If you have some spare time today between barbecuing and setting off fireworks, take a look at some of these excellent Fourth of July scripts.

4. Top Gun  

It’s not set on Independence Day, but it will certainly make you feel patriotic. And if not patriotic, then just damn good.

3. Born on the Fourth of July 

Perhaps not the most motivational story, but a great choice if you’re looking for a classic script to read by the pool.

2. The Patriot 

Nothing is more patriotic than Mel Gibson (or at least the character he plays) waving that American flag and rallying his troops forward. A great tear-jerker and a modern American classic.

1. Independence Day 

You can’t go wrong with this all-American, alien-butt-kicking movie. Watch it on whatever television station is sure to be playing it, then check out the script.