Born on the Fourth of July
Born on the Fourth of July

Born on the Fourth of July

1989Movie145 minEnglish

Paralyzed in the Vietnam war, Ron Kovic becomes an anti-war and pro-human rights political activist after feeling betrayed by the country he fought for.

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Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic75
Google Users85%
Director: Oliver StoneGenres: Biography, Drama, War

Plot Summary

Ron Kovic, a patriotic young man who enlists in the Marines during the Vietnam War, returns home after being paralyzed in combat. He grapples with physical and emotional scars, becoming a prominent anti-war activist who speaks out against the conflict that changed his life. The film chronicles his journey from a zealous believer in the war to a disillusioned veteran advocating for peace.

Critical Reception

Born on the Fourth of July was met with widespread critical acclaim, particularly for Tom Cruise's performance and Oliver Stone's direction. It was praised for its powerful portrayal of the realities of war and its impact on veterans, becoming a significant film in the anti-war cinema landscape. The film resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike for its emotional honesty and political commentary.

What Reviewers Say

  • Tom Cruise delivers a career-defining performance as a paralyzed Vietnam veteran.
  • Oliver Stone's unflinching direction captures the brutal realities and emotional toll of war.
  • A powerful and important film that serves as a significant anti-war statement.

Google audience: Audience reviews frequently highlight the film's emotional impact, Tom Cruise's powerful portrayal of Ron Kovic, and its effective depiction of the struggles faced by Vietnam veterans. Many appreciate its strong anti-war message and Oliver Stone's direction.

Awards & Accolades

Won 2 Academy Awards (Best Director for Oliver Stone, Best Film Editing) and nominated for 6 others including Best Picture and Best Actor (Tom Cruise). Won 3 Golden Globe Awards including Best Motion Picture – Drama, Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama (Tom Cruise), and Best Director. Nominated for 4 BAFTAs.

Fun Fact

Tom Cruise actually visited and spoke with the real Ron Kovic multiple times to prepare for the role, even shadowing him during his anti-war protests.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

3 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I think this might be the only film in which I’ve seen Tom Cruise actually act! It’s an inspired piece of casting from Oliver Stone that puts this pretty boy Ron Kovic front and centre as the Vietnam War rages half way around the world from...
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I think this might be the only film in which I’ve seen Tom Cruise actually act! It’s an inspired piece of casting from Oliver Stone that puts this pretty boy Ron Kovic front and centre as the Vietnam War rages half way around the world from...
kevin2019

kevin2019

"Born on the Fourth of July" is a powerful, worthwhile, and highly recommended film which shows the real social and familial challenges Ron Kovic faced when struggling to come to terms with the devastating after effects of war and the reali...