On this day, December 20, 1989, Oliver Stone’s powerful biographical drama Born on the Fourth of July premiered in theaters. The film stars Tom Cruise in a career-defining performance as Ron Kovic, a Vietnam War veteran who becomes a passionate anti-war activist after being paralyzed in combat.
With a budget of $17.8 million, the film grossed an impressive $161 million at the box office and received critical acclaim. It earned Oliver Stone the Academy Award for Best Director and also won for Best Film Editing by David Brenner and Joe Hutshing.
Born on the Fourth of July is celebrated for its intense portrayal of the emotional and physical toll of war and remains one of the most iconic films about the Vietnam War era.
With a budget of $17.8 million, the film grossed an impressive $161 million at the box office and received critical acclaim. It earned Oliver Stone the Academy Award for Best Director and also won for Best Film Editing by David Brenner and Joe Hutshing.
Born on the Fourth of July is celebrated for its intense portrayal of the emotional and physical toll of war and remains one of the most iconic films about the Vietnam War era.