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Born on the Fourth of July, 1989

Born on the Fourth of July

English, Spanish

USA

Rating:7.2
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Profile of Born on the Fourth of July

Born on the Fourth of July can be described as disturbing, bleak, and emotional. The plot revolves around homecoming, disabilities, and anti-war themes. The main genres are drama, period, and war. In terms of style, Born on the Fourth of July is epic. In approach, it is serious and realistic. The storytelling is slow paced. Born on the Fourth of July is set, at least in part, in a small town. It is located in Vietnam, Mexico, and South America. It takes place in the 1950s and in the 1960s. Born on the Fourth of July is drawn from a biography, originally a true story, and based on a book. The movie has received attention for being an Oscar winner, essential viewing, and a blockbuster. Note that it involves sexual content and profanity.

Summary of Born on the Fourth of July

Set in the years between 1956 and 1976; Produced and released in 1989.

One of the best films made about the devastating impact of the Vietnam War on the body politic, Born on the Fourth of July is superbly executed by director Oliver Stone, who evokes what may be Tom Cruise's best performance as Vietnam vet Ron Kovic. Before the war starts, Kovic is a normal American kid, going to school, hanging out with his friends, and bagging groceries for pocket money. But as the Vietnam conflict begins to impact the lives of everyone around him, the patriotic teenager decides to enlist. Although his father (Raymond J. Berry) is not happy with his decision, his mother (Caroline Kava) could hardly be more enthusiastic. Once in combat, Kovic becomes disillusioned with his commanding officer (John Getz) who dismisses the fact that Kovic accidentally shot one of their own men in combat. Shortly thereafter, Kovic is paralyzed from the chest down by a bullet in the spine. He must begin a lengthy and excruciatingly painful rehabilitation, which includes a period in the shockingly negligent Bronx Veteran's Hospital. He finally returns to his hometown, now a confused, embittered, and alienated man. His family is also unsettled, unsure about how to deal with this very changed person. After a dissipated spree with other disabled vets like Charlie (Willem Dafoe), Kovic begins talking to antiwar activists like Donna (Kyra Sedgwick) and starts to reevaluate his thinking. In sum, Born on the Fourth of July is a deeply moving true account of the effects of war on its survivors.

Details

Language: English, Spanish
Country: USA
Release date: 20 December 1989
Runtime: 145 min
Awards: Academy Awards

Awards

Oliver Stone for Best Director at the 1989 Academy Awards
Awarded Best Film Editing at the 1989 Academy Awards

Cast and Crew

Tom Cruise as Ron Kovic in Born on the Fourth of July
Tom Cruise

as Ron Kovic

Kyra Sedgwick as Donna, Ron's Girlfriend in Born on the Fourth of July
Kyra Sedgwick

as Donna, Ron's Girlfriend

Photos

Born on the Fourth of July (1989)
Born on the Fourth of July (1989)

Clips

Born on the Fourth of July
Born on the Fourth of July: Official Trailer

Critics Reviews

TV Guide
The critique of masculinity is far more thoughtful and compelling than the vague ruminations about war. Nonetheless Cruise's impassioned performance as Kovic is an impressive accomplishment.
Variety
Oliver Stone again shows America to itself in a way it won't forget. His collaboration with Vietnam veteran Ron Kovic to depict Kovic's odyssey from teenage true believer to wheel-chair-bound soldier in a very different war results in a gripping,...
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