Reel Corner - August 2026
One Flag. Many Stories.
July 2026 Issue
Reel Corner by Donne Paine
One Flag. Many Stories.
The Reel Corner isn’t forgetting
America’s 250th celebration.
Lately, all kinds of “Top 250” lists have been popping up, like patriotic songs and landmark books about our history and values. So now, it’s time for The Reel Corner to join the party. At last month’s Fourth of July picnic, I checked in my friends Trudy, Diane, Marie, George, Ellen, and Kris to get their picks for their favorite patriotic films. After hearing their suggestions, I put together The Reel Corner’s Top 10 Patriotic Films. Take a look, celebrate your patriotism, and honor the stories that helped shape our nation.
First let’s start with a recent film:
Young Washington (2026)
William Franklyn-Miller, Mary-Louise Parker, Leo Hanna
Director: Jon Erwin
Released during America’s 250th anniversary celebration, Young Washington tells the little-known story of George Washington before he became a Revolutionary War commander and the nation’s first president. Rather than portraying the legendary statesman, the film focuses on a young, ambitious officer whose mistakes, hardships, and personal growth help forge the character that would eventually change history. This is a production of Angel Studio, which is known for films for general audience viewing.
Young Washington is an inspiring historical drama that reminds viewers that greatness is earned through character and perseverance. It is a fitting tribute during America’s 250th and a worthwhile film for anyone interested in the nation’s history, its founding ideals, and the remarkable journey of George Washington.
Reel Corner Top 10 Picnic Panel Pics (in no particular order)
Enjoy these American films that express patriotism, sacrifice, service, civic ideals, national unity or celebrating American culture:
1) Mr. Smith Goes to Washington (1939):
This film celebrates civic duty and the belief that ordinary citizens can defend democracy. It features an everyman senator standing up to corruption.
2) Yankee Doodle Dandy (1942):
Honors American musical heritage and cultural identity, celebrating American songs and spirit.
3) Saving Private Ryan (1998):
A visceral tribute to World War II sacrifices and the cost of defending freedom.
4) Glory (1989):
Recognizes the bravery and sacrifice of the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry in the Civil War, showing courage, equality and fighting for the Union.
5) Patton (1970):
A complex portrait of leadership and tradition both in WWII and the American military. Portrays leadership and the courage of American troops.
6) Lincoln (2012):
Celebrates leadership, unity, and equality. Focused on preserving the Union and advancing justice during the Civil War.
7) Born on the Fourth of July (1989):
Examines the impact of war and citizenship. A complicated and powerful examination of patriotism through a veteran’s eyes.
8) Top Gun (1986):
Celebrates service and dedication in the U.S. Navy, celebrating Naval aviation, teamwork, and American valor.
9) Apollo 13 (1995):
Showcases ingenuity and teamwork, and perseverance as a collective pride of country.
10) Keeper of the Flame (1942):
Stresses protecting democratic ideals.
Check out one or all of these patriotic films this month available through various streaming platforms
Love America. Love our history. God Bless America!
References: www.imdb.com; www.wikipedia.com
Donne Paine is a film enthusiast, nurse, mother, grandmother, and author whose love of movies began years ago when she lived near the Orson Welles Cinema in Cambridge, Massachusetts. She has attended local and national film festivals, including Sundance, Toronto, and Tribeca, and she strongly believes in seeing films in theaters and supporting local movie houses. To help sustain her passion for movies, she works as a nurse consultant and instructor, and she is the author of Beyond the Basics: A Guide to Compassionate Caring, available on Amazon.