Forget 'Independence Day'—This 2020 Production Is the Absolute Best 'Movie' for the Fourth of July

Not only are we celebrating another birthday for America, but it’s a milestone. America celebrates 250 years, and there’s no doubt that you want a few movies to mark the occasion. There is only one that sits at the top of the list for Rotten Tomatoes. It’s all about Hamilton.

The 2020 production isn’t technically a movie, but it’s viewed that way since joining Disney+. It’s actually a stage production, and it was expertly put together to make it suitable for viewers during the pandemic, when Broadway was closed.

Hamilton tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, the man who helped to create the America we know today. He was just a young, scrappy immigrant with the dream to be free, and we hear the story of how he worked with others and was close to George Washington to help succeed.

With the story of his success, there are also bad moments, including his affair and the loss of his son. Then there’s his death at the hands of Aaron Burr.

The “movie” ranks as the No. 1 pick on Rotten Tomatoes based on the reviews of critics and audiences. It holds a Certified Fresh rating with a 98% score from the critics. The audiences also loved it even more, with it landing a 99% score and a Verified Hot rating.

One user shared, “I just love this musical so much and I love learning about US history with a good sing along.”

Another shared, “Absolute interpretation of what their characters must have felt living through their experiences with great music and entertaining choreography. Filled with details that enrich the experience, and if you enjoy it, it is a must-watch at least a 2nd time. Casting is almost perfect.”

As for the critics, they praised the performance, the camera work, and the cast. While Lin-Manuel Miranda certainly shone in the leading role, Daveed Diggs, Christopher Jackson, Phillipa Soo, and Renée Elise Goldsberry also received praise for their speed of rapping, cadence throughout, and the heart they put into their characters’ storylines.

While Hamilton is a Broadway production, it was filmed in 2016 as a way to preserve the original company. Disney bought the rights to the filming, and the plan was to release it in 2021. However, the COVID-19 pandemic shuttered both Broadway and movie theaters, and Disney needed some new content for Disney+. Hamilton was added in July 2020 to immediate rave reviews and excitement.

The best thing about Hamilton is that you can play the soundtrack over and over again. So, don’t throw away your shot, and put it on again as we celebrate 250 years of America.