Top 10 Films Celebrating Independence

Description: This film depicts the Algerian struggle for independence from French colonial rule, focusing on the guerrilla warfare tactics used by the National Liberation Front.

Fact: The film was banned in France for five years due to its sensitive subject matter. It's often studied in military academies for its realistic portrayal of urban guerrilla warfare.

Description: This biographical film chronicles the life of Mohandas K. Gandhi, who led India to independence through nonviolent civil disobedience.

Fact: The film was shot in India with over 300,000 extras. It won eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actor for Ben Kingsley.

Description: While focusing on the Cambodian genocide, this film also touches on themes of independence through the lens of a journalist's friendship with a local translator during the Khmer Rouge regime.

Fact: The film was shot on location in Thailand and Cambodia, with real-life survivors of the Khmer Rouge acting as extras.

Description: This epic historical drama follows William Wallace, a Scottish warrior who leads his people in a rebellion against English rule. It's a tale of fierce independence, love, and sacrifice.

Fact: Mel Gibson, who directed and starred in the film, was initially reluctant to take on the role due to his age. The film won five Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This film portrays the life of Michael Collins, a key figure in the Irish struggle for independence, highlighting his role in the formation of the Irish Free State.

Fact: Liam Neeson, who played Collins, was initially hesitant to take the role due to the weight of the historical figure. The film was nominated for two Academy Awards.

Description: Set during the American Revolutionary War, this film tells the story of Benjamin Martin, a farmer turned militia leader, fighting for American independence from British rule.

Fact: The film was inspired by the life of Francis Marion, known as the "Swamp Fox." It was one of the first films to use CGI to create realistic battle scenes.

Description: This biographical film follows a young Che Guevara on a journey across South America, which shapes his political views and his commitment to the fight for independence and social justice.

Fact: The film was shot in the actual locations where Che Guevara traveled. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Description: In a dystopian future, a masked vigilante known only as "V" fights against a totalitarian regime, symbolizing the fight for personal and political freedom.

Fact: The film was adapted from a graphic novel by Alan Moore, who famously disowned the movie adaptation. The mask worn by V has become an icon for various protest movements.

Description: While not directly about independence, this film explores the tyrannical rule of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, highlighting the struggle for freedom and justice in Uganda.

Fact: Forest Whitaker won an Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Idi Amin. The film's title refers to Amin's self-proclaimed title.

Description: Set during the Irish War of Independence and the subsequent Civil War, this film explores the personal and political conflicts within the fight for Irish freedom.

Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It was criticized by some for its portrayal of the British forces.