The United States of America. Entering year 250. Superman. Entering year 88. With another rendition of the iconic superhero movie coming out a week from today. You can check out the most recent Superman movie post by The Mgmt, here. So what makes this latest version (and a few others) different than the movies of the past? The latest version of the Man of Steel has a new motto. “Truth, justice, and a better tomorrow.”

For those of us who were around to appreciate the original comic books, the original serial or tv show, and of course, the first movie, know the significance of Superman fighting for “truth, justice, and the American way.” It brought a sense of pride of our great nation. And a reminder to never take for granted the freedoms we have.

While it might not quite resonate with the younger generations, American pride was strong. It was loud. It was real. And to celebrate our amazing country this Independence Day, I want to take a look at some moments captured in the old Superman movies, proudly displaying tokens of our fine country. Also, my first chance to nerd out on the best ever Superman (you will never change my mind), Christopher Reeve.

Anyone who knows the movie, Superman 4: The Quest for Peace, understands this isn’t their best work. Unfortunately, the movie was a flop due to horrible budget issues and directional decisions. Nevertheless, I feel like this movie showed the most American pride (and honestly, World pride) than any of the other movies. Superman literally ridding the world of all nuclear weapons. So nice of him!

In this scene, Nuclear man steals the Statue of Liberty and tries to drop it on the people below in the streets of Manhattan. Er, I mean, the streets of Metropolis. But to no surprise, Superman saves the day.

When discussing Superman 3, those who are familiar, know that this also wasn’t the greatest of the movie series. What makes this movie great, besides Superman turning bad, is of course, the comedic presence of the late, great, Richard Prior. And in this scene, Prior gives a goofy, irrelevant speech about the benefits of plastics, and his gratefulness for Superman. All as a ruse to poison him with a synthetic Kryptonite.

And back to Superman 4 because America. Here, Superman shows his love of the USA by making sure the American flag planted on the moon is standing upright. What this scene doesn’t show, is after he breaks free from underground, his first order of business is to stand the flag back up after being knocked down.

And last, but certainly not least, a scene from Superman 2. During an attack on the White House by General Zod and gang, the roof of the Oval Office goes missing. Once Superman snaps out of his journey to live life as an ordinary human, he returns the roof, along with a fresh American flag. He proceeds to tell the president he’s not going to do something stupid like that again, and proudly looks up at the flag before the movie cuts to the end.

Thank you Christopher Reeve, for being the best Superman ever. Now let’s go out and enjoy those pool parties, BBQs, and fireworks. And if you’re in Florida, stay dry. Let’s all have a fun, exciting, and safe Independence Day.

America!!! LFG!!