Review of Born on the Fourth of July (1989) by Lindsay B — 15 Nov 2007

Born on the Fourth of July retells the true story of Ron Kovic (Tom Cruise). The story begins when Kovic is a child when he and his family are attending a Fourth of July Parade. The story continues as Ron matures into an idealistic adult striving to make a difference in the world after a lecture given by the ROTC, while his hometown friends are focused on the prom and going to college. Life in the Marines takes a harrowing turn for Ron Kovic as an exchange of fire leaves him paralyzed from the waist down. When Ron returns home, things do not improve - from an understaffed and dirty hospital bed in the Bronx, being booed by civilians (as many Vietnam vets were), and used as a political tool to give speeches on the great American war. With the help of his former high school girlfriend, Ron Kovic soon awakens to the embitterment that changes him forever. After being angry, drunk, and surrounded by prostitutes and former veterans; Ron Kovic decides to protest for his rights and veterans everywhere.

Great casting, directing, and acting all around. Born on the Fourth of July has to be one of my favorite Oliver Stone films ever.