Labor Day, a holiday dedicated to the workforce, honors the contributions of all workers, especially those who serve in the armed forces. This Labor Day weekend, pay tribute to American soldiers by watching these five films that offer a glimpse into their bravery and sacrifice.
The Patriot (2000):
Set during the Revolutionary War, this historical drama follows Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson), a South Carolina resident who reluctantly joins the fight after his son is captured by the British. The Patriot features gripping battle scenes, particularly the climactic Battle of Cowpens, and highlights the importance of guerrilla warfare tactics. You can watch it on YouTube, Prime Video, Google, or Apple.Horizon: An American Saga — Chapter 1 (2024):
Kevin Costner’s ambitious Western epic, Horizon: An American Saga, explores the formation of the Old West during the Civil War. The first chapter introduces the frontier town of Horizon in its early stages of development. While some may find the exposition a bit tedious, Costner’s understanding of the frontier and his ability to capture it on film make this a compelling watch. Stream Chapter 1 on Max.The Outpost (2019):
This underrated war film depicts the Battle of Kamdesh, one of the bloodiest battles in the War in Afghanistan. A small group of U.S. soldiers stationed at an outpost in a secluded valley face a relentless Taliban attack. The Outpost delivers heart-pounding action and showcases the courage of soldiers like Staff Sergeant Clint Romesha (Scott Eastwood), Specialist Ty Michael Carter (Caleb Landry Jones), and Captain Benjamin D. Keating (Orlando Bloom). You can stream it on Netflix.Crimson Tide (1995):
This tense submarine thriller features a gripping showdown between two Academy Award-winning actors, Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman. Captain Frank Ramsey (Hackman) and Lieutenant Commander Ron Hunter (Denzel Washington) face off in a conflict of command when a potential nuclear strike threatens international security. This action-packed film showcases the pressure and responsibility of those who serve in the military. Buy or rent Crimson Tide on YouTube, Prime Video, Google, or Apple.Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant (2023):
This action-packed film from director Guy Ritchie tells the story of Master Sgt. John Kinley (Jake Gyllenhaal) and Ahmed (Dar Salim), an Afghan interpreter who saves Kinley’s life during an ambush. Kinley returns to the United States only to learn that Ahmed and his family are in danger. Driven by a sense of loyalty and gratitude, Kinley travels back to Afghanistan to rescue his friend. Stream Guy Ritchie’s The Covenant on Prime Video.These five films offer a range of perspectives on war, from the historical drama of The Patriot to the gritty reality of The Outpost. This Labor Day, honor the sacrifices made by American soldiers by watching these films and appreciating their contributions to the nation’s safety and freedom.
