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Historians consider signaling to be the earliest use of flags. Ancient civilizations in China and Egypt began using flags as military and religious standards approximately 5,000 years ago. The concept of national flags began with the Scottish Saltire, a religious and patriotic symbol, in the 9th century. Then, the Danish Dannebrog began flying in the 13th century as an official national flag. These days, flags are used as standards, for symbolism, signalling, signage, and promotion.
Seeing a flag flying in glory can catch attention and evoke strong emotions. Cinematographers know about this; to this effect, the following films are notable for using flags to make specific scenes memorable:
1- Flags of Our Fathers (2006)
Director Clint Eastwood adapted the 2000 book written by James Bradley about his father’s service during World War II. The combat scenes feature Marines from the 25th Division invading Iwo Jima, and they lead to the iconic photograph taken by Joe Rosenthal of the American flag raised at the top of Mount Suribachi. There’s a companion film, “Letters from Iwo Jima,” that Clint Eastwood also directed in 2006 to show the Japanese experience of the Pacific campaign during WWII.
2- Capture the Flag (2015)
This charming animated film for children is about a 12-year-old hero who prevents a billionaire from claiming adverse ownership of the Moon for mining purposes. The villain aims to destroy the American flag planted by NASA legends Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin during the Apollo 11 mission in 1969. Part of the clever plot focuses on fighting the absurd rumors about a fake Moon landing.
3- Flag Day (2021)
Sean Penn directed this dramatic film starring himself, his daughter Dylan Frances, and Josh Brolin. John Vogel is a con man whose multiple character flaws and penchant for crime do not diminish his deep love for his daughter, a budding journalist struggling to reconcile their relationship. Born on Flag Day, Vogel believes his purpose in life was to achieve the American Dream at all costs, including through counterfeiting millions of dollars. The flashback scenes to Vogel’s birthday parties are colorfully festooned with American flags that highlight the optimistic hope of financial prosperity.
4- Chak De! India (2007)
The tricolor Indian flag is featured from beginning to end in this Hindi film about a women’s field hockey team playing a match against Australia during the Commonwealth Games. The film is strongly critical of religious intolerance and sexism; its final scene shows the tearful coach celebrating a narrow victory as he stares at the flag.
5- Patton (1970)
The legendary actor George C. Scott played United States Army General George S. Patton in this epic World War II film. The opening scene features a deeply patriotic monologue delivered by General Patton with a giant American flag in the background. The color composition of the scene is remarkable; it is a perfect example of flag power in catching visual attention. The film earned five Oscars, and its opening has been credited with inspiring a wave of jingoistic Hollywood productions a decade later.
These are just a few of the fan-favorite movies with memorable flag scenes that are great options for your next movie night.
