Owen Gleiberman: Hollywood Movies Have Always Defined America, But Are They Still?
In a column for Variety, chief film critic Owen Gleiberman reflects on how Hollywood movies have historically shaped America's self-image, questioning whether they still do on the 250th July 4. He proposes five definitive American films: 'Mr. Smith Goes to Washington' (1939) by Frank Capra, 'The Godfather' (1972) by Francis Ford Coppola, 'Nashville' (1975) by Robert Altman, 'Rocky' (1976) by Sylvester Stallone, and 'Dirty Harry' (1971) starring Clint Eastwood. Gleiberman argues that classic Hollywood created an aspirational mythology, while New Hollywood exposed fallen ideals. Today, he laments, American cinema is dominated by fantasy, with few films tackling the nation's current upheaval. He cites 'One Battle After Another' (2025) and 'Oppenheimer' (2023) as rare exceptions. The piece concludes that movies need to look at America again to provide a 'big picture' of tumultuous times.
Key facts
- Owen Gleiberman is chief film critic for Variety.
- The column was published on July 4, 2026, the 250th anniversary of American independence.
- Gleiberman lists five definitive American movies: Mr. Smith Goes to Washington, The Godfather, Nashville, Rocky, and Dirty Harry.
- He references a New York Times listicle titled 'What Is the Definitive Movie About America?'
- Gleiberman notes that 'One Battle After Another' (2025) and 'Oppenheimer' (2023) are recent films that deeply engage with America.
- He argues that today's Hollywood films are mostly set in fantasy worlds, avoiding direct commentary on contemporary America.
- The column suggests that movies have historically been a 'shared dream' that defines the American Dream.
- Gleiberman warns that without films fighting for democracy, the nation risks becoming a 'Godfather' nation.
Entities
Artists
- Owen Gleiberman
- Frank Capra
- James Stewart
- Francis Ford Coppola
- Robert Altman
- Sylvester Stallone
- Clint Eastwood
- Michael Savage
- Rush Limbaugh
Institutions
- Variety
- New York Times
- Paramount
- Columbia Pictures
- Fox News
Locations
- United States
- Washington, D.C.
- Nashville
- Hollywood