everyone, but if you can stomach the intensity and heart-wrenching moments, this film is well worth your time.
"We will not go quietly into the night!" We will not vanish without a fight! We're going to live on! We're going to survive! Today we celebrate our Independence Day!" -- President Thomas Whitmore
Of course this is on the list. Love it or hate it, everyone knows the movie "Independence Day" and it will always be brought up this time of year.
The film is chock-full of mindless action and cheesy dialogue, but it makes you want to stand up and start a USA chant in your neighborhood. The alien invasion may be a worldwide problem, but the solution is all American.
"That's right! Ice... man. I am dangerous." -- Maverick
If you were a kid at any point during the 80's you not only know this movie, but consider it a guilty pleasure. Don't deny it.
"Top Gun" is classic 80's. We have super cool Americans fighting some unknown force while giving intense looks and clever quips to a kicking Kenny Loggins soundtrack.
Any movie that gave birth to songs like "Danger Zone" and "Playing with the Boys" is an American standard.
"You're killing me Smalls!" -- Ham Porter
Considering I'm a dude, I don't know if girls dig this movie as much as every American male born between 1979 and 1997. But this movie has everything America loves: baseball, an underdog, a freakishly large dog, urban legends, PF Flyers and Benny "The Jet" Rodriguez. Not to mention it was filmed right here in Utah, and I'm pretty sure I saw the kid who played Benny at a Nicklecade when I was a kid.
"The Sandlot" is all about growing up, summertime fun, childhood friends and baseball. So, basically, it's about America.
If you have a son and he's never seen "The Sandlot" get to a Wal-Mart immediately, buy it for five bucks and watch it with him this weekend. He'll love it. I promise.
There are a few movies to keep the patriotic spirit alive and well in your home for a few more days. So, instead of lighting more of the state on fire with cheap fireworks, stick one of these gems into the DVD player and celebrate our independence and the good ole' US of A.
What are your favorite "America" flicks? Tell us on the comment boards and on Facebook.
