Whenever you think of movies, you usually imagine a great escape, like a journey to far-off places, heroic quests, or love stories that beat the odds. However, some films hit a little bit closer to home, ones that give us a true look at the heart and soul of American life. Here are 21 films that show exactly what it’s like to live in the good ol’ US of A!
Selma (2014)
“Selma” brings to life the struggle and courage of those who marched from Selma to Montgomery in 1965 to fight for black Americans’ voting rights. This film doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of racism and the fight for civil rights. Like the New Yorker said, it’s a raw and powerful portrayal of a very important moment in American history.
American Graffiti (1973)
Take a ride down memory lane to the early ’60s, where muscle cars and rock ‘n’ roll reign supreme. “American Graffiti” follows a group of teenagers on their last summer night before college. This film is the perfect hit of nostalgia, along with the pure innocence and excitement of youth. It might be old, but it’s still very realistic!
Forrest Gump (1994)
It’s a classic movie about Forrest, with his heart of gold and legs that just won’t quit. The film takes us through decades of American history, culture, and events with a refreshingly simple yet touching point of view. Instead of just being a simple historical film, it’s a marathon of emotions that proves anyone can make a difference.
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
When you think of the American dream, you probably picture success through sheer determination and hard work. “A Beautiful Mind” tells the true story of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician struggling with schizophrenia. It’s a touching story that shows the challenges and strengths of people struggling with mental illness in America.
The Breakfast Club (1985)
Is there a more perfect representation of American high school? “The Breakfast Club” tackles the battleground of cliques, hormones, and existential crises with humor and heart. Five students, each from a different social group, are stuck in detention together. Spoiler – they discover they’re not so different after all.
The Sandlot (1993)
Nothing says summer in America like a group of kids and baseball! “The Sandlot” is a coming-of-age story that celebrates the joys and adventures of childhood, friendships, and, of course, baseball. It’s a home run of nostalgia and laughs that captures what it’s like to be a kid in America, even all these years later.
Little Miss Sunshine (2006)
In this film, a dysfunctional family takes a road trip to California in a beat-up VW bus. Why? So the daughter can compete in a “Little Miss Sunshine” pageant – you can’t get more American than that! This film looks at the flaws that make a family, with plenty of humor and heartache along the way.
Wall Street (1987)
Greed, for lack of a better word, is good. Or is it? “Wall Street” explores the high-stakes world of finance and the stock market, where ambition and greed can lead to success or downfall. This film criticizes cutthroat American business practices and wraps it in the drama of a young stockbroker’s rise and fall.
Do the Right Thing (1989)
Set on the hottest day of the year in a Brooklyn neighborhood, “Do the Right Thing” explores how racial conflict can very quickly boil over into violence. This film is a powerful, vibrant, and sometimes humorous look at how racism affects a community. The choice between right and wrong isn’t always black and white.
Friday Night Lights (2004)
In small-town America, high school football is a religion. “Friday Night Lights” captures the hopes and dreams of a high school football team aiming for state championship glory. This film perfectly captures the cult of American football and its impact on players, families, and communities.
La La Land (2016)
Los Angeles – the city of stars and shattered dreams. “La La Land” tells the story of two dreamers facing the joys and heartbreaks of trying to become Hollywood stars. This modern musical is a love letter to Los Angeles and a bittersweet reminder of the sacrifices that you have to make if you want to be successful.
Office Space (1999)
We’ve all had those jobs that feel like they’re sucking the life out of us. “Office Space” is the perfect representation of that! The film manages to make the soul-crushing monotony of the 9-to-5 corporate world seem hilarious. With its unforgettable characters and iconic quotes, this film is a great laugh for anyone who’s ever felt undervalued at work.
The Departed (2006)
“The Departed” tells a gritty, complex tale of crime and identity through undercover agents and mobsters. Oh, and a whole lot of Boston accents! This film explores how the lines between good and evil aren’t exactly straightforward through the tale of a Boston organized crime group. You’ll stay guessing until the very end.
Super Size Me (2004)
We all know fast food is bad for us, but have you ever thought about just how bad it is? “Super Size Me” is a documentary that puts the American fast food industry under the microscope, with filmmaker Morgan Spurlock eating only McDonald’s for 30 days. It’s a shocking and gross exploration of the consequences of our fast food industry.
Moonlight (2016)
“Moonlight” tells the tale of a young man’s journey to self-discovery in a Miami neighborhood. This film tackles themes of identity, masculinity, and love in a truly beautiful way. It’s not just the storyline that’s amazing – Vox called it a “remarkable achievement in filmmaking,” making it one of the most quintessentially American movies ever.
The Godfather (1972)
The American Dream takes a dark turn in “The Godfather,” where loyalty to family and the desire for power collide. This epic saga of an Italian-American mafia family is one of the greatest movies ever. It’s a powerful look at the lengths people will go to protect their own and to pursue the American Dream.
Easy Rider (1969)
Hop on a motorcycle and ride into the sunset with “Easy Rider.” This road movie captures the spirit of freedom and rebellion of the 1960s by exploring the counterculture of the era. It’s a ride through America’s most beautiful landscapes and challenging times with the search for freedom and the societal tensions that come with it.
Fargo (1996)
Set in the snowy landscapes of Minnesota, “Fargo” is a dark comedy-crime film that’s equal parts wacky and violent. This Coen Brothers’ masterpiece tells a tale of kidnapping, murder, and a pregnant police chief. It’s a bizarre, yet completely fascinating, look at the complexities of humanity and how you can find warmth in even the coldest of places.
To Kill a Mockingbird (1962)
Based on Harper Lee’s novel, “To Kill a Mockingbird” is a timeless exploration of justice and racial inequality in the Deep South. Through the eyes of young Scout Finch, we see the strength of character and courage it takes to stand up for what’s right, even when the world seems against you. It’s a true representation of America at its very core. Even to this day, it’s still receiving terrific reviews.
Casablanca (1942)
Step into a world of romance, intrigue, and sacrifice with “Casablanca.” This classic film tells the story of love lost and found during the horrors of war. There’s a reason so many people think it’s one of the greatest films of all time—no other film has ever managed to capture the power of love in such a powerful way.
Juno (2007)
High school, hormones, and…a positive pregnancy test? “Juno” faces the rollercoaster of teenage pregnancy with both wit and sympathy. This film is a heartwarming and, at times, hilarious journey that explores maturity and love in unexpected places. It’s a refreshing take on the coming-of-age story that celebrates the weird journey toward a solution.
