The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters Poster

The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters 1982

★ 6.03 votes58 min📅 1982-03-16

Step back into the nostalgic heart of 1950s Indiana with *The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters (1982)*, a heartwarming comedy that captures the chaos and charm of teenage life through the eyes of an adult Ralphie Parker.

Director: Richard Bartlett

Cast

Matt Dillon
Matt Dillon
Ralph
James Broderick
James Broderick
Dad
Barbara Bolton
Mom
Babe Sargent
Ludlow Kissel
Jeff Yonis
Schwartz
William Lampley
Flick
Lisa Jacobsen
Pamela
Jay Ine
Randy
Jean Shepherd
Jean Shepherd
Narrator / Adult Ralph (voice)
John Blood
John

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters (1982) about?

This lighthearted comedy follows an adult Ralphie Parker as he looks back on the humorous and heartfelt escapades of his teenage years in a steel town. The film blends nostalgia with laughter, capturing the essence of small-town life and the trials of adolescence.

Who directed The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters?

Richard Bartlett directed this charming TV movie, infusing it with a nostalgic yet comedic tone that resonates with both teens and adults.

Who stars in The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters?

The film features Matt Dillon as the lead, with standout performances from James Broderick, Barbara Bolton, and supporting cast members like Babe Sargent and Jeff Yonis.

Is The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters (1982) worth watching?

While it's an unrated TV movie, its blend of comedy, family themes, and nostalgic storytelling makes it a charming watch for fans of lighthearted '80s family films. If you enjoy coming-of-age stories with a dash of humor, this one's a delightful trip down memory lane.

How long is The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters?

The movie runs for 58 minutes, making it a perfect fit for a cozy family viewing session.

About The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters (1982) — A nostalgic comedy about growing up in 1950s Indiana

Step back into the nostalgic heart of 1950s Indiana with *The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters (1982)*, a heartwarming comedy that captures the chaos and charm of teenage life through the eyes of an adult Ralphie Parker. Directed by Richard Bartlett, this TV movie spins a series of uproarious and poignant anecdotes from Ralphie's youth, painting a vivid portrait of small-town America during the summer of '58. With a director's keen eye for balancing humor and nostalgia, Bartlett crafts a story that's as much about the trials of growing up as it is about the unforgettable moments that define a community. The film's lighthearted tone and relatable themes—friendship, family, and the bittersweet passage of time—make it a standout in the family comedy genre.

At its core, *The Great American Fourth of July and Other Disasters* is a celebration of the ordinary, where fireworks and mischief become metaphors for the trials and triumphs of adolescence. Matt Dillon leads the ensemble cast as the charismatic Ralphie, supported by James Broderick and Barbara Bolton, whose performances bring depth and warmth to the script. Whether it's the highs of summer adventures or the lows of teenage mishaps, the film immerses viewers in a world where every disaster is a memory in the making.