Born on the Fourth of July

About Born on the Fourth of July

'Born on the Fourth of July' is a 1989 American biographical war drama film based on the eponymous 1976 autobiography by Ron Kovic. Directed by Oliver Stone, and written by Stone and Kovic, it stars Tom Cruise as Kovic, whose enthusiastic support of the Vietnam War is transformed into bitter disillusionment after he becomes paralyzed from the chest down during his service. Feeling betrayed by his country, Kovic becomes a strong critic of the war and prominent anti-war activist.

Making / Production

The film was a long-cherished project for Oliver Stone, who had written the screenplay nearly a decade before its actual production due to financial constraints. After the success of Platoon (1986), Stone was able to convince Universal Pictures to back the film. In an effort to depict a realistic portrayal of Kovic's experiences, preparations included a three-month boot camp for the main cast and Stone filming on location in the Philippines, recreating the Vietnam scenes.

Actors

• Tom Cruise as Ron Kovic: Cruise's brilliant portrayal of Kovic from youthful enthusiasm to the deep despair of the wounded, bitter veteran is often considered one of his finest performances.
• Kyra Sedgwick as Donna: Sedgwick plays Kovic's high school sweetheart who, like him, transitions from blind patriotism to active protest against the war.
• Raymond J. Barry as Mr. Kovic: Barry depicts the character’s struggle between patriotic pride and the pain of his son's distress with considerable depth.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Tom Cruise spent an entire year preparing for the role and refused to use a stunt double.
• Director Oliver Stone also served in the Vietnam War, which adds a level of personal experience to the film.

Awards

'Born on the Fourth of July' was nominated for eight Academy Awards and won two, for Best Director (Oliver Stone) and Best Film Editing. The film also earned Stone a Golden Globe for Best Director and Tom Cruise his first Best Actor nomination from the Academy.

Quotes

• "I fought for my country. I gave my soul, my body...what else can I give?" - Ron Kovic.
• "People say that if you don't love America, then get the hell out. Well, I love America." - Ron Kovic.

Music, Soundtrack

• The soundtrack was composed by John Williams and received an Academy Award nomination.
• Iconic songs from the film include 'American Pie' by Don McLean and 'My Girl' by The Temptations.