Will Smith: American hero

“Independence Day” (1996)

The prototypical Smith-starring, flag-waving piece of summer escapism, “Independence Day” was even named after the star’s favored holiday/release date! Smith’s Marine Corps Captain Steven Hiller (who dreams of a career upgrade to astronaut!) continually promises his stripper girlfriend’s son that he’ll get to witness Fourth of July fireworks.

Patriotic moment: In the final scene, Hiller makes good on his word, turning the adorable kid’s eyes skyward to flaming, rocketing chunks of debris from the national-landmark-annihilating aliens’ mother ship. That blows Disneyland's fireworks display out of the park.