If you could pick one movie to represent the United States, what would it be? The choice is a daunting task. Does one go with a historical drama, a political thriller, a nostalgic charmer? As the USA approached its 250th anniversary, the New York Times writers picked their own favorite films they felt represented the nation. Choices ranged from There Will Be Blood (2007), Scarface (1932), Dazed and Confused (1993), as well as Nashville (1975) and even Disclosure Day. Some deeper cuts, like Killer of Sheep (1978) and The Florida Project (2017), were also included. As soon as the list was published, New York Times editor Stephanie Goodman asked readers what movie they would pick.

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