Watching Young Washington on the Fourth of July felt like exactly what Independence Day was made for. While some critics have dismissed the film as uninspired or overly earnest, I walked out wondering if we had watched the same movie. Sure, it’s not another superhero sequel stuffed with sarcastic one-liners. Instead, it’s the story of a young George Washington before he became the “father” of our country – a flawed, determined leader learning hard lessons under impossible circumstances.

Maybe that’s what bothered some reviewers. Patriotism isn’t exactly Hollywood’s favorite genre these days.

I was fortunate enough to see the movie for free thanks to Angel Studios’ “Pay It Forward” program. The studio allows supporters to purchase extra tickets so complete strangers can claim them at no cost, making it possible for more people to see the film regardless of their budget.

And yes, seeing it on America’s 250th birthday weekend made the experience even better.

The movie doesn’t portray Washington as a marble statue who never made mistakes. It shows him earning the leadership that would eventually change history. That’s far more interesting than another lecture about why America’s founders were irredeemably flawed. The film shows how Washington’s early loyalty to the British Crown ultimately laid the foundation for his decision to lead the fight for American independence.

Will Young Washington win over every critic? Probably not. But judging by the applause in my theater, plenty of ordinary moviegoers aren’t looking for another history lesson wrapped in cynicism.

It’s okay to leave a theater feeling a little more grateful for the country we inherited – and the young man who helped create it. And yes, it’s worth your time to see the movie – whether you have to pay for it yourself or not.