easy payday loans Posted by Stephen on November 6, 2011

Imagine we make contact with an alien civilization. We can show them one film that most represents what America is all about. What film would you pick? The list of films below, all very different would individually, and especially collectively, provide a wonderful glimpse into the American spirit.

5) Rocky – This movie, debuting during America’s Bicentennial year, was overtly patriotic (e.g. Apollo Creed wore red, white and blue trunks, and a big Uncle Sam hat). Ultimately, this film delivers on two very American themes – the underdog overcoming all odds, and a rags to riches story. Of course, any good done by the first Rocky is wiped out by Rocky 5.

4) Animal Crackers – Any number of Marx Brothers’ movies could have made the list. First off, at least one comedy needed to make the list, and there are none more enduring then the Marx Brothers. Further, there are themes in Animal Crackers (and most Marx Brothers’ films) that are quite American. The poor, but kind and sincere young man always wins the heart of the beautiful ingenue (typically over the rich aristocrat). And Groucho always pokes fun at the rich, jewelry laden matronly character in the film. If these movies were made during the Occupy Wall Street era, Groucho would be the cultural icon of the 99% crowd.

3) West Side Story – Since the musical is an original American genre, one should make the list, and there are none better than West Side Story. Further, the love story troubled by cultural clashes could not have been made anywhere other than America.

2) The Grapes of Wrath – This film shows how resilient the American spirit can be. Destroyed by the Dust Bowl, the Joad family never gives up, moving west, with nothing but the hope of a new life.

And the #1 film that best captures the American Spirit:

To Kill a Mockingbird – By defending a wrongfully charged black man, Atticus Finch may be the greatest character in cinematic history. Through the eyes of children, this film incredibly shows the worst, and the best, of what makes the America spirit.

That’s the list…Please share your comments.