US Independence Day is not only about fireworks and parades. For many, it’s also a time to relax and enjoy good movies. With so many titles featuring explosions, Americana, and iconic July 4 moments, choosing the right films can be tricky. Here’s a guide to the best 4th of July movies available on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV in 2025.
4th of July Movies to Watch
Independence Day (1996)
This sci-fi disaster film, directed by Roland Emmerich, is a July 4th classic. It earned over $817 million worldwide and starred Will Smith in a breakout role.
Forrest Gump (1994)
Released on July 6, this drama became the highest-grossing US film of 1994. It explores American history through the eyes of a kind-hearted man.
War of the Worlds (2005)
Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film stars Tom Cruise and features an alien invasion set against a July 4 backdrop. It earned over $603 million globally.
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Despicable Me 2 (2013)
This animated sequel grossed over $970 million worldwide. The Minions have become a staple of July 4 family viewing.
Blown Away (1994)
This action thriller set in Boston during Independence Day includes one of the largest on-screen explosions. It features Jeff Bridges and Tommy Lee Jones.
Spider-Man: Far From Home (2019)
This Marvel film opened on July 2 and earned over $185 million in six days. It was a holiday hit with its high-energy sequences.
Minions: The Rise of Gru (2022)
Released during the July 4 weekend, it grossed over $125 million. Its appeal among all age groups made it a popular Independence Day choice.
The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (2010)
Released just before July 4, it made over $698 million worldwide. This teen romance became a cultural phenomenon.
The Great Gatsby (2013)
Its party scenes and fireworks make it a thematic match for Independence Day. Leonardo DiCaprio’s portrayal of Gatsby brings the novel to life.
Southland Tales (2007)
This post-apocalyptic story explores politics, media, and identity, with its plot touching on July 4 themes and set in a futuristic US.
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Transformers: Dark of the Moon (2011)
Opening near July 4, this movie earned over $1.12 billion. With action scenes and effects, it remains a blockbuster choice.
Men in Black (1997)
Another Will Smith July 4 hit, this movie made over $589 million worldwide. It combined comedy and sci-fi in a way that appealed to broad audiences.
Armageddon (1998)
Directed by Michael Bay, this film made over $553 million. Its July 1 release made it part of the Independence Day tradition.
In the Heights (2021)
Though set during a blackout, the movie’s themes and setting feel like a summer holiday celebration. It features music and culture rooted in New York.
FAQs
Which 4th of July movies are trending on Netflix, Amazon Prime and Apple TV in 2025?
Independence Day, Minions: The Rise of Gru, and Transformers are among the most popular July 4th films across major streaming platforms.
Are there any family-friendly July 4th movies to watch this year?
Yes. Despicable Me 2 and Minions: The Rise of Gru are great choices for families to enjoy during the holiday.